Oris Big Crown Pointer Date Calibre 403

One of the most fundamental timepieces in the Oris catalog, which has been in constant production for over 80 years has just received a significant upgrade. The “Oris Big Crown Pointer Date” was first introduced back in 1938 and has been a brand favorite ever since. Following the groundbreaking in-house calibre 400 series, has now led Oris to this new automatic calibre 403.The 38mm case is made of stainless-steel with polished casebands and a brushed surface finish. Unlike the traditional 40mm “Big Crown” options, Oris has crafted this model with a smaller and keen case design. Oris has also differed in this approach by not using their classic coin-edged bezel. Instead mounted to the case is a flat steel bezel with a high polished finish, which makes it more similar to the original 1938 Oris Big Crown. These are subtle modifications, but their combination results in a refreshing look.On the flip-side is a sapphire exhibition caseback, which allows a view into the inner workings of the mechanical movement. Housed inside is the aforementioned new in-house calibre 403, completely developed by COO Beat Fischli and his team. The use of non-ferrous components, a silicon anchor and escape wheel were able to reduce the impact of magnetic fields on the movement by more than 90%.It comes equipped with an oversized crown, which was originally intended to help pilot’s be able to easily adjust the time without having to take off their gloves. All topped by a domed sapphire crystal with an anti-reflective treatment. Water-resistance on this watch can only reach up to 50 meters (164 feet), which is less than its previous releases due to the sapphire display caseback.Time is exhibited on a blue dial with white Arabic numerals, followed by a white railroad motif minute index grid. Farther out near the bezel circling the flange is a ring of numerals for the 31-day calendar. The current date is pointed out by a thin hand with a red tip, which adequately sets it apart from the blue background, while adding an extra dash of color to the overall color-scheme. The steel central sword-style hands and Arabic numerals have all undergone a luminescent coating, for an enhanced legibility. There is also a small seconds sub-dial, which eliminates a numeral at the 6 o’clock position.

The “Oris Big Crown Pointer Date Calibre 403” (Ref#: 01 403 7776 4065-07 5 19 11) is powered by the in-house self-winding mechanical movement, caliber 403 with 24 jewels and 28,800 vph. It comes equipped with twin barrels that can provide a power reserve of up to 120 hours, when fully wound.Mounted to the watch is a black leather strap, secured to the wrist by a steel pin buckle, with a quick-change system. For more up to date information visit the official Oris website here.