Watches by Oris: The independent heritage brand with the red rotor

Oris is one of those brands in the luxury watch sector that stands somewhat in the shadow of the major brands. This treatment is not justified, because Oris can still express itself as an independent traditional brand and focuses primarily on purely mechanical Watches with modern Movement development. The decisive factor is the automatic Calibre 400, which is quite unique in its production and price category. 

History of Oris: The Power to Reinvent Itself

The history of Oris could hardly be more eventful. Founded in 1904 in the Swiss town of Hölstein by Paul Cattin and Georges Christian, the company quickly embarked on a path to success. However, this was almost brought to a standstill for 30 years by the Swiss Watch Statute, which prevented the introduction of lever escapements. But necessity is the mother of invention, and it was table clocks that helped Oris through this difficult period. To this day, they enjoy cult status and are among the brand’s hidden stars. As the 20th century progressed, it was Oris’s integration into ASUAG (later the Swatch Group), as well as the quartz crisis, that would significantly affect the company. But here too, the brand proved resilient, dared to make a fresh start as an owner-managed manufacture, and has established itself in the luxury watch sector to this day, with a strong focus on purely mechanical Watches.

Image: Oris ProPilot Bronze COPYRIGHT: Oris SA.

Oris Calibre 400 (Manufacture Movement)

Technical innovations have become a hallmark of Oris. However, the decisive achievement is the development of its own Calibre 400 manufacture Movement, which demonstrates remarkable capabilities for Oris’s price segment. Equipped with high resistance to magnetism and a patented low-friction sliding bearing, it offers a 5-day (120-hour) Power Reserve thanks to two mainspring barrels. The Movement is so convincing in terms of its specifications that Oris grants it a 10-year warranty. 

The red rotor has become Oris’s exclusive hallmark. Since 2002, all standard movements refined by Oris have featured this visual signature.

The Most Famous Watches from Oris 

Today, the Oris manufacture offers a broad range of models and an interesting portfolio of Watches that inspire collectors and enthusiasts alike. 

The Aquis is considered a modern Dive Watch and is one of Oris’s best-known model families. Its distinctive appearance is defined by a robust case, a ceramic bezel, and high water resistance. Also belonging to the world of Dive Watches is the Divers Sixty-Five, whose striking retro design recalls the successful models of the 1960s.

Did You Know This About Oris? - The "Tide Watch" with Tidal and Moon Display