Oris, a Swiss watchmaking brand with a rich history dating back to 1904, has always been synonymous with precision, innovation, and a commitment to sustainability. With each new release,
Oris reaffirms its dedication to these core values, and the Oris Big Crown Father Time Limited Edition is no exception. This exquisite timepiece not only pays homage to the brand's heritage but also serves as a symbol of sustainability and positive change.
Before delving into the specifics of the Big Crown Father Time Limited Edition, it's essential to understand the historical context of Oris. Founded in the picturesque town of Hölstein, Switzerland, by Paul Cattin and Georges Christian in 1904, Oris quickly gained a reputation for crafting high-quality timepieces. What set Oris apart from its contemporaries was its commitment to innovation and precision. From the very beginning, Oris embraced the principles of watchmaking excellence, and this dedication continues to define the brand to this day.
Courtesy of Oris
Oris's journey through time has been marked by numerous milestones and achievements. One of the most iconic and enduring elements of Oris's heritage is the Big Crown collection. Introduced in the 1930s, the Big Crown models were known for their oversized crowns designed to facilitate easy adjustment, even when wearing gloves. These watches were favored by aviators and became emblematic of Oris's dedication to practicality and functionality.
The Oris Big Crown Father Time Limited Edition is a testament to Oris's commitment to both its heritage and the environment. This extraordinary 40mm timepiece is crafted from bronze, a material chosen not only for its aesthetic appeal but also for its eco-friendliness. Bronze, an alloy of copper and tin, is known for its durability and corrosion resistance, making it a fitting choice for a watch that symbolizes longevity and sustainability.
One of the most remarkable aspects of this limited edition watch is its collaboration with the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC), the guardian of the Laws of Cricket and the custodian of Lord's Cricket Ground, often referred to as the "Home of Cricket." The watch is named after the iconic Father Time weathervane that adorns Lord's, and this collaboration celebrates the shared vision of Oris and MCC to bring about positive change and promote sustainability.
The Father Time Limited Edition is not just a watch; it's a symbol of unity, heritage, and a commitment to making the world a better place. The watch's design draws inspiration from the rich history of cricket, with subtle details that pay homage to the sport. The red crescent-shaped tip of the central date hand is reminiscent of a cricket bat, while the dial features a clean white background, mirroring the cricket pitch.
Courtesy of Oris
At the heart of the Oris Big Crown Father Time Limited Edition ticks the Oris Calibre 754, a Swiss-made automatic movement renowned for its precision and reliability. With a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour (4 Hz), this movement ensures accurate timekeeping, while the 26 jewels within the movement reduce friction and wear, enhancing its longevity.
One of the standout features of this movement is the signature pointer date function. Displayed by the central date hand with its distinctive red crescent tip, this function adds a touch of practicality to the watch, ensuring that the date is always easily readable. Additionally, the movement boasts a power reserve of approximately 38 hours, making it reliable for daily wear.
Oris has always been at the forefront of sustainability in watchmaking, and the Father Time Limited Edition is a prime example of the brand's dedication to the cause. The choice of bronze for the case not only adds character to the watch but also aligns with Oris's commitment to using materials that have minimal impact on the environment. Moreover, the watch comes with both an articulated solid bronze bracelet and a strap made from sustainably sourced deer leather, showcasing Oris's dedication to ethical and responsible sourcing.
Furthermore, this limited edition watch is a conscious nod to sustainability and positive change. Only 1,926 pieces will be produced, a number that holds significance as it marks the year Father Time was gifted to Lord's Cricket Ground. This limited production run underscores Oris's commitment to creating meaningful timepieces that contribute to a more sustainable future.
At the heart of the Father Time Limited Edition lies a 40mm bronze case that immediately captures attention. Bronze is a unique material in the world of horology, appreciated not only for its robustness but also for its evolving patina. Over time, bronze develops a distinctive and personalized patina, a testament to the watch's journey with its owner. This characteristic makes each Father Time Limited Edition truly one of a kind, with a case that tells a story of its own.
Courtesy of Oris
The choice of bronze as the primary material aligns seamlessly with the watch's message of sustainability. Oris exclusively uses high-quality bronze, ensuring that the watch's case not only stands the test of time but also leaves a minimal environmental footprint. The warmth and character of the bronze case make it a perfect canvas for the watch's design, creating an unmistakable connection between the timepiece and its wearer.
The dial of the Father Time Limited Edition is a study in understated elegance. Its clean white background serves as a perfect backdrop for the watch's intricate details. The dial features a multi-level design with a 3D effect, reminiscent of the works of artist Chen Fen Wan. This artistic touch adds depth and character to the dial, elevating it beyond a mere timekeeping instrument.
The indices, numbers, and hands of the watch are generously coated with Superluminova C3/Black NL, ensuring excellent legibility in various lighting conditions. Whether you find yourself in a dimly lit room or under the starry night sky, the Father Time Limited Edition remains easily readable, a testament to Oris's commitment to functionality.
Courtesy of Oris
Inside the Father Time Limited Edition beats the Oris Calibre 754, an automatic winding movement developed in-house. This Swiss-made movement operates at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour (4 Hz), ensuring precise and reliable timekeeping. The movement boasts a power reserve of approximately 38 hours, making it a reliable companion for daily wear.
One of the standout features of the Calibre 754 is the central date hand with its red crescent-shaped tip. This innovative date display adds a touch of practicality to the watch, ensuring that the wearer can quickly and easily read the date. In a world where time is of the essence, this function proves invaluable, emphasizing the watch's blend of form and function.
The Father Time Limited Edition comes with two distinct straps, each contributing to the watch's versatility and style. The first is an articulated solid bronze bracelet, a perfect match for the bronze case. This bracelet exudes a sense of rugged elegance, making it an ideal choice for those who appreciate a bold and distinctive look.
The second strap is made from sustainably sourced deer leather by Oris's Swiss partner, Cervo Volante. This light brown leather strap adds a touch of luxury and sophistication to the watch. It's a testament to Oris's commitment to ethical and responsible sourcing, showcasing the brand's dedication to sustainability in every aspect of watchmaking.
Courtesy of Oris
The Oris Big Crown Father Time Limited Edition is more than just a watch; it's a symbol of heritage, sustainability, and positive change. Limited to a production run of only 1,926 pieces, this watch holds a special significance. The number 1,926 marks the year when Father Time was gifted to Lord's Cricket Ground, a poignant connection that ties the watch to the sport and its rich history.
By limiting the production to 1,926 pieces, Oris reinforces its commitment to creating meaningful and exclusive timepieces. Each owner of the Father Time Limited Edition becomes part of a select group, united by a shared appreciation for craftsmanship, heritage, and sustainability.