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Best Oris Aquis Models

One of the top brands in designing some of the most sturdy timepieces on the market, and one of my favorites in the $1,000-$5,000 price range, is Oris. The company is known for using quality materials on its timepieces and making them highly affordable for their excellent quality. 

Being one of the most highly-regarded watches by enthusiasts worldwide and having experienced some of their watches firsthand, I’ve created this detailed guide on the Oris Aquis. Read below if you’re interested in purchasing a robust and reliable dive watch from one of the most reputable entry-level Swiss watch brands worldwide.

About Oris Aquis Watches

When I got into watches years ago, I damaged them a lot because I was always on the move. I hated having to take off my timepiece for every little task. So I discovered dive watches and decided to try them, and I haven’t looked back ever since. The combination of a sturdy build, high functionality, and class makes me weak in the knees. And when you talk about a quality dive watch, the Oris Aquis does it for me.

It is very easy to see why Oris Aquis watches have gained so much popularity; these timepieces are built for the harshest weather conditions and activities, with many days of power reserve, up to 500 meters of water resistance, and many other outstanding features that make them the perfect timepiece for outdoor and underwater explorations.

Aside from being a very tough watch, Aquis watches are also stylish; they come in different materials and colors, so finding the one that will fit your style and taste won’t be hard. With the simple and unique design of their watches, it is fit for a business meeting as much as it will do the job during any field work or outdoor activity.

An Oris Aquis was not the first dive watch I ever bought, it was not even the second or third, but ever since I tried one at a store a couple of years ago, it takes every ounce of discipline in me not to swipe my card at the launch of every new model. 

I’ve taken my Oris watches on countless hikes, trips, and swims, and they are even the only ones in my collection I wear to the gym. They are the perfect balance of sturdiness and style, and you will receive compliments if styled up or down.

History of the Oris Aquis

Oris’s history of making dive watches since 1965 inspired the Aquis. It was designed for divers, and its distinct feature was the large crown to make it easy for the divers to operate during their dives with gloves on.

The first set of Aquis watches was released in 2003 and received an award for the best sports watch from Watch Time magazine a year later. By 2007, the company introduced newer models like chronograph, automatic and quartz variations. 

The Aquis made history in 2013 with the first mechanical depth gauge in a timepiece, called the “Depth Gauge”. To date, Aquis models are still recognized as one of the most functional and well-built dive watches for divers and watch lovers worldwide.

What Makes Oris Aquis Models Different

Yes, Aquis watches are sturdy and stylish, but they are not the only dive watches on the market, not even from the Oris brand, so what makes them unique?

Sizes

You can get Aquis watches in four sizes, the 36.5mm case size, the 39.5mm, the 41.5mm, and the 43.5mm. The smallest size is a perfect fit for women or people with small wrists. 

The 39.5mm and 41.5mm case sizes are the most popular ones as they fit most wrists, while the 43.5mm is for people with large wrists. Oris has made Aquis watches for everyone, so no matter what size you wear, there is always an Aquis for you.

Materials

Materials like bronze, stainless steel, and titanium are used to make Aquis watches. The stainless steel versions are the cheapest and more affordable for people interested in the functionality of the timepieces. 

The titanium versions are much lighter than others, resistant to more conditions than the steel version, and look a lot more luxurious and dressy. The bronze versions are much fancier than the rest, and they are more expensive. So for whatever reason you might want an Aquis, either for its functions or look, your needs will be met.

Movement 

Whether you want an Aquis with a hand wound or an automatic movement, there is one for you. So the variety of watch movements from Aquis gives you options to pick from. Oris has even equipped some Aquis variations with their latest in-house movement, the Calibre 400.

Dial

A variety of dial colors are available on the Aquis line. Colors like black, green, and red, with black as the most popular one because of its versatility. 

Dial colors like blue and red can also be styled in various ways, but green is a much more outstanding color as it comes with sophisticated and luxurious ones. Vintage colors like brown and white can be found on older Aquis watches, and they’re perfect for people that appreciate a classic look on their timepieces.

Watch Features

Additional features like the GMT function that allows you to keep track of different timezones simultaneously and a Chronograph complication that you can use to measure short periods can be found on some models. 

Aquis watches are also famous for their long hours of power reserve, and some have a deep water resistance of up to 500 meters. Another unique feature that stands Aquis watches out is that most of their watches come with the option of a rubber strap or a stainless steel bracelet, so you can style them anyhow you like.

The Best Oris Aquis Models You Can Buy Today

If you’re interested in buying an Oris Aquis timepiece, this is a list of 12 of the best watch models of the Oris Aquis:

Oris Aquis Date Calibre 400 (ref. 01 400 7769 4154-07 8 22 09PEB)

Oris Aquis Date Calibre 400 (ref. 01 400 7769 4154-07 8 22 09PEB)

I am a big fan of tough guy watches, the ones that will get people asking if I work in private security, and those are the qualities the Oris Aquis Date has. Inside this timepiece is Oris’ in-house Calibre 400 movement with a 5-day power reserve and 300 meters of water resistance. 

It features an anthracite dial and black bezel with white indices, Arabic numerals, and hands. Its 41.5mm case is stainless steel with a steel screw-down crown. It features a rubber strap with a security folding clasp. If you want an Aquis watch that will give you that tough guy look, the Aquis Date Calibre 400 is a good option, and it sells for around $3,700.

Oris Aquis Date (ref. 01 733 7730 4135-07 8 24 05PEB)

Oris Aquis Date (ref. 01 733 7730 4135-07 8 24 05PEB)

This version of the Aquis Date is one of the most popular timepieces from Oris. I love it because, aside from being able to handle demanding outdoor activities, it’s also a tremendous all-around timepiece. On top of its 43.5mm stainless steel case is a unidirectional black bezel with white indices and markers. 

It features a blue dial with white hands and indices with a date window at 6 o’clock. It has a stainless steel bracelet with a folding clasp. Inside it is the Oris 733 automatic movement with a power reserve of 38 hours and a water resistance of 300 meters.

The Aquis Date timepiece is built to take a beating, and the blue dial used adds serious class to it. If you’re looking for an Aquis that can be styled in multiple ways for around $2,400, this timepiece can be yours.

Oris Aquis Date Relief (ref. 01 733 7730 4153-07 8 24 05PEB)

Oris Aquis Date Relief (ref. 01 733 7730 4153-07 8 24 05PEB)

The first thing that caught my eye on the Date Relief was the beautiful gray dial and bezel that perfectly complements the stainless steel case and bracelet. The dial and bezel also feature raised numerals that give the watch a look attributed to most high-end timepieces. The Oris 733 automatic movement powers it with a power reserve of 38 hours and a water resistance of 300 meters. 

It features a see-through case back made of mineral glass. The Aquis Date Relief would turn heads if styled with a corporate outfit and can also serve as the perfect daily beater with the rubber strap. It currently retails for $2,200. 

Oris Aquis Small Second Date (ref. 01 743 7733 4155-07 4 24 69EB)

Oris Aquis Small Second Date (ref. 01 743 7733 4155-07 4 24 69EB)

The small seconds subdial and deep water resistance are the unique features of the Aquis Small Second Date. It features a 45.5mm case that fits people with big wrists. It has a blue dial with a small second subdial at 9 o’clock. It also features a blue unidirectional bezel. 

It is powered by the Oris 743 automatic movement based on the Sellita SW220-1. It has a blue strap with a stainless steel folding clasp. It has a water resistance of 500 meters and a power reserve of 38 hours. The Aquis Small Second Date is the total package for professional divers and can also be worn in casual outfits. It offers excellent value at $2,700.

Oris Aquis Date Recycled Dial (ref. 01 733 7770 4150-Set)

Oris Aquis Date Recycled Dial (ref. 01 733 7770 4150-Set)

Oris is constantly developing newer ways of giving their watches a unique look, and the Recycled dial proves their dedication to sustainability. It features a multicolored dial made from recycled PET plastic with white markers, indices, and a gray bezel. 

It is powered by the Oris 733 automatic movement with a date corrector, fine timing, and stop second function. It has a power reserve of 38 hours and a water resistance of 300 meters. It features a stainless steel bracelet and a folding clasp. If you like your timepiece with bright colors, you can get the Aquis Recycled Dial for $2,500.

Oris Aquis Chronograph (ref. 01 774 7655 4154-07 4 26 34EB)

Oris Aquis Chronograph (ref. 01 774 7655 4154-07 4 26 34EB)

The Aquis Chronograph is one feature-packed Aquis timepiece, and for $3,700, it offers excellent value. It features a stainless steel case that measures 46mm in diameter. Its black dial is covered in black and white markers and Arabic numerals. 

The Oris 774 automatic movement powers it, and it comes with functions like a Chronograph, subdials for a 30-minute and 12 hours counter, continuous seconds, and a date window. It has a power reserve of 48 hours and a water resistance of 500 meters. It is a good option for divers and people working long hours in the field.

Oris Aquis GMT Date  (ref. 01 798 7754 4135-07 8 24 05PEB)

Oris Aquis GMT Date  (ref. 01 798 7754 4135-07 8 24 05PEB)

The adventurer’s timepiece. The GMT function on this Aquis makes it the perfect travel buddy. It features a 43.5mm black case with a unidirectional bezel made of ceramic. It has a blue dial with white hands and markers. 

It is powered by the Oris 798 automatic movement based on the Sellita SW330-1. It has a water resistance of 300 meters and a power reserve of 48 hours. It features a very smooth stainless steel bracelet. It is the perfect timepiece for globetrotters and people that like a functional watch. The Aquis GMT Date retails for $3,000.

Oris AquisPro Date Calibre 400 (ref. 01 400 7767 7754-07 426 64BTEB)

Oris AquisPro Date Calibre 400 (ref. 01 400 7767 7754-07 426 64BTEB)

The AquisPro Date Calibre 400 is the total package; it is the perfect watch for a dive and would look good on any casual outfit. It features a 49.5mm case made of titanium with a DLC coating. It has a black dial with white luminous hands and markers. 

Inside is the Oris Calibre 400 automatic movement, with a power reserve of 120 hours, a water resistance of a thousand meters, and a magnetic resistance of up to 15,000 gauss. 

Its strap is made of rubber with a titanium folding clasp. The AquisPro also features a unique RSS bezel that allows you to lock the unidirectional bezel into place during your dive. If you do a lot of fieldwork or are a professional diver, this Aquis timepiece is for you, and it currently sells for $4,900.

Oris Aquis Date Diamonds (ref. 01 733 7766 4998-07 8 22 05PEB)

Oris Aquis Date Diamonds (ref. 01 733 7766 4998-07 8 22 05PEB)

We have the Aquis Date Diamond on the luxury side of dive watches, and this masterpiece will surely make a statement. It is powered by the Oris 733 automatic movement with a 38 hours power reserve and a water resistance of 100 meters. 

Its case measures 41.5mm in diameter, and it is set with 48 diamonds. It has a red dial with diamond markers and white hands. If you want an Aquis timepiece that can make a profound statement, the Date Diamonds is the right one for you, and it retails for $5,700.

Oris Aquis New York Harbor (ref. 01 733 7766 4187-Set)

Oris Aquis New York Harbor (ref. 01 733 7766 4187-Set)

The Aquis New York timepiece offers excellent value at just $2,800. It features a unique green mother-of-pearl dial with silver hands and markers. The case measures 41.5mm in diameter with a stainless steel bezel. It features a steel caseback with an oyster engraving which projects Oris’s goal to restore one billion oysters to the New York harbor. 

This Aquis features a green strap with an extra steel bracelet. It has a 300 meters water resistance and a power reserve of 38 hours. The New York Harbor is a unique timepiece that will turn heads on a tuxedo, and it is also a great dive watch. 

Oris Aquis Depth Gauge (ref. 01 733 7755 4154-Set MB)

Oris Aquis Depth Gauge (ref. 01 733 7755 4154-Set MB)

This timepiece is designed to give you the ultimate diving experience. Also known as the watch with a hole, the Depth Gauge features a hole that allows water to pass through to measure the depth of your dive. This timepiece is an upgrade of the previous depth gauge with a more accurate gauge system, a quick strap change system, and a meters-to-feet conversion system. 

It has a stainless steel case measuring 45.8mm in diameter and features a black dial with white and yellow markers, Arabic numerals, and hands. It is controlled by the Oris 733 automatic movement with a power reserve of 38 hours and water resistance of 500 meters. The Aquis Depth Gauge is guaranteed to give you the best diving experience, and it currently retails at $4,300.

Oris Aquis Sun Wukong Artist Edition (ref. 01 400 7769 4185-Set)

Oris Aquis Sun Wukong Artist Edition (ref. 01 400 7769 4185-Set)

This Aquis is a Sun Wukong artist edition timepiece, a tribute to a Chinese mythological figure, the Monkey King. It features the painting of the Dragon King’s underwater palace. The enamel blue dial features white hands with markers on the gray bezel. It has a stainless steel case that measures 41.5mm in diameter and a case back with the Monkey King engraving. 

Inside is the Oris 400 automatic movement with a power reserve of 5 days and 300 meters of water resistance. It is a limited edition timepiece that is sold for around $27,500. If you want an Aquis timepiece with a strong heritage that can serve as the perfect heirloom, the Sun Wukong Artist edition is an excellent choice.

Conclusion 

Finally, Aquis watches are sturdy and very functional. Not only are they much more affordable than most dive watches on the market, but they also offer more value and quality. So if you’re looking for dive watches that combine a sturdy build, functionality, and style, you should look at the Oris Aquis models, and you will find one that will suit your taste.

Best Oris Dive watches

Oris has been known for several decades as a brand that offers incredibly functional and instrumental timepieces at prices that are impossible to beat. Apart from being one of the most approachable watch manufacturers among established Swiss brands, the Holstein-based Marque has been on fire in recent years. 

Oris has been elevating its prominence by releasing robust dive watches with a dash of elegance and vintage inspiration. When it comes to dive watches, the contenders in this genre are heavyweight, but the ones from Oris encapsulate essentially Swiss industrial supremacy.

And we all know that when done right, a good diver has an appeal that runs deep! From high legibility to a practical feature set and flexible design language, here are ten of the very best dive watches from Oris.

These watches are deep in quality and performance but shallow in price. So span your wardrobe style with ease, as each selection is worth your time!

About Oris Dive Watches 

Oris is one of the few Swiss watch brands that has maintained its independence even after 100 years. The company is known to produce mechanical watches with exceptional value for money. 

The Oris catalog comprises exclusive watches for divers, pilots, and motorsport fans. There’s also a non-sports-oriented edition in the Culture collection with classic-looking timepieces that bear a mixture of tradition and innovation.

The Oris ProDiver line was made for serious diving professionals and comes with a water-resistant rating of up to 1000 meters. It includes the ProDiver GMT and the Oris ProDiver Chronograph, which features the Rotation Safety System.

Again, some of the brand’s watches are tied to environmental conservation causes through alliances with various conservationist organizations.

The divers’ collection includes purpose-driven tool watches and is divided into vintage-inspired (Diver’s 65) and modern-styled (Aquis) timepieces. The dive watches come in stainless steel cases that can withstand depths of 100 to 300 meters. 

The purpose-driven tool watches feature a unidirectional rotating ceramic bezel and screw-down crown. These timepieces enjoy widespread popularity and are highly legible with luminescent hour markers and hands, making them easy to read in the darkest depths. 

The divers’ collection includes watches with a date mechanism, GMT complication, chronograph, and innovative depth gauge. Prices for Oris’ dive watch hover around $2,000.

History of Oris Dive Watches

To better understand the Oris dive watch catalog, let’s briefly explore the legacy of this iconic brand. Oris was founded in 1904 by Paul Catlin and Georges Christian in the Swiss town of Hölstein.

The duo acquired Lohner & Co watch factory, which had just closed down, and named it ‘Oris’ after a brook running nearby. From the onset, the goal was to produce affordable quality watches for the “everyman”, and in a few years, the company expanded extensively.

Six factory facilities were opened by 1925, making Oris the largest employer in Hölstein, with over 300 workers. In the same year, the watch manufacturer began the production of wristwatches in earnest by fitting bracelet buckles to its pocket watches.

The brand continued to forge ahead despite the passing of its co-founder Georges Christian in 1927. Jacques-David LeCoultre became President of Oris’s Board of Directors in the same year, and in 1938, it released its first signature pilot watch, ‘Big Crown’.

Production of alarm clocks kept the business running through the Second World War, and the first automatic watch — the caliber 601 — was launched in 1952. From this point on, we begin to see the production of some of the brand’s top icons. One such is the first waterproof watch, produced in 1965.

The watch was water-resistant to 100m and came in a 36mm chromium-plated brass case with domed plexiglass. It featured a highly legible black dial with liberal amounts of tritium, a uni-directional rotating bezel, and the manually wound caliber 654.

Oris launched a modernized remake of the legendary line back in 2015, and since that time, the vintage-inspired model has been revisited in countless versions.

The 10 Best Oris Dive Watches

1. Oris Aquis Date Calibre 400 (ref. 01 400 7769 4135-07 8 22 09PEB)

Oris Aquis Date Calibre 400 (ref. 01 400 7769 4135-07 8 22 09PEB)

Starting this selection is none other than an impressive contemporary diver with a simplicity and effortlessness that places it as one of the most versatile dive watches out there. The Aquis collection marches to the beat of its drum and needs little introduction amongst enthusiasts and collectors. 

The Date Calibre 400, which perfectly represents Oris’ excellent value-for-money capabilities, has all the features you would expect from a dive watch. It has a screw-down crown, a unidirectional rotating bezel with grooves (to allow divers to grab it with gloves), and a sapphire crystal. 

Rated to 300 meters, the Aquis Date Calibre 400 wears quite well at 41.50mm in diameter and 48mm from lug end to lug end. The familiar fume dial that progressively transitions from blue in the center to almost black at the borders features wide bar hour markers and sword hands that add grace and elegance to the tool watch.

The large hands and hour markers have a very generous coating of Super-LumiNova for legibility in low-light conditions. The revolutionary Calibre 400 is visible through the transparent sapphire case back. This in-house automatic movement is pretty impressive, with 5 days of power reserve and a 10-year warranty. You can get it here.

2. Oris Divers Sixty-Five (ref. 01 733 7707 4354-07 8 20 18)

Oris Divers Sixty-Five (ref. 01 733 7707 4354-07 8 20 18)

The Oris Divers Sixty-Five is one of the best bang-for-buck entry-level Swiss watches out there. Oris proudly satisfies the appetite for luxury mechanical dive watches with this no-fuss timepiece that perfectly reinterprets traditional watchmaking for the 21st century. 

The stainless steel case is appropriately sized at 40mm with a height of almost 13 mm, giving it a noticeable – but not overwhelming – presence on the wrist. The case features a 120-click unidirectional bezel, a profusely domed sapphire on top, and a proportionate, tightly-sealed crown. 

It is water resistant to a depth of 100 meters, and I know this might raise eyebrows, but trust me, when Oris says it’s 100m, it’s 100m. Better to count on Oris’ 100m rating than a microbrand’s 200m assertion any day, anytime.

The black dial is slightly textured with applied indices and hands, plated with rose gold to match the hands and bezel grooves. The gold paint offers the dial a slight shimmery countenance that just looks royal against the black backdrop.

A date window sits at 6 o’clock while Oris’ logo is printed boldly below 12 o’clock in gold paint. Ticking away inside the timepiece is the Oris’ 733 automatic winding movement. Based on the Sellita SW200-1, the movement offers 38 hours of power reserve. 

3. Oris Aquis GMT Date (ref. 01 798 7754 4135-07 8 24 05PEB)

Oris Aquis GMT Date (ref. 01 798 7754 4135-07 8 24 05PEB)

The Oris Aquis GMT Date encapsulates all of the quintessential design codes that offer a contemporary voice to high-performing retro dive watches. If you heard of the buzz emanating from Oris stand at Baselworld 2019, it was thanks to this professional diver with an unconventional combination of complications. 

Massive at 43.50 mm wide, this timepiece has that unmistakable tool watch appearance with a charm and twist that has made it the darling of the collectors’ community. The no-nonsense watch allows the wearer to access three distinct time-zone readings. 

The local time is set by using the standard hour hand, while the GMT hand, with a yellow tip (set by the crown), regulates the home time. The third time zone is set using the GMT hand together with the bidirectional GMT bezel.

Rated to 300 meters, this watch features an attractive sunburst blue dial with bold applied indices and rhodium-plated hands. All the hour markers, hands, and the inverted triangle at position ’24’ in the bezel have been applied with Super-LumiNova.

The watch is tempting, engaging, and resplendent, with a 24-hour ring on the dial and a date window at 3 o’clock. Under the hood, the automatic caliber 798, based on a Sellita SW 330-1, provides a power reserve of 42 hours. You can get it here.

4. Oris Divers Sixty-Five Bronze (ref. 01 733 7771 3155-07 8 19 15)

Oris Divers Sixty-Five Bronze (ref. 01 733 7771 3155-07 8 19 15)

The Divers Sixty-Five has been an experimental ground for Oris technically and aesthetically. The Swiss Marque chooses to venture off-piste with this cool and robust Bronze timepiece with a universal appeal.

Besides being highly resistant to saltwater corrosion, Bronze (an alloy of copper and tin) is packed with several advantageous properties. It is widely used in the making of dive watches and has a signature warm color that is prone to darken over time, bringing forth a pleasing patina.

Perfectly sized at 38mm, the case of the Divers Sixty-Five Bronze is notably comfortable with pleasing proportions. At only 12 mm thick and a lug-to-lug length of approximately 48mm, the watch evokes a vintage feel with its faded, patinated retro green dial. 

The pastel dial features plain, legible hands with circular and rectangular hour markers coated with old-radium Super-LumiNova. The open minute track and dial text is all done up in white, keeping the dial pretty neat and uncluttered.

A date window sits at 6 o’clock, and the dial is protected by an ultra-domed sapphire crystal with an anti-reflective coating.

Keeping the cost down is a simple and reliable movement with 26 jewels and a power reserve of 38 hours; the 733 caliber. The watch is water-resistant to a depth of 100 meters. 

5. Oris Aquis Date 36.5mm Pink Dial (ref. 01 733 7770 4158-07 8 18 05P)

Oris Aquis Date 36.5mm Pink Dial (ref. 01 733 7770 4158-07 8 18 05P)

Oris is one of the most customer-focused Swiss brands out there. Over the years, they have dared to be bold by going against the grain when many comparably sized Swiss brands would have chosen to play safe. 

The Aquis Date 36.5mm Pink Dial reflects the Marque’s willingness to shun convention and embrace new ideas. At 36.5 mm in diameter, the watch is small with a tapered steel bracelet that gives it a distinctive personality that is just refreshing, sleek, and radiant. 

Don’t let the un​se​ri​ous aesthetics fool you, though; this right here is a no-fuss diver with 300 meters of water resistance. To be honest, I was quite surprised (and thrilled) to discover that such a fun and amusing timepiece came with a pro depth rating and sophistication like “toolish” divers.

We see the familiar Oris look again here; hour appliqués and the hands standing out in contrast against a brilliant pink dial. However, the shimmering effect is striking on this one, and Oris likens the radiance to sunlight on the water’s surface. 

There’s a partially guarded crown with a unidirectional rotating bezel and a 60-minute scale in relief. The dial is protected by a double-domed sapphire crystal with an anti-reflective coating inside.

Ticking underneath the mineral glass exhibition case back is the tested, tried, and true Oris 733 automatic movement with a 38-hour power reserve.

6. Oris Aquis Depth Gauge (ref. 01 733 7755 4154-Set RS)

Oris Aquis Depth Gauge (ref. 01 733 7755 4154-Set RS)

Even though this right here is a ten-year-old release, the Aquis Depth Gauge remains one of the choicest dive watches on the market. Bold, robust, and solid, this timepiece is a workhorse of a dive watch. 

It is presented in a large stainless steel case that measures 45.80 mm in diameter, so it’s certainly not for everyone. However, the lugs are short and angled, so it wears more comfortably than the measurements suggest. 

The unidirectional rotating bezel is sturdy but easy to rotate, and the watch features a functioning depth gauge that measures depth during a dive. This patented system operates through a hole in the sapphire crystal at 12 o’clock.

The opening goes around till about 1 o’clock and uses the scientific principles of Boyle-Mariotte’s Law. The more you descend, the more pressure builds up, leading to a compression of the trapped air in the glass.

The exact depth can be determined by a scale on the inside created by a watermark that equates to a gauge pointed out in yellow on the dial. The timepiece delivers a high performance underwater with sharp black, white, and yellow markings on the dial for maximum contrast.

The case back features an engraved meters-to-feet conversion scale, enhancing the overall experience of the watch. It is powered by the Oris 733 caliber, based on the Sellita SW 200-1 automatic movement, and can be gotten here.

7. Oris Divers Sixty-Five Oris Social Club Edition (ref. 01 733 7707 4051 OSC-USA-Set)

Oris Divers Sixty-Five Oris Social Club Edition (ref. 01 733 7707 4051 OSC-USA-Set)

Oris is a brand that knows how to capture the attention of the watch community. The lore surrounding the Oris Divers Sixty-Five Oris Social Club Edition centers on the creation of an atmosphere where the love for Oris and elegant timepieces converge. 

Coming as a collaboration between Oris’ design team and the Oris Social Club or fanbase, this watch is unique and deserves the appeal of the masses. At 40 mm in diameter, the stainless steel case is truly universal with pleasing proportions. 

Its polished sides and brushing on the top of the lugs give it a warm, refined look. For the first time in the Oris Sixty-Five lineup, we have a white dial. 

Beyond that, Oris has made something special by customizing the case back of this timepiece with special engravings. Each city with an Oris Social Club has a special logo carved on the case back.

The layout of the dial is familiar with what we’ve seen in the Divers Sixty-Five collection. However, a nice detail worth mentioning here is that the hour markers and hands have black surrounds to match the bezel and watch strap.

The timepiece is water-resistant to a depth of 100 meters and was designed to be worn in any situation where relaxation and leisure are a priority. It is powered by the modified Sellita SW 200-1, Oris 733 caliber, and can be bought here.

8. Oris Aquis Date Green Dial (ref. 01 733 7766 4157-07 8 22 05PEB)

Oris Aquis Date Green Dial (ref. 01 733 7766 4157-07 8 22 05PEB)

Featuring a bewitching green dial, the Oris Aquis Date is an impressive watch that will appeal to a wide array of enthusiasts.  The stainless steel case measures 41.50 mm across with alternating polished and brushed finishing, giving it a really elegant look. 

It is paired with a stainless steel bracelet with finely polished outer and brushed center links. The green dial is quite captivating, with a variegated appearance in different lighting conditions. 

The sunray motif causes it to assume a vibrant nature, like the shimmering effect of the sun on the surface of the ocean. Its dial is further adorned with silver-toned, applied indices that add depth and opulence to its surface.

The striking dial might make the timepiece feel more like an “everyday sports watch”, but with a water resistance rating of 300 meters, the dive instrument is a no-nonsense tool watch. Crisp white strokes lie between the hour markers, and together with a luminescent central sweep seconds hand, reading the minutes and seconds is pretty easy. 

The hands and indices have been treated with Superluminova BG W9, giving off a blue emission in dim light. It is powered by the Oris 733 caliber, visible via the exhibition case back.

9. Oris Aquis Date Upcycle (ref. 01 733 7766 4150-Set)

Oris Aquis Date Upcycle (ref. 01 733 7766 4150-Set)

Oris strives towards a more sustainable environment with the Aquis Date Upcycle, which was launched in a bid to draw attention to ocean waste. The timepiece is fitted with a special type of dial that seems a bit random, abstract, and nothing very eye-catching.

The plastic-based dial is unique, so every timepiece in the Upcycle lineup is remarkably different. The watch is presented in a stainless steel case that measures 41.50 mm across with a unidirectional rotatable bezel and grey ceramic bezel insert. 

The construction of the case is the same as other Aquis models, with alternating brushed and polished surfaces. The screw-down crown is protected on either side by the signature Aquis crown guard though here it appears thinner giving the watch a neater and sharper appearance.

The dial was produced in partnership with Tide (a Swiss company famous for recycling plastics from the ocean) and features an exclusive pattern and color scheme.  The hours are denoted by luminous hour markers, while bold hands (also luminescent) indicate the time.  

The watch is water-resistant to a depth of 300 meters and comes on a steel bracelet. Visible through the sapphire crystal case back is the Oris 733 caliber, which provides a power reserve of 38 hours when fully wound.

10. Oris Aquis Date Relief (ref. 01 733 7730 4153-07 4 24 63EB)

Oris Aquis Date Relief (ref. 01 733 7730 4153-07 4 24 63EB)

Launched in collaboration with Water Ambassador and Explorer Ernst Bromeis, Oris raises awareness of a serious issue with this high-performing diver. The Aquis Date Relief draws attention to the importance of the Earth’s fragile freshwater reserve.

The joint action, tagged ‘The Blue Miracle’, will involve Ernst swimming across the world’s largest freshwater lake (Lake Baikal) with the Date Relief strapped on his wrist. 

The timepiece comes in a sturdy 43.50 mm diameter stainless steel case that is water-resistant to a depth of 300 meters. The aesthetics and craftsmanship do not deviate a lot from the other dive watches we’ve looked at.

The sunburst grey dial has the typical silver-toned luminous hour markers and bold hands indicating the time meticulously. Red seconds hand with a luminous lollipop pip enlivens the somber dial while a date window indicated with a white disc and black digit sits at 6 o’clock.

For the first time, a relief bezel is used on an Aquis. This means the unidirectional rotating bezel has three-dimensional numerals standing out from the surface of the scale.

Keeping the price down is the self-winding Oris 733, with a reliable and easily serviceable engine and a power reserve of 38 hours.

Conclusion

The making of first-class watches at accessible prices has become an inseparable part of Oris’ identity. It is upon this core value that the brand was built, and through the years, the watch community has come to respect Oris for Its commitment.

The brand’s high-performance dive watches are known for their robustness and sporty look that appeals to a ton of watch enthusiasts globally. They will forever remain a testament to the brand’s excellent value-for-money capabilities.

15 Best Oris Watches Across All Categories

Oris is a Swiss luxury watchmaker known for its functional and stylish, high-quality timepieces. While Oris is considered a budget brand, in contrast to Rolex and Omega, the watchmaker has been creating exceptional timepieces for over a century.

Their commitment to precision, craftsmanship, and innovation has made them a favorite among watch enthusiasts and collectors. Oris watches are designed to be durable and reliable and are often chosen by professionals in various fields, including aviation, diving, and motorsports.

The brand has a reputation for creating watches that can withstand even the most extreme conditions while maintaining their accuracy and elegance. In this article, we will take a closer look at some of the best Oris watches on the market.

We will explore each timepiece’s unique features and functions, as well as the design and craftsmanship that make them stand out from other luxury watches.

Whether you’re a collector, an adventurer, or simply looking for a high-quality timepiece that you can rely on, there is an Oris watch that will meet your needs. Join us as we discover some of the best Oris watches available today and find out why they are considered some of the finest watches in the world.

History of Oris Watches

The Oris brand was founded in 1904 in the Swiss town of Hölstein by Paul Cattin and Georges Christian. The two watchmakers envisioned producing high-quality timepieces at an affordable price point. Initially, the company focused on producing pocket watches, but in 1925, Oris created its first wristwatch, marking a significant turning point for the brand.

Throughout the 20th century, Oris continued to innovate and expand its range of timepieces. In the 1930s, the brand began producing watches for pilots, and in the 1960s, it introduced diving watches designed to withstand the pressures of deep-sea exploration. Oris was mainly known for its Big Crown watches, which were designed to be easily adjustable by pilots wearing gloves.

In the 1980s, Oris faced challenges due to the Quartz Crisis, but the brand adapted by focusing on mechanical watches, which were experiencing a resurgence in popularity. In the 2000s, Oris continued to push the boundaries of watchmaking, introducing new materials and technologies into its designs. In 2003, the brand introduced its first in-house movement, the Calibre 110, which boasted an impressive 10-day power reserve.

The Current Status of Oris

Today, Oris is recognized as a leading luxury watch brand known for its commitment to craftsmanship, innovation, and sustainability. The brand is particularly respected for its diving and aviation watches, which professionals trust in these fields. Oris has also been involved in motorsports, partnering with the Williams Formula 1 team and producing limited-edition watches to commemorate the partnership.

In recent years, Oris has made significant strides in the area of sustainability, launching initiatives to reduce its environmental impact and partnering with organizations such as the Coral Restoration Foundation to protect and preserve marine ecosystems. In 2018, Oris introduced the Clean Ocean Limited Edition, a watch made from recycled plastic designed to raise awareness of the growing problem of plastic pollution in the world’s oceans.

The Best Oris Watches

1. ORIS AQUIS DATE CALIBER 400 01 400 7769 4135-07 8 22 09PEB

ORIS AQUIS DATE CALIBER 400 01 400 7769 4135-07 8 22 09PEB

The Oris Aquis Caliber 400 is a handsome, well-appointed dive watch. It’s a substantial-looking timepiece that sits at 13.4mm thick on the wrist and features many large visible screws, yet it wears well, even for men with modest wrist sizes. 

The case measures 41.5mm, is encased in stainless steel, and the dial is a gradient blue. Gradient dials are currently popular. There’s a date window at the 6 o’clock position.

The stainless-steel bracelet has an upscale taper to it. It has a latch system that allows for easy removal of links and half links for a micro fit. It also includes an adjustable dive extension to fit over a wetsuit. 

The timepiece is powered by the Oris 400 automatic movement, with a 120-hour power reserve. It’s also water resistant to 300M, making it a true dive watch. The watch punches above its weight, looking and feeling like a more expensive timepiece. 

Price: $3,700

2. ORIS DIVERS SIXTY-FIVE 01 733 7707 4055-07 8 20 18

ORIS DIVERS SIXTY-FIVE 01 733 7707 4055-07 8 20 18

The Oris Divers Sixty-Five features a vintage design that’s both simple and complex. The dark blue dial with yellowed luminous hands and indices is encased in stainless steel and measures 40mm. The face is clean and readable, with a date window at the 6 o’clock position. It’s wrapped in a black ceramic bezel. 

The timepiece is powered by the Oris 733 automatic movement and offers a 38-hour power reserve. It’s water resistant to 100m, which is acceptable for swimming and some light diving activities but not for professional diving.  

The watch is paired with a rubber strap that features a stainless-steel buckle. It can also be paired with a brown leather strap or a stainless steel bracelet for an additional price. 

Price: $2,150

3. ORIS PROPILOT X CALIBER 400 01 400 7778 7155-07 7 20 01TLC

ORIS PROPILOT X CALIBER 400 01 400 7778 7155-07 7 20 01TLC

The Oris ProPilot is not only a fine-looking timepiece but also exceptionally well-made. This is a true unisex model, encased in titanium and sized perfectly with a 39mm case. This might just be the perfect sports watch. 

The dial is sandpaper blue with silver hands and white indices. There’s a date window at the 6 o’clock position. This is a fine-timing device with and features a stop-second.  

The watch is powered by the aforementioned Oris 400 automatic movement with a 120-hour power reserve. It’s water resistant to 100M. The titanium bracelet features a lift-lock system. Everything about this watch is finely crafted. 

Price: $4,300 

4. ORIS BIG CROWN POINTER DATE 01 754 7741 4065-07 8 20 22

ORIS BIG CROWN POINTER DATE 01 754 7741 4065-07 8 20 22

The Oris Big Crown Pointer Date features a vintage aviator style. The 40mm stainless steel case with a 12.1mm height on the wrist is a good unisex option.

Encased in stainless steel, the modern blue color of the dial pairs nicely with the vintage silver hands and white numbers and lettering. The seconds hand features an inward-facing red triangle. The case size is 40mm and sits at 12.1mm thick on the wrist. 

The timepiece is powered by a basic Oris 754 automatic with a 38-hour power reserve. It offers 50M of water resistance for surface swimming. The satin and polished multi-link bracelet gives the watch an upmarket feel and features a twin trigger release clasp, which is a must for any luxury sports watch.

The unisex watch is comfortable on the wrist and serves as a great all-rounder on the field and in the boardroom.

Price: $2,150 

5. ORIS RECTANGULAR 25.50 X 01 561 7783 4065-07 5 19 17

ORIS RECTANGULAR 25.50 X 01 561 7783 4065-07 5 19 17

For those with their heart set on a Cartier Tank but a budget-conscious head comes the Oris Rectangular. It’s a well-appointed, classy, unisex timepiece.

The blue dial, with white lettering and indices, is decorated with an outer and inner railroad track design. Displayed are numbers 3, 9, and 12, and a small date window is at the 6 o’clock position. 

Powered by an Oris 561 base automatic with a 38-hour power reserve. The timepiece is paired with a blue leather strap. The watch, especially in this shade of blue, has a feminine touch and, therefore, might be more suited for women, but that’s purely subjective.

Price: $2,050 

6. ORIS ARTELIER DATE 01 733 7721 4051-07 5 21 64FC

ORIS ARTELIER DATE 01 733 7721 4051-07 5 21 64FC

The Oris Artelier is classic and elegant. The watch’s case is made of high-quality stainless steel, which gives it a sleek and durable appearance. Its diameter is 40mm and a thickness of 10.7mm, making it a perfect size for casual and formal occasions. The case features a transparent case back that allows you to see the inner workings of the watch.

The dial of the watch is silver with a subtle guilloche pattern. The hands are silver, and so are the raised indices. Arabic numeral hour markers, which provide excellent readability. There is also a date window at the 6 o’clock position.

The movement of the watch is powered by the Oris Calibre 733. It has a power reserve of 38 hours and is water resistant up to 50 meters, making it suitable for everyday wear. The watch comes with a black leather strap.

Price: $1,850 

7. THE ORIS BIG CROWN PROPILOT BIG DAY DATE 01 752 7760 4164-07 8 22 08

THE ORIS BIG CROWN PROPILOT BIG DAY DATE 01 752 7760 4164-07 8 22 08

The case of the Oris Big Crown is encased in stainless steel. It has a diameter of 44mm and a thickness of 12mm, making it a large and bold timepiece that is easy to read. The case features a screw-down crown and a screw-down case back that provides water resistance up to 100 meters.

The dial of the watch is black with white Arabic numeral hour markers and hands coated with Superluminova for excellent readability. The dial also features a big day and date display at the 3 o’clock position.

The movement of the watch is the Oris Calibre 752. It has a power reserve of 38 hours and is protected by a solid case back that features an engraved ProPilot logo. The watch comes with a stainless-steel bracelet. 

Price: $2,300

8. ORIS AQUIS DATE RELIEF 01 733 7730 4153-07 4 24 63EB

ORIS AQUIS DATE RELIEF 01 733 7730 4153-07 4 24 63EB

This watch is part of the Aquis collection and is designed for professional divers who demand precision, reliability, and style.

The watch features a 43.5mm stainless steel case with a unidirectional rotating bezel and a screw-down crown, which helps ensure water resistance up to 300 meters (1000 feet). The dial is protected by a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal with an anti-reflective coating, which makes it easy to read even in bright sunlight.

The dial is gray, which is meant to capture the color of the cold stormy waters that expedition swimmer Ernst Bromeis faced in Lake Baikal. It has large, luminous hour markers and hands. The date function is displayed at the 6 o’clock position.

Inside the watch, you’ll find an automatic movement, the Oris Calibre 733. This Swiss-made movement features a power reserve of up to 38 hours and operates at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour. It also has a hacking second hand, allowing you to set the time precisely.

The timepiece is paired with a gray rubber strap. 

Price: $2,000 

9. ORIS DIVERS SIXTY-FIVE BRONZE 01 733 7771 3155-07 8 19 15

ORIS DIVERS SIXTY-FIVE BRONZE 01 733 7771 3155-07 8 19 15

This timepiece captures that feeling of new beginnings, which each spring brings, while simultaneously giving a vintage nod to its 1965 predecessor. Oris describes this as their cotton candy line of watches in blue, pink, and green. The bronze case is 38mm and 13mm thick.

The dial of this model is a lively pastel blue with rose gold hands and indices. The watch is powered by the Oris 733 movement, with a 38-hour power reserve. It’s water resistant to 100m. The bezel is also bronze, but the insert of the bezel has a matt bronze finish.

Date window at 6 o’clock position. The timepiece is fitted with a bronze bracelet that fits smaller wrists for both men and women and includes an upscale win trigger release.  

Price: $2,900 

10. ORIS PROPILOT X CALIBER 115 01 115 7759 7153-Set7 22 01TLC

ORIS PROPILOT X CALIBER 115 01 115 7759 7153-Set7 22 01TLC

The Oris ProPilot X Caliber is a bold and innovative watch that combines a skeletonized movement with a futuristic design. The watch features a 44mm black DLC-coated titanium case with a sapphire crystal case back that allows the wearer to see the intricacies of the movement. The watch is 12.8mm thick. 

The dial of the ProPilot X Caliber 115 is made of sapphire crystal, which gives the watch a unique transparent appearance. The hour markers and hands are coated with Super-LumiNova. The watch has a small seconds subdial at the 7 o’clock position and a power reserve indicator at the 3 o’clock position.

The watch is powered by the Oris Caliber 115, a hand-wound movement that provides a power reserve of 240 hours (10 days). The movement is visible through the sapphire crystal case back, and its skeletonized design gives the watch a modern and futuristic look.

The ProPilot X Caliber 115 is water-resistant up to 50 meters and comes with a titanium multi-piece bracelet. A little fun celebrity trivia, this is the same timepiece worn by Yankee’s manager and former ballplayer, Aaron Boone. 

Price: $8,000

11. ORIS BIG CROWN CALIBER 473 01 473 7786 4065-07 5 19 22FC

ORIS BIG CROWN CALIBER 473 01 473 7786 4065-07 5 19 22FC

The Oris Big Crown 473 is a handsome pilot’s watch. Encased in stainless steel, it measures 38MM and sits at 12.8mm on the wrist. The sides of the case and bezel are highly polished. The dial is offered in a light blue tone and features a railway-style date track. Against the light blue are silver hands and a red-tipped seconds hand.

The numerals and lettering on the dial are white. The open case back showcases the hand-wound 473 movement with a 120-hour power reserve. This new movement is what drives the price over the base model. The timepiece is fitted with a brown leather strap with a butterfly clasp. 

Price: $4,400 

12.  ORIS ARTELIER COMPLICATION 01 781 7729 4051-07 5 21 66FC

ORIS ARTELIER COMPLICATION 01 781 7729 4051-07 5 21 66FC

The Oris Artelier Complication is a sophisticated, elegant watch with several useful complications. The watch has a stainless-steel case with a diameter of 40mm and a thickness of 11.72mm. The case is topped with a polished bezel and features a screw-down crown at the 3 o’clock position.

The watch has a silver dial and soft guilloche pattern, with sharp blue hands and indices. The dial features several complications, including three subdials with date, day of the week, and second 24h time zone. The watch also features a moon phase indicator at the 12 o’clock position. 

The watch is powered by the Oris Caliber 781, an automatic movement that provides a power reserve of 38 hours. The movement is visible through the sapphire crystal case back, which is engraved with the Oris shield emblem and the watch’s individual number.

The Oris Artelier Complication is water-resistant up to 50 meters (165 feet). The dark blue leather strap has a crocodile pattern that complements the watch’s elegant design.

Price: $2,350 

13. ORIS AQUIS GMT DATE 01 798 7754 4135-07 8 24 05PEB

ORIS AQUIS GMT DATE 01 798 7754 4135-07 8 24 05PEB

The Oris Aquis GMT Date is a stylish and versatile watch designed for diving and travel. The watch features a stainless-steel case with a diameter of 43.5mm and a thickness of 12.6mm. The case is topped with a unidirectional rotating bezel with a black ceramic insert and features a screw-down crown at the 3 o’clock position.

The watch has a blue sunburst dial with applied hour markers and hands coated with Super-LumiNova. The dial features a GMT function, which displays a second time zone using a central hand with an arrowhead outlined in orange. The watch also features a date window at the 3 o’clock position.

The watch is powered by the Oris Caliber 798, an automatic movement that provides a power reserve of 42 hours. The Oris Aquis GMT Date is water-resistant up to 300 meters (1000 feet) and has a stainless-steel bracelet. 

Price: $3,000

14. ORIS DIVERS SIXTY-FIVE 12H CALIBER 400 01 400 7772 4054-07 8 20 18

ORIS DIVERS SIXTY-FIVE 12H CALIBER 400 01 400 7772 4054-07 8 20 18

The Oris Divers Sixty-Five 12H Caliber 400 is a highly functional and stylish dive watch designed to withstand the rigors of underwater exploration. This timepiece is built with a 40mm stainless steel case that is water-resistant up to 100 meters, making it suitable for recreational diving and water sports.

One of the most notable features of this watch is its unique, vintage-inspired design.  The watch is also equipped with a unidirectional rotating bezel with a scratch-resistant ceramic insert, making it easy to keep track of elapsed time while diving. There’s a date window at the 6 o’clock position.

The movement powering this watch is the Oris Calibre 400, a highly accurate and reliable automatic movement with a power reserve of up to 120 hours. This movement is also highly resistant to magnetism, shock, and temperature changes, ensuring the watch remains accurate and reliable in even the harshest conditions.

Price: $3,900 

15. ORIS BIG CROWN PROPILOT TIMER GMT 01 748 7756 4064-07 5 22 07LC

ORIS BIG CROWN PROPILOT TIMER GMT 01 748 7756 4064-07 5 22 07LC

The Oris Big Crown ProPilot is a sophisticated pilot’s watch that offers an impressive range of features and functions. This timepiece is a member of the Big Crown ProPilot collection, which is designed to meet the needs of professional pilots and frequent travelers.

The watch features a large, 44mm brushed stainless-steel case. It has a black dial with luminous hands and markers, as well as a date display at the 3 o’clock position. The GMT function is displayed in a subdial at the 9 o’clock position.

The watch also has a brushed stainless-steel rotating bezel with a 60-minute timer function. The timepiece is powered by the Oris 748 automatic movement. The movement has a power reserve of up to 38 hours and is water-resistant to 100 meters.

Price: $2,800 

Conclusion

In conclusion, Oris offers a range of exceptional watches that combine precision, functionality, and style. Whether you’re a professional diver, pilot, or simply a watch enthusiast, there is an Oris timepiece that will meet your needs. 

With its commitment to innovation and sustainability, Oris is a brand that continues to push the boundaries of watchmaking and remains a top choice for discerning buyers.

Oris vs Breitling brand comparison

When it comes to watches, everyone strives to attain a status that classifies them as a luxury brand. There are several brands with great watches – Breitling and Oris are among them and they each have their own set of fans. Both are wonderful, but people are curious to know which one among Oris vs. Breitling is the best. The answer is not as easy as one may assume and depending on personal preferences, the answer can change. 

Swiss watchmaker Breitling is recognized for many great qualities that have made them a leader in the field gor generations: their pilot, racing, and chronograph watches. Breitling is a well-known and pursued name in the watch industry, and its popularity alone may considerably increase the profit potential of its timepieces. 

While less well-known in the Swiss watch industry, Oris is a well-respected brand that makes excellent diving watches like the Oris Aquis at a more modest price point. Breitling timepieces start at $2,500 and go up to $5,000, although Oris timepieces start at around $1,500. However, this does not mean that Oris is weaker since you cannot ignore a brand with such a long history as Oris.

When it comes to watches, the price tag is not the lone indicator of quality and overall superiority and this is why it is important to break down the components in order to decipher what makes a great watch and what options are must-haves. 

Breitling Started With Humble Beginnings

Breitling watch and a laptop

A young German immigrant from St. Imier, Switzerland named Leon Breitling launched Breitling in 1884. When producing chronograph watches, the young watchmaker apprentice’s talent was focused more on it than anything else. The fact that Leon Breitling saw the necessity for timepieces to keep up with the times shows how forward-thinking he was instead of following the crowd.

Breitling clocks are still built with this mindset in mind today. This is one of the main reasons why the brand has remained head and shoulders above others – their abililty to stress these qualities and never compromise them have endeared them to a certain set of watch connoisseurs. These consumers become lifelong investors in the country and will have no other brand before them. 

Breitling’s brand is now known for more than just chronograph watches; it now makes diving and pilot timepieces. They are on par with Omega and Rolex regarding reputation and brand awareness as one of the most well-known Swiss watchmakers. Breitling is among the top 15 or perhaps 10 watch manufacturers in today’s market.

Breitling is most known for its chronometer clocks, but it also makes other types of watches that fall under several watch categories. On the other hand, Breitling watches tend to be bigger and bulkier. Depending on what size of a watch one desires, this may be an important component to consider for making a personal list. The Breitling watch is also known for its great functionality and professional appearance. With the name Breitling, you think of a timepiece that is both useful and durable.

Oris Continues To Grow In Prominence

Oris Aquis Cherry watch

Oris was created in 1904 by Paul Cattin and Georges Christian in Switzerland. Since its inception in 1997, Oris has grown tremendously as a business and has already opened its second facility. During this period, Oris had six plants, making it the leading employer in Holstein. These days, the brand has made significant headway in becoming a noteed and valued brand for those that know the intricacies of watch production inside and out. 

While producing 1.2 million watches a year, Oris achieved its peak in the 1960s. They have also grown their brand worldwide, cementing their status as one of the most popular Swiss watch companies in the world today. Oris has the distinction of developing and manufacturing all of its clocks in-house. As Switzerland has a record of quality testing tactics, Oris has guaranteed the quality of each watch.

These assurances are what watch aficionados look for when they are looking to invest signifcant amounts of money in an accessory that is meant to last for a lifetime. Additionally, Oris is one of the few watch manufacturers only to produce mechanical timepieces. The distinctive red rotor architecture, one of Oris’ trademark features, has become the company’s calling card regarding their watch mechanism artistry.

For those that truly know their watch brands, the Oris look is undeniable, and an instant reminder of what quality and precision are. Oris’ high-quality mechanical timepieces have kept it firmly rooted in the mid-range market. This elegant and prominent watch will uplift your personality and overall appearance. 

Oris Vs. Breitling Watches

We will list a few types of watches here and compare both the brands’ watches to understand which one is doing the best in the respective genre.

Dive Watches

Breitling Superocean Automatic 44 Watch

Breitling’s Superocean collection is the company’s longest-running and most popular watch line. As a diving watch for professional divers and military personnel, the Superocean was initially presented in 1957 and has since proven to be one of the most durable and dependable. As with its predecessors, the Superocean 44 is a stunning watch that delivers both functions and looks. This style features gorgeous two-tone gold and black design.

Arabic numbers and polished silver hands adorn the black dial (6 and 9). The gold highlights on the hands let them stand out against the black background. The 44mm stainless-steel casing of this diving watch, which features a unidirectional case, is also rather big. It has a 40-hour battery and analog display working mechanically. Underwater, the Superocean 44 can withstand up to 2 Kilometers of water pressure. It’s a monster of a diving watch, to put it mildly.

Oris Aquis Watch

Oris is popular for its Aquis watches. In addition to its practicality, dependability, and affordable pricing, this product is well regarded. It’s a mid-range watch with just enough bells and whistles to propel it to the rankings. The consumer that desires a dependable watch that comes with all the bells and whistles necessary to be designated as a luxury piece will appreciate what Oris has done in crafting such an excellent watch. 

Limited-edition models of the Aquis line, which has been around for a while, have gorgeous designs and top-tier performance. The Automatic Blue Dial model from Oris Aquis showcases the brand’s heritage, which is still very much visible in the current generation of watches. Because of the clasp’s length, the bracelet may be worn even while not wearing a wetsuit. When wearing a stainless-steel bracelet watch, you may want to swap out the band with leather or rubber if you find it uncomfortable.

This is the type of versatility that many brands claim to offer, but few actually execute to perfection. For this series, Oris has gone beyond the standard and set a new one, a key component that their fans will appreciate. Mechanical movement, analog display, and huge power reserve are the great attributes of this model. The power reserve is up to 38 hours and runs at 28,800 vibrations per hour.

Pilot Watches

Breitling Colt SkyRacer

The fact remains that there are many people that would like to elevate their look with accessories that are classified as luxury, but may not have as much disposable income to do so. Breitling has answered the call by producing for this group with a superior, yet affordably priced solution. As an entry-level pilot watch, the Breitling Colt SkyRacer from Breitling is a watch that delivers performance much above what you’d expect from an “entry-level” watch.

Compared to Breitling’s offerings, the Colt SkyRacer is an entry-level timepiece. It is a great option for those who don’t have a lot of money but want to wear a high-end watch like Breitling. Additionally, its look and precision are just as notable as higher-priced pieces in their line, confirmation that they can offer great features for all of their consumers without compromising style and functionality. 

The design of the Colt SkyRacer is straightforward and the perfect watch to consider for those that want a great option that gets right to the point. As a result, individuals who appreciate the classic approach will enjoy this watch and the style it offers. This black-tone innovative plastic polymer with a compose-fiber casing and dial showcases the dynamic blend of heritage and current design.

The red accents, white markers, and hands make it easier to read the time on this watch. Without a question, this is an edition that makes a definitive style statement at an affordable price for a luxury watch. Even though the material is light, it’s also quite sturdy and long-lasting. For those types that lead fairly lifestyles yet still want the ultimate fashion piece for an accessory, this watch delivers across the board.

Additionally, the Colt SkyRacer’s structure makes it naturally anti-magnetic, a component that should not be overlooked for the true aficionados of fine watches. The horologe movement provides a running life for the watch for around 70 hours.

Oris Big Crown ProPilot Watch

Big Crown ProPilot X by Oris describes itself as a high-end and visually appealing timepiece and upon initial glance, that is readily apparent. Oris developed this pilot watch at no cost and fans of the style will appreciate the extra care taken. The skeleton shape of this watch makes it more than just a pilot’s watch, despite its aviation functions.

One of the greatest movements within an Oris watch is the company’s movement. The in-house chronometer caliber 115 can be seen through the bare dial on the inside. The power reserve of this watch mechanism is staggering at 240 hours. In other words, it has a ten-day self-sufficient life span. A sapphire domed crystal pane shields the watch’s eye-catching skeleton chronograph face from damage.

The most unexpected thing about this watch is its lightweight regardless of its 4.4 cm diameter case. It is mostly because the whole casing is constructed out of titanium. There are few watches in this price range that can deliver such great features, but Oris has dedicated itself to producing a line that brings the style that their fans have come to expect, combined with the functionality that they need. 

The Oris ProPilot X is a must-have if you’re looking for a stylish pilot watch that will turn heads. And with an attractive price point to match, it is worthy of anyone’s collection of accessories. 

FAQs

How to choose ORIS vs. Breitling?

Consider a few things before settling on either Oris or Breitling as your timepiece of choice. First and foremost, you have to decide depending on your preferences and requirements because they are among the greatest and most expensive brands in the market today. Choose a timepiece that matches your style as the first step and then go through all of the components that ultimately factor into your decision.

When deciding on a design, don’t forget to consider the intended audience and where you will be wearing it the majority of the time. It’s best to get a sport or outdoor watch if you’re doing a lot of physical activity and keep an active schedule. If you want to wear it to work regularly, you should choose something more official and more suitable for formal occasions. 

The movement of a watch is also critical and should not be taken lightly. Most luxury timepieces employ either a mechanical or quartz movement. However, there are many more factors that are to be researched. You need to determine which watch movement you want and which manufacturer has the finest selection.

High-quality components are used in a complex mechanical watchmaking process, so your watch’s movement will run smoothly. In contrast, battery-powered analog timepieces employ Quartz. Regarding watches, mechanical ones are for you if you’re a fan of meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail. On the other hand, quartz is the preferable choice for those looking for an excellent timepiece with the same level of accuracy.

Which one is more prestigious, Breitling Vs. Oris?

This is where great marketing comes into play, and separates the boys from the men. Breitling timepieces have always been associated with strong, self-assured men who exude a good dosage of testosterone. Those who wear Breitling are accomplished businesspeople, combat pilots, and world-class sportspeople – men who make definitive statements through their clothing and are the movers and shakers of their industries. 

Breitling is noted for its premium quality and meticulous clocks. Quality control and rigorous testing are hallmarks of Breitling’s “Made in Switzerland” designation. It’s a symbol of almost a century of experience and classic style.However, although Oris is a top-notch watch brand, many watch lovers don’t regard it with the same level of importance, but it must be noted that Breitling is more of a household name by far. 

Which one is better, TAG Heuer VS Oris Watches?

For professional scuba divers, Oris makes many models, including some special releases, of high-quality dive watches that you may buy. In honor of Carlos Coste, an 11-time scuba diving nationwide record holder, a special edition has been made available. Although TAG produces water-resistant timepieces, they fall short of Oris’s standard.

Is Oris a luxury brand?

f you compare Oris’ Swiss-made watches with similar characteristics to those from other luxury watch companies, you will find that they are far superior in quality. A two-year warranty is included as well. Oris may be viewed as a premium brand with extra value that is also quite inexpensive.

What’s a better brand than Breitling?

Omega is a far stronger watch brand than Breitling in the worldwide market. With an in-house movement and creations by a well-respected watchmaker, a watch from Omega is guaranteed to be of the highest quality.

Is Rolex owned by Oris?

Rolex is not owned Oris; it is an independent company. As a private corporation, Oris SA has been in business since 1906. The company that manufactures Oris timepieces goes by the name of Oris SA. Genuine Swiss Made watches, such as those from Oris.

Are Oris watches worth anything?

They’ve become the most popular watch brand for people participating in water activities because of their unique rotation safety feature created specifically for divers. Oris is now one of the most reputable names in luxury and diving timepieces. Oris timepieces are an excellent investment because of their renown in a certain field.

Who wears Oris?

Oris is the best fit for every individual. No matter the initial price, you will enjoy the benefits in the long run. Wealthy individuals typically wear Oris watches due to their promising finest quality timepiece.

Conclusion

Watch is one of the few appropriate accessories for males and the most overt manifestation of their individuality. Even if it’s a component of their jewelry, it’s also a representation of their personality. Numerous instances of luxury watches might be considered works of art. However, purchasing a cutting-edge watch is the best way of expression. It denotes how committed and disciplined someone is towards money and time.

Oris vs Hamilton

Searching for your first Swiss luxury watch? Need something to give your boss or dad? Want to have a casual everyday watch to wear? Oris and Hamilton offer incredible value with its high-quality material and sleek designs making both of them attractive options.

Getting started may prove intimidating and overwhelming. Do you want an experimental or large timepiece?  With both brands releasing many models over the years, this guide will help you select the right brand and model for you.

Oris Design & Style

Osris designs are innovative yet traditional and modern. Refined and simplistic offering that won’t intimidate. 

Many aficionados have Oris timepieces as part of their weekly rotation. Perfect for daily and weekend wear with the family, it also works well for conferences, church, and casual dating.

Timepieces are available in six iconic collections.

Artelier

This collection embodies the company’s commitment to heritage and innovation with timeless elegant timepieces. These versatile designs include minimalist mid-century to futuristic skeleton watches. You can find chronographs, moon-phase displays, and 10-day power reserves.

Aquis

These diver’s watches were designed with sub-aqua practicality in mind. Clear legibility and the classic unidirectional rotating bezel, a hallmark of a diver’s watch. Offered in a wide variety of materials and sizes, it is the brand’s most extensive collection.;

Combining stunning design with high-performance materials and fit-for-purpose functions. They include day-date complications and chronographs.

Vintage-inspired pilot waters with pointer date display

Big Crown

This vintage-inspired pilot watches pay homage to the a signature design, the Big Crown. Released in 1938, it featured an oversized crown that was designed to be operated while wearing leather gloves. 

The collection resembles old-school aviator watches, but have state of the art mechanical technology. Most are distinctive pointer-date models with a full view of the month around the dial. Available in a range of sizes and styles, including a few limited editions.

Divers

Drawing inspiration to the company’s first diver’s watches, particularly the iconic 1965 model that had a bubble-curve crystal and rainbow of mid-century dial tones.

These are elegant timepieces that are vintage inspired and have innovative watchmaking techniques. You can find chronograph models in a wide variety of sizes, range of dial colors and bracelets. 

Vintage-inspired diving watches

Propilot

This collection updates the Big Crown series with larger case sizes, more complex mechanical configurations such as chronographs and week-dates.

It is geared towards pilots that value cockpit-ready functionality and aesthetically. These come in a range of colors, case materials, and strap options.

Propilot X

This is the brand’s most limited and exclusive series. With only two models, ProPilot X watches have skeletonized movements, built entirely in titanium, and are light and high-tech. They feature a 10-day power reserve and Oris patented non-linear power indicator.

Hamilton Design & Style

Khaki Field

Inspired by Hamilton’s WWI timepieces, this military collection was a staple for U.S. soldiers that shipped out 1914. This marked the transition from the brand’s pocket watches to wristwatches to accommodate soldiers on the battlefield.

The collection evolved over the years to become one of the most robust watches on the market for modern wear.

Khaki Field Mechanical

Available in stainless steel or leather strap variants, it is perfect for sportsmen and those seeking action in great outdoors. An incredibly durable watch.

Khaki Field Auto

It uses hand-winding for superlative reliability and readability with hard-wearing materials and luminescent numerals.

Khaki Aviation

These modern timepieces are a creative take on the brand’s 1918 timepiece that was designed to keep the U.S’ airborne postal system running smoothly and on time.

Khaki Navy

Another timepiece that pays homage to the brand’s history, these timepieces are perfect for mariners, sailors, and divers.

These timepieces are waterproof, highly wearable, and made to the most stringent technical specifications and ready for any maritime endeavor.

Broadyway

This collection includes various movement and color options designed for urbanites and style-conscious men. Watches have clean metal finishes and refined faces.

Broadway Day Date Auto

A versatile piece, it is available in a variety of straps with both water resistance and a stainless steel surface. It also has an 80-hour power reserve.

Broadway GMT

With an adjustable bezel equipped with 24 different city destinations, a 24-hour display, with an 80-hour power reserve, the Broadway GMT is the ideal travel watch for the cosmopolitan man.

American Classic

Although the company has since moved to Switzerland, it’s long standing American history is found in their modern designs, especially the American Classic.

Intra-Matic Auto

Has a two-tone cream and black colorway with an 80-hour power reserve. It also houses an automatic watch movement with anti-magnetic allow to prevent interference.

Boulton Small Second Quartz

Preserving the American style found on the original design in 1949, it has Roman numerals, discreet second ticker and a vintage buckled leather strap. It also has a modern look with the PSR Digital Quartz.

Jazzmaster

The collection has an extraordinary suite of contemporary watches that blends exceptional craftsmanship with intrepid innovations and traditional touches.

Jazzmaster AutoChrono

The perfect blend of old and new, the Jazzmaster Autochrono utilizes an automatic movement with a 60-hour power reserve.

Viewmatic Skeleton Lady

This unveils the watch’s intricate movement that uses a skeletonized dial and has stainless steel bezels with a mother of pearl face.

Open Heart Auto

An elegant companion to any woman’s wrist, it combines a white leather calf strap with four diamond indexes on a flower-design mother of pearl watch face.

Ventura Line

The Ventura still remains an unconventional classic with its triangular face and electrical movement for an effortlessly cool look. A reinterpretation of the original 1957 model, the stainless steel watch is battery-powered with stylized markers, and a distinct tri-tier bezel.

Ventura Auto

Using the identical technology found in the Khaki collection, the Ventura auto uses the wrist’s natural movements to help the internal battery. It also contains a glass window for a glimpse at the sophisticated movement.

Oris vs. Hamilton – Build Quality

Oris Build Quality

Oris has a sterling reputation due to its rich history, diverse offerings and overall vibrant and rich catalogue of vintage inspired timepieces. With its respective heritage, it is highly regarded as a brand every collector should own among aficionados. They are also a great entry point for a Swiss timepiece.

Stylish, innovative, versatile, and meticulously crafted pieces, Oris models are renowned for being one of the best values in the Swiss watch industry. Sensible-prices timepieces with ETA, Sellita, and in-house movements and available in a range of sizes, colors, and designs make it an exceptional value.

The brand maintains its unwavering commitment to mechanical movements and is one of the few Swiss horology houses that only makes mechanical watches. It’s destinct red rotor design is easily recognizable and an insignia for the brand’s dedication to high-quality mechanical movements.

In juxtaposition to high-end competitors, Oris is a better investment due to exceeding expectations and features than considerably lower priced watches with similar features.

Water resistance ranges from 30 to 500 meters.

They come with a 2 year warranty.

Hamilton Build Quality

There are only a few brands that are more versatile, well-known, and have extensive U.S. history than Hamilton. The brand is well known by aficionados and collectors to be a great value with attention to detail, solid performance, and overall great build quality. 

The brand produces analog mechanical automatic and analog quartz and digital watches. Usually made of stainless steel with dial windows of sapphire crystal. They use ETA movements 

Watches house reliable, mass-produced ETA movements with the latest tech such as silicon parts and extended power reserves with premium sapphire crystal. With a vast range models, wide variety of dial colors, many strap materials in multiple colors. 

Water resistant between 30 to 100 meters.

They come with a 2 year warranty.

Verdict on Brand Quality

They are similar, however, Oris has more variety of movements and offers more water resistance in some models.

Oris vs Hamilton – Price/Quality ratio

Oris Price/quality ratio

The brand’s unrelenting dedication to using high-quality materials to preserving traditional mechanics makes it unique and one of the best on the market. In juxtaposition to other Swiss brands, it has affordable price points, especially at their entry-level watches.

Retail prices begin at $800 for its TT1 model and upwards to $19,000 for its limited edition Carysfort Reef desin.

Middle tier watches with more complicated functions range from $3,000 to $6,000 

Topping out the price range are expensive options such as the yellow gold limited edition Carysfort Reef Oris, which retails for $19,000, along with the solid 18k rose gold Artelier Calibre 111, which retails for $15,500. There is certainly an option for every budget within the current Oris lineup.

Hamilton Price/quality ratio

The brand’s American heritage design watches are made of high-quality material and its combination of many styles make its offering extremely versatile. With dressy, sporty, and even futuristic timepieces that make it for a great casual watch. 

Its distinctly American ethos and thematic designs like aviation, and cinema make it popular choice for mid-priced watches, especially when more expensive brands use identical movements and materials. 

Hamtilon watches start at $325 for its Khakhi Field Mechanical and upwards to $6,195 for Jazzmaster

Verdict on Price/Quality Ratio

If you are looking for the brand that gives you the best value for your money, Oris is almost unmatched. It offers possible the best value in the Swiss-made industry. 

So far we have compared both the brands in terms of design, build quality, and pricing. But now let’s go back in time and explore the history behind Oris and Hamilton.

History of Oris

With its unwavering commitment to affordable timepieces that are stylish and technical, the company is popular in the enthusiasts market.

Even the highest of the brand’s offerings are an incredible valuable that cannot be found on other Swiss brands within the price range. Highly regarded by many, it is a perfect choice for everyday wear. 

Since its inception, Oris has taken pride in creating and engineering watches at affordable prices. Many aficionados have come to love the brand for its unrelenting commitment to value and perfect for everyday and any occasion wear.

The beginning

In 1904, Paul Cattin and Georges Christian come together to purchase the recently closed Lohnre & Co. watch factory and partner with the local mayor as Manufacture d’Horlogerie de Hölstein Christian & Cattin on June 1st, 1904.

Along with several trademarks, the pair created Oris after the nearby Orisbach tributary of the Ergolz river. It’s mission was to create modestly priced watches.

In 1925, the company produced leather straps to match the growing wristwatch market. They featured an additional bund-style piece with a leather cage to securely hold a pocket watch to the wrist.

Aviation and Military

Osris created its first pilot watch in 1938, which combined signature design elements – an oversized winding crown and a pointer calendar display.

WWI decreased the sales and production of timepieces and to combat that, Osris produced alarm clocks that featured a central alarm-setting hand. It came in various shapes, colors, and sizes.

Innovation and Technology

The brand created its first automatic watched that was powered by in-house Oris Caliber 601 in 1952. The 601 was a self-winding movement with 17 jewel rotor automatic and operated at 18,000 beats per hour.

It had running seconds and power reserve indicator that assured the rotor was functioning properly. This eviscerated the need for hand-winding.

Introduced in 1965, the Oris Waterproof 36mm was the brand’s first purpose-built diving watches. It featured uni-directional rotating bezel, black dial, and a water-resistant case up to 100 meters.

It was powered by an in-house movement with a frequency of 18,000vph and had a power reserve of 46 hours. These early models served as inspiration for the modern and popular Oris Divers Sixty-Five.

Oris’ first chronograph, the Chronoris 38mm was introduced in 1970. Housing a 17-jewel caliber 725 engineered by Dubois Depraz, it required manual winding and featured a clean display without elapsed minute and hour counters. An individual could align the bezel with a minute hand if needed.

Quartz Crisis of 1970-1980s

Like many others, the brand had difficulty navigating through the quartz crisis of 1970-1980s. With cheap watches from Asia infiltrating the market and other hardships like unemployment, it was carelessly acquired by ASUAG (presently known as Swatch Group). Antithetical to Oris’ heritage, THE ASUAG forced the company to create quartz watches.

It would gain its independence in 1982 and returned to mechanical timepieces. It also introduced its first mechanical watch using Point Calendar complication from the 1930s in 1984.

Playfulness and Novelty

The company’s first alarm wristwatch was introduced in 1988. The 34mm watch housed the caliber 418 and was available in an assortment of dial colors, indices, and case finishes.

Drawing inspiration from soccer and golf, the 40mm Player’s watches were introduced in 1990. They featured a timing bezel and movement model that had fourth push-button sport specific counters and an ETA 2824 caliber.

In 1997, the brand patented the innovative Oris Worldtimer that allowed wearers to adjust local time in 1-hour loops. Ideal for traveling between time zones.

The 2000s

The inauguration of the millennium marked the brand producing larger watches like the iconic Oris XXL to match fashion trends. The red rotor was trademarked and used as an insignia for the brand.

To celebrate its 100th anniversary, the Centennial set was released in 2004. Limited to 1904 pieces, it included a 42mm Atelier Worldwide that housed a caliber 690 and 8-day mechanical alarm clock. 

2010 and beyond

Oris introduced many introduced innovative technology like a sliding sledge clasp that kept a timepiece on a wrist and the Oris Aquis Depth Guage in 2013. 

In 2014, the brand highlighted its 110th anniversary with an in-house movement Calibre 110. This hand-wound movement features 40 jewels, 21,600vph frequency and a ten-day power reserve. 

Recently in 2020, Oris introduced its first in-house developed automatic movement in decades, Calibre 400. It features antimagnetic movement, five day power reserve, and 28,800vph frequency. 

History of Hamilton

Rise from the ashes

Hamilton has a long standing America heritage. Popular, well-respected, precise, reliable, and stylish, its watches are perfect for daily wear.

This Swiss brand with American roots offers aficionados and collectors incredible value. It also is approachable and fun for those who want to build a collection. Solidly built and reliable

Hamilton was a product of several failed watch companies – The Adams & Perry Watch Company, the Lancaster Watch Company, and the Keystone Standard Watch company. They inhabited the same manufacturing facility in Lancase in 1875.

A group of investors purchased the Keystone Standard brand and facilities, as well as the struggling Aurora Watch Company of Aurora, Illinois in October 1892.

They merged the two companies and transported Aurora’s machinery to Lancaster, Pennsylvania and extended the facilities with a new wing. They chose the name Hamilton as a tribute to the original owner and its first planners, Andrew Hamilton and his son James.

Railroad Industry Partner

The company’s Broadway Limited pocket watch helped mitigate the increasing number of railway accidents and fatalities that occurred during the late 19th century.

Its relationship with the railroad industry and train conductors secured its place among others as the maker of “the Watch of Railroad Accuracy”. The company’s bread and butter, Grade No. 936, was accurate, reliable, and provided legibility. Most had beautiful white dials with stark black Arabic numerals and high-contract had for readability.

WWI & United States Military

Two years later, Hamilton shifted its focus from railroads to supporting American industrialism throughout WWI by becoming the sanctioned pocket watch supplier for the United States Military.

These could be depended upon in the trenches and battlefields, however, proved to be impractical for soldiers on the move. Infantrymen preferred the ease of strapping a watch to the wrist because they needed to use both hands to load his weapon while simultaneously checking his watch.

This resulted in Hamilton installing pocket watch movements in smaller cases that were sized for wrist wear. Additionally, produced timepieces that were powered by the Hamilton caliber 983, a 17-jewel 0-size pendant movement. 

Some of the first “trench watches” were re-engineered pocket watches with lugs that were soldered strips of wired that connected the case to a strap of leather or canvas for wearing on the wrist.

In 1912, the company created “wristlets” for women using 0-size pendant watch movements. Company began modifying the pieces for soliders and men.

Although it was vogue for society gentlemen in early 20th century, troops that came home after the War ended continued to wear their wristwatches and the style caught on contrary to the accepted feminine look. This established a relationship with the U.S. Armed forces lead to one of its most iconic and enduring product lines.

Aviation and travel

Hamilton transitioned from the railroads and military to being the preferred timepiece for skies. Pilots who made the first U.S. airmail run from Washington D.C. to New York began wearing Hamilton watches on their wrist in 1918. 

In 1926, a Hamilton watch accompanied Admiral Richard E. Byrd on his a little under 16 hour flight to the North Pole. He then set out for his first Antarctic expedition in 1928 with 60 of the brands watches accompanying him and his crew. These were powered by the Hamilton caliber 992.

Throughout the 1930s, the company became the official timepiece provider for four major airlines in the early 1930s, Eastern, TWA, Northwest, and United. Its timepieces are still preferred by pilots today.

Yankees and expansion

Hamilton released its Piping Rock model in the late 20s and early 30s. It would eventually become one of its most popular designs.

After the Yankees won the world series in 1928, it presented its Yankee design to each team member. Both the Yankee and Piping Rock established Hamilton as a pioneer in watch design.

Hamilton also purchased the Illinois Watch company for over $5,000,000.

Art Deco

Inspired by the Art Deco movement 1930s timepieces were designed with Arabic numeral hour markers and many featured rectangular or geometric cases. Housing Hamilton’s own calibers, the watches were available in platinum, solid gold, or gold-filled cases.

WWII Watches

WWII started in 1939. The U.S. military prognosticated its involvement and made requests to watch manufacturers to create accurate marine chronometers for Navy ships.

Hamilton was the only company to provide marine chronometers that met accuracy standards. Hamilton supplied nearly 11,000 marine chronometers to the U.S. Armed forces.

1942, Hamilton ceased producing watches for civilizations and focused entirely on the military. It supplied over one million timepieces that had variations of caliber 987, the brand’s finest movement. Due to its dedication and exceptional timepieces, the Army-Navy “E” was awarded for excellence in production.

Technology and innovations

1957, Hamilton created one of the most dramatic changes to a design with the Hamilton Electric, the first electric watch. This began the end of windup watches.

The company developed the Venture in 1959, a sleek timepiece that was inspired by the Cadillac tailfins of the 50s. 

1969, the company developed the first automatic chronograph, Calibre 11. This was a breakthrough for the company which was followed by the successful Pulsar model, the brand’s first digital watch.

Present Day Hamilton

1974, it was sold to SSIH (later became Swatch Group).

The company would eventually build relationships with air racing and aerobatics industry with watches  created for Red Bull Air Race and Swiss Aerobatic Association.

During the 1980s, the brand revived some classic watch designs

2000s to present

2006, Hamilton celebrated the Odysee 2001 timepiece by releasing a limited series of 2001 pieces of ODC-X-01.

In 2019 to the present, the brand continues re-issuing some of its famous vintage watches such as Hamilton Chrono-Matic 50 and Field Mechanical.

Oris vs Hamilton – Conclusion

With in-house movements and a myriad of styles to select, Oris wristwatches are ideal for anyone that wants to begin their collection with quality timepieces without a steep price tag. The brand’s appealing case designs and technical features make them a great option for everyday wear.

Although a little bit more expensive, it’s high-quality materials and durability make it the easy choice to pick.

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