Durrah dives into the world of Oris with Co-CEO, Rolf Studer who unveils details of the extraordinary limited-edition ProPilot X collection, the brand’s connection to aviation, and commitment to cutting-edge innovation.
Oris is renowned for its ProPilot X collection. What sets apart the new limited-edition timepiece from this collection from your other offerings?
The ProPilot X is crafted entirely from Titan. The titanium case, bracelet, crown, top ring, and even the dial are all titanium. What’s fascinating is that despite the vibrant colors, achieved through laser treatment of the diode, there’s not a single drop of added color. The result comes from breaking red waves within the light, reflecting in stunning blue, green, and yellow hues.
Can you provide insight into the design and technical innovations behind the limited-edition ProPilot X?
ProPilot X, as the name suggests, falls within our aviation collection. However, it’s not exclusively for pilots, rather, it draws inspiration from aviation. The PPX’s design is inspired by stealth planes, reflected in both the form and the matching bracelet. It’s lightweight, suitable for daily wear, and comes equipped with our caliber 400 movement, adding to its distinctiveness.
Why did Oris choose Dubai Watch Week as the platform to showcase this new timepiece?
Dubai Watch Week stands out as one of the best events on the calendar. With enthusiasts and consumers in attendance, the atmosphere is relaxed, filled with people who understand and appreciate watches. We believed it was the perfect environment to launch such a unique piece.
How does Oris maintain a balance between preserving traditional Swiss watchmaking values and embracing modern design and technology trends?
Our brand inherits a rich tradition, and our aim is to innovate within that framework. The innovative elements of the past have become classics, and now it’s our turn to create future classics. This approach keeps the brand relevant, combining a long history with contemporary innovation.
Oris has a strong presence in the aviation world. How does this influence the design and functionality of your aviation-inspired watches?
Aviation watches demand functionality and reliability, crucial for pilots. When creating watches inspired by aviation, we have more freedom to explore new materials and technologies. For instance, the Caliber 115 hand-winding, ten-day power reserve Skeleton movement in the PPX showcases fantastic innovation.
Can you tell us about any notable brand partnerships that Oris has engaged in and their impact on the brand’s identity?
In the context of ProPilot X, our partnerships with Kermit and DeMarcus reflect shared values. Just like us, Kermit aims to make people smile, aligning with our brand ethos.
What factors do you believe contribute to Oris’ longevity and success?
Staying true to our identity is key. We cater to those who admire, understand, and value watches. Constantly pushing boundaries and surprising our customers with innovative features like depth gauges, altimeters, and extended warranties adds value and keeps our customers engaged.
How do you foresee the watch industry evolving in the coming years?
The pandemic has led to a more informed customer base and increased enthusiasm for watches. I anticipate the community will grow, with both the industry and Oris continuing to innovate, bring unexpected elements, and ultimately bring joy to our customers.
What can we expect next from Oris?
Next year promises to be exciting for Oris. We’re set to launch several watches in our most popular line, and I’m eagerly looking forward to it!
