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My First Time Trying Panerai Watches – Pavilion KL Masterclass

Leave a Comment / Behind the Dial, DIY Watch Journey, Watch Guides

A few weeks ago, I received the invitation every watch enthusiast dreams about: an exclusive beginner’s watchmaking masterclass at Panerai, one of the luxury watch brands out there.

Big thank you to Keane and the entire team for being so warm and welcoming – this was genuinely one of the best watch experiences I’ve ever had.

(Quick disclaimer – this was an invited experience but 100 % my honest opinion and zero compensation.)

The moment I stepped into the boutique, located in the heart of Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, the boutique gave me a navy-inspired vibe. Submarine-style display windows, warm oak wood everywhere, and right in the centre is this huge revolving marine dial with a magnifying glass. Meanwhile, the iconic glowing Panerai wall clock sits proudly in the middle.

To see it better, check out my video here:

Panerai History with Italian Royal Navy – Regia Marina

Giovanni Panerai opens his watchmaker’s shop on Ponte alle Grazie in Florence. The history of Panerai begins here. Cr: Panerai
Giovanni Panerai opened his watch shop in 1860 in Florence
Credit: Panerai
Colorized photo of battleship Duilio from regia marina
Colorized photo of battleship Duilio from Regia Marina
Credit: https://naval-encyclopedia.com

His grandson Guido Panerai shifted the company to work closer with the Italian Royal Navy and became an official supplier for the Italian Royal Navy (mainly supplying precision gauges like depth calculators, compasses).

In 1916, they patented Radiomir – a radium-based luminous paste that produced a green glowing effect, which was very useful in the use cases of the Regia Marina’s frogmen who had to work underwater.

Credit: Panerai

In the 1930s they worked with Rolex to create gigantic 47 mm dive watches for Italy’s elite frogmen: welded wire lugs, cushion cases you could operate with thick gloves, and sandwich dials packed with Radiomir paste so the commandos could read the time in pitch-black depths.

WWII Frogmen Wearing Panerai
Credit: Panerai
Panerai Radiomir Prototype
Credit: Panerai
Panerai Luminor
Credit: Panerai
WWII Frogmen wearing Panerai Watches
Credit: Panerai

After WWII, because of the radioactive radium, in 1949 they patented the safer tritium-based Luminor and added the now-iconic crown-guard lever.

These watches stayed top-secret military property until 1993, when they finally released civilian versions.
Credit: Panerai
Sylvester Stallone Wearing A Panerai Luminor 5218-201/a In ‘Daylight’ (1996)
Credit: Hodinkee
Sylvester Stallone gifted his good friend Arnold Schwarzenegger a Panerai watch
Credit: Jake’s Panerai World
The Panerai Slytech is a series of limited-edition watches created in collaboration with actor Sylvester Stallone, who is widely credited with launching the Panerai brand into the global luxury market. 
Credit: Panerai

Watchmaking Class – White Coats & All

Ashley Tee_Panerai watchmaker coat
Had the chance to wear an actual watchmaker’s white coat!
I got to partially disassemble the in-house P.3000 movement.

Finally Wearing Panerai on a Female Wrist

Panerai Luminor Due Luna PAM01557 (38 mm)
Luminor Due Luna PAM01557 (38 mm) – pink alligator strap that accidentally matched my jacket perfectly.
It was surprisingly very comfortable, and I think any female will enjoy this piece

I also got to try on a few more watches, check them out in my video:

Verdict?

I used to be one of the many who formed a lot of opinions on Panerai (without examining properly), and only saying “Panerai is too big”.

Well, after this visit, I totally get why the Paneristi are obsessed. Every single design choice has real military DNA, and has real practical needs (which I find it to be super cool!)

Moral of the story: never judge a brand until you’ve tried it, and learn about it.

If you’re in KL, visit the Pavilion boutique and tell the team Ashley sent you. Try the 38 mm Due if you have small wrists – you might leave with a new obsession.

So… are you a Paneristi yet? Own one? Dreaming of one? Drop your thoughts below – I read every comment!

My First Time Trying Panerai Watches – Pavilion KL Masterclass Read More »

Seiko 5 Field GMT JDM SBSC009

Seiko SBSC009 Review: Japan-Only GMT Field Watch Worth It?

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Reading Time: 6 minutes

Why I Hunted This Japan-Exclusive Seiko in Osaka

Hey watch fam! It’s Ashley here, and today I’m diving deep into the Seiko 5 Sports SBSC009 — a Japan Domestic Market (JDM) GMT field watch that became my ideal pick during a recent watch-hunting trip in Japan.

You’ve been asking for this review in the comments, so let’s get into it:

Watch the full video review here:

What Makes the SBSC009 Special? (Specs & Features)

The Seiko 5 Sports SBSC009 is part of the Field GMT collection, built on the rugged SRPG field watch platform but upgraded with a GMT complication and a fixed 24-hour bezel.

Seiko SBSC009

Launched in 1968, Seiko 5 Sports is all about reliable, affordable automatics — and the “5” stands for:

  1. Automatic movement
  2. Day-date display
  3. Water resistance
  4. Recessed crown
  5. Durable case
Seiko SSK003
The popular SEIKO SSK003

The Diver-style SSK GMTs (like the SSK003) were a massive hit a few years ago. Building on this success, Seiko expanded the GMT lineup to the Seiko 5 Field collection:

  • SSK023 (international)
  • SSK025 (international)
  • SBSC009 (Japan only) ← This one
Seiko SBSC009

Full Specifications

SpecDetail
Case Diameter39.4mm
Thickness13.6mm
Lug-to-Lug47.9mm
Lug Width20mm
Weight147g
CrystalDomed Hardlex
Movement4R34 Automatic GMT (+45/-35 sec/day)
Power Reserve~41 hours
Water Resistance100m (10 bar)
LumeLumiBrite on hands & markers

Design: White Dial, Orange GMT Hand, Explorer II Vibes?

This watch’s powdered snow white dial is stunning.

Key design highlights:

  • Orange GMT hand with Seiko’s classic shovel tip (inspired by the 6105 “Captain Willard”)
  • Orange “GMT” text and orange-tipped seconds hand
  • Applied silver hour markers — reflective
  • Inner 24-hour track — busy, but adds depth
  • Date at 3 o’clock with beveled silver frame — doesn’t affect symmetry too much
Seiko SBSC009 vs Seiko SSK003
Compared to the SSK003 (rotating diver bezel, 42.5mm), the SBSC009 has a fixed field-style bezel — cleaner, smaller, and way more wearable.

The brushed stainless steel case with sharp lugs feels modern and sleek — a big upgrade over the curvier Seiko 5 diver cases.

Seiko SBSC009
And yes… with the white dial + orange GMT hand, it echoes the Rolex Explorer II — but at 1/20th the price.

On the Wrist

Seiko SBSC009 Wristshot
On my 15cm wrist, the 47.9mm lug-to-lug felt big at first — but the sloping bezel, flat caseback, and curved crystal make it hug the wrist beautifully.
Seiko SBSC009
The 13.6mm thickness sounds chunky — but thanks to smart case design, it looks and feels slimmer.

vs. SSK003 (42.5mm):
The SBSC009 is smaller, lighter, and far more comfortable.

The Bracelet: Surprisingly Good

Seiko’s affordable bracelets often get a bad rap — but this five-link bracelet is a standout:

Seiko SBSC009 Bracelet
  • Fully brushed
  • Solid end links
  • 4 micro-adjustments (tool required)
  • Push-button three-fold clasp

For that reason, I’m keeping it on the bracelet.

Pros & Cons

✅ Pros❌ Cons
Affordable GMT from SeikoJapan-only (JDM)
Smaller & more wearable than SSKLegibility is slightly tricky in certain light & angle
JDM exclusivity + Explorer II look

Where to Buy the Seiko SBSC009

This is a Japan Domestic Market (JDM) model — not sold internationally.

EDION Osaka
EDION, NAMBA – I GOT MINE HERE

Best places to find it:

  • EDION (Osaka) – I got mine here for the best price
  • Yodobashi Camera (Umeda, Tokyo)
  • Seiko Boutiques (Osaka, Kyoto)
  • BIC Camera

Pro Tip: Bring your passport for tax-free discount

Final Verdict: Is the SBSC009 Worth the Hunt?

Yes — if you love JDM exclusives and want an affordable GMT that is highly desirable.

For under $300, you get:

  • A caller GMT watch
  • Seiko reliability
  • Rolex-inspired design
  • JDM

Seiko SBSC009 Review: Japan-Only GMT Field Watch Worth It? Read More »

Kuoe Old Smith 90-002 Bronze

Kuoe Old Smith 90-002 Review – Kyoto Exclusive Bronze (35mm)

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Hey watch lovers! If you’ve been following my Japan watch haul, you know I came back with four incredible timepieces — and today, we’re diving deep into one of my favorites: the Kuoe Old Smith 90-002 in 35mm bronze with the Kyoto Exclusive blue dial.

This wasn’t my first pick (I was eyeing the Royal Smith), but my husband fell in love with it — and honestly? I get it now.

Let’s break it down: the story, the specs, the experience, and whether this Japan-only bronze beauty is worth your yen.

A little bit about the trendiest microbrands out there: KUOE

Kuoe (pronounced “Kuo” — silent E) was founded in 2020 by Kenji Uchimura, a designer who studied in London and became obsessed with vintage British military watches — especially Smiths.

The name? It’s from his initials and birthday: K-U-O-E = Kenji Uchimura, October Eighth.

From a tiny workshop, Kuoe now has a flagship store in Kyoto with another upcoming in Tokyo. Kuoe also has few more stores in Korea.

The Kyoto Store Experience

If you’re in Japan, you must visit the Kuoe flagship in Kyoto — just a 30-minute train from Osaka.

Kuoe Kyoto Store
It’s not a typical watch store. Tucked in a semi-basement, it feels like stepping into a design studio.
Kuoe's Kyoto Store
Kuoe's Kyoto Store
Kuoe Old Smith 90-002 Bronze
U-shaped display counters show every model unassembled — you pick your case, dial, strap, even caseback (transparent, gold medallion, or engraved).

Then? They assemble your watch right there. You get a number, wait a few minutes, and walk out with a custom Kuoe made just for you.

Pro Tip: Bring your passport! Tourists get tax-free pricing — I paid 64,170 yen (~$430 USD) vs. $635 online.

Kuoe Old Smith 90-002 Specs

Here’s the specs

SpecDetail
Case35mm CuSn8 bronze, 12mm thick, 42mm lug-to-lug
Lug Width18mm
Weight~55g (super light!)
DialKyoto Exclusive blue textured grainy dial, applied Arabic numerals, railway track
CrystalDomed sapphire with AR + AF coatings
MovementSeiko NH38 (24 jewels, 21,600 vph, 41hr power reserve)
Water Resistance100m (10 bar) with screw-down crown
LumeSwiss Super-LumiNova (decent glow)

Why We Chose the Kuoe 90-002 Bronze (It Wasn’t Me!)

Kuoe Old Smith 90-002 Bronze
To be honest, this was my husband’s pick.

Here’s why he couldn’t resist:

  • He loves blue dials
  • This Kyoto Exclusive blue color is only available in-store
  • He wanted a bronze watch (our first!)
  • With his 16cm wrist, 35mm felt perfect — true to vintage military sizing
  • The great legibility — big white numerals, big hands, dark dial
  • We went with the blue leather strap because it was amazingly soft, and it pairs perfectly with the blue dial
Kuoe Old Smith 90-002 Bronze
Kuoe Old Smith 90-002 Bronze
Kuoe also includes another light brown strap (stiffer, but great color).

The Bronze

Let’s talk bronze.

Kuoe Old Smith 90-002 Bronze
Feat. another Kyoto-exclusive green dial.
The display model was heavily patinated — it took 6–7 months to get that heavily aged look.

But here’s the thing: I love the pre-patina look — that warm, rose-gold-like glow. So I…

Kept it in a pouch with silica gel (PLEASE DON’T SHAME ME!)

Yes, I know — why buy a bronze watch then?!

My husband on the other hand? He’s fascinated with it.

Wearability & One Regret

On our small wrists? Perfection.

Kuoe Old Smith 90-002 Bronze
  • Lightweight
  • 35mm wears perfectly proportionate to our small wrists
  • Blue dial shifts from dark navy to vibrant under sunlight
  • Lume is functional, not flashy

One regret? Not getting the nylon strap — Instagram pics with the military field look are chef’s kiss.

Kuoe Old Smith 90-002 Bronze Lumeshot

Final Thoughts: Is the Kuoe Old Smith 90-002 Worth It?

Yes. 100% yes.

This isn’t just a watch — it’s a Kyoto souvenir, a microbrand success story, and a conversation starter.

  • Microbrand heart & grit ✓
  • Got to experience bronze watch for the first time
  • Vintage-inspired, modern movement ✓
  • Japan-exclusive dial ✓
  • Tax-free deal ✓

We bought this with my own money — and that says everything.

More Japan Watch Content

Kuoe Old Smith 90-002 Review – Kyoto Exclusive Bronze (35mm) Read More »

Seiko Pepsi Collab: Unboxing the SRPL99 & My Honest Take

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It’s the real Pepsi watch, not just a nickname, and at $395 retail, it’s a fun steal. But $1,000 on the secondary market? That’s crazy!

I’m not even a Pepsi fan—but this retro ‘90s can and red-blue bezel got my collector heart racing. Let’s unbox it, check the specs, and see if it’s worth the hype.

Why Do Watches Get Called “Pepsi”?

If you’re new to watches, you might’ve heard nicknames like Tuna, Turtle, Batman, Hulk, or the big one: Pepsi. These aren’t official—watch nerds like us just made ‘em up.

The Pepsi tag originated with Rolex’s GMT-Master, featuring a red-blue bezel reminiscent of the soda logo.
Credit: www.wristcheck.com

It stuck to any watch with that color combo, like Seiko’s SKX009 or Timex GMTs.

But this SRPL99? It’s the real deal—an official Seiko x Pepsi collab.

Seiko dropped two Seiko x PEPSI collaboration watches in September 2025. Only 7,000 each worldwide.

Unboxing: That ‘90s Pepsi Can Is Everything

Unboxing this was so cool. It comes in a silver Pepsi can straight outta the ‘90s—not the new black one—with the watch specs printed on the back, like nutrition facts but for watch geeks. As a collector (stamps, keychains, toy cars since I was a kid), this packaging is a shelf star. Pop the top, and boom—there’s the SRPL99. Limited to 7,000, it’s already a hit in the watch community, sold out almost everywhere.

Watch the video to check out the unboxing!

SRPL99 Specs: What You’re Getting

Here’s the quick rundown:

  • Case: 38mm stainless steel, 44.2mm lug-to-lug, 12mm thick, 20mm lugs
  • Crystal: Hardlex
  • Water Resistance: 100m
  • Movement: 4R36 auto, 24 jewels, ~41-hour power reserve, hacks, hand-winds
  • Bezel: Unidirectional aluminum, red-blue Pepsi, 120 clicks
  • Dial: Sunburst silver, Lumibrite lume (hands, indices, bezel pip), Kanji day-date
  • Extras: Transparent caseback with Pepsi logo, serial #/7000 etched

Retail’s $395—pretty sweet for a limited collab.

Design: Pepsi Bezel Steals the Show

Seiko Pepsi SRPL99 & Seiko SKX013

This watch has that SKX vibe—same silhouette but tweaked. It’s 1mm thinner than my SKX013 (12mm vs. 13mm) and lighter, perfect for my 15cm wrist. Hubby’s 16cm could probably rock it too. It’s not a real diver like the SKX’s 200m—just 100m here, so it’s a Seiko 5 Sports budget diver style watch, not an actual diver.

I’d compare it to the Seiko 5KX, but I don’t own one, so I’m going off pics and vids. Big difference? The 5KX usually has a single-color bezel—dark blue or black. This SRPL99? It’s all about that red-blue Pepsi bezel, the whole reason it’s called a Pepsi watch, lah. Aluminum insert, first 20 minutes red with minute marks, then blue from 20-60 with 5-minute hashes, no minute markers. It’s unidirectional, 120 clicks—one per minute—and super loud and clicky, like a ratchet snap. Picture me rotating it on camera—click-click-click. So tactile, I love it.

Wristshot: 15cm

The colors pop brighter than I thought. Bonus over the 5KX: a Lumibrite pip at 12 o’clock on the bezel. Not all 5KX models have this, and it glows like crazy in low light—super nice.

The sunburst silver dial is a stunner, catching light like nobody’s business. Blue-framed lume on the hour markers and syringe hands (blue seconds too). I’m obsessed with the Kanji day-date at 3—my first Seiko with it. Not sure if all 7,000 pieces got Kanji, so comment if yours did! The retro Pepsi logo sits below the Seiko 5 and “Automatic”—way cooler than the modern logo on the black SRPK01. Lume’s Lumibrite, same as my SKX013, but this glows brighter. Wore it at my desk with soft sunlight, walked into a dark room—bam, it was like a torch. Blew me away.

Unsigned crown at 4 o’clock with guards. I kept trying to unscrew it like my SKX—LOL, oops. Transparent caseback has a Pepsi logo, still shows the 4R36 movement. Side etch says 5267/7000—collector flex. 20mm drilled lugs make strap swaps easy, but I tried NATOs, Artem leather, Delugs—nothing felt right. Strap monster? You tell me in the comments. I’m keeping the bracelet for now, but it’s a bit jangly, and only two micro-adjust holes make sharing with my husband a pain.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • 38mm, 44.2mm lug-to-lug, 12mm thick—fits my 15cm wrist comfortably.
  • Fun and chill design; silver sunburst dial and blue-framed hands match so well with the Pepsi bezel.
  • Kanji day-date
  • Lumibrite lume + bezel lume pip beats other ordinary 5KX.
  • That ‘90s Pepsi can? Collector’s dream.

Cons:

  • Resale prices are nuts, most of the stores are sold out.
  • Bracelet’s okay but jangly, micro-adjusts too limited.

Affordable Pepsi Bezel Alternatives

Want the red-blue bezel look without the $1,000 scalper nonsense? Try these:

  • Seiko SRPD53: 42.5mm, black dial, SKX-style, red-blue bezel, ~$350. Not a collab, but easy to find and nails the Pepsi style for daily wear.
Check OUT SEIKO SRPD53 on AMAZON
OR MORE DISCOUNT ON JOMASHOP
CHECK OUT TIMEX Q ON JOMASHOP

Q Timex GMT Pepsi (TW2V38000): 38mm, stainless bracelet, GMT for two time zones, ~$200–$250. Quartz, not auto, but sharp and wallet-friendly.

Both are way smarter than overpaying on Chrono24. If you’re set on this collab’s retro can and limited-edition feels, hold off—prices might drop? Maybe.

Final Thoughts

I rushed this out before my Japan haul posts ‘cause you guys DMed me about the SRPL99.

Worth $395? Heck yes.
$1,000? No way—grab those alternatives for the Pepsi look. If you’re all about the collab, maybe wait for a better deal.

Seiko Pepsi Collab: Unboxing the SRPL99 & My Honest Take Read More »

Japan Watch Shopping And Where to Find Them

Leave a Comment / Behind the Dial, Watch Guides

Introduction to My Japan Watch Hunting Journey

My recent trip to Japan turned into an unforgettable watch hunting adventure, where I brought home four incredible timepieces: the Seiko SBSC009, Seiko SBDC213, Kuoe Old Smith 90-002, and Kuoe Royal Smith 90-010. From stumbling upon hidden gems in Osaka to exploring exclusive models in Kyoto, this journey was packed with surprises. Want to see the full story? Check out my YouTube video for all the details

Seiko 5 Field GMT SBSC009 – A Lucky Find

The adventure kicked off in Osaka when I stumbled into a massive store that wasn’t even on my itinerary: EDION at Namba.

EDION is a major Japanese consumer electronics retailer, with its flagship store, EDION Namba Main Store, located in the heart of Osaka’s Namba district. This large, department store-like facility offers a wide range of products, including home appliances, electronics, cosmetics, watches, toys, and even Japanese sake and snacks.

This place had an entire floor dedicated to watches—Rolex, Longines, Casio, and, of course, Seiko.

I went straight to Seiko section and found the Seiko SPSC009—a stunning white-dial JDM model.

Priced at 41,000 yen after tax deductions and an additional 7% discount, it was a steal compared to the 61,000 yen at the Seiko boutique in Shinsaibashi.

No ‘JDM’ label
Labeled “Japan Domestic Market”

Pro Tip: JDM models like the SBSC009 aren’t always labeled, so do your research before hunting to spot these exclusive finds!

Seiko SBDC213 – A Defective Detour

Yodobashi Camera, Umeda

At Yodobashi Camera in Umeda, my husband pointed out Seiko SBDC213 (aka SPB511), a limited-edition diver commemorating Seiko’s 1965 62MAS. Its white wavy dial and matte greyish bezel were stunning, and the solid bracelet with micro-adjust features sealed the deal. Priced at 171,000 yen, it was pricier than expected but a great deal compared to international prices.

Seiko SBDC213 / SPB511

Unfortunately, after arriving in Kyoto, I noticed the SBDC213 was running an hour fast. After checking and confirming, we decided to bring it back to Yodobashi Camera in Osaka, which resulted in a brand-new replacement 2 days later—huge thanks to their amazing staff! Of course, it threw our family travel plans off, but we are very glad we made that decision.

Kuoe Old Smith 90-002 & Royal Smith 90-010

Kuoe’s Kyoto Store

The highlight of Kyoto was visiting the Kuoe store, where I was warmly welcomed by Shuhei, who introduced me to their vintage-inspired watches. My husband especially really like the bronze Kuoe Old Smith 90-002 (35mm) and as for me, I chose the Kuoe Royal Smith 90-010 (a reverse panda triple calendar, Kyoto exclusive). The store’s open layout, with no glass barriers, and having your watches to be assembled there itself, made the experience even better.

KUOE Kyoto Exclusives

Why Visit Kuoe? Their Kyoto-exclusive models aren’t available online, so a trip to their store is a must.

Other stores to check out if you are in Osaka:

During my watch shopping, I also checked out these places. I highly recommend them though I didn’t get any from it.

  1. Bic Camera Namba Store
  2. BOOKOFF PLUS Namba Ebisubashi Store
  3. アメリカ村フリーマーケットB.B(American village freemarket B.B)
  4. Grand Seiko Boutique Osaka Shinsaibashi
  5. Watch Colle

Tips for Watch Hunting in Japan

  1. Research JDM Models: Not all stores label Japan Domestic Market watches, so know what you’re looking for.
  2. Visit Multi-Brand Stores: Yodobashi Camera, Bic Camera, and Edion offer a wide selection, perfect for time-crunched travelers.
  3. Check for Discounts: Check with the staff if there are any additional discount coupons, like the 7% discount I got just by following their IG account.
  4. Be Patient with Vintage: Vintage watches, like King Seiko, require research & knowledge.
  5. Traveling with Kids? Huge multi-floored departmental stores like EDION, Yodobashi Camera, BIC Camera have kid-friendly floors (toys, comfortable baby rooms), making watch hunting easier with little ones.

Watch My Full Japan Watch Hunting Adventure

Want to see these watches up close and hear more about my journey? Check out my YouTube video for the full story, including clips from Kyoto’s KUOE store. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to stay updated on my in-depth reviews of the 4 watches.

Which of these four watches is your favorite? Let me know in the comments below, and happy watch hunting!

Japan Watch Shopping And Where to Find Them Read More »

The Best Orient Bambino Yet: A 38mm Vintage-Inspired Dress Watch Under $300

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Hey watch lovers! If you’re on the hunt for a stylish, budget-friendly dress watch, the Orient Bambino 38mm might just steal your heart. I used to think the Bambino was too big and plain for my taste, but this 2024 model changed my mind. With its sleek 38mm case, Roman numerals, and small seconds subdial, it’s a perfect blend of vintage charm and modern wearability. Let’s dive into why this could be the best Bambino ever and why it deserves a spot in your collection. Plus, check out my full review on YouTube for all the details!

A Quick Look at Orient’s History

Before we get into the watch, let’s talk about Orient, a brand with a rich legacy that rivals Seiko. Founded in 1901 by Shogoro Yoshida in Tokyo, Orient started as a watch shop selling imported pocket watches. By 1920, they were making clocks and gauges, and in 1934, they began producing wristwatches. After some post-war struggles, Orient Watch Co. was officially born in 1951. With the help of watchmaking legend Tamotsu Aoki, they introduced reliable movements like the 1955 center-second TT type, setting the stage for their global success. Acquired by Seiko Epson in 2009, Orient still crafts its own in-house movements, making it a standout in the affordable watch world.

Orient Watch Co. was officially born in 1951.

Why the 38mm Orient Bambino Stands Out

The Bambino series is known for its vintage-inspired, budget-friendly dress watches, but earlier models were often 40mm or larger—too big for a dress watch, especially for someone like me with a smaller wrist. In 2022, Orient introduced a game-changing 38mm version, and in 2024, they combined the best features: Roman numerals from Version 2, a small seconds subdial, and that perfect 38mm case. Here’s why this watch is a winner:

Design and Specs

  • Case Size: 38mm diameter, 12mm thick, 44mm lug-to-lug—perfect for most wrists, including smaller ones like my 15cm wrist.
  • Dial: The black dial (my favorite of the four color options) is contrasty and legible, with silver applied Roman numerals and a sunburst small seconds subdial at 6:00. The blue seconds hand adds a vintage touch.
  • Hands: Silver dauphine hands look elegant, though the domed crystal can make the minute hand appear bent (a common vintage effect).
  • Date Window: A white date at 3:00 is practical and doesn’t disrupt the dial’s symmetry.
  • Crystal: Domed crystal enhances the vintage vibe but can be reflective.
  • Movement: In-house F6222 automatic movement, visible through a transparent case back, with a 40-hour power reserve and 21,600 bph.
  • Strap: 20mm black alligator-style leather strap with a signed buckle. It’s a bit stiff, and smaller wrists may need an aftermarket strap (good thing 20mm is easy to find!).
  • Water Resistance: 3 bar (splash-proof, as expected for a dress watch).

The brushed case sides, polished top, and signed push-pull crown add to the refined look. The transparent case back is a treat for new collectors, showcasing the gold balance wheel and Orient-branded rotor.

What I Love

  1. Value for Money: At $200–$300, you get a Japanese in-house movement that’s not Seiko—a fantastic deal.
  2. Transparent Case Back: Even as a non-newbie, I’m mesmerized by the movement’s beauty.
  3. Color Options: The black dial feels both contemporary and vintage, but other colors like cream are great too.
  4. Perfect Size: 38mm is wearable for both men and women, making it a versatile choice.
  5. Design Details: The Roman numerals, small seconds subdial, and dauphine hands scream elegance.
transparent caseback: always a treat!

What Could Be Better

  1. Strap: The leather strap is decent but lacks a quick-release bar, and smaller wrists may need a replacement.
  2. Noisy Rotor: The winding mechanism is a bit loud, though it’s a minor nitpick at this price point.

Who’s This Watch For?

This Bambino is perfect if you want a vintage-inspired dress watch with a reliable in-house movement under $300. It’s ideal for both men and women, thanks to its versatile 38mm size. However, if Roman numerals or the white date window aren’t your thing, you might want to explore other models.

Where to Buy

You can snag this beauty for $200–$240 on Amazon or Jomashop (the black dial is $239, while the cream is $200). Check out my affiliate links below to support the channel at no extra cost to you:

  • Amazon Link
  • Jomashop Link

Final Thoughts

The 38mm Orient Bambino is a game-changer for the series, blending vintage style with modern wearability. It’s stylish, affordable, and versatile enough to share with your loved ones. What do you think—is this the best Bambino yet? Drop your thoughts in the comments, and don’t forget to check out my YouTube video for a closer look!

The Best Orient Bambino Yet: A 38mm Vintage-Inspired Dress Watch Under $300 Read More »

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