WATCHMAKING
Watches are as varied as the people who own them. So what makes a particular style of wristwatch popular? And why ar dive watches so popular? This genre of watches is as durable as they come; actual waterproofing, not just claimed, and with that comes greater durability giving the wearer some peace of mind. Also perfect for the enthusiasts who gravitate towards sporty, yet versatile looks, and can be worn with most outfits. From a collectability standpoint, vintage divers’ watches have been enjoying quite the collectors’ buzz recently and maintain value extremely well. Here are four prime examples of divers’ watches from absolutely iconic to purposeful.
Rolex Sea-Dweller
The watch that conquered the deep… The newest version of the Sea-Dweller comes in a Yellow Rolesor, combining Oystersteel and 18ct yellow gold which is a first for this watch. The original was designed in collaboration with the pioneers of professional deep-sea diving who spent extended periods underwater. It all leads to the Sea-Master being the epitome of divers and being able to reach depths of 1,220 metres.
REFERENCE NUMBER: 126603-0001
PRICE: RS2,862,000
AVAILABLE AT: CHATHAM LUXURY WATCHES
Omega Seamaster Diver 300M
A limited-edition of 2,500 pieces and reaching depths of 300 metres, this 42mm model features a brushed case made from grade 2 titanium, the crown, bezel ring and helium escape valve in 18ct Sedna™ gold. And to contrast it, tantalum is used to create the base of the bezel in that blue-grey tone. Powering it with a Co-Axial escapement, the self-winding Caliber Omega 8806 is resistant to magnetic fields and a 55-hour power reserve.
REFERENCE NUMBER: 210.60.42.20.99.001
PRICE: RS2,247,000
AVAILABLE AT: CHATHAM LUXURY WATCHES
Tag Heuer Aquaracer Calibre 5
Tag Heuer is no stranger to the deep blue. Ever since they patented the first water resistance case in 1895, they have been sending divers and their watches to depths of up to 1000m with the Aquagraph. The Aquaracer’s notable features Swiss made Calibre 5 movement with a 38-hour reserve, a black nylon strap secured with their unique double security clasp, a unidirectional turning bezel, and a dive depth of 300 metres.
REFERENCE NUMBER: WAY211B.FC6363
PRICE: RS400,000
AVAILABLE AT: COLOMBO JEWELLERY STORES
Seiko ‘Baby Tuna’ Prospex
Seiko holds the honour of designing the first dive watch and has unashamedly designed them for rigid use by divers, tailored for the environment it’s to operate in rather than being multipurpose. Not one for small wrists at 50mm across, but built like a tank and designed to reach a depth of 200m. Concealed within its case and ceramic shroud is a 24 jewel automatic movement, the Seiko 4R36, which holds a healthy 41-hour power reserve.
REFERENCE NUMBER: SRPA79K1
PRICE: RS115,500
AVAILABLE AT: WIMALADHARMA BROTHERS