Oris Carl Brashear Chronograph Limited Edition 2018 Watch Review
Wednesday - 10 January 2018
Such a heroic, special man deserves a timepiece worthy of his story. Oris have done just that for a second time running, with their bronze limited edition inspired by the legacy of Carl Brashear; an extraordinary figure who defied racism and disability to earn the title of the U.S. Navy’s first African American and first amputee Master Diver. As a tribute to one of the most inspirational figures of the 20th century, Oris present the Carl Brashear Chronograph Limited Edition.
Like it’s predecessor, the new exclusive design takes cues from the popular Oris Divers Sixty-Five. Also, set in bronze, the case not only reflects the diving equipment that Mr Brashear used but his warm character too. The chosen metal naturally ages overtime creating a unique patina that is individual to the wearer. Although limited to 2000 pieces, each watch will take on it’s own personality through the natural aging process. The stunning bronze new edition debuts the special Oris Calibre 771 based on Sellita’s SW 510 and boasts a two-counter chronograph and a formidable 48-hour power reserve.
The chronograph function represents the amount of times that Carl Brashear faced obstacles that he couldn’t control yet resurfaced with a fight for life. The stunning blue dial symbolises the deep water that he so bravely dived into; a blank canvas that features a balanced, symmetrical layout.
Carl lived by the mantra ‘it’s not a sin to get knocked down, it’s a sin to stay down’ – a quote that is engraved on the stainless steel caseback circling the traditional diver’s helmet. These poignant words allowed for this incredible man to not let racial discrimination or his accident affect his career. Not only did he return to his position after losing the lower part of his leg during a mission to salvage a hydrogen bomb, he completed training for his Mater Diver certificate. A gruelling assessment programme that included diving to depths of 300 metres with a prosthetic limb. He made the impossible become possible through sheer determination and courage. After all, you can’t keep a good man down!
