Got a cool watch? Let's see it.

There really is no "right" answer, just a most common configuration. Seiko is known to reverse deployants, and IWC does it sometimes too. I find it more difficult to fasten when configured that way. In fact, the first thing I did on my Cocktail Time was orient it the normal direction.

Agreed.

On the other hand, I'd say that there is definitely a "right" way to install a strap with a buckle. (at least for me, there is) It's much easier to manipulate things (with my free right hand) if the strap end with the holes is at 6:00 and the end with the buckle is at 12:00.

I'm really hoping the orient bambino goes on killer sale years end. They sold out last year before I could get one.....or two.

I could find it, but just to start a conversation, what does the current model look like?

I really like some of the previous versions, but over the years they've changed it so often that some are not quite as desirable (IMO) as some others.

Looking back, I think the Version 1, white dial is still my favorite:

Today was Speedy Tuesday. Started reading "Moon Lander" by Thomas J. Kelly, the Chief Engineer on the Lunar Module for Apollo.

I think they are on version 4 now, but this is the one I think I want. Amazon had like a 12 or 24hr sale last year and i think they were like $70. If they do that again, at least one is coming home with me. I really hope spinnaker goes on crazy sale aswell. That multicolored wreck is pretty cool.

I have a white Bambino with blue hands that may be in the FM soon...if yer' interested...

Forget which version, but I'll say it's the best version. Non Arabic numerals, slightly antiqued face, beautiful, but gathering dust.

A great piece, punching well above it's weight!

You should be able to find it here:

https://basicbands.com/the-complete-guide-to-the-orient-bambino-watch/

I really want to like the Bambino, but I think that style of watch needs to be < 40mm. Watches larger than that need a dive bezel or tachymeter or something to avoid looking cartoonish. Just my $0.02.

Panerai ...............

Never mentioned around here, but I’ve been wanting a sandwich dial, wire-lug Radiomir for a while. Great heritage and retro look, but the lack of in-house movements kept me at a distance. Now with their P series of manual wind in-house movements, JLC movement partnership, diminishing popularity, and reasonable pre-owned prices, I’ve started considering one.

PAM190 .............. screw down, 100m, sandwich dial, JLC hand wound 8 day, 45mm






PAM425 ........... same specs as above with 1930’s retro design, in-house P3000 movement, 47mm

I agree with everything you said here. I want to love Panerai, but they're simply too large for me. The PAM 190 is about the only one I can pull off. The Panerai pre-owned market is getting really soft right now. In fact, I think it is going to get even better in the months to come. I think 2020 might be the year of the pre-owned Panerai for those that have been putting it off.

The PAM190 has a lug to lug of 51mm, which is comparable to a Submariner. I tried on a 45 & 47, and was surprised how well they fit across the wrist, which historically, a Panerai should look large. They seem to be about 45-50% off retail in the pre-owned market now.

190 vs. 425

What kind of money are we talking for one of these on the used market. DL, both those options you posted are nice. I'm especially drawn to the PAM190.

S.C.

My new addition, waiting on a few straps to get in so I can wear a bit more casually.

425 5k
190 5.8k

Mmmmm. I would still like to some day get that Air King, but that 190 is a fine looking watch, and I'll assume that the future will bring lower Rolex prices, putting that Air King in the ballpark as well.

S.C.

I wouldn’t t count on the Rolex market falling. The last recession killed the gray market, but retail held strong. Pre-owned would be affected also, but pending new supply.

My 42mm luminor on 7.5” wrist. Their new watches with the smaller cases really do wear well on a variety of wrists and in a variety of settings.

Wow. Not that I wish ill on anyone, but I'd hoped the alleged economic downturn would help me get that Air King.

And on that topic, assuming there is actually a downturn in the near future, do you see any other brands dropping in price on the used market?

S.C.

The sports watch segment as a whole will drop. Air Kings can be had at MSRP in ADs all over the place. It is one of the few models that is readily found in the cases. I think a downturn will see them selling below MSRP, both new and pre-owned, albeit not by much.

The market is softening a bit on Subs too. I don't see us having a big enough downturn to massively effect markets though. We aren't even really seeing a downturn now, not just a halt in growth. Companies can't grow when they can't hire, and more jobs than people is the predicament. A few sectors will see a big downturn, but it will be but a blip on the greater market.