Known in horological circles as “the watch with a hole,” Oris has launched the second generation of its Aquis Depth Gauge, considered one of the world’s most innovative and distinctive high-performance diver’s watches. The new Oris Aquis Depth Gauge watch features three key improvements over its predecessor. First, in the case of the depth gauge system, the process used to mill the channel into the outer edge of the crystal has been refined so the accuracy and legibility of the Gauge are increased. Second, the caseback has been re-engineered so the meters-to-feet conversion chart is always set at 90 degrees to the 12 o’clock position. Finally, the watch incorporates a new patented Quick Strap Change system.
The Oris Aquis Depth Gauge allows water into the crystal, but it does not allow water into the watch itself – this would damage the watch’s automatic mechanical movement. Oris engineered the watch so that water can only enter the channel through the hole in the crystal. A gasket around the crystal seals the watch and is so reliable that Oris has certified the watch as water-resistant to 500 meters. This second-generation Oris Aquis Depth Gauge watch has a massive 45.80mm diameter stainless steel case and black dial with the date at 6 o’clock and a bright yellow gauge. The new Quick Strap Change system includes a mechanism built into the watch’s stainless steel metal bracelet and the black rubber strap which enables the wearer to quickly and simply switch from one to the other and back again, without the need for a tool or a visit to a jeweler.
For another example of a dive watch, check out Blancpain’s Fifty Fathoms No Rad.
