Squale Watches A Legacy of Craftsmanship & Underwater Excellence

Ready to embark on a thrilling underwater adventure? Buckle up, because we're about to dive headfirst into the world of Squale watches – a brand that embodies the spirit of the fearless explorer and the elegance of vintage charm. With a lineage steeped in diving history, Squale timepieces are legendary amongst those who yearn for the thrill of the deep.

Imagine yourself in the picturesque watchmaking hub of Neuchâtel, Switzerland, in the year 1959 – the dawn of a horological revolution! Charles von Büren, an avid diver and passionate watch enthusiast, had a bold vision. He dreamed of creating timepieces that could withstand the immense pressures of the deep oceans, becoming indispensable tools for professional divers and adventurers alike. And thus, the Squale brand was born.



The name Squale is derived from the Italian word for "shark," a fitting symbol for a company that would produce timepieces designed to conquer the underwater realm. Why sharks, you ask? Well, these magnificent creatures represent power, resilience, and an unwavering ability to navigate the depths – qualities that Charles von Büren wanted to instill in his watches.

From the very beginning, Squale established a reputation for uncompromising craftsmanship and meticulous attention to detail. The brand embraced the finest Swiss-made movements, ensuring both precision and reliability in the most demanding conditions. Each Squale watch was carefully assembled by hand, a testament to the brand's unwavering commitment to quality.

Squale's engineers pushed the boundaries of watchmaking innovation. They understood that underwater legibility was paramount, leading them to experiment with large, luminous hands and markers. Their case designs focused on functionality, combining robust construction with practical features like unidirectional rotating bezels, essential for tracking dive times.



Squale's commitment to producing purpose-built diving watches led them to develop one of their most iconic cases – the "von Büren" case. This distinctive design featured a unique, angular profile that quickly became synonymous with the brand. Its robust construction and water resistance capabilities made it a favorite amongst professional divers.

The "von Büren" case also possessed a certain vintage charm that continues to captivate collectors today. It's a visual reminder of the brand's rich heritage and its enduring commitment to creating watches that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The case's popularity also spawned another memorable moniker for Squale–"the case makers" – reflecting their expertise in this essential element of watchmaking.

As word of Squale's exceptional timepieces spread throughout the diving community, the brand began supplying dive watches to elite military units and professional diving companies around the world. These organizations demanded the utmost reliability, and Squale delivered time and time again. Their watches proved their mettle in the harshest environments, earning a reputation for being virtually indestructible.

Squale's reputation for quality extended beyond just the watchmaking world. The brand's distinctive "shark" logo adorned dive gear and underwater equipment, making it a ubiquitous symbol of those who explored the ocean's depths. Squale wasn't just crafting watches – they were building a legacy of fearless exploration.



The 1960s and '70s saw Squale become an integral part of the diving scene, not only for their technical prowess but also for their bold and vibrant designs. These weren't just diving tools; they were fashion statements. Squale watches flaunted bright orange dials, eye-catching bezels, and a variety of strap options that allowed divers to express their unique style even under the waves. This was a testament to the fact that Squale understood that their watches were as much about personal expression as they were about functionality.

During this era of fearless exploration, Squale gained a global following. Renowned figures in the world of diving, like Enzo Maiorca and Jacques Mayol, relied on Squale timepieces as they set breathtaking free-diving records. These underwater legends pushed the boundaries of human endurance, and Squale watches faithfully accompanied them on every descent and ascent.

Squale's involvement with free-diving champions solidified the brand's place in diving history. It demonstrated that their watches weren't just fashion accessories. They were essential tools for those who tested the limits of human capability.

Squale also forged partnerships with leading dive watch retailers across the globe, ensuring their timepieces reached the wrists of adventurers everywhere. They understood the importance of a strong network, recognizing that collaboration was crucial for expanding their reach within the diving world. By partnering with reputable retailers, Squale ensured that their watches weren't just desirable but accessible to the people who needed them most.

As decades passed, Squale continued their tireless pursuit of underwater excellence, introducing iconic watch lines that carved their names into horological history. Let's explore some of these legendary collections:



The legendary Squale Master collection epitomizes the brand's unwavering dedication to both form and function. This line of professional dive watches boasts an exceptional 1200-meter water resistance rating, making them suitable for even the most extreme deep-sea expeditions. The Master's robust stainless steel cases, often with striking polished finishes, house reliable Swiss automatic movements, promising unwavering precision in the depths.

The Master collection exudes an air of refinement, making it equally at home on dry land as it is underwater. Its classic dive watch aesthetic features clean lines, bold markers, and a unidirectional bezel for timing those precious minutes submerged. With various strap options and dial colors, the Squale Master offers versatility, allowing wearers to customize the look to match their individual preferences – a testament to the brand's recognition that not all explorers are created equal.

The Squale 1521, with its unmistakable "von Büren" case, is a modern classic that pays homage to the brand's rich past. This quintessential dive watch boasts a 500-meter water resistance, making it a reliable companion for underwater endeavors. The 1521's unique case shape, with its distinctive crown guard, instantly sets it apart from other dive watches.

However, the 1521 isn't just about utility. Its visual appeal lies in its subtle vintage charm. Super-LumiNova markers, often with a warm patina-esque tone, evoke a sense of nostalgia without sacrificing legibility. Squale offers the 1521 in a captivating array of dial colors and bezel combinations, giving watch enthusiasts ample opportunity to express their unique style and add a splash of personality to their wrist.



Looking for a blend of dress-watch elegance and true diving capabilities? The Squale Matic answers the call. This exceptional collection offers watches with water resistance up to an impressive 600 meters, proving that adventurous spirit needn't sacrifice refinement.

The Matic stands out with its sleek, beautifully contoured cases and sophisticated dials. Whether you prefer a vibrant burst of color, a classic tone, or even a mother-of-pearl dial, there's a Matic that speaks to your individual aesthetic. This collection seamlessly bridges the gap between boardroom and beach, proving that Squale understands the multifaceted life of a modern adventurer.

The Squale Sub-39 collection is a contemporary reimagining of the brand's iconic dive watches. Featuring a more compact 39mm case diameter, it offers exceptional comfort and wearability, particularly for those with smaller wrists, without sacrificing any of that essential Squale DNA. The Sub-39 line offers a 300-meter water resistance rating, more than enough for most of us who enjoy recreational dives.

What truly sets the Sub-39 apart is the sheer variety of vibrant colors and playful designs it offers. From classic shades to eye-catching limited editions, like their stunning GMT versions with bold 24-hour bezels, there's a Sub-39 to suit every taste. This collection reaffirms Squale's commitment to making dive watches fun, accessible, and expressive, proving they haven't forgotten how to add a dash of color to those underwater explorations.



Throughout their storied history, Squale has also embraced collaborations, creating limited-edition watches that blend their expertise with the unique perspectives of other brands and notable figures in the watch world. These partnerships have given birth to some truly extraordinary timepieces. Squale's recent collaboration with the legendary Gnomon Watches, known for their taste for the exquisite, is a prime example. They've created exclusive, modern interpretations of beloved Squale classics, featuring exciting color combinations and distinct design elements.

Collaborations like these not only expand Squale's reach but also demonstrate their willingness to experiment and continuously push boundaries. They show the brand is not afraid to think outside the box, to work with new people, and to infuse their collections with fresh energy and ideas. These special editions underscore the enduring appeal of the Squale name, proving it extends far beyond its own circle of devout fans and into the wider watch enthusiast community.

As with any great adventure, our journey through the world of Squale watches must now come to a close... but the spirit of exploration lives on! Squale isn't just a watch brand; it's a symbol of a particular mindset – a mindset that embraces the unknown, that revels in challenges, and that sees beauty in the world's untamed corners.



Squale stands out even within the realm of independent watchmaking. The brand's history is intertwined with the Maggi family, who took ownership in the 1970s and shepherded it through pivotal eras. This sense of family extends to Squale enthusiasts worldwide, who connect through their love for these robust and stylish dive watches. The brand fosters a strong sense of community, celebrating the adventures and milestones of its loyal fans.

This welcoming atmosphere is what makes Squale truly special. It's a brand that's embraced by everyone from seasoned collectors to those venturing on their first wristwatch purchase. Whether you're drawn to the timeless appeal of their classic collections or the playful vibrancy of their modern releases, there's a Squale watch calling your name. There's just something inherently approachable and fun-loving about the Squale spirit.



In recent years, Squale has experienced a revitalization, attracting a new generation of watch lovers while remaining steadfastly loyal to its foundational principles. They continue to innovate, introducing exciting new materials like titanium and ceramic, proving that Squale is a brand with its eyes firmly set on the future.

At the same time, Squale's unwavering commitment to its heritage is as evident as ever. That distinctive "von Büren" case remains a signature element, ensuring that even its newest watches carry echoes of those legendary early models. Limited-edition releases and collaborations pay homage to historical milestones, honoring Squale's past while ensuring that the brand stays relevant and captivating.



Squale has mastered the art of balancing innovation and tradition. It's a testament to the brand's deep understanding of its core identity. They've realized that progress doesn't necessitate abandoning the past, but rather respecting it and building upon it, creating a harmonious blend of old and new.

In an increasingly homogenized watch market, Squale stands out as a beacon of individuality and authenticity. From its early days crafting watches for fearless divers to its modern-day collaborations and diverse range of collections, the brand has always followed its own path. Their watches don't just tell time; they tell stories – stories of deep-sea exploration, of personal achievements, and of journeys both literal and emotional.



When you strap a Squale on your wrist, you're not just wearing a watch. You're joining a legacy, becoming a part of a community of passionate enthusiasts who share your love for adventure. Whether you're diving the Great Barrier Reef, ascending a mountain summit, or simply navigating the hustle and bustle of your daily life, a Squale watch embodies a relentless desire to explore, to push boundaries, and to live life to the absolute fullest.

So, as your Squale watch faithfully accompanies you on your expeditions, big and small, remember to embrace uncertainty, seek out challenges, and never stop exploring the world around you – as well as the uncharted territories within yourself. Because that's the true essence of the Squale spirit – a spirit that's as timeless and unstoppable as the ocean tides themselves.