The original Carl Brashear Limited Edition by Oris was an incredibly popular watch among enthusiasts when it first debuted two years ago. The fact it was also limited to only 2,000 pieces no doubt helped to further its sought-after reputation as a collector’s piece. With a bronze case, chunky dot indices and a static bezel, it paid tribute to the all-American hero Carl Brashear who against all adversity became the first African-American and, eventually, the first amputee to reach the rank of ‘U.S. Navy Master Diver’.
To follow up from this special piece, Oris have just announced the release of a new version, and this time it’s a chronograph. Thankfully the new model doesn’t deviate to much from the original in terms of styling, sticking with the deep dark blue dial, chunky creamy indices outlined in gold and, obviously, the solid cast bronze case. The new chronograph function however slightly increases the case size from 42mm to 43mm while the vintage mushroom pushers make it in an all-round chunkier watch.
Perhaps the coolest thing about it though, like other bronze watches, is that the bronze case will develop a patina with age, unique to each wearer depending on their environment. If you want to try and keep it immaculate, ironically, then we recommended you stay out of the water.
So there we have it. Bronze & diving watches are perhaps two of the most on-trend styles right now so don’t be surprised to see all 2,000 models sell out fast, even with the slightly higher price tag this time around of CHF 4,700. For more, visit Oris’ website online.
