Oris Partners with Reef Restoration Foundation to Launch Limited-Edition Watch for Coral Conservation
Oris is making waves with the release of a new limited-edition watch, created in collaboration with the Australian non-profit Reef Restoration Foundation. This initiative aims to support coral conservation and highlight the importance of oceanic ecosystems.
Nature’s Call
Major coral bleaching events have severely threatened the world’s reefs. In response, Oris has joined forces with the Reef Restoration Foundation, a pioneering organization dedicated to preserving these vital ecosystems through ocean-based coral nurseries. Surveys indicate that 73% of the Great Barrier Reef’s surveyed areas have experienced significant bleaching. The Reef Restoration Foundation specializes in growing coral to conserve these biodiverse environments.
“Oris is climate neutral and committed to the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals,” says Co-CEO Rolf Studer. “Supporting the Reef Restoration Foundation is a joy, and we’re delighted to shine a light on their work to counter the effects of climate change on the world’s reefs.”
Diving Deep: The Great Barrier Reef Limited Edition IV
To support the foundation’s mission, Oris introduces the 2,000-piece Great Barrier Reef Limited Edition IV, based on the new Aquis Date Calibre 400. This watch features a stunning gradient dial, transitioning vertically from 12 o’clock, a grey tungsten bezel insert, and special engravings on the case back, including the limited-edition number.
The Aquis Date 43.50 mm model, known for its refined and versatile design, boasts 30 bar (300 meters) of water resistance. Its stainless steel case, screw-in crown, crown protection, uni-directional rotating bezel, and three-link bracelet have been redesigned for improved ergonomics and performance. Additionally, the Oris-patented strap change and quick adjustment systems enhance its ease of use.
Commitment to Coral Conservation
The new watch will directly support Oris’s ongoing financial commitment to the Reef Restoration Foundation’s coral-tree-planting mission. The Great Barrier Reef Limited Edition IV, with its vivid gradient blue dial, captures both the turquoise and blue waters of the reef and the refraction of the sun’s rays through water.
Ryan Donnelly, CEO of Reef Restoration Foundation, explains the foundation’s mission: “In 2016, the northern third of the Great Barrier Reef was subjected to an intense marine heatwave, causing severe coral bleaching. This event affected over 90% of coral reefs between Cairns and Cape York, shocking many scientists. Our foundation was born from the idea of replicating the coral restoration work done in the Florida Keys since 2007.”
Ongoing Challenges and the Importance of Reefs
The foundation focuses on coral nurseries at three sites on the Great Barrier Reef: Fitzroy Island, Hastings Reef, and Moore Reef. These nurseries experiment, innovate, and produce coral fragments to enhance reef resilience and recovery. Despite regulatory hurdles and the need for increased funding, the foundation remains dedicated to its mission.
“Climate change is the greatest threat to coral reefs globally,” says Donnelly. “Our efforts aim to buy time while the world moves toward a low-carbon future. Our coral nurseries are designed to be lowered into cooler depths during thermal stress, preserving spawning stock to aid recovery.”
Oris’s partnership with the Reef Restoration Foundation began in 2018, including sponsorship of a coral tree nursery and provision of watches to support the foundation’s program. The Great Barrier Reef Limited Edition IV will further bolster the foundation’s efforts by funding skilled field operatives and expanding operations.
How to Get Involved
Support for the Reef Restoration Foundation is crucial. Details on how to contribute can be found on their website, rrf.org.au. Through this collaboration, Oris and the Reef Restoration Foundation strive to bring Change for the Better, ensuring the survival and health of the world’s coral reefs.
