AQUASTAR Airstar Re-Edition [the stealth pilot]

Chocks away! After six long decades of grounding, Aquastar’s lesser-known aviator, the 1964 Airstar takes flight once again, sporting a stealthy new livery and modern-day avionics. While its sibling, the 1962 Deepstar diver’s watch, found favor with maritime pioneers, global navies, and intrepid explorers like Jacques Mayol and Philippe Cousteau, the Airstar was a chronograph born for the skies. While Aquastar has no known association with any notable pilots of its era, it was aviators like André Turcat, Eric ‘Winkle’ Brown and Chuck Yeager who would have surely appreciated a watch like the Airstar. Not only was it airworthy but God forbid you ditched into the sea, your Airstar would survive. Seaworthy and boasting the same waterproof ‘Skin Diver’ case as the Deepstar, and born from those innovations pioneered by Aquastar founder, Frederic Robert for diving. For 2024 Aquastar has revisited and reinvigorated this rare pilot's model with a hightech DLC coated 316L Stainless steel case, water-resistant to 200 meters, offering even more durability and a touch of elegance courtesy of its diamond-like carbon coating. “Like many of the innovations pioneered by Aquastar founder Frederic Robert, the Airstar chronograph from 1964, although a slight departure from the functional tool diver,” says Rick Marei, Aquastar’s modern helmsman. “It still had the depth rating and attributes of a true water-resistant dive watch, yet combined with aviation grade capabilities. The new Airstar is built around the industry workhorse calibre from Valjoux, the 7753, that offers outstanding durability and great after-market serviceability. The Aquastar Airstar Re-Edition will be produced in a limited run of just 300 pieces, and has a suggested retail price of $2,790 USD. However, it can be PRE-ORDERED during its launch period for the special price of $1,890 USD. The Airstar Re-Edition can be reserved, exclusively from www.aquastar.ch. Thoughts? Hot on heels of the Deepstar II Polarstar Edition, the Airstar provides the perfect opportunity for Aquastar and vintage-era dive watch fans to add a pilot to their stable. The addition of the DLC-coating and rock-solid movement makes this a compelling proposition for all.

Aquastar Airstar CHRONOGRAPH SPECIFICATIONS: 

Case: 39mm 316L Stainless steel DLC coated (49mm lug-tolug, 14mm thick), chronograph pushers at 2H and 4H, screw down crown at 3H 

Movement: Swiss-made 7753 Valjoux automatic calibre 

Functions: Hours, minutes, small seconds, central chronograph seconds, 30 minute counter, 

Power reserve: 48 hours 

Water resistance: 200 meters, 660 feet 

Crystal: Flat, triple-coated AR sapphire 

Dial: Semi-gloss Black, hour markers with high-density SuperLuminova (ecru color) 

Bezel: Luminous, Bi-directional rotating elapsed time ceramic bearing bezel, fully graduated with 60 minute markings 

Straps: Includes a genuine 21mm Tropic Rubber and a black Seatbelt NATO strap. 

Retail price: $2,790 (Pre-Order Price: $1,890) 

Limited Edition: 300 pieces worldwide 

Delivery: September 2024

 

DEEP BLUE DayNight OPS Pro Tritium Automatic 46MM MOP [big n beautiful]

Bigger is Back! Introducing the DayNight OPS Pro Tritium Automatic 46MM from DEEP BLUE, a dive watch that is as big as it is beautiful! Just when you thought that bigger watches were going the way of the dinosaurs, an enthusiasts favorite diver's watch specialist pulls out its big guns. DEEP BLUE Watches who are as renowned for their bulletproof designs as they are for their torch-like lume displays have just dropped a full sized DayNight OPS Pro collection boasting an array of beautiful MOP (mother of pearl dials). DEEP BLUE fans are going to be all over this latest addition to the DB collection: the DayNight OPS Pro Tritium Automatic 46MM.  This brawny beauty combines classic design elements with modern functionality and touch of oceanic charm with its mother of pearl dial making it a compelling proposition. Here's a breakdown of its Key Features:A Substantial 46mm Case: The oversized case ensures excellent visibility while keeping the heart of the watch safely and securely housed within, especially when underwater.   Mother of Pearl Dial: The iridescent dial adds a touch of elegance and sophistication, while bringing a piece of the ocean to your wrist, several colors are available.  Tritium Tubes: Brightly glowing, long lasting tritium gas tubes provide long-lasting illumination, even in the darkest depths. A Citizen Miyota Hi Beat 9015 Automatic Movement: This reliable movement offers precise timekeeping and smooth operation with hacking seconds. A Sapphire Bezel: The scratch-resistant sapphire bezel features luminous dive markings for easy reading in low lighting conditions. 300m Water Resistance: Built to withstand the pressures of deep-sea diving or the rigors of an active life on dry land. Whether you're exploring shipwrecks, diving in tropical reefs, or simply enjoying a day at the beach, the DayNight OPS Pro Tritium Automatic 46MM has you covered. Its robust construction and impressive features make it a versatile timepiece that can handle any challenge. As is often the case, these special DB divers come and go in the blink of an eye so don't miss out on your chance to own one.

Visit DEEP BLUE Watches website or your nearest authorized dealer to learn more about the new DayNight OPS Pro Tritium Automatic 46MM Mother of Pearl collection.

 

Audaz SEA RANGER GMT [familiar, by no means faux]

Don't be fooled by the derivative nature of this new travel companion from our esteemed friends at Audaz, while it unashamedly embraces the look and feel of the Swiss superlative, it has been made to do exactly the same job, only at a fraction of the cost. Looking for a world-class timepiece without the world-class price tag? Meet the Audaz SEA RANGER GMT. This isn't just a watch, it's your passport to Summer style and functionality. Crafted from premium 316L Stainless steel, this GMT boasts a sleek design that effortlessly transitions from the boredom of the boardroom to the captivating great outdoors. The comfortable fit and attention to detail make it a pleasure to wear all day long. But don't be fooled by its luxurious appearance – the Sea Ranger GMT is built to last, with a robust construction that can handle anything your adventures throw its way. So go-ahead beat the living Hell out of it because that's what these types of watches were originally intended for rather than for posing on IG with. And if your travels should take you to one of the major World cities like London this year. You'll have nothing to fear with this bad boy on your wrist. I digress, a standout feature is its exceptional legibility. Whether you're diving into the unknown or jetting across time zones, you'll always know the time at a glance. The generous use of Swiss Super-Luminova ensures you can read the dial in any light condition. Powered by a reliable automatic movement, this timepiece offers precise timekeeping without the need for constant winding. It's a testament to the brand's commitment to delivering high-performance watches without the exorbitant price tag. The SEA RANGER GMT from Audaz is a piece that offers incredible value for money. Experience the perfect blend of luxury and affordability on your wrist, no matter where you are.

My pick? The full lume dial, it's the perfect watch for spelunking! 

 

MAGRETTE Moana Pacific Professional Titanium Pro DESTRO [cooked to perfection]

Has Magrette served up one of its tastiest dishes yet? I certainly think so. The Kiwi brand synonymous with robust, no-nonsense dive watches has unveiled a refined favorite in the form of the Moana Pacific Professional Titanium DESTRO and it's good enough to eat. Let me explain, Magrette has taken the popular Moana Pacific diver and added several new key-ingredients into the mix, resulting in what is imho the perfect recipe for an everyday diver, one that you won't ever want to leave your wrist because it's too good and too darn comfortable. Lightweight, durable and wearable, the watch case is constructed from Grade 5 Titanium which offers superior tensile strength and surface hardness with exceptional corrosion resistance and high strength–to–weight ratio to boot. The combination of Grade 5 Titanium with the Ceramic bezel and Sapphire crystal will of course ensure unparalleled durability if that's what you require. The watch is also engineered with fixed lug bars such as found on British military dive watches from the last century. Honestly, I am really not sure why more tool watches don't employ fixed lugs. There is no safer way of securing your watch to your wrist. As the “destro” designation suggests, the watch’s winding crown has migrated to the left side of the case, so that it (the crown) has absolutely zero chance of interfering with your wrist. This is a tried and tested military configuration that works perfectly for guaranteed comfort. Lastly the inclusion of a Helium Escape Valve, which has become a common trope, despite the fact that you'll probably never use one. However where destro watches are concerned, they do help to fill in the otherwise empty space where the right-hand crown would have been. Meanwhile, simmering away within this Grade 5 Titanium casserole pot is the reliable Swiss Sellita SW200-1B movement, a workhorse known for its accuracy and robustness. And with its water-resistance of 500 meters coupled with the Helium Escape Valve, this watch is suitable for even the most seasoned divers. Finally, the dial, hands, and bezel have been generously slathered with generous servings of Swiss Super-LumiNova BGW9, ensuring excellent legibility in low-light conditions – a critical factor for any dive watch. The DESTRO is available in three distinct colorways, each with its own character. The Carbon version offers a stealthy look with a forged carbon dial that adds texture and depth. For those who prefer a classic aesthetic, the black dial option is a timeless choice. And for a bold statement, the Polar dial (my absolute favorite) brings a cool and refreshing perspective to this rugged new Moana Pacific line. The Magrette Moana Pacific Professional Titanium DESTRO with its blend of rugged durability, refined design, and technical excellence is a compelling fusion of form and function. It’s a tool-diver, engineered for demanding environments while maintaining an undeniable aesthetic appeal. For me the fixed lugs and left-hand crown are a game-changer for divers seeking maximum security and comfort. But also in terms of everyday wear. And when you add Grade 5 Titanium and a Polar dial into the mix it's irresistible.

Follow the link for more info in the upcoming Magrette Moana Pacific Diver Titanium Pro DESTRO.