Baselworld 2014: 41 Must-See Watches Selected by Watch Journalists - Divers Edition
Baselworld 2014
41 Must-See Watches of the Year, Curated by Watch Journalists
Divers
As a staple in high-end watchmaking, divers' watches, which combine practicality with design, are one of the models gaining popularity in recent years. The emergence of models that suit not only active scenes but also dressy attire is likely another topic this year.
Text by FUKUTOME Ryuji
BLANCPAIN
Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe Chronograph
A Stylish and Unique Masterpiece Diver
This is a reinterpretation of the design of a masterpiece released in the late 1950s. The Fifty Fathoms was reborn for the modern era last year, marking its 60th anniversary. This is its flyback chronograph model. The movement is a high-beat with 36,000 vibrations per hour, and features a column-wheel chronograph and a vertical clutch. The dial is unique, with a sunburst finish on meteor gray. The indices are also very striking, composed of straight lines and dots without numerals.
Automatic, Stainless steel case, Case diameter 43mm, 300m water resistance. ¥1,600,000 (excluding tax)
Blancpain Boutique Ginza
Tel. 03-6254-7233
OMEGA
Seamaster 300 Master Co-Axial
A Beautiful Reissue Equipped with the Latest Technology
An attractive reissue model has arrived. The original of this model dates back to 1957. It features a slim unidirectional rotating bezel and distinctive indices. The blue of the dial and bezel has a somewhat faded hue, and the texture and balance with the luminous indices and hands are unlike what is commonly seen today, making it very appealing. However, the internals are state-of-the-art. The movement is equipped with Co-Axial and can withstand magnetic fields of 15,000 gauss. It is truly modern.
Automatic, Stainless steel case, Case diameter 41mm, 300m water resistance. ¥860,000 (excluding tax)
Omega Customer Service Center
Tel. 03-5952-4400
TISSOT
Seastar 1000 Powermatic 80
Enhanced with a New Movement
The Seastar 1000, highly regarded by professional divers, has been released with a renewed movement. The new automatic movement, "Powermatic 80," ensures stability and accuracy while achieving a long power reserve of 80 hours. Its powerful endurance will surely provide peace of mind for divers. The ceramic bezel is exquisite, and despite its robust 1000-foot water resistance, it is finished to look stylish even in urban settings.
Automatic, Stainless steel case, Case diameter 42mm, 300m water resistance. ¥93,000 (excluding tax)
Swatch Group Japan Tissot Division
Tel. 03-6254-7361
BREITLING
Superocean Chronograph Blacksteel
Introducing the New All-Black Model
This is an all-black version of the divers' chronograph. The case and bezel feature DLC coating, and only a black rubber strap is available, with the emblem also rendered in black. Because it is all black, the hands and indices are easy to see, offering exceptional legibility. Equipped with a COSC-certified automatic chronograph movement, it is a highly practical model, befitting Breitling's reputation as a professional instrument maker. Limited to 1,000 pieces worldwide.
Automatic, Stainless steel case, Case diameter 44mm, 500m water resistance. ¥750,000 (excluding tax)
Breitling Japan
Tel. 03-3436-0011
CARL. F. BUCHERER
Patravi ScubaTec
The Brand's First Full-Fledged Diver's Watch
It boasts robust specifications with 500m water resistance and a helium escape valve. With its unidirectional rotating bezel, easily readable dial, thick and clear hands, and COSC-certified chronometer, it offers excellent practicality. Furthermore, the vibrant blue used for the first 15 minutes of the bezel scale, the lines engraved on the crown, and the luminous indices truly evoke the sea. It is an impressive and highly accomplished sports watch.
Automatic, Stainless steel case, Case diameter 44.6mm, 500m water resistance. ¥680,000 (excluding tax)
Breguet Boutique Ginza
Tel. 03-6254-7211
HAMILTON
Jazzmaster Seaview Day Date
A Simple Sports Watch for Versatile Use
This is a beautiful model that masterfully fuses Hamilton's two signature styles: dressy and military. While its form and bezel are reminiscent of a classic diver's watch, the indices and markers are very simple, giving it the appearance of a dress watch. It strikes a perfect balance, neither too rugged nor too delicate. Whether you choose the black or blue dial, this sports watch is versatile enough for everything from business to leisure.
Quartz, Stainless steel case, Case diameter 42mm, 100m water resistance. ¥74,000 (excluding tax)
Hamilton / Swatch Group Japan
Tel. 03-6254-7371
CASIO
G-SHOCK Gulfmaster
Introducing a Feature-Packed, Tough Watch
While not strictly a diver's watch, it is a watch for the sea, equipped with functions useful at sea, such as barometric pressure measurement to predict weather changes and a tide graph for tidal information. Furthermore, it is a radio-controlled watch that receives accurate time from atomic clocks and includes a world time function, making it a model packed with features. Operation is made easy by "Smart Access," which allows intuitive control of its many functions. It is a tough watch with shock resistance and 500m water resistance.
Quartz, Resin case, Case diameter 44.9mm, 500m water resistance. ¥57,000 (excluding tax)
Casio Computer Ltd. Customer Service Center
Tel. 03-5334-4869