There are the watches you may own for a time, and the watches that stick with you. For me, the Orient Bambino falls firmly into the second category.
Back in 2019, I purchased a yellow gold Orient Bambino as my first automatic watch, and years later, it still earns wrist time. This week, I had the pleasure of testing another Bambino I’ve had my eye on, the small seconds model or RA-AP0005B.
Here is our review of what is likely among the best affordable dress watches money can buy.
First Impressions: Classic Design That Feels Premium
The Orient Bambino series has always been about classic design done right. A domed crystal, clean dial layouts, and subtle detailing give it a timeless aesthetic that works across multiple versions, from the minimalist Orient Bambino Version 4 to the smaller 38mm Orient Bambino Version 7. The Bambino series also includes unique variations like the Orient Bambino open heart and Orient Bambino small seconds, which I’ve been testing this week.
At a glance, the black dial small seconds design is refined and understated. There’s something inherently charming about a small seconds complication, and I’ve been wanting to add one to my collection for some time now. I’ve had my eye on the Nomos Orion specifically which has a price tag around $2500.
Luckily, at around only $200 on Jomashop, I was able to pick up this Orient Bambino watch, and it definitely scratches the itch. If you’ve ever looked at more expensive small seconds pieces, you’ll appreciate how much of that design language this delivers at a fraction of the price. The polishing and overall finish punches well above its weight.
Case Size & Wearability: The One Caveat
If there’s one thing I’d change about this Bambino small seconds however, it’s the sizing.
At 40.5mm with a 21mm lug width, this isn’t a small piece, especially for a dress watch. That said, the 46.5mm lug-to-lug keeps it wearable. There’s no overhang on my 6-inch wrist, but it still wears large for a watch this style. The dial takes up a lot of wrist space.
If your wrist is around 7 inches or larger, the proportions will be spot-on. For smaller wrists, I’d recommend the Orient Bambino 38mm, though unfortunately they can be a bit harder to find and have less variations available.
Strap Options: A True Strap Monster
One of the biggest surprises with Orient Bambino automatic watches is the stock straps they come with.
This version comes on a genuine leather, croc-embossed strap that feels more premium than you’d expect at this price point, especially when compared to other budget brands (looking at you, Seiko). It has good weight, a solid feel, and should wear well over time.
That said, the Bambino can really come alive when you start swapping straps, making it a true strap monster. With a clean black dial, the possible pairings are endless.
I paired the Bambino with a black CTS strap, which is perfect for dressed down summer days and giving the watch a sportier feel. It will be more comfortable to wear in warm weather but still look premium.
Alternatively, for a second look, I paired it with a tapered pebbled leather strap which leans fully into the classic men’s dress watch aesthetic. This is the look to go for more formal occasions like an important business meeting or wedding.
Though I love both these looks, the tapered leather was easily my favorite. It sharpens the look and reinforces why this budget piece is easily among the best dress watches for men.
Performance & Value: Punching Above Its Weight
At around only $200, the Bambino’s value is hard to beat.
This watch runs on an in-house automatic movement, something you rarely see at this price point. That alone puts it ahead of many competitors when talking about even the best dress watches under $1000, let alone under $300.
Funnily enough, my non-watch collecting friends regularly assume my Bambino is among my more expensive watches. When I tell them it’s actually on the cheaper end, there’s always some level of surprise. I know that’s not why we pick the watches we collect, but it’s safe to say the Bambino’s build quality is noticeable.
Specs: Orient Bambino Small Seconds (RA-AP0005B)
- Case size: 40.5mm
- Lug-to-lug: 46.5mm
- Lug width: 21mm
- Movement: Orient Calibre F6222
- Crystal: Domed mineral
- Dial: Black with small seconds subdial
- Strap: Genuine leather, croc-embossed
- Water resistance: 30m/100 Feet (splash resistant only)
Everyday Wear: More Versatile Than You’d Expect
Even though the Bambino small seconds is clearly positioned as a dress watch, this watch doesn’t feel out of place in casual settings.
That’s part of why I recommend it so often. Whether someone is looking for their first watch, a gift, or something to round out a collection, this is one of the safest and most versatile watches.
In fact, I often recommend Orient watches for men over other affordable brands like Seiko or Timex, including their dive models like the Kamasu or Ray II. The combination of design and value that Orient offers is hard to match.
FAQ: Orient Bambino & Orient Watches
Are Orient watches good?
Yes, and especially for the price. Orient is widely respected among collectors for offering in-house movements and strong value, making them a go-to for entry-level mechanical pieces.
Where are Orient watches made?
They are designed in Japan, with production generally taking place in Asia under Orient’s quality control.
How to wind an Orient Bambino
Most modern Bambino models can be hand-wound. With the crown pushed in, turn the crown clockwise about 10-20 times to get it going. Some older Bambino watches are automatic only and need a little shake to restart. As long as you are wearing your automatic Bambino watch, it will continue to keep time.
How to change date on Orient Bambino
Pull the crown to the first position and rotate clockwise to adjust the date. Avoid changing it between roughly 8 PM and 4 AM to prevent damage.
Final Thoughts
The Orient Bambino small seconds isn’t just a great entry-level piece, it’s one of the best dress watches when you factor in value, design, and versatility.
Though still, it has its quirks. The sizing won’t be for everyone, and the water resistance is limited. But depending on your wrist size and lifestyle, those are small trade-offs for what you’re getting.
Years after buying my first Bambino, I still love to wear it. And after spending some time with the small seconds model, it reinforced why this remains such an easy recommendation in the world of dress watches and watches in general.
If you’re looking for a refined, versatile, and genuinely impressive men’s dress watch without spending much, this is one of the best options out there.
Do you own a Bambino? We’d love to hear your thoughts below!
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About the Author: Rebecca is StrapsCo’s resident watch enthusiast and subject matter expert! When she’s not reviewing watches, you’ll likely catch her engaging with our community on social media, conducting street interviews, and guiding the design and production of our future product releases. |
Comments
I mean, the 38mm is ok for a cheap watch. Or… you can put back $100 a month for a year and easily buy a serviced vintage Omega Seamaster DeVille or Constellation with a nice dial, that won’t get thrown in a drawer after 6 months. Just sayin… 😉
I saw the small seconds a couple of years ago and knew the 40.5 mm size would be fine on my massive 7.5 inch wrist. I love the combination of sticks and numbers on the dial as well as the recessed small seconds dial at readable 6 o’clock area. To me the whole dial and thin case package makes a great dress watch! I swapped band to smooth flat black . leather with black side stitching. Next try is one of your Saffiano in Onyx.
I got a salmon dial and a Tiffany blue dial 38mm bambino last year and they really look amazing. A few months later I bought another 38mm bambino because it had a watchmakers four and I didn’t have a watch with a watchmakers four. I also have a an older bambino the same size as this one. The author is right, 40.5mm isn’t too big for a watch but it’s too big for this kind of watch. Find a 38mm one.