Oris Yangtze Jiangtun Limited Edition: time at the service of nature
In the world of fine watchmaking, a timepiece can be much more than a precision instrument. Sometimes, it becomes a manifesto—a commitment engraved in steel. This is precisely the case with the new Oris Yangtze Jiangtun Limited Edition, a special release that blends the iconic diving design of the Hölstein-based manufacturer with a mission of vital importance: the protection of the Yangtze finless porpoise.
This watch was not created in a vacuum, but through a solid partnership between Oris and the Changjiang Conservation Foundation (CCF). The goal is to shine a spotlight on the "finless porpoise" (Jiangtun), a unique cetacean inhabiting China’s Yangtze River, which is currently at a critical risk of extinction.
Every detail of this model serves as a call to action, from the specific number of pieces produced to the sophisticated aesthetics of the dial.
The design: water reflections and ultrasound
At first glance, what captures the eye is the blue-green mother-of-pearl dial. Its natural texture radiates shimmering hues reminiscent of the Yangtze River’s surface under the sunlight.
However, the true masterstroke lies in the wave pattern engraved upon the dial. This isn’t merely decorative; it is a graphic representation of the ultrasonic pulses. These are the sounds the finless porpoise uses to navigate and communicate in often murky waters—a poetic and technical tribute to the resilience of the species.
Professional robustness: the Aquis Foundation
Beneath the elegance of the dial beats the rugged heart of the Oris Aquis Date. Featuring a 43.50 mm stainless steel case, the watch is engineered for the most demanding explorations:
- Tungsten Bezel: The unidirectional rotating bezel features a grey tungsten insert, a material known for being extremely scratch-resistant.
- Underwater Performance: Water-resistant to 300 meters (30 bar), complete with a screw-down crown and lateral protectors.
- Total Visibility: The hands and indices are generously coated in Super-LumiNova® to ensure perfect legibility even in the darkest depths.
- Swiss Heart: Inside beats the Oris Calibre 733, a reliable automatic movement with a 41-hour power reserve.
1,249: a number that speaks
The exclusivity of this model is defined by its production run: only 1,249 pieces worldwide. This number is not random; it represents the last official population estimate of finless porpoises remaining in the wild. Wearing one of these pieces means carrying a testament to what we risk losing.
The steel case back completes the narrative, featuring a special engraving of the cetacean alongside the unique limited edition number.
Conclusion
The Oris Yangtze Jiangtun Limited Edition confirms Oris’s philosophy: "Go Your Own Way." It is not just about producing beautiful Swiss watches, but about acting tangibly for "Change for the Better."
By purchasing this timepiece, collectors aren't just adding a rare beauty to their collection; they are directly supporting the CCF’s efforts to monitor and protect the Yangtze ecosystem.
