The new Oris Aquis Whale Shark Limited Edition draws attention to the threat facing the whale shark. The whale shark is the largest fish on earth and is now on the IUCN list of endangered species. In honour of the species, the new special edition has a dial inspired by the whale shark’s skin. It also features a 24-hour hand that can be used to display a second time zone. Finally, to commemorate the year of the IUCN Whale Shark Memorandum, the watch is limited to 2,016 pieces.
With this special model, Oris draws attention to to the whale shark, which is under threat. The animal has been classified as “critically endangered” since 2016. Oris ambassador Gerardo del Villar has been documenting them for the last 15 years and campaigns for their protection. Oris’ commitment and partnership with del Villar enables him to “make documentaries, organise exhibitions and protect endangered marine animals like the whale shark”.
The Oris Whale Shark Limited Edition is housed in the 43.5 mm Aquis case in stainless steel. However, it differs from the other models in the collection in that it has a bidirectional ceramic bezel with a colour gradient and GMT scale.
In contrast to the Aquis Calibre 400, the flagship of the collection, Oris conceals the mechanism behind a solid caseback. The caseback bears an engraved image of a whale shark, as well as the model name and the limitation number. The front, on the other hand, is protected by sapphire crystal that is domed on both sides, and has an anti-reflective coating on the inside. With a water resistance of 300 m, the Whale Shark Limited Edition can of course continue to tick underwater.
The blue dial bears a special embossing inspired by the skin of the whale shark. It also has an hour ring which, in combination with the orange GMT hand, can be used to display a second timezone. There is also a date window at 3 o’clock. The hands and indices are filled with luminous material to optimise readability.
Oris equips the watch with the Oris 798, which is based on the Sellita SW330-1. It has automatic winding and a power reserve of 42 hours. A total of 25 jewels are built into it. It also features a 24-hour hand that can be used to display a second time zone. Finally, it beats at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour (4 Hz).
Finally, the Oris Aquis Whale Shark Limited Edition is delivered in a special box, which also comes with a certificate. The watch is limited to 2,016 pieces and costs 2,650 euros.
