Back into the deep – Aquis Depth Gauge

Known affectionately as ‘the watch with a hole’, the Aquis Depth Gauge uses the scientific principles of the Boyle-Mariotte Law to create a gauge that clearly measures depth during a dive. The patented system works by allowing water through a hole cut into the sapphire crystal at 12 o’clock and into a channel milled around the outer edge of the crystal. This creates a watermark that corresponds to a gauge clearly indicated in yellow on the dial.

The new model captures and refines the spirit and functionality of the original, delivering even higher performance when it really matters – deep below the ocean surface.

The new Aquis Depth Gauge has three key improvements:

1. Depth gauge system
In the new watch, the process used to mill the channel into the outer edge of the crystal has been refined so the accuracy and legibility of the gauge are increased.

2. Metres-to-feet conversion chart
The case back has been re-engineered so the metres-to-feet conversion chart is always set at 90 degrees to the 12 o’clock position. For divers relying on the chart on a regular basis, this will greatly enhance their experience of the watch.

3. Oris’s new patented Quick Strap Change system Owners can now switch the stainless steel metal bracelet and rubber strap quickly, safely and securely without needing a tool or a visit to a jeweller.

The Aquis Depth Gauge uses a complex scientific principle to create an easy-to-use depth gauge function that’s also safe and accurate. Behind the Aquis Depth Gauge’s inventive solution for measuring depth underwater is the Boyle- Mariotte Law, which states for gases that ‘pressure x volume = constant’. Oris’s engineers calculated that the volume of air in a channel milled into the sapphire crystal would reduce during a dive, compressed under pressure. So during a dive, the volume of air compresses, allowing water to enter the channel. The air then decompresses during an ascent, forcing the water out of the hole. Oris has patented this development.

The hole leading to the channel milled into the outer edge of the sapphire crystal is at 12 o’clock. On dry land, it’s filled with air. On entering the water, that air is compressed by water pressure. Water then enters the hole and begins to fill the space created in the channel. This in turn creates a watermark visible through the crystal. The watermark corresponds to a yellow gauge running around the outside of the dial, and the two combine to indicate depth. The second- generation watch has a more finely grained channel than before, making the indication even clearer. It’s an inventive solution that demonstrates Oris’s engineering philosophy to find clever, practical solutions to complex problems.