Oris Adds a 41.5mm Version to Its Aquis Date, and a New Colour to the 39.5mm Model

If there’s one watch in the Oris collection that needs no introduction, it certainly is the Aquis Date. A robust dive watch, with modern and utilitarian looks, it has been praised as a very competitive option for someone in the need of a no-nonsense diving instrument, which can also be used on land as a daily beater. Mostly available in a relatively large case of 43.5mm, it was probably not suitable for all potential customers. And Oris was aware of this… So, by popular demand, the brand adds a smaller option to its collection, which now includes a 41.5mm version – as well as a new model for the already existing but not fully deployed 39.5mm sub-collection.

The Aquis Date is a watch that shouldn’t be overlooked. For whoever is on the hunt for a solid dive watch, with an automatic movement, great quality of construction, modern materials and contemporary design from an established brand with a proven track record and a decent price, it certainly is among the best watches available. Born in the late 1990s, as the Oris Full Steel, it quickly became one of the brand’s bestsellers. In 2017, the brand gave its modern dive watch a tasteful facelift, with updates on the case, materials and dials. Still, it was mainly available with a 43.5mm case and although a 39.5mm version was introduced, it somehow flew under the radar.

The new Oris Aquis Date 41.5mm

Even though the case of the Oris Aquis Date 43.5mm is well designed and provides enough comfort on most wrists, it is undeniably a large watch – especially when worn on a steel bracelet. Aware that not all watch enthusiasts have a 20cm wrist, or that some simply prefer a smaller watch, the brand decided to get proactive. Thus, in response to Oris customer feedback, the brand adds a new, slightly smaller model in the Aquis Date range, with a 41.5mm diameter that sits right in the middle between the 39.5mm and 43.5mm models.

Other than a reduced diameter and a bracelet that is 22mm wide (instead of 24mm), the watch is almost identical to the popular 43.5mm model on all levels. The case retains its integrated lugs and bracelet that “melts” into the case, the well-integrated crown protection device and all the necessary features of a robust dive watch: a uni-directional bezel with a polished ceramic insert and a 60-minute scale; a screw-in crown; a double-domed sapphire crystal; a screwed caseback (with see-through mineral glass); and its classic 300m water-resistance. The 3-link stainless steel bracelet is equipped with a folding clasp and a diving extension. A rubber strap on a folding clasp is also available.

The same report can be made regarding the dial, which relies on the signature sunray-brushed blue colour, the same applied indexes and hands as the 2017 facelift and a H-M-S display with date at 6 o’clock. Inside the case is the same calibre Oris 733, meaning an automatic Sellita SW 200-1 with 4Hz frequency and 38h power reserve – and the signature red rotor.

A new version of the Oris Aquis Date 39.5mm

Second news regarding the Oris Aquis Date is the arrival in the collection of a new 39.5mm version (a great size for a unisex model), with a gradient ocean blue with a sunray-brushed pattern, combined with a polished Tungsten insert, a rare metal with a light grey colour known for its hardness (which exceeds that of many steel alloys). Other than that, the watch has the same specifications and technical solutions as the 41.5mm and 43.5mm models.

Price and availability

Both the 41.5mm version of the Oris Aquis Date and the new gradient blue 39.5mm model are now (February 2020) available in stores and on Oris’ website. Prices are the same for all models: CHF 2,050 or EUR 1,950. More details at oris.ch.