AQUADIVE Bathysphere 300 MODEL 51 [high-end caliber + depth of design]

By TLex Marking the 40th anniversary of the release of the original Aquadive Model 50, The new Aquadive Bathysphere 300 Model 51 is first watch in Aquadive's 'Classic Reissue Haute Horology' line. It is a high-end modern update of the classic Time-Depth Model 50 that has been produced with the exact same case as the original model only this time around it is powered by a highly refined Manufacture movement.



The Model 51 boasts a 13.25 line Swiss Manufacture movement with 5 day power reserve and twin barrel construction with 35 jewels beating at 28800 Bph. Aquadive haven't said who produced the movement for them, but I'm sure the movement geeks among you shouldn't have too much difficulty recognizing some of its more obvious characteristics. It can be found in many watches that retail for well over 6000USD.



"This limited production Model was developed for collectors, purists and aficionados who love the style of the original iconic 1973 watch and desire a showpiece movement to accompany their investment, "says Martin Beck, CEO of Aquadive watches.



With a design and function that was so advanced of its time (1973) the Model 50 was patented under US Patent No.3377860. Designed to be a professional dive watch from its crystal to its caseback, it incorporated the industry's first mechanical depth gauge requiring a 47mm case to accommodate the oil-filled depth gauge mechanism along with its electronic movement.

The watch was even approved and endorsed aquanaut / astronaut, Scott Carpenter, who featured in early advertising programs. The Model 50 fast became a favorite amongst the diving elite at a time when modern advanced dive computers were still decades away!



The Model 51 utilizes the same case as the original. It is machined and forged in Germany out of a 60mm solid steel disc cut from a 316L surgical grade 3 meter rod. Each Case is then polished and brushed by hand in Germany. The remaining components including the dial, hands and crystal are all made in Switzerland. With great attention to detail, parts like the retaining ring, the bezel ratchet mechanism have all been CNC machined from solid Stainless steel or bronze.



"Aquadive has a long and important reputation in the international diving community, significant for the development of many historic models. The Model 51 is the first in our series of classic updates with the goal of providing discriminating consumers with a true heritage Swiss watch that exceeds its original reputation" adds Beck.



The original Model 50 is highly regarded collector's item. Some models like the ones produced for the US Navy SEALs command nearly 2000USD on the collector’s market. The new Aquadive Classic Reissue line will make watches like it available, with highly updated and desirable movements typically found in prestigious high-end watch brands.

The Model 51 is a fantastic high-end debut model. Whilst it is unquestionably a sophisticated luxury timepieces it is still a consummate diving tool; sporty and functional. I particularly like the proud red '5 days' logo on the dial. The combination of classic styling with modern mechanical movements once again has Aquadive creating the collectibles of the future. Can't wait to see more!