The Oris Big Crown is Big Time

Posted by Chris on Sunday, April 2, 2023
the oris big crown

While Oris is well known for their oceanic conservation efforts and aquatic themed luxury pieces, they’re perhaps even more famous for their pilot’s watches. 

The brand’s relationship with the world of flight began right around the same time as aviation itself, in the 1910s. However, it was in 1938 that Oris dropped the legendary Big Crown, a true king amongst luxury pilot’s watches. 

The name refers to the watch’s standout feature – a singular big crown that proudly protrudes from the right side of the case. It’s the incredible quality and craftsmanship, though, that established the watch as a true standout hit ever since. 

To show our appreciation for this venerable Oris masterpiece, we’ve put together a list of some of our favorites. Better yet, all of these pieces are in stock and available to ship at a moment’s notice. 

We like Big Crowns, and we cannot lie. 

The Big Crown Cervo Volante Limited Edition Automatic Grey Dial

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As you can see, the classic Big Crown has an almost vintage look. That’s because the design was so initially perfect that Oris didn’t really need to change much throughout the decades. It’s a timeless hit, in other words. 

We particularly enjoy the pointer date Big Crowns. The extra hand is used to, well, point to the date. It’s an interesting and innovative way to show more information on the dial without complicating things with a window. 

The classy dial is large and easily readable, probably great qualities for a pilot who doesn’t have a lot of time to be staring at their watch. The black leather strap is slick and professional looking. 

All in all, this is a great representation of what makes the Big Crowns so beloved in the luxury watch collector community. It’s simple, elegant, classy, and highly functional. 

Get your Big Crown Cervo Volante Limited Edition Automatic Grey Dial today and save 20%

The Big Crown ProPilot Altimeter with Feet Scale Black Dial

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Oris Big Crown ProPilot is sort of a modernized take on the classic Oris pilot’s watch. 

While they still feature the titular “big crown,” you’ll notice that they’ve done away with the ornate minute and hour hands and replaced them with more streamlined luminous hands. The markings on the dial also have a more contemporary feel. That, along with the sharp-looking sub dial, really gives the Oris Big Crown ProPilot a 21st century aesthetic. 

The strap on this particular model is a deep black, giving it an almost military look. We could definitely see this being worn by a Top Gun pilot, rather than a civilian prop plane operator. 

Order your Big Crown ProPilot Altimeter with Feet Scale Black Dial Men's Watch.

The Big Crown ProPilot Big Day Date Automatic Grey Dial Fabric Strap

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Not all Oris Big Crown ProPilots require an ultramodern edge to command attention; this model masterfully straddles the line between aeronautical vintage and contemporary utility. The expansive 44mm grey dial captures the quiet intensity of a cockpit at dawn, utilizing a minimalist layout and bold Arabic numerals to ensure exceptional readability at a glance.

In place of unnecessary clutter, a prominent Day/Date window at 3 o’clock balances the "blank space" of the dial, while the classic turbine-textured bezel remains a tactile nod to the golden age of flight. The soul of this timepiece is the Oris Caliber 752 automatic movement, an engine of Swiss precision visible through a see-through case back that provides a 38-hour power reserve.

Paired with a rugged green fabric strap, the watch assumes an earthy, adventurous tone that complements its brushed stainless steel architecture without clashing with its sophisticated trappings. Engineered for more than just the skies, its screw-in crown and 100-meter water resistance ensure that whether you're navigating a flight path or a weekend escape, your ProPilot is a steadfast companion.

Secure your Big Crown ProPilot Big Day Date now and save 30% with WatchMaxx. 

The Big Crown Date Father Time Limited Edition Automatic White Dial

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et's wind the clock all the way back. This Big Crown Date Father Time Limited Edition evokes the spirit of the original Big Crown models, introduced in the 1930s. The bronze case and dial present us with an astoundingly authentic vintage look, reminiscent of timepieces worn by heroes of a bygone era.

But don't mistake this for a museum piece. This is a head-turner that will draw compliments from onlookers no matter where you bring it. Coffee shops, formal affairs, even that punk rock show – this timepiece transcends trends and effortlessly adds a touch of rugged elegance to any occasion.  

This is more than just a watch; it's a collectible piece that tells a story. The Oris Big Crown Date Father Time Limited Edition is a timepiece for those who appreciate history, craftsmanship, and a touch of vintage flair.

Get 40% off when you order your Big Crown Date Father Time Limited Edition today.

The Big Crown ProPilot Chronograph Black Dial 

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If you’re like us and find yourself particularly drawn to chronographs, well you’re in luck. 

That’s right, here is a Big Crown chronograph. We know we said earlier that the standout feature of the Big Crown watches was the large crown, but that doesn’t mean it can’t have a little company. 

On this chronograph you’ll see the large crown flanked by chronograph controls that fit in perfectly with the look. The black dial is relatively minimalist, with one sub-dial that stands out without sticking out.

Since it’s a ProPilot, the aesthetic is certainly leaning more towards the modern side, but the bezel is still thin and unobtrusive. 

You can get these with a bracelet as well, but we’re partial to the brown leather strap because it has that “bomber jacket” look. 

If you’re planning to take off on an airborne expedition anytime soon, this is probably the tool you’ll want for the job. 

Save 59% when you buy the Big Crown ProPilot Chronograph Black Dial today. 

Check out other watches from Oris, like the Oris Aquis collection.

 

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