Oris Hölstein 1904 was founded by Paul Cattin and Georges Christian in Hölstein, Switzerland when they purchased the Lohner & Co watch factory and named their new firm after the nearby Oris river. Originally manufacturers of pocket watches, they branched out and began adding bracelets to their pocket watches before creating fully formed wristwatches. Today they are a small independent brand appreciated for their quality timepieces, and best known for their fine dive and aviation watches, including the Aquis diver watch line. In 2020, Oris introduced their automatic calibre 400 in-house movement with five-day power reserve, anti-magnetic up to 2250 gauss. The calibre 473, Oris’s 10th in-house calibre, is modelled on their calibre 400, however the rotor is removed resulting in a manually wound caliber. Both calibres exude high quality craftsmanship and were designed for maximum reliability, allowing the brand to offer a 10 year warranty and 10 year service interval for their watches.

Released in 2023, the Big Crown Calibre 473 wristwatch is highlighted by the robin blue lacquer dial with vintage date central pointer and outer ring on the dial. The white Arabic numerals are nicely laid out with a rail minutes track. The overall design allows for a clean, highly legible format reminiscent of mid-20th century timepieces. Like 20th century aviators’ watches, the present model sports an oversized crown for easy winding and setting capability. The stainless steel case has a modern aesthetic with outstanding proportions for easy wearability.

Generously donated by Oris, the present wristwatch is in brand new, unused condition. The watch is complete with warranty and presentation box.

This watch is being sold to benefit the Horological Society of New York’s ongoing education initiatives, in support of international traveling and virtual education programs, scholarships for students of watchmaking, and awards to watchmaking schools.