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When it comes to Swiss watches, few brands can match the prestige and legacy of Oris and Longines. 

Longines was founded in 1832 and is known for its long history and as the Official Timekeeper of events like the Kentucky Derby. Oris was established in 1904. To date, it remains an independent and climate-conscious brand.

So, Oris vs Longines, which brand fits you better? 

Join us as we compare the histories, designs, and popular models of these famous Swiss brands. Not only will we help you choose the best watch but we’ll also help you find the right watch winders for them!

Finding the Right Brand for You: Longines vs Oris

Choosing between Oris and Longines can be a tough call for watch enthusiasts. 

On one side we have Oris. This is a Swiss brand known for its mechanical watches. It has diverse collections for Diving, Aviation, Motorsport, and Culture. Oris is in the German-speaking part of Switzerland. It stays independent as one of the few privately owned makers.

Meanwhile, Longines might just be one of the oldest Swiss watch brands out there. In fact, Longines holds the title for the oldest trademark or logo still in use in its original form. The brand has a rich history. It makes precision chronographs with iconic collections like Elegance and Watchmaking Tradition. 

Overall, both brands seem to provide excellent value for money. But naturally, each of them caters to a different taste.

Let’s look closer at the stories behind Oris and Longines. This will help you decide which Swiss brand fits your style best.

Brand History and Reputation

Longines’ history dates to 1832. Auguste Agassiz, Henri Raiguel, and Florian Morel laid the company’s foundation in Saint-Imier, Switzerland. 

Fast forward to the late 19th century. Longines was hitting its stride under Agassiz’s nephew, Ernest Francillon. Francillon’s innovation led to the founding of Longines’ first factory in 1867. 

On the other hand, Oris entered the scene in 1904. Paul Cattin and Georges Christian founded the brand in Hölstein, Switzerland. 

Oris faced hurdles during Switzerland’s ‘Watch Statute’ era in the 1930s. But, they didn’t back down. Instead, the company doubled down on innovation. It became known for making its own escapements. 

Their crowning achievement? The introduction of the iconic Big Crown watch in 1938. Oris proved its worth in the 20th century. It navigated challenges and emerged as a force in watchmaking.

As for where they stand today, both Longines and Oris continue to thrive in the competitive world of watchmaking.

The Verdict: In terms of brand history alone, Longines trumps Oris by many decades. If Longines is tradition and precision, Oris is resilience and innovation. 

Durability & Water Resistance

Both Longines and Oris are renowned for their durable timepieces. But some watch enthusiasts believe that Oris watches are more rugged and require fewer service and repairs. This is especially true for their high-end sports models. 

For instance, Oris diving watches are a good example. The ProDiver Pointer Moon boasts great water resistance. It can go up to 1000m/3280 ft. 

While Longines Hydroconquest series has a water resistance up to 300m/1000ft. It is good for swimming, light snorkeling, and showering. 

Longines has some capable diving watches. They have features like chronograph timing and calendars. But they can’t match Oris’ deep water resistance. Oris also has special features for divers.

The Verdict: If you’re an underwater enthusiast, you might want to reach for Oris instead of Longines. Oris’ rugged construction and exceptional water resistance make it ideal for divers. 

Movements and Functionality

From Oris

Oris shows its innovative side with the Calibre 400, a completely new type of in-house movement. It comes with anti-magnetism, a five-day power reserve, and a 10-year warranty. Pretty neat, right?

On the other hand, most watch enthusiasts wonder: should Longines ETA movements count as “in-house”?” 

Having in-group movements from the ETA does allow Longines to release diverse options from automatic mechanicals to solar-powered quartz. 

The Verdict: Longines diverse range of movements can’t be ignored but they are sadly lacking in craftsmanship and innovation. Oris takes the lead in movements and functionality. The brand’s in-house Calibre 400 sets new performance standards. 

Price Range and Affordability

Oris believes in “Swiss watchmaking for all.” As per this commitment, the brand caters to diverse tastes and budgets, with prices ranging from 100 to 13,000 euros. 

Meanwhile, Longines focuses on classically styled dress watches with a rich heritage. Their prices generally fall between $1,500 to $5,000. This is a comfortable price point for luxury watch buyers.

The Verdict: Oris’ prices fall in the more accessible range, making it more affordable. The brand ensures there’s something for everyone at every price point. Longines, on the other hand, attracts buyers seeking timeless elegance.

Investment and Resale Value

When it comes to resale value, Oris and Longines watches hold their ground fairly well. Although, you shouldn’t expect your watch to appreciate significantly over time. 

Oris watches, especially discontinued models, can fetch thousands of dollars on the secondhand market. This makes them perfect for collectors. Similarly, rarer editions of Longines also command higher prices.

However, like many luxury brands, both Oris and Longines may experience some depreciation, particularly for standard models. On average, expect a drop of around 30-50% from the original retail price for standard watches.

The Verdict: While Oris and Longines may not match the value retention of heavyweights like Rolex or Audemars Piguet, they still offer solid investment potential. Especially for rare and vintage pieces.

Popular Diving Watches: Longines HydroConquest vs Oris Aquis Pro

Longines HydroConquest collection was launched in 2007. These robust diving watches have water resistance up to 300 meters. 

From automatic calibers to quartz movements, the HydroConquest combines performance and style. The original HydroConquest has three hands. It costs about 1,100 USD. It has a tough steel case and Longines caliber L888 movement.

Switching to Oris, we have diving watches, like the Divers Sixty-Five series. They cost about 1,200 euros. This model pays homage to Oris’ first diving watch from 1965. It mixes retro design with modern features.

However, Oris has totally raised the bar with its latest release, the Oris Aquis Pro 4000M. It has a water resistance of 4000 meters. The Aquis Pro 4000M sets a new standard for dive watches.

Besides diving watches Oris also has a rich history of crafting pilot’s watches. Just look at its iconic Big Crown series.

How to Pick the Best Watch Winder for Longines and Oris Watches

Longines models like the Master Collection and the HydroConquest have intricate automatic movements. So do Oris Aquis and the Oris Big Crown ProPilot. 

Automatic movements perform best when kept running. That’s where a watch winder comes in. It maintains a watch’s best performance and keeps accurate and ready for any occasion.

So, how do you select the right watch winder for these brands?

Here are some key factors to consider:

• Compatibility: Ensure that the watch winder is compatible with the specific models of Longines and Oris watches you own. Look for winders with adjustable settings to accommodate different watch sizes and weights.
• Rotation Settings: Search for customizable rotation settings to mimic the natural movements of your watches. Longines and Oris watches may have different winding requirements, so versatility in rotation direction and speed is essential.
• Quality Construction: Opt for a watch winder with durable construction and premium materials. Look for features like soft interior lining and secure closures to prevent scratches and damage.
• Elegant Design: Select a watch winder that complements the aesthetic of your Longines and Oris watches. Our Space Meta silver watch winder is a versatile choice that goes perfectly with silver watches like Oris Aquis and Longines HydroQuest.
• Quiet Operation: Choose a watch winder that operates quietly to avoid disturbances in your living space. Our watch winders undergo rigorous noise tests and run almost silently.

To meet these criteria, we recommend our MOZSLY Watch Winders. 

With their elegant design, quiet operation, and extra link feature allowing multiple winders to be connected together, they are an ideal choice for Longines and Oris watches. 

Wrap Up

Choosing between Oris and Longines comes down to your preferences and priorities. Both are famous Swiss watch brands. They have rich histories and great craftsmanship. But, they cater to slightly different tastes.

If you’re drawn to classic elegance and timeless style, consider Longines. It has heritage and precise chronographs. Their watches have a refined, dressy style. It appeals to those seeking a touch of luxury. 

On the other hand, if you value ruggedness, versatility, and a more modern edge, Oris could be the better fit. They make tough, high-performance sports watches. For example, the impressive Aquis Pro 4000M dive watch can resist water at depths of 4,000 meters. 

FAQs

Which brand is better, Longines or Oris?

Both Longines and Oris are highly respected Swiss watch brands. Longines is known for its rich heritage. It has classic elegance and precise chronographs. Meanwhile, Oris is renowned for its innovative, durable, and versatile sports watches.

Is Oris considered luxury?

Yes, Oris is considered a luxury watch brand. Oris is not as prestigious as top Swiss luxury brands. But, it makes high-quality, Swiss-made mechanical watches. They are priced in the luxury range. This is typically from around $1,000 to $13,000. Oris maintains its independence as one of the few privately owned Swiss watch manufacturers.

Is Oris as good as Omega?

Oris and Omega are both respected Swiss watch brands. But, they are in different tiers in the luxury watch market. Omega watches are more expensive and are often linked with luxury and exclusivity. Oris offers great value and quality. But, it may not be seen as on the same level as Omega.

Is Longines a high-end brand?

Yes, Longines is considered a high-end, luxury watch brand. Longines has a history dating back to 1832. It is one of the oldest Swiss watchmakers. It is known for its accurate chronographs. They also have classic, elegant designs. Longines watches usually cost $1,500 to $5,000. This puts them firmly in the luxury category.