Paddling Against the Mainstream: Meet Breitling’s new Superocean
Breitling has just launched a completely redesigned Superocean range. The new dive watch collection retraces the aesthetic of the original Superocean chronograph Ref. 2005 “Slow Motion” from the 1960s and 1970s, primarily by bringing back the distinctive square “paddle” minute hand (which served as a central minute counter on the original). In addition, Breitling also added a contrasting dial ring and a comparatively thin bezel inlay made of ceramic. Breitling CEO Georges Kern: “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.”
Available in four sizes (46, 44, 42, and 36 mm), the collection’s colorful dial options are paired with three different case metals, steel, steel-gold, and – a first at Breitling – bronze. According to the brand, the special alloy used in the 44-mm (Ref. N173752201L1S1) and 42-mm (Ref. N17376201Q1S1) bronze versions “has an excellent resistance to corrosion but will still develop a subtle patina over time that makes the watch even more unique.” The two strap options (a sporty rubber strap and a new three-row metal bracelet which is adding $200 more to the price tag) come with a folding clasp that allows for micro-adjustments of up to 15 mm.
All 16 dial versions are water-resistant to 300m (1,000ft) and equipped with ceramic inlays for the bezel, the two 46-mm versions (blue or black dial) still come with the brand’s patented bezel lock at 9 o’clock. Movement is the COSC-certified automatic Caliber 17 (Sellita SW 200) with 38-hour power reserve when fully wound.
Prices start at $4,600 (36-mm with rubber strap), the two bronze versions retail for $5,200 (42mm with green dial) and $5,300 (44mm with brown dial), the two-tone 42-mm Superocean (Ref. U17375211B1S1) currently represents the most expensive execution with a retail price of $6,700. The “Kelly Slater” limited edition (Ref. A173751A1O1S1) with orange dial is limited to 1,000 pieces and retails for $4,900, all other versions are unlimited.