The Oris Big Crown watch is more than a timepiece. It’s a piece of Swiss watchmaking history. What began as a tool for 1930s pilots is now a signature design in the Oris collection. Today’s Big Crown models are built for everyday life but still hold onto the charm and purpose of the originals. Explore our Oris Big Crown collection online or visit us in-store at James Porter & Son, official UK stockists.
Flight-Inspired Design. Modern-Day Precision with the Big Crown
Oris Big Crown watches were designed at a time when aviation was new and daring. Pilots needed tools they could count on and Oris delivered. The oversized crown was easy to grip with gloves and the clear numerals and luminous hands made it easy to read at a glance.
The pointer date uses a central hand to show the date around the edge of the dial. A reliable feature back then and has since become a signature of the Big Crown. That design hasn’t changed much. And that’s the point. The Big Crown Pointer Date still carries that original spirit of function and style, brought up to date with high-quality materials and refined details.
Today’s Big Crown models are built for everyday life but still hold onto the charm and purpose of the originals. Whether you’re looking for a classic automatic or a hand-wound in-house calibre, the Big Crown offers quality, character, and comfort in equal measure.
Made to Fit Your Life, Not Just Your Wrist
Oris doesn’t believe in one-size-fits-all, and their watches collections pay tribute to individuality. The Big Crown collection includes watches that work for different wrists, routines, and style preferences. Whether you lean classic or contemporary, there’s a version that feels just right. You’ll find both automatic and hand-wound models in the line. Some use Oris’s in-house calibres like the Calibre 403 or Calibre 473—movements designed by the brand for longer power reserve and smoother performance. Others use trusted Swiss movements from Sellita, offering solid reliability at a more approachable price.
Most cases come in either 36mm or 40mm, keeping things wearable without sacrificing presence. Dials span the full spectrum from understated blue and black to bolder tones like forest green or golden yellow. Some cases are made of stainless steel, others in warm bronze. Straps range from classic leather to deer leather and steel bracelets, all with a comfortable fit and easy swaps.
Built to Wear Well
If you’re just getting into mechanical watches, the classic Big Crown Pointer Date makes a strong start. If you’re after something more refined, the hand-wound Calibre 473 is a standout with its five-day reserve and crisp finishing. No matter which model you choose, each Big Crown is built to wear well, feel balanced, and offer a piece of Oris watchmaking history on your wrist.
Why Watch Enthusiasts Choose the Oris Big Crown
Swiss-made with a long pilot watch legacy
Features the iconic “pointer date” complication
Available with both automatic and hand-wound movements
Mix of vintage looks and modern materials
Comfortable case sizes in 36mm or 40mm
Excellent value for in-house mechanical watchmaking
Your Trusted UK Destination for Oris Big Crown Watches
We’ve been helping customers find the right timepiece for over 160 years. As an official UK stockist of Oris watches, we offer a carefully chosen selection of Big Crown models. Whether you’re looking for your first Swiss watch or adding a new piece to your collection, our team is here to help you compare features, try on sizes, and answer questions.
All Oris watches come with a full manufacturer’s warranty and can be serviced through our trusted aftercare team. We also offer flexible finance options to help you spread the cost over time. Visit our Glasgow showroom or explore the full Oris Big Crown range online today.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the pointer date?
It’s a special date display that uses a central hand to point to the date around the edge of the dial.
Is the Oris Big Crown waterproof?
Most models are water resistant up to 50 metres, which is fine for everyday wear but not suitable for swimming.
Are Oris Big Crown watches good value?
Yes. Oris is known for offering great quality Swiss watches at a more accessible price point than many luxury brands.
What size is the Oris Big Crown?
The most common sizes are 36mm and 40mm, offering options for different wrists.
Does the Oris Big Crown use an in-house movement?
Some models do. Look for Calibre 403 or Calibre 473 if you want one with an in-house movement.
Can I change the strap on an Oris Big Crown watch?
Yes. Most models have easily interchangeable straps, and we can help you find the right fit.
Is the Oris Big Crown watch automatic or manual?
Both are available. Some models are automatic (self-winding), while others, like the Calibre 473, are hand-wound.
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