A new era is dawning for lovers of classic diving watches. An iconic model from the 1960s is back in the spotlight, reinvented to fit modern wrists while retaining its old-world charm. Dive with us into the fascinating world of this watch that combines watchmaking heritage and technical innovation.
The fascinating story of a resurrected watch icon
In 1959, a renowned Swiss watch brand launched a revolutionary model: the Super Compressor Diver. This diving watch stood out for its innovative case designed by Ervin Piquerez SA (EPSA). Its special feature? An internal rotating bezel and two crowns, but above all, enhanced water resistance thanks to a patented system that increased the hermeticity of the case back proportionally to the water pressure.
Nearly 50 years later, in 2007, the brand resurrected this iconic model under a new name. Since then, several versions have seen the light of day, but it is the latest iteration in 39 mm that seems to have found the perfect balance between heritage and modernity.
A timeless design revisited for the 21st century
The new version of this vintage diving watch comes in two colors: lacquered blue or lacquered black. It is available on a leather strap or on a magnificent steel โrice grainโ bracelet, perfectly matching its retro-chic style.
Its dimensions are ideal for a contemporary diving watch: โ Diameter: 39 mm โ Thickness: 12.7 mm โ Length from lug to lug: 47 mm
Despite its small size, it maintains an impressive water resistance of 300 meters, worthy of professional diving watches.
The domed sapphire crystal over the inner bezel gives this watch a more refined look than a classic diver with an external bezel. This unique design allows it to be worn with a wetsuit as well as a three-piece suit.
Careful construction down to the smallest details
The case and bracelet feature a clever mix of polished and brushed finishes:โ Polished lugsโ Thin polished bezelโ Brushed case middleโ Links alternating between brushed and polished surfaces
The two imposing crowns located at 2 and 4 o'clock respectively allow you to turn the internal bezel and set the time. Their grooved surface, faithful to the original EPSA cases, offers an excellent grip, even with diving gloves.
The screw-down caseback features a retro diver motif that nods to this watch's heritage.
A โgrain of riceโ bracelet that enhances the vintage style
The steel โgrain of riceโ bracelet is a true jewel of engineering. It is distinguished by:โ A progressive refinement from 20 mm at the lugs to 16 mm at the claspโ A remarkable flexibility that perfectly hugs the wristโ A retro style in perfect harmony with the design of the watch
The double-safety clasp offers 5 micro-adjustment positions, allowing for precise adjustment. While the lack of a tool-free micro-adjustment system is a shame, the overall quality of the strap is impressive for a watch in this price segment.
A dial faithful to the original, with a touch of modernity
The dial design remains very close to that of the second generation of the original 1959 model. We find in particular: โ The applied indexes โ The characteristic Super-LumiNova lines next to the numbers โ The inscription โAutomaticโ in italics, a direct nod to the original
The light signature is particularly successful, using both green and blue Super-LumiNova. This dual color creates a striking effect in the dark and improves readability.
A modern and certified movement for optimal precision
Inside this vintage diver's watch beats a resolutely modern heart. The L888.6 caliber, based on an ETA movement, offers:โ A generous 72-hour power reserveโ A silicon balance spring for better resistance to magnetic fieldsโ COSC certification guaranteeing an accuracy of -4/+6 seconds per dayโ A frequency of 3.5 Hzโ A stop-second function for precise time setting
This movement allows the watch to comply with the ISO 6425 standard for diving watches.
An ideal size for all wrists
At 39mm in diameter, this new version is actually smaller than the 1959 original, which measured 42mm. This smart choice allows the watch to fit a wider range of wrists, while still maintaining a certain presence on the wrist.
The reduction in diameter is accompanied by a reduction in the length from lug to lug, going from 52 mm to 47 mm. These new proportions offer optimal comfort, even on the thinnest wrists.
A strategic positioning on the market
This vintage diving watch is cleverly positioned in the 2000 to 4000 euro segment, a niche that the brand considers its strong point. It thus offers:โ Excellent value for moneyโ Finishes worthy of much more expensive watchesโ An exclusive COSC-certified movementโ A unique design that stands out from traditional divers
This positioning makes it an attractive option for both new collectors and seasoned enthusiasts looking for a versatile and stylish dive watch.
The comeback of this vintage diving watch proves that Swiss watchmaking knows how to listen to its most passionate customers. By combining watchmaking heritage, timeless design and modern technologies, this model stands out as an essential reference for all lovers of character watches. Whether for exploring the seabed or shining in society, this reinvented vintage diver will seduce the most demanding wrists.
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