Orient Bambino Version 1vsVario 1918 SG60 Merlion Trench

The Orient Bambino Version 1 is widely praised as an exceptional value dress watch with a timeless aesthetic, appreciated for its automatic movement and quality under $150. Owners consistently highlight its smart, quintessential dress watch look, with Roman numeral and index markers being a particular point of admiration. Some reviewers note the dial has a greenish/blueish tint rather than pure white, and the winding motion is described as a little rough. Accuracy is reported as very good, with one owner seeing +1 second per day. While the design is praised, some find its size slightly large for a dress watch, and one owner found rotor noise and size bothersome. Stock straps are frequently mentioned as a drawback, described as plasticky, non-tapering, or not to taste. Some owners suggest better value can be found elsewhere, citing mineral crystal and non-hacking, non-handwinding movement as drawbacks.

The Vario 1918 SG60 Merlion Trench is widely seen as a commemorative keepsake, particularly for those celebrating Singapore's 60th anniversary or born in 1965. Reviewers note its vibrant red enamel dial and 37mm steel case with fixed wire lugs, along with 100m water resistance. One owner reported the watch is "patina-ing well" after three years, and the Miyota 82S5 movement is considered a reliable, cost-effective base. Overall, owners and reviewers appreciate the Vario 1918 SG60 Merlion Trench as a unique souvenir and tribute piece, with its distinctive enamel dial being a key draw.