Oris Aquis Source of Life Limited Edition

A watch that goes with the flow

We think of diver watches as taking their inspiration, and indeed their purpose, as being essential wristwear for scuba fanatics exploring coral reefs, sunken wrecks and beauty spots in briny, oceanic locations. This year, Swiss watchmaker Oris based in the inland town of Hölstein since 1904, has embarked upon a fresh approach, one found very near to its home and far from the tang of sea salt.

Just a few miles from its factory is the namesake stream called the

Oris which feeds into the river Rhine. That great waterway starts from the Lai da Tuma spring, 2,343m high in the Swiss Alps and runs through six countries to the North Sea 1,233km away. Thus the handsome new Aquis Source of Life, based on Oris’s established signature Aquis collection, is limited to 2,343 pieces. “The grey-blue dial has been specifically designed to mirror the colour of the Rhine and the case back is embossed with a map outlining the river’s course,” says the company’s CEO, Rolf Studor. “This limited edition invites us to consider the eternal value of water philosophically, as a source that feeds, sustains and connects life.”

Set in a 43.5mm, 300m water-resistant stainless steel case with slate grey bezel on a rubber strap, the appealing Source of Life marks the date on an unusual inner dial. It’s a cleaner and less brash presentation than other bulkier underwater watches. Meanwhile, the eco-aware brand pursues its “Change for the Better” campaign across other models in its 2018 offering. “The Clipperton Limited Edition, the GMT Rega Limited and the D.26.286 HB-RAG Oris Limited Edition all contribute to significant projects in sea, land and air,” says Studor. “We have launched sustainable leather straps across our collections this year and continue to improve the ecology of our packaging with the algae box [made of regenerative aquatic plants].

All reinforcing our message to protect and conserve the world we live in.”

Brendan Fitzgerald £1,750; oris.ch