Oris Big Crown Pointer Date Makes a Comeback with Calibre 403
The Iconic Big Crown Returns
Swiss watchmaker Oris has officially brought back its legendary Big Crown Pointer Date, a model that holds a special place in the brand's history. First introduced in 1938, the Big Crown Pointer Date has long been recognized as Oris's signature timepiece, and its return signals the company's continued commitment to honoring its heritage while embracing modern watchmaking.
According to Oris, the Big Crown is more than just a watch — it represents the brand's identity and its nearly nine-decade legacy in the watch industry. The new iteration is equipped with the Calibre 403 automatic movement, bringing the classic design into the contemporary era with improved mechanical performance.
Historical Significance
The Big Crown Pointer Date was originally designed in 1938 and quickly became one of the most recognizable models in Oris's collection. The watch gets its name from its oversized crown, a design feature originally intended to make winding easier for pilots wearing gloves. The pointer date function — a date indicator displayed via a central hand rather than a window — has become a distinctive hallmark of the model.
Key highlights of the original 1938 design:
- Oversized crown for easy operation
- Pointer date complication with central hand
- Clean, legible dial design
- Aviation-inspired aesthetic
Calibre 403: Modern Mechanical Innovation
The return of the Big Crown Pointer Date features the Calibre 403, an automatic movement that represents Oris's in-house engineering capabilities. The Calibre 403 offers enhanced precision and a longer power reserve compared to earlier calibres used in the model line.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Movement | Oris Calibre 403 Automatic |
| Complication | Pointer Date |
| Original Launch Year | 1938 |
| Category | Heritage / Aviation |
| Brand Signature | Oris's Iconic Model |
Oris's Commitment to Heritage
Oris has positioned itself as a brand deeply rooted in its history, and the return of the Big Crown Pointer Date is a testament to that philosophy. The company has stated that this watch remains its signature piece, representing the core of what Oris stands for in the Swiss watchmaking landscape.
For those interested in understanding movement specifications and how they compare across different calibres, our guide on NH35 vs NH36 vs NH34 movement comparison provides a detailed breakdown of popular automatic movements.
FAQ
What year was the Oris Big Crown Pointer Date originally introduced?
The Oris Big Crown Pointer Date was first introduced in 1938, making it one of the brand's longest-running and most iconic models.
What movement does the new Big Crown Pointer Date use?
The new Oris Big Crown Pointer Date is powered by the Calibre 403 automatic movement, which is Oris's modern in-house calibre featuring improved precision and power reserve.
Why is it called the "Big Crown"?
The name "Big Crown" refers to the watch's oversized winding crown, a design feature originally created to allow pilots to wind and set the watch while wearing gloves.
Source: According to www.oris.ch