Get ready to be amazed as we dive into the world of watchmaking and uncover a century-old style that's making a surprising comeback!
The Black Tie Revolution in Watch Design
It's official: the watch industry is embracing a new trend, and it's all about the tuxedo dial! In the past few weeks, we've witnessed an unexpected surge in this unique dress watch design, and Oris is leading the charge with their latest flagship creation.
Oris: A Brand with a Rich History
With an extensive archive dating back to the 1920s, Oris has the privilege of exploring and reviving timeless styles. Their recent release, the Big Crown Pointer Date, showcases a dial design known as the "Bullseye," inspired by the iconic dartboard.
The Story Behind the Bullseye
Ulrich W. Herzog, Oris' Chairman since 1978, explains that the "Bullseye" dial was a popular choice from the 1940s to the 1970s. When Oris became independent in 1982, Herzog envisioned bringing back this distinctive look, and now, almost three decades later, it's making a stylish comeback.
The Bullseye's Unique Features
The Big Crown Pointer Date's dial is a masterpiece. The outer rim is a chalky white, with a vibrant red 31-day track, creating a striking contrast. Moving inward, you'll find a black-and-white railroad minutes track, reminiscent of a dartboard's Double Points Ring. The broad black ring houses printed white numeral hour markers, adding to the watch's unique charm.
At the center, the off-white shade matches the outer rim, with the brand logo and "Big Crown/Automatic" printed in black. The actual "bullseye" is formed by the base of the cathedral hands, a subtle yet elegant detail.
A Watch for All Occasions
One of the reasons the Oris Big Crown Pointer Date has gained popularity is its versatility. By experimenting with color schemes and subtle design tweaks, this watch can adapt to various styles, from sporty to dressy.
The black tie "Bullseye" dial is housed in a 38mm stainless steel case, featuring a coin-edge fixed bezel and a satin finish. The oversized crown, signed with the brand logo, adds to its appeal.
Powering the Watch
An Oris Caliber 754-1 automatic movement keeps this timepiece ticking, offering a reliable 4Hz beat rate and a 41-hour power reserve. The mineral crystal exhibition caseback allows you to admire the movement's intricacies.
Completing the Tuxedo Look
To match the tuxedo dial, Oris has sourced a black deer leather pin buckle strap from Cervo Volante, a Swiss organization dedicated to preserving the Alpine ecosystem. This strap, with its quick-release pins, adds a touch of elegance and sustainability to the overall design.
Availability and Price
The Oris Big Crown Pointer Date "Bullseye" is now available from Oris for $2,350. It's a regular production model, joining the esteemed Big Crown lineup. This watch is a perfect blend of classic style and modern versatility, making it a must-have for any watch enthusiast.
And here's where it gets controversial...
What do you think about this century-old style making a comeback? Is it a refreshing take on watch design, or do you prefer more modern trends? Let us know in the comments! We'd love to hear your thoughts and spark a discussion about this unique timepiece.
