Vintage Oris Automatic 17 Jewels TV Dial 'Frankenwatch' with Fumé Sunburst Dial
Vintage Dress/Casual Watch · Oris (Independent Swiss brand, Tier: Premium/Entry-level Luxury)
Period: Modernist/Funky 1970s Style (Likely a modern modification/refurbishment)
Type
Vintage Dress/Casual Watch
Brand
Oris (Independent Swiss brand, Tier: Premium/Entry-level Luxury)
Movement
Automatic, likely Oris Cal. 7401 or similar (often 17, 21, or 25 jewels for these types)
Dimensions
36mm width (excluding crown), 39mm lug-to-lug, 10mm thickness, 18-20mm lug width
Description
This Oris features a classic 1970s 'TV Dial' cushion case design with a striking fumé dial that transitions from a light gold center to a dark navy perimeter. While it carries the markings of a vintage Oris, the crispness and specific color combination of the dial strongly suggest a modern redial—a common practice for vintage Oris watches sourced from high-volume refurbishing markets. The watch offers a bold retro aesthetic with a mechanical soul, representing the experimental design language of the mid-70s.
Key Features
Cushion 'TV' case shape, horizontal brush finishing, gradient fumé dial, applied indices, and 'Anti-Shock' text marking
Dial Description
Gold-to-dark-blue gradient/fumé sunburst finish with applied gold-tone indices and dated window at 3, Oris applied logo
Case Material
Base metal or chrome-plated brass with a brushed steel appearance
Crystal Type
Acrylic/Plexiglass (High-domed, characteristic of the 'TV screen' era)
Bezel Details
Fixed, integrated into the cushion-shaped barrel case with horizontal brushing
Crown & Pushers
Recessed push-pull crown at 3 o'clock, steel or plated finish
Bracelet or Strap
Stainless steel three-link Oyster-style bracelet (likely aftermarket due to fitment)
Caseback Details
Screw-down or snap-on solid stainless steel caseback
Movement Type
Automatic, likely Oris Cal. 7401 or similar (often 17, 21, or 25 jewels for these types)
Water Resistance
Non-water resistant; splash-proof at best due to aged gaskets and acrylic crystal.
Origin & Provenance
Swiss Made movement and dial components; likely reconstructed/refurbished in Southeast Asia
Age Estimate
Circa 1970s aesthetic; likely recent refurbishment (late 2010s-2024 assemble)
Cultural Significance
TV-shaped dials represent the 1970s fascination with technology and futuristic shapes moved away from traditional round horology.
Condition Notes
Case appears heavily polished or recently replated with soft edges. Dial is in mint condition, suggesting a modern reprint or replacement. Bracelet fitment shows some gaps at the lugs. Overall condition: Good (refurbished).
Value Estimate
$100 - $250 USD (Secondary market value for refurbished/modified vintage Oris pieces)
Care & Maintenance
Not water resistant. Avoid moisture and high-intensity magnetics. Service every 3-5 years as movement provenance might be unknown.
Similar Watches
Seiko 5 'TV Screen' 6309 models, vintage Zenith TV-case chronographs, Mido Commander cushion cases.
Interesting Facts
During the Quartz Crisis of the 1970s, Oris was forced into the ASUAG group (later Swatch Group) before buying itself back in 1982 to remain an independent brand that exclusively produces mechanical watches today.