Introducing the Oris ProPilot Altimeter
In 2014 Oris became the first watch manufacturer to produce a watch that combined an automatic mechanical movement with a mechanical altimeter (an instrument for determining altitude) in a watch. Now, in 2023, the ProPilot Altimeter is back with an upgraded altimeter, a slimmer case and a 3D-printed lightweight, carbon case.
The Basics
A true pilot’s watch, the ProPilot Altimeter is back and can display altitude on the outer rim of the dial up to 19,700 feet or 6,000 meters (the previous model from 2014 could display altitude up to 15,000 feet or 4,500 meters). Because of the altimeter, the case is a pretty wide 47mm in diameter. Given all the functions on the dial, the watch doesn’t wear too large. And the fact that the case is made of a lightweight 3D-printed carbon-fibre composite case makes the watch even more wearable. Beyond being extremely functional, the ProPilot Altimeter is an extremely attractive watch, even at its 47mm size.
Brand: ORIS
Model: Propilot Altimeter
Case Material: 3D-Printer Carbon
Case Size: 47mm
Water Resistance: 100m
Movement: Oris Caliber 793
Movement Specs: Automatic - 56-Hour Power Reserve
Strap Options: Green Textile Strap with Brown Leather Lining
The Juice
Oris, an independent watchmaker, is still the only watch brand to ever produce an automatic watch that also houses a mechanical altimeter, quite the distinction for a brand without the backing and resources of a conglomerate. We always appreciate independents doing unique and innovative things in their releases.
The ProPilot Altimeter features dual crowns, with the time controlled by the crown at 2 o’clock and the mechanical altimeter controlled by the crown at 4 o’clock. Increasing the altitude capacity of the watch took years of research and development. Once the watch is calibrated correctly, the wearer can check the altitude at any time. This is perfect for a pilot, especially a solo pilot that needs a true functional pilot watch.
By making the watch of an innovative 3D-printed carbon developed by Oris’ partner 9T Labs, a spin-off from the prestigious ETH Zurich university, the watch is lighter and slimmer than its titanium predecessor. The watch houses Oris’ in-house Calibre 793 movement, which is robust and reliable.
As we discussed, the watch is 47mm, which isn’t exactly small. However, this is offset by the extremely light carbon case, and the fact that the altimeter acts as a rehaut on the periphery of the watch, making the actual dial smaller, and the watch wear and appear smaller. The dial and is black. Same with the carbon case and pvd-coated fluted titanium bezel. The watch comes on a green textile strap with brown leather lining, which fits the stealth look of the watch perfectly.
How Much Does the Oris ProPilot Altimeter Cost?
The Oris ProPilot Altimeter is offered in two versions, one with altitude set in feet, the other in meters. It retails for CHF 6,200.