Breitling Superocean: The practical choice

Breitling Superocean Limited Edition with the abyss orange dial (orange flange) in a 42mm diameter steel case. Limited to 2,000 pieces. Viewed at the Watches of Switzerland shop in Paragon Shopping Centre, Singapore. Photo: © TANG Portfolio

Breitling Superocean Limited Edition with the abyss orange dial (orange flange) in a 42mm diameter steel case. Limited to 2,000 pieces. Viewed at the Watches of Switzerland shop in Paragon Shopping Centre, Singapore. Photo: © TANG Portfolio

When it comes to sports watches, especially for those into water-related activities, Breitling’s Superocean collection, launched in 2010, is one recommendation high on our list.

With water-resistance equivalent to pressure at the depth of 1,500 metres, a helium escape valve (at the 10 o’clock position), a robust automatic movement that is chronometer-certified (base ETA 2824 from what we understand) and a screw-locked crown, Breitling’s Superocean is a watch one can wear to the beach, on diving trips and it is also comfortably suited for daily wear.

Looks-wise, Breitling’s Superocean is both handsome and sporty what with its oversized hands and hour indexes. The collection is also reasonably-priced.

What is worth noting is that the Superocean was first launched in 1957 and it was designed with professional and military divers in mind. The modern Breitling Superocean retains its original flavour as a practical sports watch.

The colours of the dial flanges make up the variants in this collection and the regular collection pieces are in: abyss black, abyss silver, abyss blue, abyss red and abyss yellow.

A favourite colour from the Superocean collection is the dial with the abyss yellow flange. The knurled edges of the bezel allow for better handling with gloves when submerged. Photo: © TANG Portfolio

A favourite colour from the Superocean collection is the dial with the abyss yellow flange. The knurled edges of the bezel allow for better handling with gloves when submerged. Photo: © TANG Portfolio

There are versions with other colours on the flange; for example, there is the Breitling Superocean featuring a dial with an orange flange, a model limited to 2,000 pieces.

Interestingly, this limited edition with a rubber strap is less dear than the regular production versions with a steel bracelet; the difference being around US$230 / 170 euros / S$290.

Though the Breitling Superocean is housed in a 42mm diameter case, it looks much smaller, probably due to the size of the bezel, a smaller dial surface area and the oversized hour numerals.

What we do like is the high time-reading legibility, the colour options, the Superocean’s legacy and of course, the fact that it is from a reputable and reliable brand.