Vintage 1960s Diving Watches Collection

amanico · 2024-11-12T16:01:21Z

Explore amanico's stunning collection of 1960s vintage diving watches, featuring iconic models from Omega, JLC, Rolex, and more. Discover the era's horological evolution.

amanico

WPS member · Horological Meandering forum

52 replies12341 views0 photos

amanico, a revered collector, shares his passion for vintage diving watches from the 1960s, building on a previous exploration of 1950s models. His curated selection highlights the era's significant expansion in dive watch manufacturing and the emergence of iconic references from both established and new brands. This article offers a unique glimpse into the historical evolution of these robust timepieces, many of which served in military capacities.

Maybe you remember a previous thread posted some years ago.

I posted a picture of what are, to me, among the nicest and the most important Diving watches from the 50ies:

Now, let's go to the 60ies...

There were much more brands involved in Diving watches, as more people were more interested, too.

Some brands are still the same actors, like Omega, JLC, Rolex, Blancpain, while some other appeared, like Universal Genève, Longines, Favre Leuba, IWC, DROZ, Bulova, and so on...

Here is a family picture of my Vintage Diving watches from the 60ies.

You will notice that some are missing, as I'm still hunting them, like the IWC Ref 812, or the Droz Supercompressor, for example.

But that is an encouraging beginning.

From Left To Right:

Longines Diver, Universal Genève Polerouter Sub, JLC Polaris 68, Omega Seamaster 300, FF Tornek Rayville and FF Milspec Pakistani Army, Lecoultre Chrono Shark, JLC Master Mariner Deep Sea, and Rolex 5513 M.N.

Some of them were used by several Armies: the FFs, for sure, but also the 5513 ( British Royal Navy / Marine Nationale ), the Omega SM 300 ( British SAS, noth the one picutred, to be clear

, The DROZ ( R.A.N ) etc...

Which is also interesting to see and to know is that there were several cases which were used by different brands.

For example, on the picture you will see that the Super Compressor Cases were shared by Longines, U.G, JLC, but also by Droz, IWC, Bulova, Hamilton and so on...

Some models knew an evolution, like the Seamaster 300, for instance, which received a bigger case ( 42 mm ), or the Rolex 5513, bigger and which received the famous crownguards.

In my opinion, the Sixties were the golden age of the Vintage Diving watches, as the 50ies can be considered as the birth ( Panerai excepted, as they were released in the mid 30ies ), and the 70ies announced the end of the mechanical watches supremacy, with the arrival of the more precise Quartz.

Any favourite among them, or which doesn't feature on the picture?

Best to All,

Nicolas

About the Omega Ref. Seamaster300

The Seamaster 300 reference is a re-edition that draws inspiration from Omega's historical dive watches. It is characterized by its robust construction and design elements that pay homage to early professional timepieces, while incorporating modern watchmaking advancements. This reference is positioned as a contemporary interpretation for enthusiasts who appreciate vintage aesthetics combined with current performance standards.

This particular Seamaster 300 features a stainless steel case, typically measuring 41 mm in diameter. It is equipped with an automatic movement, often a Master Co-Axial caliber, providing a substantial power reserve. The watch is fitted with a domed sapphire crystal, contributing to its vintage appearance while offering enhanced scratch resistance. Its construction ensures a high degree of water resistance suitable for aquatic activities.

For collectors, this reference appeals to those seeking a blend of historical design and modern technical specifications. It represents Omega's commitment to its heritage while offering a reliable and well-engineered timepiece. The Seamaster 300 is a significant part of the brand's contemporary collection, offering a distinct alternative to other models within the Seamaster family.

Specifications

Caliber: Omega 8400

Case: Stainless steel

Diameter: 41 mm

Dial: Black

Water Resist.: 300m

Crystal: Domed sapphire

Key Points from the Discussion

The 1950s dive watches are often considered more attractive in terms of design compared to their 1960s counterparts, despite the latter decade seeing a greater variety of brands.
The Zodiac Sea Wolf, a prominent vintage dive watch, has recently been subject to historical scrutiny, with some claims about its origins and early history being debunked.
The collector's focus on a specific niche, such as 1960s dive watches, is inspiring and demonstrates the depth of knowledge gained through dedicated collecting.
Many vintage dive watches, including the Fifty Fathoms and Tudor Submariner 7928, are highly sought after by collectors, with some regretting letting go of their own examples.
The collection is a 'dream' for dive watch enthusiasts, with anticipation for future additions like a Tudor Snowflake.
The question arises whether some 1970s 'chunky' dive watches were truly serious diving instruments or primarily fashion statements, unlike the more utilitarian 1960s models.

The Discussion

sutats

Jul 2, 2015

Outstanding collection.

fernando

Jul 2, 2015

as my wife would say. :) What a seriously awesome collection of 60s dive watches! I wouldn't know where to begin to pick a favourite, so your idea to collect them all is the best. :) Thanks for an eye-popping moment Nicolas. ;) cheers fernando

edwardwchang

Jul 2, 2015

as indiana jones would say this dive watch collection, "belongs in a museum" congrats on advancing from collector to curator :)

Tony C.

Jul 3, 2015

but I'd add Eberhard to the list of the best of the late '50s and '60s. Cheers, Tony C.

SteveW

Jul 3, 2015

...Or are they from the 1970s? I was never sure whether they were serious diving watches or just chunky jewellery (as Rolexes are for most of us desk divers). At least they should be available at a reasonable price.

Tyo

Jul 3, 2015

You GuyS inspire me, choose something and stay focused* on it in order to get the max of it and being thoroughly involved in the subject. Do not do anything without passion. Congrats * ok ok Nicolas is focused on many subjects I can't deny :)

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About the Omega Ref. Seamaster300

Specifications

Key Points from the Discussion

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