Category: Oris

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)

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)

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)

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)

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 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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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.

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)

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)

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)

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)

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 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)

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 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)

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 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)

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.