One of the best things about the Oris Aquis is that it appeals to a lot of people. While dive watches are considered very niche, this model is available in different kinds. Case in point, there’s a straightforward dive watch for the pros. Meanwhile, fashionistas will love the diamond-studded version.
And if you’re having a hard time finding the perfect Oris Aquis model for you, you’ve come to the right place. But first, let’s look at how the brand started.
A Brief History of Oris
The brand’s origins can be traced back to the Swiss town of Hölstein. Paul Cattin and Georges Christian bought the recently closed watch factory called Lohner & Co. And by 1904, they started producing pocket watches. Wristwatches and alarm clocks were still not produced back then.
Eventually, Oris became the largest employer in Hölstein with more than 300 workers. And by 1929, they expanded and had factories built in Holderbank, Como, Courgenay, Herbetswil and Ziefen.
The First Batch of Oris Wristwatches
Following their success, Oris began experimenting with wristwatches. In addition to the watch factories built, they opened their own electroplating factory in Herbetswil. The factory produced bracelet buckles, which were fitted to their existing pocket watches. Thus, transforming them into wristwatches.
Since then, they have produced plenty of high-quality watches that cater to different walks of life. One collection is the Oris Aquis, a lineup of high-performance dive watches that never fail to impress. Let’s check out which Aquis models caught our attention by reading our list below.
Our Recommended Oris Aquis Watches
As mentioned, the Oris Aquis collection includes various versions of the watch. Here are some of the recommended models that you should check out.
1. Oris Aquis Carysfort Reef Gold Limited Edition
Why is it good?
It’s a given that Oris is one of the well-known brands when it comes to dive watches. But that’s not the only thing they’re known for. Some people overlook the fact that they like supporting causes. The most recent example is the Carysfort Reef Gold Limited Edition.
The watch is based on the existing Aquis GMT from 2019. But this edition has a lot more flavour to it. The most obvious upgrade is the case, which is made of solid 18K yellow gold. Meanwhile, the 24-hour bezel is made of blue and black ceramic with laser-engraved numerals.
Inside, the movement used is called the calibre 798, Sellita 330-1. It has a GMT complication that can tell time from three different time zones. Apart from that, it is also water-resistant up to 300m.
One interesting thing about this edition is that three units were donated to the Coral Restoration Foundation so they could auction them off. Of course, 100% of the profit went to the foundation.
Carysfort Reef Gold Limited Edition Specs:
- Case: 18k yellow gold
- Movement: Automatic
- Power reserve: 42 hours
- Dimensions: 43.5mm
- Water resistance: 300m
2. Oris Aquis Lake Baikal Limited Edition
Why is it good?
Like the previous model, the Oris Lake Baikal Limited Edition is another way of showing the brand’s efforts to protect the environment. As you would have guessed, Lake Baikal inspired the design of this model.
As its name suggests, the watch is limited to only 1,999 units. The number is symbolic as it was the year that Russia passed the Baikal Law to preserve the lake. Part of the profit goes to the Point No. 1 Lake Baikal Conservation Project.
Aesthetically, this dive watch consists of a unidirectional bezel with a blue ceramic insert. The dial itself features a blue hue that gradually lightens to white as it reaches the centre.
If you flip it over, you’ll see the engraved screw-in steel caseback that says: “Oris Lake Baikal Limited Edition” on one side and the serial number on the opposite. It also features a special Lake Baikal insert.
Oris Lake Baikal Limited Edition Specs:
- Case: Stainless steel
- Movement: Automatic
- Power reserve: 38 hours
- Dimensions: 43.5mm
- Water resistance: 300m
3. Oris Aquis Date Relief
Why is it good?
The Oris Aquis Date Relief is a high-performance dive watch that looks elegant at the same time. For this model, Oris collaborated with swimmer and water ambassador Ernst Bromeis. What’s more, he used the watch in his The Blue Miracle campaign where he swam across Lake Baikal.
Based on its name, this model comes with the Relief bezel. What this means is that the Arabic numerals on the scale are raised, giving it an embossed effect. If you’re having a difficult time picturing it, think of the bezel of the Yacht Master II. It comes in a gray colour scheme to symbolise stormy seas.
When it comes to performance, the watch uses the Oris 733 movement, which is Selitta-based. It is automatic and has a date complication at the 6 o’clock position. Furthermore, it runs at a frequency of 28,800vph and has a total of 25 jewels.
Oris Aquis Date Relief Specs:
- Case: Stainless steel
- Movement: Automatic
- Power reserve: 38 hours
- Dimensions: 43.5mm
- Water resistance: 300m
4. Oris Aquis Great Barrier Reef Limited Edition III
Why is it good?
It seems that the Oris Great Barrier Reef Limited Edition just gets better as the years went by. And now, we’re on its third generation. This stunning blue timepiece is limited to just 2000, and like the other Aquis models, it supports organisations that restore the Great Barrier Reef.
When it comes to aesthetics, it sports a blue ceramic bezel insert that’s complemented by orange accents. And the dial itself comes in a gradient blue colour scheme. It is dark blue on the outer ring and gradually lightens as it goes to the centre. Lastly, the date complication is shown via the circular ring in the middle.
Performance-wise, it uses the Oris 743 automatic calibre movement, which is based on the Sellita SW-220-1. It beats at a rate of 28,800vph, has 28 jewels, and can power the watch up to 38 hours.
Oris Great Barrier Reef Limited Edition III Specs:
- Case: Stainless steel
- Movement: Automatic
- Power reserve: 38 hours
- Dimensions: 43.5mm
- Water resistance: 300m
5. Oris Aquis GMT Date
Why is it good?
The Oris Aquis GMT Date is for people who can’t choose between a GMT or a diver. It is like the marriage between the brand’s two collections — the Big Crown ProPilot Worldtimer and Aquis. Impressively, Oris’ watch designers managed to integrate the different time zones to the dial in a very creative way.
To make things better, this model can tell three different time zones. It features the local time via the normal hand, the home time via GMT hand, and a third time zone by using the GMT bezel. Furthermore, the GMT hand is yellow and goes nicely with the blue dial.
Under the hood, you can find the calibre 798 which is built off of the Sellita SW 330-1 calibre. It has a hacking function and can power the watch for up to 42 hours. Lastly, the caseback is made of mineral so you can admire the movement.
Oris Aquis GMT Date Specs:
- Case: Stainless steel
- Movement: Automatic
- Power reserve: 42 hours
- Dimensions: 43.5mm
- Water resistance: 300m
6. Oris Aquis Date
Why is it good?
The Oris Aquis Date is smaller than the other models in the collection. While dive watches are usually bigger than 42mm, this model is a refreshing sight. And it’s impressive that Oris tries to cater to the minority who want smaller watches.
Despite its small stature, the Aquis Date is robust enough for diving. It has an above-average water-resistance of 300m and is made of durable stainless steel.
Its Calibre 733 automatic movement beats at a frequency of 28800bph and powers the watch for 38 hours. Furthermore, it has a stunning red rotor which can be admired via the transparent caseback.
In conclusion, this watch is perfect for people who need a durable dive watch that still has a bit of elegance.
Oris Aquis Date Specs:
- Case: Stainless steel
- Movement: Automatic
- Power reserve: 38 hours
- Dimensions: 39.5mm
- Water resistance: 300m
7. Oris Aquis Blue Whale Limited Edition
Why is it good?
Aquis models are usually based on bodies of water like the River Rhine. But this time, a sea creature inspires the Oris Blue Whale Limited Edition, which is part of the Oris Ocean Trilogy. Furthermore, Oris collaborated with the Whale and Dolphin Conservation (WDSC) in making the watch to protect blue whales.
This model is a diver chronograph. Aside from its remarkable water-resistance, it has special features aside from telling time. These features are a 1/4-second chronograph, 30-minute and 12-hour counters at the 3 o’clock and 6 o’clock position, and a stop-seconds device at 9 o’clock.
It is also a pleasant experience to look at the caseback as it bears an embossed picture of a whale. And staying true to its cause, the watches come with a special box made of recycled plastic.
Oris Blue Whale Limited Edition Specs:
- Case: Stainless steel
- Movement: Automatic
- Power reserve: 48 hours
- Dimensions: 45.5mm
- Water resistance: 500m
8. Oris Aquis Regulateur “Der Meistertaucher”
Why is it good?
One unique thing about the Oris Regulateur “Der Meistertaucher” is that it doesn’t follow the usual watch format. In a normal watch, both the minute and hour hands lie on the same axis. But for this watch, the big minute hand is separate on a subdial at the 3 o’clock position.
This format makes a lot of sense when underwater. When it comes to diving, it is unnecessary to know what hour it is. What’s important is to know how many minutes have elapsed. With that said, this layout makes it easy for you to read the necessary time.
Its case is made out of titanium. Thus, reducing the weight and increasing the comfort while wearing it. You can also choose between a titanium link bracelet or a red rubber strap. Of course, the latter is preferred when it comes to diving.
In conclusion, this watch is one of the most reliable dive watches around. And in case you didn’t know, Der Meistertaucher means “master diver” in English.
Oris Regulateur “Der Meistertaucher” Specs:
- Case: Stainless steel
- Movement: Automatic
- Power reserve: 38 hours
- Dimensions: 43.5mm
- Water resistance: 300m
9. Oris Aquis Small Second Date
Why is it good?
Once again, Oris diversifies their Aquis line with the Small Second Date. And as its name suggests, it has a small seconds subdial beside the 9 o’clock marker. According to the brand, this wasn’t just a marketing ploy. In fact, they consulted professional divers regarding the design.
According to them, separating the seconds hand from the hour and minutes is advantageous to divers. By keeping the seconds hand isolated, the dial becomes more legible. Furthermore, it comes in two colour schemes — blue dial and white hands, black dial and orange hands. The contrast between the dial and the hands further improves the watch’s legibility.
Apart from that, this model has an above-average water-resistance of 500m. Whereas most Aquis models are only up to 300m. That’s a lot of words for saying that the Aquis Small Second Date is one of the most reliable dive watches around.
Oris Aquis Small Second Date Specs:
- Case: Stainless steel
- Movement: Automatic
- Power reserve: 38 hours
- Dimensions: 45.5mm
- Water resistance: 500m
10. Oris Aquis Chronograph
Why is it good?
The Aquis line would not be complete without a chronograph. Thus, Oris released the Aquis Chronograph model which is half a diver and half a chronograph.
At first look, the sub-dials are at the 6 o’clock, 9 o’clock, and 12 o’clock positions. They are recessed from the main dial and are easy to read. These three tell the elapsed minutes, running seconds, and elapsed hours. Thankfully, these functions are easy to configure. The buttons at the side of the watch are responsive and easy to find.
Speaking of movement, it uses the Oris 774 calibre which runs at 28,800vph. It has 25 jewels and can run the watch for up to 38 hours.
Oris Aquis Chronograph Specs:
- Case: Stainless steel
- Movement: Automatic
- Power reserve: 38 hours
- Dimensions: 45.5mm
- Water resistance: 500m
11. Oris Aquis Clean Ocean Limited Edition
Why is it good?
The Oris Clean Ocean Limited Edition is part of the Oris Ocean Trilogy. The other two being the Great Barrier Reef III and the Blue Whale. As for this model, the brand partnered with Pacific Garbage Screening. This new organisation develops technology that can help keep the oceans clean.
Performance-wise, it uses the Oris 733 calibre movement. It runs at a frequency of 28,800vph, has a total of 26 jewels, and can make the watch tick for 38 hours.
What’s unique about this model is that there are no engravings on the caseback. Instead, it features a medallion that’s made out of recycled PET plastic.
Oris Clean Ocean Limited Edition Specs:
- Case: Stainless steel
- Movement: Automatic
- Power reserve: 38 hours
- Dimensions: 39.5mm
- Water resistance: 300m
12. Oris Aquis Source of Life Limited Edition
Why is it good?
The Oris Source of Life Limited Edition is inspired by the River Rhine in the Swiss Alps. In fact, it is limited to 2343 units, which represents the height of the lake where the river originates.
Its bezel and dial come in two different colours. The former is gray, while the latter is blue, which is inspired by the fresh water of the River Rhine. And to make it more legible, the hands, as well as the indexes, are filled with Super-LumiNova. This allows the wearer to read the time even in dark conditions.
When it comes to the movement, it uses the self-winding Calibre 733. It runs at a frequency of 28,800vph and can power the watch up to 38 hours. But that’s not all. On the caseback, you’ll see a special engraving of the map of the River Rhine.
Oris Source of Life Limited Edition Specs:
- Case: Stainless steel
- Movement: Automatic
- Power reserve: 38 hours
- Dimensions: 43.5mm
- Water resistance: 300m
13. Oris Aquis Depth Gauge
Why is it good?
The Oris Aquis Depth Gauge is the first model in Oris’ collection that can measure depth. Indeed, it’s a watch where we can see science at work.
Aesthetically speaking, this model is the sportiest-looking among the collection. It has a thick 46mm case that says it’s meant for adventure. Moreover, the black and yellow colour scheme makes the dial easy to read, which is extremely useful for deep dives.
Also, it is worth noting that this model can withstand water pressure of up to 500m. This is more than enough for divers.
Overall, the Aquis Depth Gauge packs a lot of value for its price. It contains features that are seen in more expensive watches. If you’re serious about diving, you can’t go wrong with this one.
Oris Aquis Depth Gauge Specs:
- Case: Stainless steel
- Movement: Automatic
- Power reserve: 38 hours
- Dimensions: 46mm
- Water resistance: 500m
14. Oris Aquis Date Diamonds
Why is it good?
The Aquis lineup leans towards the active lifestyle. But that doesn’t mean their watches can’t be elegant. Enter the Oris Aquis Date Diamonds. Simply put, this watch is proof that diver watches can be worn to formal occasions, too!
Staying true to its name, this watch has diamonds all over its bezel. Apart from that, the hour markers are made from the precious stone.
When it comes to the movement, it uses the Oris 733 calibre. It runs at a frequency of 28,800vph and has a total of 26 jewels. It can also power your watch for up to 38 hours.
This watch is perfect for people who are often on the beach as well as the opera. It is the perfect example that you can achieve style without compromising performance.
Oris Aquis Date Diamonds Specs:
- Case: Stainless steel
- Movement: Automatic
- Power reserve: 38 hours
- Dimensions: 36.5mm
- Water resistance: 300m
Final Notes
Oris is dedicated to creating the ultimate dive watch. They even go as far as accepting feedback from actual divers. With that said, the Oris Aquis collection includes dive watches that have a great price-quality ratio. If you’re in the market for a new diving companion, you should not overlook this magnificent lineup.
While you’re at it, check out the history of the Hamilton Ventura!
