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Breitling’s Introduces A New SuperOcean: A Call From The Seas

THM Desk
6 Aug 2022 |
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A new version of Breitling's athletic sea watch has recently been released. The new line continues the minimalist design of the original SuperOcean Slow Motion from the 1960s and 1970s while including contemporary features and a vibrant color scheme. Additionally, it is no longer only a diving watch; you can surf, swim, and hit the beach bar with it.

Breitling Superocean Automatic 42_bronze_green dial and green rubber strap_Ref. N17375201L1S1_worn by Freddie Meadows_RGB

Scuba diving was a popular trend in the 1960s, thanks to the exploits of ocean explorer Jacques Cousteau. Breitling sought to not only offer the greatest tool watch for the work but also to give it a sense of style, as timing in diving was crucial and was almost solely measured in minutes.

Breitling Superocean Automatic 46_blue dial and blue rubber strap_Ref. A17378E71C1S1_CMYK

Breitling's designers cut out all extraneous elements that wouldn't help divers do lifesaving tasks underwater in order to produce this early SuperOcean. They gave the critical minutes scale a dial ring with a high contrast pattern. They replaced subtle indices with large, luminous batons for easier reading. Breitling also made the boldest decision by getting rid of the seconds hand since divers... didn't really need it. A groundbreaking minute-based chronograph known as the "Slow Motion" that required an hour to complete a full rotation of the dial was introduced in its place.

The new Breitling Superocean Collection_Ref. A17376211L2S1 (44 mm turquoise)_A17377211O1S1 (36 mm orange)_A17376A31L1S1 (44 mm green)

Breitling just unveiled a new Superocean that adheres to Slow Motion's streamlined tool-watch ethos. A keen eye will see various design cues to the original even if the line has been updated to fit the demands of contemporary wearers (the seconds hand was, of course, a necessity).

The Wheels & Waves surf and motorcycle festival in Biarritz is where the collection was introduced to the media, retailers, and influencers. After a full day of sea-themed events and surprise visits from European surf and screen personalities, the event took place. Surfers Andrew Cotton, Jérémy Florès, and Natxo Gonzalez were present, along with French actor Guillaume Canet and Spanish actor Álvaro Morte.

Breitling Superocean Automatic 44 & 42 in bronze_Ref. N17375201L1S1_N17376201Q1S1_CMYK

Speaking from the festival, Breitling CEO Georges Kern said, “There’s a certain sameness to the look of most dive watches, but the Slow Motion always stood out from the crowd. We’re so pleased to introduce our modern take on this classic, the all-new Superocean.”

MADE FOR THE SEA

The collection's vibrant dials are matched with three alternative case metals: bronze, steel-gold, and steel, and four sizes (46, 44, 42, and 36 mm). Although the particular alloy used in the 44 and 42 mm bronze variants has significant corrosion resistance, it will nonetheless evolve a subtle patina over time, adding to the watch's uniqueness. With a folding clasp that enables micro-adjustments of up to 15 mm for simple wear over rash guards and dive suits, the two strap options—a sporty rubber strap and a new three-row metal bracelet—can be easily worn over these items.

Breitling Superocean Automatic 36_turquoise dial and turquoise rubber strap_Ref. A17377211C1S1_worn by Irene Saderini_RGB

The new Superocean is a technical marvel in addition to being attractive. Its large hands and Super-LumiNova®-coated indices, which are water-resistant to 300 m (1000 ft), allow for excellent readability underwater. It won't ever wear out or fade thanks to its scratch-resistant ceramic-inlay bezel. For safety, the bezel is unidirectional on most sizes and bidirectional with a patented lock on the 46 mm. Additionally, this watch is resistant to saltwater, sand, and shock. Its automatic Breitling Caliber 17 movement with a two-year warranty and about a 38-hour power reserve.

Breitling Superocean Automatic 44_blue dial and blue rubber strap_caseback_Ref. A17376211C1S1_CMYK

The Slow Motion's unique square minute hand has returned, which is the best part. Its high contrast minute scale has also. The "dot," a circular window at 6 o'clock that changed color depending on whether the minutes-based chronograph was active, paused, or off, was cherished by fans. A circle near the second hand's tip in the new Superocean nods to this beloved element.

SERIOUS PERFORMANCE, LAID-BACK VIBE

The faces of the new Superocean line are Kelly Slater, Stephanie Gilmore, and Sally Fitzgibbons, together known as the Breitling Surfer Squad. The limited-edition Superocean Automatic 42 Kelly Slater watch, which was co-created with the surfer champion and has an orange dial and a military-green rubber strap, is part of the watch collection. A watch that Slater's father wore when surfing influences the color scheme.

Breitling Superocean 42 Kelly Slater Limited Edition_orange dial and green rubber strap_Ref. A173751A1O1S1_RGB

In the new Superocean, there is something for everyone. Collectors will recognize Slow Motion's significant influence, water sports aficionados will value its technical features, and fashion-conscious people will be drawn to its versatility from day to night and from the beach to the boardroom. The new Superocean brilliantly strikes a mix between creating exciting new waves and nostalgic memories of its past.