Tag Archives: oris watches

With almost 120 years of watchmaking heritage, Oris is a strong independent brand that produces high-quality watches at mid-range price points. They are known for their unique approach to watchmaking, striving to bring joy to their users, and embracing the quirky side of life. We shall be taking a brief look at the history of the company and its development throughout the last 119 years. The Early Years Founded in 1904, Oris quickly grew to over 300 workers in 1911, becoming the major employer in their hometown of Hölstein and soon expanded into multiple factories. They created their first wristwatches in 1925, fitting straps to their pocket watches. The company has gone on to be one of the largest watch manufacturers in the world. It’s name is highly respected in the watch community. In 1927, Jacques-David LeCoultre (yes, that LeCoultre) became President of the Board. This era represents an interesting crossover in Oris’ history and demonstrates the watchmaking heritage it holds. For most of its existence, it has been an independent company. But, that did not preclude it from developing strong relationships with the other companies around it. Jacques-David LeCoultre had his hands in many pies at the time, being involved in Patek Philippe, Vacheron, and Constantin, his own company Jacques LeCoultre and LeCoultre & Cie which ultimately merged with Edmond Jaeger to create Jaeger-LeCoultre, one of the most renowned watchmakers in the world. In 1938, Oris introduced two features that have gone on to be a defining feature of the brand – the big crown and the pointer date. Created with pilots in mind, the oversized crown allowed those wearing thick leather gloves to adjust their watches. The pointer date complication is not only an attractive feature but also makes it easier to see the date at a glance. During World War 2, Oris’ market was understandably limited, and their production was restricted to just 200,000 pieces a year. To work around this and to keep the company afloat, Oris began producing alarm clocks for the mass market. Without these, Oris may not have survived the war and developed into the brand we know today. Go Your Own Way: Oris’ Independent Spirit Throughout its history, Oris has been defined by its independence and its readiness to go its own way. During the Quartz Crisis, where other brands panicked and grouped together, Oris broke free of the group they were in through a management buyout. Later, where other companies were pursuing quartz in order to compete with the East, Oris decided to abandon quartz and focus solely on producing mechanical watches with unique and interesting designs with mid-range price tags. This, alongside their independence, has allowed them to develop a unique brand image that focuses on the more fun, quirky side of life, rather than the typical interests of Swiss watch manufacturing. In 1990, they produced ‘The Players Watch’ a watch designed solely for counting football stats. In 1996 they sponsored the London Jazz Festival. Come 2003 they began sponsoring the Williams F1 team, one of the most historically successful teams in the sport. Oris has also begun pursuing sustainability goals with a passion. Engaging in cleanup operations of beaches and forests, and working to reduce their carbon footprint. Oris Today In recent years Oris has employed a bear as its mascot. The ‘Oris Bear’ has its own Instagram page and has even been featured on some watches. The Oris bear symbolises the philosophy of the company, in being a bit different from other Swiss watchmakers, producing quality watches whilst also having fun in their branding and image. The recent release of the ‘Kermit Edition’ ProPilot further demonstrates this, with Kermit appearing in the date aperture of the watch. Oris’ aim is to bring joy to the owners of their watches and they have fun with their creations. Of course, we must mention the Rolex-shaped elephant in the room. Yes, Oris may have nabbed the nickname. But, if that doesn’t typify the fun they are having in producing their watches and their ability to firmly place their tongue in their cheek, I don’t know what else will. Oris at Auction Oris watches represent great value and we frequently see them in our monthly watch auctions. From Big Crown to Artelier, Oris’ range is extraordinary in terms of quality and function, giving the major names a run for their money. For a brand with so much history (quickly approaching its 120th birthday!), Oris really does produce a great number of underrated gems. Lot 57 ORIS – a stainless steel Pointer Date bracelet watch, 25x29mm. Price Realised: £338 Valuations Our valuations are free, with no obligation to sell with us. Our experts will value your item with an estimate, so you can therefore find out what it could achieve at auction. The process is simple. You can fill in a form online or book an appointment to visit either of our offices in Birmingham or London. Virtual valuation appointments are also available Nathan Boot BA (Hons), MA (Hons) | Junior Cataloguer