Rectangular watch reviews (Oris, Longines, Baume at Mercier)

I have shared in some prior threads my desire to someday own a rectangular dress watch. Previously, I tried on the two most popular rectangular dress watches, the JLC Reverso and the Cartier Tank. Today, I was able to try on 3 more affordable alternatives from mainstream brands: the Oris Rectangular, the Longines Dolce Vita, and the Baume et Mercier Hampton. I wanted to share my thoughts for those who are contemplating a rectangular watch purchase.

Oris Rectangular: I tried on the blue dial version. This was my least favorite watch of the 3 I tried today by far. The strap was very mediocre and the dial and hands were totally unimpressive. I thought the watch seemed ugly and cheap in person. Very underwhelming. 

Longines Dolce Vita: I liked this dial the best of the 3. I tried on the version with the bracelet. I thought the bracelet was decent for the price point but I preferred the mesh bracelet on the B&M. The weirdest thing about the Longines was the case shape. It has an odd shape that doesn’t conform well to the wrist and sits very high. I also didn’t like the crown. Very hard to grip and use and also unattractive. This watch is way better than the Oris in my opinion but still a pass for me. 
 

B&M Hampton: This case was the best of the three. Watch is fairly thin and sits on the wrist well. I also liked the mesh bracelet. It was not as good as an IWC mesh bracelet but was pretty comfortable and can be easily adjusted. Had a nice push button clasp for a mesh bracelet. The big disappointment was the dial. The white dial has a textured portion on it that I absolutely hated. The dial just was a huge let down. I also thought I would like the raised numerals at 12 and 6 as well as the raised indices, but I actually preferred the Longines dial, which is printed. The dial just made this watch a hard pass for me. 
 

I’m happy to answer any questions about these three watches from people thinking of buying them. 

My overall thoughts after trying five of the most popular rectangular watch models is to save up and go for the JLC. None of the other watches are in the same league and won’t be a worthy consolation prize. Cartier is well made and has a more luxury feel, but I hate the design. It may be a long time before I can afford it, but it’s JLC Reverso or bust for me. 
 

With that being said, I do honestly believe that people should buy what they like. However, I suspect that if you like the Cartier Tank, you would also be disappointed to settle for a Longines, Oris, or B&M. Even though I don’t like the Cartier design, the watch has a way more premium and luxury feel than these budget alternatives.

Happy hunting for your rectangular watch. I think my hunt is over. I am now just in saving mode unless some new standout rectangular watch comes on the market.