In mid‑August 2025, Oris unveiled the Aquis Date "New York Harbor Limited Edition II" ,a 43.5 mm diver's watch that marries refined aesthetics with environmental purpose.This New York Harbor edition with the incredible natural MOP (Mother of Pearl) green dial, at certain angles and lighting it appears more flat green and then when it catches the light it creates the wave effect which is supposed to replicate the waves of the New York Harbor.
This latest edition continues Oris's partnership with the Billion Oyster Project, a commendable grassroots initiative aiming to restore one billion oysters to New York Harbor to support water health and biodiversity. To date, the project has returned 150 million oysters and recycled over 2.9 million pounds of shells from local restaurants to help young oysters establish reefs. Each oyster can filter up to 50 gallons of water daily—imagine the collective impact of a billion. Oris collaborates with organizations like this to move beyond token marketing and spark real conversation about conservation.
The new Aquis Date centerpiece is its “Aqua Green” mother-of-pearl dial subtly shimmering with ocean hues—more aqua than green. It's a thoughtful acknowledgment of cleaner waters and renewed hope. Key specs include: 43.5 mm stainless steel case, 13.1 mm thick, lug-to-lug about 51 mm. The larger size compared to the original 41.5 mm model is tempered by the ergonomic Aquis design. Negative-relief steel bezel, solid engraved case back with each watch individually numbered (limited to 2,000 pieces). Movement: Oris Caliber 733 (based on Sellita SW200), automatic, ~41-hour power reserve. Comes with a matching steel bracelet and an extra rubber strap with deployant clasp.
What stands out in this release is its balance of integrity and beauty. It's not flashy for flashiness' sake—every detail, from the shell-inspired dial to the charitable commitment, is deliberate. Oris is walking its sustainability talk, having achieved climate neutrality in 2021 and consistently reducing annual emissions by around 10 percent, alongside eco-centric watch collections like the Aquis Upcycle and Aquis Bracenet. This edition is more than a handsome diver; it's a statement of values. It prompts us to consider how small actions—oyster restoration, thoughtful materials, mindful design—can ripple into larger environmental change.
The Oris Aquis Date “New York Harbor Limited Edition II” succeeds in being both a practical tool watch and an emblem of environmental stewardship. With its striking mother-of-pearl dial, solid build, and genuine charitable impact, it stands out in the crowded field of limited editions. It resists superficiality—this watch doesn’t just tell time; it tells a story of purpose. Priced at USD 3,000, proceeds support the Billion Oyster Project's reef restoration, shell recycling, and educational outreach.