ReviewFather Time Meets Horology: Oris x Lord’s MCC Limited Edition Watch
Step into the world of cricket and horology with the Oris x Lord's Big Crown Pointer Date MCC Father Time Limited Edition watch, a tribute to the timeless connection between sport and timekeeping
May We Recommend
Walking into Lord’s Cricket Ground in London, the first thing that captures your attention is the iconic clocktower, crowned by the weatherworn figure of Father Time. This mythical weathervane was donated in 1926 by architect Sir Herbert Baker as an apology for delays in constructing the venue’s Grand Stand. Cast in iron and standing at life-size, Father Time depicts a cloaked, bearded man clutching a large scythe over his shoulder. As he removes the bails from a wicket, this image represents the passage of time and the end of each day’s play. Now, Father Time has some company in the form of a new wristwatch, the Oris x Lord’s MCC, Father Time Limited Edition. Created by the renowned Swiss watchmakers in partnership with Marylebone Cricket Club, the watch pays tribute to the ground’s legacy and the intricate relationship between cricket and time.
Father Time has become a revered symbol among cricket fans worldwide. His significance stems from Law 12.3 of the Laws of Cricket, which states “After the call of Time, the bails shall be removed from both wickets.” As the official timekeeper of Lord’s, Swiss watchmaker Oris is granted the honour of placing its logo on the clock tower below the iconic weathervane. Overlooking the prestigious cricket ground, Father Time remains a beloved guardian marking the hours and days at the ‘home of cricket.’
This timepiece, much like Father Time himself, is not merely a functional object but a storyteller. It reflects the intricate relationship between time and cricket, where every moment is crucial. At its heart, cricket is a game of timing, where every delivery, stroke, and run is measured in seconds and overs. The swift sprint between wickets… The tense pause before a bowler starts his run-up… The euphoric roar when the bat strikes the ball… This watch captures the essence of these moments, immortalising the spirit of cricket that has reverberated through Lord’s for centuries.
Case, Dial And Design Of The Oris Father Time Limited Edition
The Oris Limited Edition is housed in a 40mm bronze case, with a fluted bezel and engraved stainless-steel caseback depicting Father Time. The choice of bronze as a case material provides an intriguing duality. When new, the bronze exudes a radiant golden tone reminiscent of a fresh cricket ball. Yet over time, it will develop a unique weathered patina that mirrors the worn iron look of the Father Time statue. This evolution reflects the blend of innovation and tradition at the heart of the timepiece. The caseback engraving of Father Time also ties directly to Lord’s heritage.
Beyond the case, thoughtful design details reinforce the cricket inspirations. The fluted bezel is reminiscent of the hand-stitched seams of the leather cricket ball, its ridges emulating the texture of the ball’s surface. And the rich brown leather strap pays homage to the wooden cricket bat handle, recreating its smooth grip and warm tone. Each element artfully brings cricket’s visual essence into the watch itself.
The dial of the Oris Limited Edition channels the iconic whites worn by players on the Lords pitch. The stark white background allows the subtle details to stand out. The slender cathedral hands filled with beige Super-LumiNova evoke the pale wood tones of the bat and stumps used in play. This being the Pointer Date, it also features a red crescent-tipped date pointer with the date track on the periphery of the dial.
The Movement
Within the bronze case of the Oris x Lord’s MCC Father Time Limited Edition ticks a Swiss automatic movement, the Oris calibre 754. This drives the central hours, minutes, seconds, and date functions. With 38 hours of power reserve when fully wound, the movement keeps accurate time.
Our Final Thoughts
The Oris x Lord’s MCC, Father Time Limited Edition represents a timely tribute to the storied legacy of Lord’s Cricket Ground and the intricate link between the sport and horology. This limited edition of just 1,926 pieces honours the year 1926, when the iconic Father Time weathervane was installed overlooking the pitch, signalling the end of play for generations. Each watch is engraved with its individual number on the caseback, alongside an image of Father Time stooping over the stumps. Each timepiece comes nestled inside a lacquered presentation box crafted from English oak. This wooden case pays homage to the traditional cricket bats handmade for use on the pitch. The lid is engraved with the Father Time motif, mirroring the watch itself. The timepiece is available with a light brown deer leather strap that is ethically sourced and manufactured by Cervo Volante, or a bronze bracelet.
From the complex bronze case to the simple white dial, through to the commemorative packaging, the Oris Limited Edition is a fitting tribute to Lord’s legacy. It celebrates the interwoven heritage of cricket and horology, and for collectors and true cricket fans alike, owning this watch represents owning a piece of history.
