Oris is announcing its second timepiece created in conjunction with Rega, the Swiss air rescue service: the GMT Rega Limited Edition. The 45mm watch is based on the Oris Big Crown ProPilot GMT. The watch, perfect for travelers, is powered by Oris Caliber 748—a Sellita-based automatic mechanical movement with a second time zone; the GMT function is indicated by a black central hand with a red tip.
The stainless steel 45mm case is coated in matte gunmetal gray PVD designed to offset cockpit glare, and the oversized screw-in security crown assists in quick time, date and second time zone adjustments. The caseback is embossed with the Rega logo and the limited edition number of the watch. The black dial has luminescent printed Super-LumiNova Arabic numerals, hands and hour markers for easy readability, and the Rega logo is again evident, at 3 o’clock. The date is also at 3 o’clock, while small seconds are at 9 o’clock.
Rega is a non-profit organization supported and funded mostly by donations. It was founded in 1952 and is recognized as one of the world’s leading air rescue services. Just last year it conducted more than 15,000 rescue missions using its fleet of helicopters and ambulance jets specially crafted to facilitate round-the-clock air rescue operations in Switzerland and elsewhere. Also last year, it repatriated 869 people from all over the world through its 24-hour repatriation service. The organization operates three Challenger CL-604 air ambulances, and the jets carry all the equipment necessary to transport intensive care patients.
“We consider it a real honor to work with Rega, one of the world’s leading air rescue services,” said Oris Chairman Ulrich W. Herzog. “This second watch made in partnership between us highlights Rega’s extraordinary services, as well as our shared commitment to quality, tradition and innovation.”
The GMT Rega Limited Edition is presented on a gray textile strap lined with red leather in recognition of Rega’s corporate color, and it features a gray PVD-coated folding clasp with a patented “stageless” adjustment system, which is based on an airline seatbelt buckle. The watch comes in a special presentation case, and it is part of a limited edition of 2,000 pieces. Price: $2,650