Wristwatch Review: Orient Bambino, Second Generation, Version 3

I've wanted a Bambino for a long time. It's a watch from Orient, a well-regarded Japanese brand, that has a long history of building high quality mechanical watches. There are many versions of the Bambino. It's a long running watch series that was first released in the 2012 timeframe. The one I purchased is the Orient Bambino, Second Generation, Version 3.

The Orient Bambino, 2nd Generation, Version 3

Bambino Version 3 Watch Features

The Bambino version 3 watch (Model TAC0000DD) is a dress watch with a domed crystal, a stainless steel case, a Caliber F6724 automatic movement, and a genuine leather strap.

My Orient Bambino arrived well-package in a long box suitable for a gift

The F6724 is a 22-jewel movement that features self-winding, hand-winding, and hacking capabilities. According to CaliberCorner.com, "winding the crown 30 times will wind the spring full and achieve full power reserve." The movement has a power reserve of 40 or more hours. 

Bambino Watch Style

The second generation Orient Bambino, Version 3, has a minimalist style. Many watch pundits describe this watch as having a bauhaus style due to its similarity to the German school of minimalist design. It has a sparse dial design with simple stick hashmarks as indices to denote the hours and minutes. The hands are equally simple batons. This model does not have an exhibition caseback. While the watch does have a little bit of pop in the stylish Orient logo and the sunray design of the blue dial, the overall design is purposeful, elegant, and restrained. 

The Orient Bambino, Version 3, has a sun ray dial.

In a flashy world, an automatic watch that has all the functionality and a tasteful modicum of restraint is refreshing.

Bambino Watch Construction

The Orient Bambino, Version 3, is made in Thailand. It has a stainless steel case and genuine leather strap. As a dress watch, it has 30-meter water resistance which is sufficient for incidental splashing and light rain. In six months of ownership, the watch has held up to normal wear in dress and casual situations. 

The Orient Bambino, Version 3, does not expose its movement for the world to see

Bambino Watch Dimensions

This Bambino's case is 40.5 mm in diameter and 11.8mm thick. The lug-to-lug measurements come in at 46.8mm. The leather strap is 21mm wide at the lug and tapers slightly to 19mm at the buckle.  It's  long enough to fit my 7 3/4-inch wrist perfectly.

Orient Bambino, V3, caseback and strap

Overall Impressions of the Orient Bambino, Version 3

I enjoy my Orient Bambino as a serious entry into the world of watch collecting. I have a few vintage Orient watches, but this one seems like a pinnacle of the brand's watch design and construction efforts. I like knowing that the brand has a long heritage as a maker of mechanical timepieces. As a series, the Bambino watches are aimed squarely at new and middle-class watch collectors and this one hits me perfectly. I'm proud to own it.

The Orient Bambino holds its own against luxury brands

The Orient Bambino, Version 3, seems like it is completely comfortable in the world of luxury watch brands, but doesn't feel the need to show off. It has nailed the requirements. In my opinion, this Orient Bambino, Version 3, is one of the best values available for watch collectors on a budget. I like it.

Where to get the Orient Bambino Version 3

I got my Orient Bambino, Version 3, online at Amazon. It is currently available here via my Amazon affiliate link for a bit over $200. Since there are many, many, versions of the Bambino and a variety of other Orient Automatics available on Amazon, you might want to check this alternate Amazon affiliate link for an even broader look at the wide world of Orient automatics. It's a fun rabbit hole to jump down.