You can’t help but admire Oris. The independent Swiss watchmaker often calls it as it sees it, proudly declaring that it makes mechanical watches for those who want to own a mechanical watch – rather than for only those who can ‘afford’ one. For Oris, luxury is about inclusivity and the appreciation of watchmaking, rather than exclusivity and the desire to create envy in others. Take that as your jumping off point for this year’s main releases from the Swiss-German watchmaker.
At Watches & Wonders, the Big Crown Pointer Date took centrestage for the brand, showcasing a democratization of choice – principally with regards to the choice of colour.
While the Big Crown collection has been continually produced since it was first introduced back I 1938, the new additions see seven coloured dials added to its modern design updates, with options ranging from a chic lilac, warm green and eye-catching terracotta, to our personal favourite the popping, summer-ready yellow dial. While the new references come in two different sizes (40mm and 34mm), it’s the male-focused larger option that jump out thanks to the combination of its number indices, stylish pointer date function and hallmark oversized crown.
However, this being Oris, its built-in inclusivity ethos means that the quality of watchmaking you get for a collection which starts from AED8,500 is mighty impressive. Powered by its in-house, automatic Calibre 403 movement, it also comes with 30 anti-magnetic components (well above the average standard), a handy five-day power reserve, and Oris’ industry-leading 10-year warranty. It’s something you can’t help but admire.