Oris debuted the Aquis about a decade ago, intending for it to serve as an accessible dive watch to be worn for any occasion. Of course, the company had already perfected the art of the diver in the decades since it released its very first back in the 1960s. Today, utilizing the Aquis as a slate, the Swiss watchmaker continues its focus on, not just the mechanics of its timepieces, but their aesthetic value as well.
Partnering with the non-profit organization Billion Oyster Project to restore the oyster population to New York Harbor, Oris is releasing a new limited-edition version of the Aquis. The Harbor was once filled with 220,000 acres of oyster reefs some centuries ago, helping to filter the water and create an ecosystem for other organisms to thrive there as well. But as the city’s industry grew, the waters became ladened with pollution and waste. That is, up until the Clean Water Act was passed in 1972 which forbade dumping of any kind into the harbor. Since then, thanks to thousands of volunteers, the oyster population is thriving and, as of late, self-sustaining. By 2035, Billion Oyster Project projects to reach its namesake number.
As a nod to the rippling waters of the New York Harbor, this new Aquis dive watch sports a beautiful dial made from green mother-of-pearl. The 41.5mm multi-piece stainless steel case houses Oris’ 733 automatic movement (a modified Sellita SW 200-1) with a 38-hour power reserve and a date window at the 6 o’clock position. Boasting 300m water resistance, the timepiece is sold with both an integrated stainless steel bracelet and an integrated green rubber strap.
The Oris Aquis New York Harbor edition is limited to just 2,000 numbered pieces and is available now for $2,700 on Oris’ online boutique.
