Strap Guide: Orient Bambino Mechanical 38mm

Strap Guide written by @watchdial_au

Introduction

I can go on and on about how great the 38mm Orient Bambino is, just ask my neighbours who frantically run inside their homes whenever they get a glimpse of me approaching whilst wearing it happily on my wrist.

And what's not to like, it features a timeless classic design, sports an automatic in-house movement and most of all, it's incredibly affordable.

The dial is the standout here. Executed in a wonderful creamy beige tone, accompanied by navy blue sword-shaped hands, applied logo, tiny date window at 3 o’clock and clean layout, it simply exudes class.

Of course, like most things however, it’s not all peaches and cream, the watch may lack some luxury features and the supplied leather strap is a little uninspiring, but I am ok with that. It’s expected at this price range.

Indeed, the Bambino shouldn't be bound to one strap, colour or design combo. It's too versatile for that. This dial should be showcased on a host of various strap styles, materials and colours, because, really it deserves to be.

Which in turn brings us to Delugs. I usually pair the watch with the brilliant Delugs Sand Alcantara Signature strap, however here I showcase four strap options that will transform your Bambino, so whether you’re dressing up for a formal gathering, sporting a summer look or adding sophistication to your daily attire, these Delugs straps have you covered.

Light Grey Nubuck Slim Strap

Nubuck is a soft, yet hardy versatile leather making it the ideal material for everyday wear. I was sceptical at first, but full credit to Delugs, because straight out of the box, the strap was flexible, comfortable and strikingly beautiful to look at.

This particular light grey pairs incredibly well with the Bambino’s beige dial. The pearl grey stitching helps dress the watch down for a more casual, everyday look, and so I find myself gravitating to this combination quite often.

This combination couples brilliantly with a grey or navy sweater, charcoal pants and black or white sneakers.

Moss Green Babele Slim Strap

A unique but attractive-looking leather strap that is soft to the touch whilst offering a textured linen feel. The moss green is outstanding, complementing the Bambino’s dial colour effortlessly. This combination exudes elegance and sophistication, making it the perfect choice to wear to work and on the weekends. It will undoubtedly become your default summer option.

This combination works great with a matching green or white shirt, birch-colored pants and light brown shoes.

Cognac Pueblo Slim Strap

Pueblo leather is a full-grain vegetable-tanned leather which has a nice supple feel with a tiny amount of firmness. The finish gives the leather a unique, rustic charm, with a slightly weathered appearance that adds character to the strap.

As usual, Delugs’s impeccable craftsmanship is on display here, the finishing is outstanding and the stitching is top-notch. Cognac screams classic, adding an element of style and luxury to the Bambino as it elevates the dial’s vintage look to even higher echelons, whilst khaki stitching blends beautifully with the watch’s creamy dial.

It looks great paired with a multitude of colours, but I like to pair it with a pale blue or russet top, tan pants and brown suede shoes.

Matte Dark Brown Alligator Signature Strap

Often prized for its luxurious appearance, durability and comfort, an alligator strap is a classic and a must-have for any serious strap collection. This Matte Brown Signature handcrafted design is pure distinction and pairs well with the Bambino as the contrasting colours and textures work exquisitely together. A flawless understated elegant option for any formal attire event.

Pair with a navy, charcoal or brown suit with matching Oxford shoes to complete the look.