A core collection within Swiss luxury watch brand Breitling's portfolio is the iconic diver's collection, the Superocean collection. Breitling has been producing dive watches since 1957.
The Breitling Superocean collection is made up of purpose-built diver's watches and this recent launch introduces a new set of new models in various colours and sizes with different strap options.
These new watches draw their inspiration from the iconic Breitling Superocean Slow Motion diver's chronograph in production during the 1960s and 1970s.
The original watches were built to function when scuba-diving. The new range of Breitling Superocean Automatic references the aesthetic of these bold, daring vintage watches and brings it forward to fit the modern watch-wearers needs and wants.
This range has a sleeker, performance-driven design with versatility at its core. The new Superocean Automatics can be used not only for scuba-diving but also for snorkelling, surfing, poolside activities and any other water-based adventures.
Features of the New Superocean Models
This new range of Breitling Superocean Automatic models is available in four different case sizes: 36mm, 42mm, 44mm, and 46mm, which makes them ultra-diverse and suitable for all wrist sizes.
There are stainless steel options, two-tone options, which are steel and 18ct red gold, and a unique bronze alloy option which comes in the Breitling Heritage Superocean 44mm and Breitling Superocean 42mm case sizes. This bronze version is highly corrosion-resistant and incredibly durable.
As with the previously existing models, the new timepieces feature rotating bezels with scratch and fade-resistant ceramic inserts. The three smaller case sizes have a standard unidirectional rotating bezel. However, the 46mm models feature a bi-directional bezel with a locking mechanism patented by Breitling.
All new Superoceans have a domed sapphire crystal with anti-reflective treatment, which protects the dial from the elements. At the same time, a solid screw-down case back and screw-down winding crown help in making these watches water resistant up to 300 metres deep.
The heritage of the Breitling Superocean collection becomes apparent in the dial of the new models. As with the original watches, the hour markers are chunky square and rectangular shapes.
The original Slow Motion timepiece's square-shaped minute is also replicated in the new versions, and the second hand has a coloured circular tip which refers to "the dot" on the vintage models.
"The dot" was a circular window in the dial that displayed different colours depending on if the chronograph was running, paused or stopped.
To augment the functionality of the watch in relation to its suitability for divers, the new Superocean's hands and hour markers are coated in Super-LumiNova, which is a substance that fluoresces in the dark and makes the dial more readable under the depths of the ocean.
How does the new Breitling Heritage Superocean Differ?
The most significant difference between the original Breitling Slow Motion timepieces and the new Superocean releases lies within their functionality.
The vintage models were chronographs, which were modified to feature a single centrally-mounted chronograph hand that measures minutes, not seconds – which is actually where the name 'Slow Motion' originated from.
The latest additions to the Superocean line-up are classic, three-handed watches.
All of the new Superoceans are powered by the Calibre 17 movement, which is the brand's own reliable and iconic movement and run at a frequency of 28,800vph and have a standard 38-hour power reserve.
All new movements in the new Superocean Automatics are no-date variants, offering a symmetrical time-only display.
The new range's unique selling points are its various colourways and strap options.
You can pair the watches with either a three-link stainless steel bracelet or a rubber strap, making the watches highly versatile. They are suitable for both those who want a more sophisticated look and those who want to catch some waves with a more casual aesthetic.
Both strap options feature fold-over clasps, which offer 15mm of micro-adjustment, allowing them to fit over the sleeves of rash guards and wetsuits.
Breitling Superocean Orange Dial and Other Colours
The dial colours available are black, blue, green, turquoise, brown, silver, white and orange. With such a wide variety of brand new and classic colours, there is a watch in the collection for discerning tastes.
The brand new, zesty Breitling Superocean Orange Dial is fitted to the 36mm model and to the limited-edition version of the 42mm Superocean, of which there were only 1000 pieces made.
This special edition was produced in collaboration with professional surfer Kelly Slater and is fitted with a green rubber strap. This watch was made as a tribute to a look that his late father often wore while growing up and starting to surf.
A great deal of Breitling's heritage is linked to pilots and the world of aviation; however, a big part of their history includes the iconic divers watches that have been in existence since the 1950s. ]
The fact that watch collectors and connoisseurs worldwide so highly anticipate these new Superoceans shows that Breitling's varied groups of watches are all held to the utmost standards of performance.
This new Superocean Automatic collection exhibits vintage aspects of the Breitling brand heritage while having modern, contemporary aesthetics and offering exciting new colour schemes.
Browse our collection of Breitling Superocean watches or book an appointment with us to peruse them in person.
