Oris Divers Sixty-Five

Today, from the archive, we look back to a review of the Oris Divers Sixty-Five, specifically the two-tone version with a bronze bezel and a green dial.

The author really enjoyed reviewing this handsome timepiece, yet it left him quite cold. Why?

Well, because he saw the aesthetics of the watch prevailing over everything else, so overall it didn't seem attractive enough to justify its price tag of €2100. The eternal collector's equation...

What did the author like about this watch?

First of all, it is made by Oris, which is important in itself. The independent brand from Hölstein has a fine pedigree and likes doing things its own way. It takes interesting risks that many other brands wouldn't.

Secondly, the retro vintage aesthetics of this specimen are just magnificent.

Thirdly, the watch has optimal dimensions (40 mm). Once on the wrist, it offers its very best, reproducing perfectly the “skin diver” experience that inspires it.

So what is wrong with the watch? Well, quite a few things, generally mundane, but also critical when considering whether one should purchase a watch.

First of all, the watch is barely legible outdoors. The antireflective treatment is non-existent, or totally ineffective.

Secondly, although the bezel is easy enough to manipulate, it offers too little resistance when moved and excessive play when set. Neither is suitable for a watch of this budget.

Thirdly, it only offers 100 m of water resistance.

Finally, this “Sixty-Five” is equipped with the Oris caliber 733, based on the Sellita SW 200-1, i.e. a fairly basic ébauche.

This version of the Oris Sixty-Five is very pleasing to look at. The two-tone case and dial colour are bold. It is a striking watch, beautiful even, that begs to look at it.

However, precisely therein lies its greatest problem. It is a watch in which the aesthetics prevail over performance, and even the level of finishing. Thus, it struggles to justify its price, at least in the author's opinion.

Full article link.

What do you think? Was the author too harsh? Let us know..