Each year, Oris celebrates its founding town with a special edition that reflects both its heritage and its playful spirit. For 2025, the brand unveils a stealthy version of the Big Crown ProPilot, fully clad in black DLC and powered by the in-house Calibre 400. But there’s more than meets the eye: once in the dark, the entire dial glows—and a smiling Oris Bear reveals itself, hidden in plain sight. Limited to just 250 pieces, this Hölstein Edition is pure Oris: thoughtful, mechanical, and quietly fun.
The Spirit of Hölstein: Independent Watchmaking With Personality
Founded in 1904 in the Swiss village of Hölstein, Oris remains proudly independent. The brand has built its identity on mechanical watchmaking, honest value, and a sense of character that sets it apart from more corporate Swiss names. Since 2020, the Hölstein Edition has become an annual celebration of that identity. Each release gives the Oris team freedom to reinterpret one of its core models. The 2025 version stands out by embracing stealth design while hiding a luminous surprise that only reveals itself in the dark.
A Matte Case, a Glowing Dial, and a Robust In-House Movement
Built on the 41mm Big Crown ProPilot platform, this Hölstein Edition features a stainless steel case coated in black DLC. The fluted bezel, inspired by turbine blades, offers texture and a subtle aviation reference. Beneath the domed sapphire crystal lies a clean dial that, at first glance, seems entirely white. But in low light, the full Super-LumiNova surface reveals a bright green glow, along with a hidden Oris Bear between 3 and 4 o’clock. Inside ticks the Calibre 400, Oris’s in-house automatic movement, boasting five days of power reserve, strong anti-magnetic properties, and a 10-year recommended service interval.
A Pilot’s Watch With a Sense of Humor
This isn’t a watch that shouts for attention. The all-black exterior and monochrome dial give it a functional, utilitarian vibe, ideal for everyday use. But Oris infuses it with its signature charm through the hidden bear and the glow-in-the-dark dial. It’s this balance—between seriousness and whimsy—that makes the piece special. Paired with a black textile strap lined in leather and a ProPilot “LIFT” clasp, the watch feels comfortable and cohesive. It’s designed for collectors who appreciate tool-watch credibility but want something with personality and a playful twist.
Final Thoughts: Discreet, Functional, and Unexpectedly Fun
The 2025 Hölstein Edition is one of the most wearable and versatile in the series so far. It respects the ProPilot’s roots while adding just enough uniqueness to make it memorable. With no date window, no bright accents, and a clean dial, it remains focused and refined. And then, in the dark, it transforms—delivering an unexpected moment of joy. The combination of thoughtful mechanics and lighthearted detail shows once again how Oris is able to create serious watches that don’t take themselves too seriously.
The Oris Hölstein Edition 2025 is priced at CHF 4,150, or approximately $4,500 USD, and limited to 250 pieces worldwide. Available from June 1st through Oris boutiques, selected retailers, and the brand’s online store. And if you find yourself smiling when you see the bear glow back at you—just know, that’s exactly the point ! Otherwise, still with an (all) black look, Bell & Ross just released a gem that you will love : the BR-03 Diver Lum Outline.
