Fears Arnos (Blue)vsOrient Bambino Small Seconds

The Fears Arnos (Blue) is lauded for its striking blue galvanic dial with a hobnail surround and Roman numerals, housed in a vintage-inspired 33.5mm rectangular stainless steel case measuring 8.4mm in thickness. Reviewers note the convenience of its automatic Sellita SW1000-1b movement, which offers a 46-hour power reserve. On balance, reviewers praise the Fears Arnos (Blue) for its distinctive dial and slim, wearable case.

The Orient Bambino is widely praised for its exceptional value and vintage-inspired dress watch design, with reviewers highlighting its dial quality as comparable to much more expensive timepieces. Owners appreciate the watch as a great beginner automatic, with many continuing to wear it even after acquiring pricier watches, and the case finishing is noted as a significant upgrade for the line. Some owners find the finishing not as robust as other models, and the stock straps are frequently replaced. The 38mm variant uses mineral glass and an in-house F6724 calibre with a 40-hour power reserve, rated for +25/-15 seconds per day accuracy, while the Small Seconds variant features an F6222 caliber with hand-winding and hacking seconds. The 36mm version is praised for its size and vintage feel, though its marketing and narrow lug width are noted as drawbacks.