In 2025, ORIS continues its steady ascent as one of the most respected independent Swiss watchmakers—one that mixes meaningful design with practical engineering and an honest approach to watchmaking. This year, the brand introduces an exciting refresh to one of its most versatile modern tool watches: the new ORIS ProPilot Date with textured dials, available in three natural colorways—black, chalk, and moss.
This latest release elevates the ProPilot platform into a more contemporary space, with subtle yet significant refinements in finishing, wearability, and visual presence. The textured dial treatment gives the watch a tactile, organic feel, while the updated case architecture and bracelet options make it a powerful contender for anyone seeking a rugged everyday companion with bold pilot-watch DNA.
In this in-depth review, we explore the design, specifications, wearability, movement, value, and overall experience of the new ProPilot Date collection—and why it stands out in a marketplace full of pilot-style watches.
For years, the ORIS ProPilot line has balanced robust aviation influences with modern simplicity. But the latest iteration leans further toward a refined, high-texture aesthetic that feels both premium and purpose-built.
The first thing you notice is the dial. ORIS chose three tones that feel taken directly from the natural world:
Each dial features a textured finish that sets it apart from the matte or sunray surfaces typically seen in everyday tool watches. The result is a dial that feels alive—changing subtly depending on how light hits it. It never appears flat or sterile.
The printing remains crisp and minimal, ensuring clean readability. Applied indices filled with Super-LumiNova® strengthen night visibility, while the hands maintain the signature ProPilot silhouette that has become recognizable among ORIS fans.
ORIS continues its tradition of nailing proportions with a 41mm multi-piece stainless steel case:
This combination makes the ProPilot Date slim enough to slide under a cuff while still delivering the wrist presence expected from a modern pilot’s watch.
The lines flow ergonomically, with brushed finishing dominating the case for a functional aesthetic. The domed sapphire crystal, treated with internal anti-reflective coating, provides excellent clarity and ensures distortions remain minimal.
The screw-in security crown reinforces the tool-watch credentials and pairs nicely with the aviation-inspired knurled bezel design that has become a ProPilot hallmark.
Unlike many pilot watches with solid backs, ORIS opts for a stainless steel screwed case back paired with a see-through mineral glass window. While it is not sapphire, the mineral glass provides a clear view of the Oris Calibre 733 and gives enthusiasts a welcome peek at the mechanical heartbeat inside.
ORIS offers two distinct strap configurations, both incorporating its innovative LIFT folding clasp inspired by aircraft seat-belt buckles.
The bracelet is fully integrated into the case’s lines, offering a cohesive, modern appearance. Its “multi-piece” construction delivers excellent articulation and comfort.
The suede option introduces warmth and a vintage-leaning character to the otherwise contemporary design. Despite being softer, it remains durable and upscale, making it ideal for those who want a casual yet elegant look.
One of the unsung highlights is ORIS’s clever, easy adjustment system hidden within the clasp. With a quick and secure mechanism, micro-adjustments become simple—no tools required. This makes on-the-fly comfort tuning effortless throughout the day.
ORIS designs pilot watches with one priority in mind: the ability to read time instantly. The new textured dial enhances this without introducing glare or clutter.
• The large central hands are coated generously in Super-LumiNova®, emitting bright green light.
• Applied indices match this lume application and maintain balance against the textured background.
• The date window sits at 3 o’clock, integrated in a way that doesn’t interrupt the aesthetic flow.
The chalk and moss dials, in particular, provide excellent contrast for daytime readability, while the black option remains a timeless choice for those who prefer tactical aesthetics.
Inside the ProPilot Date beats the Oris Calibre 733, a reliable, Swiss-made automatic movement based on the proven Sellita SW200-1 architecture.
Given ORIS’s positioning as an independent brand that values mechanical honesty, the Calibre 733 is a perfectly suitable engine for a watch meant to handle real world conditions.
The ProPilot Date’s 41mm case sits comfortably on the wrist thanks to its controlled thickness of 11.70 mm. Combined with its flowing lugs and excellent fit, this ensures that the watch works for both medium and larger wrists.
This level of resistance—though not dive-watch grade—means you can comfortably wear the ProPilot Date during:
It is not intended for deep diving, but for a pilot-style watch, the water resistance is more than adequate.
On the stainless steel bracelet, the watch feels solid yet not overly heavy. The suede strap option transforms the experience, giving the ProPilot Date a more relaxed, warm personality suitable for casual outfits.
The defining feature of this new release is the textured surface of the dial. ORIS didn’t simply apply a pattern for aesthetic flair; instead, the brand leaned into a natural texture philosophy, inspired by organic materials and earthy tones.
The chalk dial is shockingly stylish in person. It carries a subtle pale warmth rather than a cold white tone, giving it a softer presence on the wrist. Paired with the suede strap, it becomes one of the most contemporary configurations in the ProPilot lineup.
The moss-green textured dial steals attention without becoming loud. It is the quintessential “nature meets aviation” expression—subtle, grounded, and unmistakably ORIS.
Collectors have responded strongly to green watches over the last few years, but ORIS’s moss tone avoids trendiness by leaning into a deeper, natural green that feels timeless.
The sapphire crystal is domed on both sides, which gives the watch vintage-leaning charm. The internal anti-reflective coating maintains clarity even under direct sunlight.
The case back, crafted from stainless steel and fitted with a mineral glass window, offers a view of the movement without compromising durability.
Overall, the watch feels like a piece of professional equipment upgraded with modern luxury sensibility.
The ProPilot line has long been the brand’s bridge between classic aviation cues and modern sport-watch utility. These new models enhance the versatility of the collection by offering something:
In many ways, the textured-dial ProPilot Date is the perfect daily-wear ORIS—refined enough for business attire and rugged enough for outdoor weekends.
At this price point, the ProPilot Date sits in a sweet spot: accessible enough to be a first “luxury” watch but refined and well-built enough to satisfy experienced collectors.
ORIS is, at its core, an independent brand making honest mechanical watches—often with a level of finishing and engineering that exceeds its price segment. The ProPilot Date succeeds because it strikes an intelligent balance between:
Compared to many watches in the CHF 2,000 to CHF 3,000 category, the ProPilot offers more than most competitors in terms of:
And unlike many pilot watches that feel generic, the ProPilot Date looks unmistakably ORIS.
The new ORIS ProPilot Date with textured dials is one of the most compelling releases from ORIS in recent years. With three natural dial colors—black, chalk, and moss—it brings a refreshing aesthetic to the modern pilot-watch category while proudly carrying the brand’s identity and values.
Everything from the multi-piece 41mm case to the sapphire crystal, Super-LumiNova®-filled hands, 41-hour automatic movement, and thoughtful LIFT clasp system demonstrates ORIS’s commitment to functional beauty.
This is a watch for people who want more than just a tool—it’s for those who want a watch with character, texture, and soul. It feels modern, tactile, wearable, and unmistakably ORIS.
Whether you’re exploring the moss dial for its organic richness, the chalk dial for its contemporary brightness, or the classic black dial for timeless versatility, the ProPilot Date offers a compelling story wrapped around Swiss engineering.
In a marketplace filled with watches chasing trends, the new ProPilot Date stands out by being exactly what ORIS does best: authentic, functional, beautifully made, and quietly original.
This latest release elevates the ProPilot platform into a more contemporary space, with subtle yet significant refinements in finishing, wearability, and visual presence. The textured dial treatment gives the watch a tactile, organic feel, while the updated case architecture and bracelet options make it a powerful contender for anyone seeking a rugged everyday companion with bold pilot-watch DNA.
A New Era for the ProPilot: Design Language Evolved
For years, the ORIS ProPilot line has balanced robust aviation influences with modern simplicity. But the latest iteration leans further toward a refined, high-texture aesthetic that feels both premium and purpose-built.
The Textured Dial: A Natural Surface With Depth
The first thing you notice is the dial. ORIS chose three tones that feel taken directly from the natural world:
• Black – a timeless, stealthy option that emphasizes legibility.
• Chalk – a soft, bone-white hue that adds contemporary charm.
• Moss – a green tone with earthy depth, arguably the standout of the trio.
Each dial features a textured finish that sets it apart from the matte or sunray surfaces typically seen in everyday tool watches. The result is a dial that feels alive—changing subtly depending on how light hits it. It never appears flat or sterile.
A Highly Wearable 41mm Case
ORIS continues its tradition of nailing proportions with a 41mm multi-piece stainless steel case:
• Diameter: 41.00 mm
• Thickness: 11.70 mm
• Lug-to-lug: 49.00 mm
This combination makes the ProPilot Date slim enough to slide under a cuff while still delivering the wrist presence expected from a modern pilot’s watch.
The lines flow ergonomically, with brushed finishing dominating the case for a functional aesthetic. The domed sapphire crystal, treated with internal anti-reflective coating, provides excellent clarity and ensures distortions remain minimal.
The screw-in security crown reinforces the tool-watch credentials and pairs nicely with the aviation-inspired knurled bezel design that has become a ProPilot hallmark.
See-Through Case Back: Tradition Meets Transparency
Unlike many pilot watches with solid backs, ORIS opts for a stainless steel screwed case back paired with a see-through mineral glass window. While it is not sapphire, the mineral glass provides a clear view of the Oris Calibre 733 and gives enthusiasts a welcome peek at the mechanical heartbeat inside.
Strap Options: Bracelet or Suede—Both With the ORIS “LIFT” System
ORIS offers two distinct strap configurations, both incorporating its innovative LIFT folding clasp inspired by aircraft seat-belt buckles.
1. Multi-Piece Stainless Steel Bracelet (CHF 2,150)
The bracelet is fully integrated into the case’s lines, offering a cohesive, modern appearance. Its “multi-piece” construction delivers excellent articulation and comfort.
2. Suede Leather Strap (CHF 1,950)
The suede option introduces warmth and a vintage-leaning character to the otherwise contemporary design. Despite being softer, it remains durable and upscale, making it ideal for those who want a casual yet elegant look.
The Seamless Fit Adjustment
One of the unsung highlights is ORIS’s clever, easy adjustment system hidden within the clasp. With a quick and secure mechanism, micro-adjustments become simple—no tools required. This makes on-the-fly comfort tuning effortless throughout the day.
Dial Legibility and Night Visibility
ORIS designs pilot watches with one priority in mind: the ability to read time instantly. The new textured dial enhances this without introducing glare or clutter.
• The large central hands are coated generously in Super-LumiNova®, emitting bright green light.
• Applied indices match this lume application and maintain balance against the textured background.
• The date window sits at 3 o’clock, integrated in a way that doesn’t interrupt the aesthetic flow.
The chalk and moss dials, in particular, provide excellent contrast for daytime readability, while the black option remains a timeless choice for those who prefer tactical aesthetics.
Movement Review: Oris Calibre 733
Inside the ProPilot Date beats the Oris Calibre 733, a reliable, Swiss-made automatic movement based on the proven Sellita SW200-1 architecture.
Movement Specifications:
• Winding: Automatic
• Power Reserve: 41 hours
• Functions: Hours, Minutes, Central seconds, Instantaneous date, Date corrector, Fine timing device, Stop-second function
Advantages of Oris Calibre 733:
• Easy to service
• Accurate
• Reliable for daily wear
• Supported globally
Given ORIS’s positioning as an independent brand that values mechanical honesty, the Calibre 733 is a perfectly suitable engine for a watch meant to handle real world conditions.
Build Quality & Daily Wear
The ProPilot Date’s 41mm case sits comfortably on the wrist thanks to its controlled thickness of 11.70 mm. Combined with its flowing lugs and excellent fit, this ensures that the watch works for both medium and larger wrists.
Water Resistance: 10 Bar (100m)
This level of resistance—though not dive-watch grade—means you can comfortably wear the ProPilot Date during:
• Rain
• Hand-washing
• Swimming
• Outdoor activities
It is not intended for deep diving, but for a pilot-style watch, the water resistance is more than adequate.
Everyday Comfort
On the stainless steel bracelet, the watch feels solid yet not overly heavy. The suede strap option transforms the experience, giving the ProPilot Date a more relaxed, warm personality suitable for casual outfits.
A Textured Dial Worth Examining Up Close
The defining feature of this new release is the textured surface of the dial. ORIS didn’t simply apply a pattern for aesthetic flair; instead, the brand leaned into a natural texture philosophy, inspired by organic materials and earthy tones.
Black Dial: Understated Power
The black textured dial offers:
• Maximum contrast
• A toned-down personality
• A stealthy profile that blends function and elegance
This is the most classic and versatile of the three.
Chalk Dial: Modern Minimalism
The chalk dial is shockingly stylish in person. It carries a subtle pale warmth rather than a cold white tone, giving it a softer presence on the wrist. Paired with the suede strap, it becomes one of the most contemporary configurations in the ProPilot lineup.
Moss Dial: The Star of the Show
The moss-green textured dial steals attention without becoming loud. It is the quintessential “nature meets aviation” expression—subtle, grounded, and unmistakably ORIS.
Collectors have responded strongly to green watches over the last few years, but ORIS’s moss tone avoids trendiness by leaning into a deeper, natural green that feels timeless.
Crystal and Case Construction
The sapphire crystal is domed on both sides, which gives the watch vintage-leaning charm. The internal anti-reflective coating maintains clarity even under direct sunlight.
The case back, crafted from stainless steel and fitted with a mineral glass window, offers a view of the movement without compromising durability.
The screw-in crown:
• Easy to grip
• Polished just enough for visual interest
• Secure, reinforcing both the tool-watch image and water resistance rating
Overall, the watch feels like a piece of professional equipment upgraded with modern luxury sensibility.
How the New ProPilot Date Fits Into the ORIS Lineup
The ProPilot line has long been the brand’s bridge between classic aviation cues and modern sport-watch utility. These new models enhance the versatility of the collection by offering something:
• More subtle than a full-scale pilot chronograph
• More robust than a minimalist dress watch
• More modern than many vintage-inspired options
In many ways, the textured-dial ProPilot Date is the perfect daily-wear ORIS—refined enough for business attire and rugged enough for outdoor weekends.
Wearability With Different Outfits
One of the strengths of this collection is how fluidly it moves between different environments and outfits.
On the Bracelet
• Pairs well with business casual or full suits
• Gives the watch a modern and slightly technical look
• Perfect for those who want a “one-watch collection” feel
On the Suede Strap
• Warm, organic, and relaxed
• Complements the textured dial beautifully
• Ideal for creative fields, casual weekends, or outdoor-inspired outfits
The ability to switch between these personalities is a big part of the watch’s value.
Pricing and Availability
The new ORIS ProPilot Date models are priced as follows:
• CHF 2,150 on the multi-piece stainless steel bracelet
• CHF 1,950 on the suede leather strap
At this price point, the ProPilot Date sits in a sweet spot: accessible enough to be a first “luxury” watch but refined and well-built enough to satisfy experienced collectors.
Value Proposition: Where ORIS Wins
ORIS is, at its core, an independent brand making honest mechanical watches—often with a level of finishing and engineering that exceeds its price segment. The ProPilot Date succeeds because it strikes an intelligent balance between:
• Strong design identity
• Practical specifications
• Beautiful finishing
• A versatile 41mm size
• Everyday durability
• Elegant yet rugged dial colors
• A competitive price point
Compared to many watches in the CHF 2,000 to CHF 3,000 category, the ProPilot offers more than most competitors in terms of:
• Aesthetic personality
• Strap/bracelet engineering
• Build quality
• Brand heritage
And unlike many pilot watches that feel generic, the ProPilot Date looks unmistakably ORIS.
Who This Watch Is For
The new ORIS ProPilot Date appeals to several types of buyers:
1. The Everyday Watch Wearer
Someone who wants one great mechanical watch that does everything—office, travel, weekends, outdoor activities.
2. The Aviation Enthusiast
Fans of pilot-style instruments who want something modern but not overly complicated.
3. The Design Lover
Collectors who appreciate textured dial aesthetics, natural color tones, and minimalist styling.
4. The ORIS Collector
Existing ORIS enthusiasts will see this as a meaningful update that builds beautifully on the brand’s design language.
5. The First Luxury Watch Buyer
With approachable pricing and Swiss build quality, it’s an exceptional entry into the luxury watch world.
Final Thoughts: A Confident Evolution With Real Character
The new ORIS ProPilot Date with textured dials is one of the most compelling releases from ORIS in recent years. With three natural dial colors—black, chalk, and moss—it brings a refreshing aesthetic to the modern pilot-watch category while proudly carrying the brand’s identity and values.
Everything from the multi-piece 41mm case to the sapphire crystal, Super-LumiNova®-filled hands, 41-hour automatic movement, and thoughtful LIFT clasp system demonstrates ORIS’s commitment to functional beauty.
Whether you’re exploring the moss dial for its organic richness, the chalk dial for its contemporary brightness, or the classic black dial for timeless versatility, the ProPilot Date offers a compelling story wrapped around Swiss engineering.
In a marketplace filled with watches chasing trends, the new ProPilot Date stands out by being exactly what ORIS does best: authentic, functional, beautifully made, and quietly original.
[photo credit: Oris SA / www.oris.ch]
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