INTRODUCING: The Oris ProPilot X Calibre 400
In 2020, Oris announced the development of their second In-House movement - The Oris Calibre 400. Unlike it’s hand-wound Calibre 110, the 400 was an automatic movement with some insane specs for it’s relative affordability - unfortunately, it was only available in the Aquis line at the time. Today, the brand has launched a new line of ProPilot watches in a modest size and cool color pallets - Introducing the Oris ProPilot X Calibre 400.
THE BASICS:
Brand: Oris
Model: ProPilot X Calibre 400
Case Material: Titanium
Case Size: 39mm
Water Resistance: 100 meters
Crystal: Sapphire Crystal
Movement: Oris Calibre 400
Movement Specs: Automatic, COSC Certified, 120-Hr Twin-Barrel Power Reserve, 10-year Warranty
Strap Options: Titanium Bracelet
THE JUICE:
We first saw the Calibre 400 in the Aquis line of watches. I feel the Aquis line has been a hardline utility watch for the brand, which is fitting for the Calibre 400. The movement was specifically designed to be a work-horse, so it’s only natural to bring it over to the brands other utilitarian offering - The Pro Pilot - this time in Titanium.
The case measures in at a modest 39mm, making it a bit understated for a Pilot’s watch. Personally, I’m on board with the trend of sizing down watches instead of sizing up. And being that the Pilot Watch space is dominated by absurdly huge pieces, it’s refreshing to see a more reserved size for this release.
The case is made of Titanium, and comes on a very sleek titanium bracelet with the folding Oris ‘Lift’ Clasp - a clasp that simply requires the user to pull up on a tab to release. The clasp actually reminds me of a parachute release, which is, all things considered, very fitting.
The case features the signature “Buzzsaw” bezel and screw-down case-back synonymous with the brands Pilot offerings and comes in three unique dial colors. First, there is the Blue dial, which is a reserved and toned-down blue color that feels almost grey. Then a grey dial, giving a very uniform and monochromatic vibe. Then my personal favorite, the Salmon dial - a Pink-ish-tan hue that just screams spring to me.
This isn’t the first time we’ve seen a slew of colors released in a new collection with Oris, as they’ve tended to gravitate towards more colorful watches this year. We just covered the Oris Bronze Pointer-Date, which Craig reviewed (here) and loved, which released in 4 dial colors. Earlier, the brand released what became a fan favorite with the Oris Upcycle - a unique watch with recycled plastic fitted as a dial. And on Christmas, the brand introduced the Oris Rectangular in 4 different bold colorways.
Overall, the brand isn’t afraid of introducing enthusiasts to an egad of pallet options at one time. It’s not exactly a sensory overload, but it does feel like the brand is putting more thought into their releases than just changing the dial color and moving on - and I wish more brands were so bold.
The real star of the show, however, is the Calibre 400. Visible through a screw-down sapphire case-back, the movement is on full display. Boasting quite the feature set, the 4-Hz movement performs on a whopping 10-year service interval (according to Oris), meaning it’s intirely designed to run without incident for an extended (and I mean really extended) period of time.
The movement measures in at 30mm, making it slightly larger than the Sellita SW-200 it often (and unfairly) gets compared with. The oscillating weight features a sleeve bearing instead of a Ball-bearing eliminating the need for reverse winding, and when paired with the extra-long mainspring, sequential twin barrels, and simplified mechanics, the watch boasts a more-than-generous 120 Hour Power Reserve. Additionally, the movement is sent for (and receives) COSC certification.
Oris utilizes a unique marketing campaign for the ProPilot X Calibre 400. Likening the watch to architecture that sparks “Joy”. While it all sounds very Marie Kondo, I can’t help but agree. The architecture of the watch is at the core of it’s identity, and it simply looks good. It’s a clean watch, with clean lines, that still manages to stand out. The watch is uniquely utilitarian without being boring or expensive - and that’s something I’ve truly always respected Oris as a brand for achieving.
Overall, the ProPilot X Calibre 400 is a knockout. I think it’ll do very well for the brand, and become a staple in their catalogue and in many collectors rotation.
How much is the Oris ProPilot X Calibre 400?
Price for the watch will come in at a fairly modest $4,200 USD. Read more about the watch on the brands website.