The Swiss watch industry is a landscape dotted with storied brands, each with their own unique heritage and contributions to horological history. Among them,
Oris stands as a testament to independent watchmaking, their 120-year journey marked by innovation, resilience, and a commitment to accessible luxury. To celebrate this milestone, Oris has unveiled the Hölstein Edition 2024, a striking, all-black iteration of their popular Divers Sixty-Five model.
Nestled in the village of Hölstein since 1904, Oris has carved a niche for itself by staying true to its roots and values. Unlike many of its counterparts who have been absorbed into larger conglomerates, Oris remains fiercely independent. This autonomy has allowed them to forge their own path, focusing on mechanical movements, innovative designs, and a commitment to making quality Swiss watches accessible to a wider audience.
Courtesy of Oris
Their journey has not been without its challenges. The quartz crisis of the 1970s and 80s, which saw battery-powered watches flood the market and decimate the demand for mechanical timepieces, nearly spelled the end for Oris. However, the brand persevered, doubling down on their commitment to mechanical watchmaking and emerging from the crisis stronger than ever.
In recent years, Oris has experienced a resurgence, driven in part by the popularity of their Divers Sixty-Five collection. Introduced in 2015, the Divers Sixty-Five is a reinterpretation of a vintage Oris diver's watch from the 1960s. It captures the spirit of the original with its retro-inspired design, but updates it for the modern wearer with contemporary materials and technology.
The Divers Sixty-Five has become a staple in Oris' lineup, spawning numerous variations with different case materials, dial colors, and complications. Yet, the Hölstein Edition 2024 stands apart as a unique and celebratory piece.
The Hölstein Edition 2024 is a departure from the typical Divers Sixty-Five aesthetic. Cloaked entirely in black, from its DLC-coated stainless steel case and bezel to its black dial and rubber strap, this watch exudes a stealthy, modern vibe. The only contrast comes from the white numerals on the date window at 6 o'clock and the subtle glint of the polished hands and indices.
Courtesy of Oris
This monochromatic color scheme is not just about aesthetics. It's a statement of intent, a bold move that signifies Oris' willingness to push boundaries and experiment with new designs. The Hölstein Edition 2024 is not just a watch; it's a symbol of Oris' evolution and their commitment to innovation.
Powering the Hölstein Edition 2024 is Oris' in-house Calibre 400 movement. This innovative caliber boasts a five-day power reserve, exceptional anti-magnetic properties, and a 10-year warranty. It represents a significant leap forward in Oris' watchmaking capabilities and sets a new standard for performance and reliability.
The Calibre 400 is more than just a technical marvel; it's a testament to Oris' dedication to pushing the boundaries of watchmaking. It's a symbol of their independent spirit and their commitment to creating watches that are not only beautiful but also technologically advanced.
Courtesy of Oris
The watch's 40mm stainless steel case, coated in black DLC (Diamond-Like Carbon), is a masterclass in understated cool. The DLC coating not only gives the watch its stealthy appearance but also enhances its durability and scratch resistance. The unidirectional rotating bezel, a hallmark of dive watches, features a black ceramic insert with a luminous diving scale, ensuring legibility even in low-light conditions.
The black dial, while seemingly simple, is anything but. The indices and hands are filled with Super-LumiNova, a highly luminous material that glows brightly in the dark. The date window at 6 o'clock adds a touch of practicality without disrupting the watch's clean lines.
Completing the all-black aesthetic is a black rubber strap with a textured finish. The strap is not only comfortable to wear but also water-resistant and durable, making it perfect for any aquatic adventure.
As mentioned earlier, the watch is powered by Oris' in-house Calibre 400 movement. This automatic movement offers a five-day power reserve, ensuring the watch keeps ticking even if you don't wear it for a few days. It's also highly resistant to magnetism, a common issue with mechanical watches that can affect their accuracy.
Courtesy of Oris
But perhaps the most impressive feature of the Calibre 400 is its 10-year warranty. This unprecedented warranty is a testament to Oris' confidence in the movement's reliability and durability. It also provides peace of mind for the wearer, knowing their investment is protected for the long haul.
The Oris Divers Sixty-Five Holstein Edition 2024 is not just a watch; it's a collector's item. Limited to just 250 pieces, it's a rare and exclusive timepiece that's sure to appreciate in value over time. Each watch is individually numbered, adding to its exclusivity and collectability.
The case back features a special engraving of the Oris Bear, the brand's mascot, sporting swim shorts and shades. This playful touch adds a bit of personality to the watch and makes it a fun conversation starter.
Courtesy of Oris
The Oris Divers Sixty-Five Holstein Edition 2024 is priced at $4,200 USD. Given its limited production run and unique features, it's likely to sell out quickly. If you're a fan of Oris or simply appreciate a well-made, stylish dive watch, this is one you won't want to miss.
The Oris Divers Sixty-Five Holstein Edition 2024 is more than just a birthday watch; it's a testament to Oris' enduring legacy of quality watchmaking. It's a watch that embodies the brand's independent spirit, their commitment to innovation, and their passion for creating timepieces that are both functional and stylish. Whether you're a seasoned collector or simply appreciate a good watch, the Holstein Edition 2024 is a timepiece that deserves a place in your collection.