Buying issue

[JonH]

Hi all,
I have a dilema, I am in the process of buying another watch as a main wearer, I was considering the Omega SMP (Bond Chronometer version) I have had one of these previously, however I came across the Oris brand in the shop and my eye was drawn to Oris TT1 Divers Date with Black bezel and dial. I was amazed at the quality, price bracket etc. So my dilema is do I go for an SMP 2531.80 or this Oris. I've read the blurb about the company, but thats not helped much. Any ideas guys

[haakon59]

I would say that which choice you make is based on several considerations. Let me tell you some of the things I personally look at:
1. Brand Reputation
2. Accuracy (either via movement reputation, COSC certification, or owner reports)
3. Durability
4. Quality
5. Movement
6. What I have currently in my collection, versus what I want to get next.
7. Resale potential
8. Price

Let me tell you how I would evaluate it, point by point:
1. Brand reputation. Sales is part of the equation here and I believe that Omega is the 2nd highest selling mechanical watch brand behind Rolex. They have been at or near the top of their field for a long time. You see their watches come up all the time on vintage and auction sites. Oris is 100 years old and also has an excellent reputation for making quality watches at a good price. They have never been as big a seller as Omega, but then, if you want a watch that is not the usual, well, Oris is a good choice.
2. Accuracy: Omega's bond watch is COSC certified and the movement (1120 I believe) has a sterling reputation. Owners of Omega watches regularly report surprise at how accurate their watches are. Oris watches are good too in this department, although they are not COSC certified (except one model) and they use (and improve on) ETA movements (made by Swatch group, of which Omega is a part). While I wouldn't say accuracy is a problem for Oris if you are OK with +/- 10 seconds a day accuracy, they are not at Omega's level in this department either. Many owners of TT1's and other Oris models report accuracy within COSC specs, even though they are not sent in for certification.
3. Durability. I would say factors involved with durability include: hardness of the steel used for the case, quality of the bracelet and clasp, and material used for the crystal. Here, I am a little uncertain about the details, but the Omega Bond model does have 300 meters water resistance versus most TT1's being rated for 200 meters, unless you are thinking of the TT1 made with a Titanium case, which has 1000 meters wr.
4. Quality. You hear good things about the quality of both. Perceptions in this area can vary, depending on expectations, etc.
5. Movement. Manufacture? Std ETA? One often overlooked and underappreciated feature of ETA movements is that they are presently the most common movements available and have been shown to be reliable. Omega uses their own versions and the watch you are looking at uses the Omega 1120, I believe, whereas the Oris TT1 uses an ETA 2824 (which is very common in dive watches.
6. What I need next for my collection. Obviously, this is personal to you.
7. Resale potential. I haven't checked recently on the sales boards, but although both brands are available used, I think that the Omega Bond has more potential here, although you never know.
8. Price. Both are priced well, but Oris is cheaper.

Sometimes I just like to try a new brand. In my case, I haven't owned an Oris before so that would heighten my interest in it. But then, every Omega I have owned in the past has been an outstanding watch without any trouble at all, and that makes me feel some confidence.

What would I do? I would go for the Omega. But I can tell you that I do think the Oris TT1 is a good value for the money and I have seen them in person and they too are nice watches. Good luck.

[JonH]

Just want to thank you for your most helpful post

[haakon59]

You are welcome, I am pleased to help out. Whichever one you decide to buy, I hope that you enjoy it and are happy with it.

[MikeS]

Just buy what makes you happy! Forget what others think it's your wrist!