Needless to say, the region of Basle and Hölstein has created more than mere curiosities, as the history of Oris will confirm.



1904
Just after the turn of the century, the Oris watch factory is founded by Paul Cattin and Georges Christian at Hölstein, Switzerland.
 

1925
Oris opens its own electroplating factory.

1938
The legendary pointer calendar enters production, marking a milestone in the history of Oris.  Since then, the pointer calendar has always been included in the Oris collection.

1949
Oris has established a good name for quality alarm clocks. For the first time, the company introduces an alarm clock which needs to be wound once every eight days. Even today, these timepieces still remain in use.

1952
Oris launches its first automatic movement, cal. 601, with a power reserve display.

1966
The reliable and world-famous Oris automatic movement cal. 645, with 25-jewel lever escapement, goes into production.

1968
Oris obtains full chronometer certification from the Observatory of Neuchâtel. This award for movement cal. 652 is among the highest  forms of recognition that exist for accuracy and superior quality.

1970
Oris launches its first chronograph, which is developed in conjunction with the Dubois Depraz factory.

1988
Oris introduces its first mechanical alarm wristwatch in a limited edition.

The last series of these movements, which were formerly   manufactured by the A. Schild company, is bought by Oris and fitted into a classic-shape case.