Oris Big Crown Pointer Date Bullseye
Watchmakers continue to mine their archives for inspiration, breathing new life into designs that once defined an era. With the introduction of the new Oris Big Crown Pointer Date “Bullseye,” Oris revives one of its most distinctive two-tone dial aesthetics, reaffirming the enduring appeal of heritage-led design.
Unveiled in recent months, the Big Crown Pointer Date “Bullseye” revisits a concept first explored by the brand in the 1910s. The last execution of the “Bullseye” design disappeared from collections in 1998, making this vintage-inspired revival a compelling journey through Oris history.
One of the Maison’s most established lines, the Oris Big Crown Pointer Date was originally introduced in 1938. Conceived with pilots in mind, it featured an oversized crown for ease of adjustment while wearing gloves and a highly legible, pared-back dial. These functional attributes secured its place as a cornerstone of the Oris collection. In the new “Bullseye” edition, the early 20th-century two-tone design language is seamlessly integrated with the line’s signature elements, resulting in a timepiece that feels both nostalgic and contemporary.
Ulrich W. Herzog, President of Oris since 1978, notes that the “Bullseye” aesthetic enjoyed considerable popularity from the 1940s through the 1970s before gradually fading from view, with the final model produced in 1998. He expresses satisfaction at seeing such a strong and characterful design return to the forefront of the brand’s portfolio.
The new model is presented in a 38 mm stainless steel case. Its namesake “Bullseye” motif takes center stage on the dial: a light grey backdrop framed by a broad black ring, upon which white Arabic numerals are set. The outermost grey chapter ring features red numerals from 1 to 31, indicating the date. A central pointer-date hand with a red tip tracks this scale, underscoring the model’s historic complication.
Powering the watch is the Oris Calibre 754, offering a power reserve of approximately 41 hours. In addition to hours, minutes, and central seconds, the movement provides date-setting functionality. It can be admired through the transparent case back.
Not produced as a limited edition, the Big Crown Pointer Date “Bullseye” joins the permanent collection. Further details are available on the brand’s official website.
