Between their Change For the Better initiative and relentless championing of conservation causes, Oris is one of the most active watch brands in the world when it comes to sustainability. One of the programs they’ve supported in the past is the Billion Oyster Project, an initiative in New York harbour that aims to return one the region’s native shellfish to the area. They’ve already seen a huge increase in oyster numbers by 150 million, though that’s still a long way from the one billion aim. In support of that endeavour, Oris is teaming up with them again for the launch of the Oris Aquis New York Harbor Limited Edition II.
On a technical level, this is a fairly standard rendition of the Aquis. It’s the large 43.5mm model in stainless steel with matching steel bezel in relief. It has a 300m water resistance rating, making it a professional diver ready to take on the water with confidence, which is aided by the solid steel caseback and screw down crown. Inside is the calibre 733 automatic with 50-hour power reserve, which is Oris’ go to option for a slightly more accessible price point compared to the flagship calibre 400.
Where the Aquis New York Harbor Limited Edition II stands out though is the dial, which is made from mother-of-pearl in aqua green. Not only is mother-of-pearl a thematic choice, being sourced from oysters, but also it makes for a shifting, shimmering texture that does a fantastic job at replicating the surface of the harbour water as it ripples and swells. The display is completed in typical Aquis fashion with angular hour markers and matching hands, all coated with lume for low light legibility. There’s also a date window at 6 o’clock.
On the reverse side of the watch is a solid steel caseback engraved with a commemorative depiction of some oysters against a backdrop of waves. You can also see the inscription marking it as a limited edition out of 2,000 pieces. Each of which is priced at £2,300 and comes with a steel bracelet and aqua green rubber strap. Personally, I love monochrome Oris designs, the relatively understated structure of their watches really lets colour and texture shine and I think the Oris Aquis New York Harbor Limited Edition II is the perfect example of that.
Price and Specs:
More details at Oris.
