The Low-Down

Sustainability is one of 2021’s big buzzwords and frankly, it’s about time. Oris has a long history of releasing watches tied to environmental causes — in particular the preservation of reefs and other marine environments — but this new Aquis Date Upcycle looks set to be one of the Hölstein-based brand’s most memorable. The watch takes the familiar, integrated Aquis form and is available in either 41.5mm or 36.5mm cases, but it’s the dial that makes an impact. The speckled, multi-coloured dial of this Aquis is made, as the name implies, from Upcycled plastic materials so that impact is both visual and environmental.

IMHO

Oris hasn’t gone it alone in making this watch. As part of their mission to bring Change for the Better, they’ve teamed up with #tide ocean materials to make the dial and the box from recycled marine plastics, which is a massive global problem, with around 13 million tonnes of plastic ending up in our oceans every year, which are already chock full of 5.25 trillion pieces of plastic waste, and things aren’t getting any better … yet. But with awareness-raising and tangible impacts like this watch, which transforms waste into a unique and beautiful watch dial, we’re taking a step in the right direction. Not only that, but the plastic that Oris uses is, like the rest of the watch, made in Switzerland. Now, make no mistake, the dial is the selling point here, and rightfully so. But the Aquis case shape is a proven performer and always popular. I particularly love the muted grey ceramic bezel, which keeps the attention on the dial. For the movement, Oris has opted for their classic 733, which has far fewer frills than the new Cal 400 but is also the more economical choice.

The 90s tie-dye aesthetic of the Aquis Date Upcycle might not be to everyone’s tastes (frankly, I think they look stunning from press pics, and I’m a sucker for a unique dial). Still, regardless of where you stand on the look, there’s no denying that the message and motivation behind this eco-friendly watch are top-notch.

Tech Specs

Calibre: Oris 733, automatic, 38 hours of power reserve.
Case and dial: Steel, 41.5mm or 36,5mm, depending on model. Water-resistant to 300M, unique dial made from recycled PET plastic.
Strap: Integrated steel bracelet.
Price and availability: CHF 2100