From an early age, Tycho Brahe demonstrated a passion for astronomy. He invented and perfected a range of instruments, and his work greatly improved the precision of astronomical observations. Oris fittingly honors the noted 16th century astronomer with a limited edition timepiece that incorporates a precise, in-house astronomical complication.

Oris’s engineers have developed a pointer moon phase display based on a centrally mounted hand that indicates the age of the moon both in days and in the more traditional manner. The hand jumps forward twice each day, tracking the lunar cycle with the type of precision for which Brahe is known. The hand points to an inner chapter ring bearing the 29.5 day lunar cycle, while a gauge at the edge of the dial provides graphic depictions of the phase of the moon, interspersed with the raised Arabic hour markers. Snailed inner and outer portions and raised indexes give the dark blue dial a sophisticated look.

The new moon phase display required Oris to restructure the base Sellita SW220 movement, resulting in the new Oris caliber 761. The movement ticks at 28,800 vph and runs in 26 jewels with a 38-hour power reserve.

The movement is housed in a 42mm stainless steel case that is water resistant to 100 meters. The caseback is engraved with a drawing that depicts Brahe’s Tychonic model of the solar system.

Available on a dark blue calf skin leather strap with a crocodile pattern, and on a metal bracelet, the Oris Tycho Brahe Limited Edition is a numbered edition of 500 pieces that will be presented in an attractive wooden box.

Delivery is scheduled for May 2015, and the watch will be priced CHF 2,200.