The Big Crown Pointer Date collection by Oris represents a significant legacy in Swiss watchmaking, dating back to its introduction in 1938. Originally designed as a tool for aviators, the watch features a prominent crown for ease of use and a date display indicated by a central hand with a red arrow tip. Over the decades, this design has evolved while retaining its core functionality and aesthetic appeal. The latest iterations of the Big Crown Pointer Date offer modern updates in colour options, case sizes, movements, and materials, ensuring versatility and precision for contemporary users.
Colours and the joy of living
The dials in the Oris Big Crown Pointer Date collection are available in a variety of colours and designs.
40 mm Models: These feature warm terracotta or green dials paired with the Calibre 403 movement, which includes a small seconds indication at 6 o’clock. Additional variants include yellow, lilac, or blue dials powered by Swiss automatic movements.
34 mm Models: This smaller size introduces textured beige or black dials. The black dial variant is adorned with 12 lab-grown baguette diamond indices, offering an elegant option for users seeking a more refined appearance.
The hands, numerals, and indices on all models are filled with Super-LumiNova®, enhancing legibility in low-light conditions. The dials are protected by domed sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating on the interior side.
Presentation of the Movements
The collection utilises high-performance automatic movements tailored to different models.
Calibre 403: Featured in select 40 mm models, this movement offers a five-day power reserve, anti-magnetic properties exceeding ISO 76 standards, and accuracy within COSC tolerances (−3/+5-3/+5−3/+5 seconds per day). It also comes with a 10-year warranty when registered with MyOris and requires service intervals every decade.
Calibre 754: Used in other 40 mm models, it provides a power reserve of 41 hours and includes instantaneous date functionality alongside centre hands for hours, minutes, seconds, and date.
Calibre 531: Found in the 34 mm models, this movement delivers a power reserve of 42 hours and features central sweep seconds hands. It also comes with a three-year warranty upon registration.
These movements reflect Oris‘s commitment to mechanical precision and durability.
And a superb 34mm…
The cases across the collection are crafted from multi-piece stainless steel:
40 mm Models: These have a thickness of approximately 12 mm and lug-to-lug dimensions of 47.5 mm. The case backs are screwed stainless steel with see-through sapphire glass.
34 mm Models: Slightly thinner at 11.1 mm with lug-to-lug dimensions of 41 mm. The case backs feature screwed mineral glass for visibility into the movement.
Both sizes offer water resistance up to 5 bar (50 metres), ensuring suitability for everyday activities. The oversized crown remains a signature feature across all models for ease of operation.
Blending heritage with innovation
The Big Crown Pointer Date collection exemplifies Oris‘s dedication to blending heritage with innovation. By offering varied dial designs, robust movements, and versatile case sizes, these watches cater to diverse preferences while maintaining their iconic status within Swiss watchmaking. Whether chosen for their functionality or aesthetic appeal, they continue to uphold the timeless principles that defined their original purpose nearly nine decades ago.
