An underrated Oris superstar that hits the sweet-spot!

Let me start by saying that a 39mm watch is now my sweet-spot! With a 7” wrist, this Oris Chronoris Date (reference: 01 733 7737 4054-07 5 19 24) feels just right.

No matter how many watches I cycle through in my collection, it still surprises me when a watch feels just right as soon as you put it on.

First things first, this contemporary Chronoris does not feature a chronograph (even though the name suggests otherwise), instead, it has a contemporary 3-hander with an internal rotating bezel, which is operated by the screw-down crown at 4 o’clock.

As this Chronoris Date is a reissue, its roots date back to 1970, when Oris released the Chronoris, their first ever chronograph. This reissue has encapsulated the vintage aesthetic, albeit without a chronograph. Since I love 70s watches, especially those inspired by motor-racing, the Chronoris Date has hit the spot in both looks and size.

The Chronoris Date is a compact and unobtrusive watch that grabs your attention. This timepiece boasts a tonneau case with a relatively flat profile, allowing it to sit comfortably on your wrist without any discomfort or awkwardness. With its modest size of 39mm, the Chronoris stays true to its vintage roots and appeals to enthusiasts who appreciate a retro aesthetic.

When it comes to looks, the Oris Chronoris Date is simply stunning. The combination of meticulous finishing, captivating dial design, and ideal size creates a watch that stands out among the crowd. As you move your wrist, the entire timepiece seems to radiate light, thanks to the domed crystal with its exquisite sunburst brushing on top of the case. The blue tint of the anti-reflective coating adds a touch of elegance and intrigue, reflecting off the sides of the dome. This watch is a true head-turner, effortlessly blending eye-catching appeal with understated elegance.

While the Chronoris Date’s size may be on the smaller side, don’t let that fool you. It commands plenty of wrist presence, making a statement without being flashy. The tonneau case shape and orange accents give it a distinctive charm, ensuring that it stands out on your wrist. Whether you’re familiar with vintage watches or new to the scene, this timepiece offers a delightful experience. Its proportions and size are carefully calibrated to provide a comfortable and enjoyable fit. Have I said how much I love the size of this watch?

The racing-inspired dial of the Chronoris Date is a sight to behold. Reminiscent of classic chronographs from the 1970s, the dial showcases splashes of vibrant orange and a captivating hash mark pattern. Packed with intricate details, the dial effortlessly captures the spirit of racing and exudes a sense of nostalgia. The dial consists of several elements that work harmoniously to create a cohesive and visually appealing design. The inner part of the dial features the branding text for the Chronoris, while the outer part showcases the applied markers. The markers themselves are composed of three pieces, including an applied silver marker, which shimmers in sunlight, a luminous middle portion, and an orange outer marker. This meticulous construction stops just before the hash marks, resulting in a seamless integration. This level of detail adds a sense of excitement to the watch, perfectly capturing the racing vibe. The date window at 3 o’clock is well-placed, even if the date wheel doesn’t match the dial.

The tapered orange seconds hand on the Chronoris Date is its standout feature. The vibrant touch of colour perfectly complements the outer portion of the markers and adds a dash of personality. Watching it rotate around the dial is a mesmerizing experience. The inner rotating bezel of the Chronoris Date is undoubtedly the highlight of this timepiece. Thin enough to remain unobtrusive when not in use, it becomes perfectly readable when utilised as a timer. The satisfying clicks as the bezel rotates create a delightful tactile experience.

When it comes to the case, Oris once again demonstrates their exceptional attention to detail and finishing techniques. The top of the case features a brushed sunburst pattern that adds to the watch’s retro charm and complements the tonneau case shape beautifully. A large polished bevel runs down the sides, transitioning into polished surfaces that catch the light in various captivating ways. Even the two crowns are intriguing, with the push/pull crown at 2 o’clock, used to change the time and date, featuring vertical knurling, while the crown at 4 o’clock, controlling the bezel, has horizontal knurling.

The crystal on the Chronoris Date deserves special mention. At first glance, the domed crystal may not seem exceptional, but as you rotate the watch, its true magic is revealed. The dramatic curve as it meets the case creates a subtle distortion on the edges, adding an intriguing visual effect. Additionally, the blue anti-reflective coating creates a blue hue which goes exceptionally well with the watch’s orange accents.

One key negative that standouts immediately is the 19mm lug width – what was Oris thinking? This odd size means that you’ll likely have to stick with Oris’ bands or find 18mm bands that can accommodate the watch. The included NATO strap is comfortable and wearable, but not being a fan of these straps, I opted for a brown leather band, which I reckon looks great with this watch.

The Oris Chronoris Date may not be for everyone, but if you are into vintage racing watches from the early 70s, and don’t mind that it’s missing the chronograph, then the charm and distinctive looks will definitely win you over.