Oris Big Crown

From the intricate dance of gears to the delicate embrace of fine materials, Oris captures the time with the grace of a masterful symphony, inviting enthusiasts to discover the profound beauty within each meticulously crafted watch. Among Its illustrious creations, the Oris Big Crown collection echoes the brand's commitment to crafting timepieces that redefine the boundaries of horological excellence.

About Oris Big Crown Watches

The Oris Big Crown collection encompasses over five categories of timepieces, many of which have been discontinued. They include the Big Crown Pointer Date, Chronograph, Diamonds 38, Cervo Volante, and limited edition models like 80th Anniversary and Hank Aaron.
Fun fact: You can still find the discontinued models on the brand's website and at some third-party dealers. Categories aside, Oris Big Crown watches showcase the brand's commitment to creating an uncluttered dial and an overall easy-to-read pilot's watch. If you're looking for a similarly simple and easy-to-read watch, check out the Oris ProPilot X collection. Oris Big Crown watches with a fully in-house engineered movement almost always have a see-through caseback. Some examples are the Big Crown Caliber 473 and Caliber 403, both with 120-hour power reserves.

Oris Big Crown History

In the early years of the Holstein-based watchmaker, Oris poured most of its efforts into the booming aviation industry. Soon, it created a pocket watch for pilots in 1911, then its first pilot's wristwatch in 1917.
The Oris Big Crown, later known as Big Crown Pointer Date, was released in 1938. It was the Swiss watchmaker's first signature pilot watch, as seen in its endearing design that's largely remained the same ever since.
Over the years, the collection has evolved to encompass a broader range of styles while retaining its signature oversized crown, railway track minutes, and legible markers. Fast forward to 1984, the Big Crown Pointer Date made its grand entrance, becoming an instant classic with its distinctive red-tipped date hand and oversized crown.
Oris also released sleeker cases, dial designs, and materials through the years, sealing the Big Crown's relevance and preserving its marketability.

How Much Do Oris Big Crown Watches Cost?

Oris Big Crown watches are available at prices ranging from around $2,000 to about $18,000. This collection offers a timepiece for folks interested in an entry-level pilot watch or collectors interested in limited edition pieces.

What's Unique About Oris Big Crown Watches?

The Oris Big Crown collection is distinguished for its simple design and a personable character, revered by enthusiasts for almost a century.
The hallmark of this reputable pilot's watch is its oversized "big" crown, which allows easy handling while wearing gloves.
Another unique feature of the Big Crown family is that all models have a round, coin-edged case. And fluted/jagged bezels, except for a few models like the Wings of Hope and Caliber 473 that have smooth bezels.
Big Crown watches also have uncluttered dials with gradient or matte finish, ensuring optimal readability. They typically sport Arabic numeral markers, outstretched cathedral hour and minute hands, and trademark crescent-tipped pointer date hands.

Oris Big Crown Movements

Oris Big Crown watches use mechanical movements that are all made in-house. They are categorized into functions such as pointer, pointer date, small seconds, chronograph, and power reserve (indicator). Oris Big Crown movements are carefully engineered and are accurate up to 3/+5 seconds a day.
The Oris 754 caliber is an automatic movement with 38 hours of power reserve. It features simple functions like hours, minutes, and a pointer date. The Oris caliber 401 is also automatic but has a small seconds function and no pointer date.
The Oris 473 is a hand-wound movement in the Big Crown lineup. It's a novelty movement pointer date, small seconds, and a 5-day power reserve in addition to a power reserve indicator on the bridge side (at the back). The 403 is an automatic version with the same features but no power reserve indicator.

Oris Big Crown Watch Colors

The Oris Big Crown collection offers a diverse range of dial colors, from classic black and white to vibrant shades of blue, green, and orange.
The black-colored dials also come in different shades, from charcoal black to a lighter shade closer to brown. Currently, seven Oris Big Crown watch colors are officially available in stores. They include white, brown, grey, red, green, blue, bronze, and black.
However, the Holstein-based brand has produced other varieties, like anthracite and skeleton Big Crown dials. You can find these rare gems on trusted secondary markets like Exquisite Timepieces.

Oris Big Crown Watch Materials

Oris Big Crown watches are crafted from premium, sustainably sourced materials, including stainless steel, titanium, gold, bronze, and leather. The glass is typically sapphire crystal (older versions use plexi), which is scratch-resistant and almost indestructible from regular use.
Many Oris Big Crown models use Cervo Volante leather straps. They're hand-crafted, low-impact deer-skin leather sourced from only road kills. The small leather company even leaves any imperfections and maintains a 100% natural tanning process.
The collection also offers beautiful multi-piece stainless steel options or NATO straps for a sportier look. And full bronze or 18-carat gold bracelets for a classier look.

Oris Big Crown Watch Types

The Oris Big Crown collection encompasses a wide range of styles, catering to diverse lifestyles and occasions. From everyday wear to formal events, the Big Crown is more than a simple pilot's watch collection.
However, previous collections offer even a greater variety, such as vintage and dive-capable pieces. The Oris 01 581 7627 4361-07 5 20 77FC has a day, day, month, and moon phase function and 100 meters of water resistance.
The Diamonds 38 is a rare Big Crown model with mother-of-pearl dial variations, which is well suited for formal outfits and women. Oris also makes Big Crown Chronographs for folks who want more accurate timekeeping.

Oris Big Crown Watch Complications

Contrary to what's available on the Oris website, the Big Crown collection goes deeper than just a pointer date complication.
The collection also features a variety of complications and, most recently, the Big Crown Caliber 473 with a 120-hour power reserve indicator in its case.
The Big Crown also has chronograph models, plus a complicated model with moon phase and calendar functions. Oris also designed a Big Crown Telemeter model in 2006 that was on the market for about five years.

Oris Big Crown Sizes

From compact 36mm models to larger 40mm options, a Big Crown watch that caters to various wrist sizes and preferences.
Smaller wrists are well-suited for the 36mm Oris Big Crown Pointer Date, while those seeking a balance between wearability and presence can opt for the 40mm size.
For a substantial option, the 42mm Oris Big Crown Chronograph is ideal for a larger, easy-to-read dial. It has the largest watch face ever in the collection and is rare because of its discontinuation.
All Oris Big Crown watches, including the latter, are available for purchase from authorized retailers for $1,500 to $4,000. Only models with precious metals can cost up to $20,000.

Buying Oris Big Crown Watches

Buying an Oris Big Crown can be overwhelming due to its many options and affordable entry points. The list is almost endless, from pointer dates to limited editions to vintage models.
Watch experts at Exquisite Timepieces are ready to guide you towards dialing the collection dial to size.
You can walk into our store in Naples, Florida, for a closer look or contact the ETP support team for all the information you need about Oris Big Crown watches.
Our online store also includes all novel Big Crown watches and limited edition models. Browse the store now to find your Big Crown.

Caring for Your Oris Big Crown Watch

Your Oris Big Crown watch is a valuable investment that you'll cherish for years to come. Adhering to proper care routines for a mechanical watch will preserve its accuracy and looks for generations. Here are a few tips on how to care for your Oris Big Crown watch:
Wipe down the case and bracelet with a soft, lint-free cloth to remove dust and dirt. You can use a mild soap solution and a soft-bristled brush for more stubborn stains. Rinse the watch thoroughly with clean water and dry it completely.
Keep your watch away from harsh detergents, bleach, and perfumes. These chemicals can damage the case, bracelet, and dial. Also, avoid exposing your watch to strong magnetic fields, such as those in speakers and electronics.
Ideally, you should service your Big Crown every 3-5 years at an authorized service center, like Exquisite Timepieces. A service will include a thorough cleaning, lubrication, and movement adjustment. This will help ensure that your watch keeps precise time and functions properly.
At Exquisite Timepieces, we offer a full range of watch services for your Oris Big Crown watch. Contact us today at 1.239.227.2932 or reach us via email at service@exquisitetimepieces.com to learn more about our services.

Oris Big Crown FAQ

When did the Oris Big Crown Pointer date come out?

The Oris Big Crown Pointer Date was first introduced in 1938 as a pilot's watch, and it quickly gained popularity among aviators for its precision, reliability, and ease of use.

Is Oris Big Crown Pointer Date a pilot watch?

Absolutely! The Oris Big Crown Pointer Date is a pilot's watch originally designed for aviators. It's equally suitable for watch enthusiasts who want a versatile and easy-to-read timepiece in their collection.

What movement is in the Oris Big Crown?

Oris Big Crown watches use mechanical movements with either a self-winding or hand-wound caliber. Some automatic Big Crown movements include Oris caliber 401, caliber 754, and caliber 581. The hand-wound Oris caliber 473 is a fully developed in-house (no base movement) and is Oris's tenth new movement in ten years.

Find your new Oris Big Crown watch with Exquisite Timepieces

If you're ready to select an Oris Big Crown watch, it's only fitting you get an authentic timepiece and stress-free service. As an authorized Oris dealer, Exquisite Timepieces provides the full range of Oris Big Crown watches, ensuring you can access the latest models and exclusive limited editions in-store and online.
We understand buying a Big Crown is a sizable investment, so we provide free shipping insurance until it reaches your doorstep. With ETP, you can rest assured that you receive an authentic, high-quality timepiece backed by a full manufacturer's warranty.
You deserve to experience the exceptional craftsmanship, precision, and timeless elegance of Oris Big Crown watches without hassle. Our Big Crown watches also come with a free winder on purchase.
Visit our Florida showroom, shop our online catalog, or contact us today to enjoy the Exquisite Timepieces difference.