Favre Leuba Deep Blue Revival

In the grand tapestry of horological history, few names resonate as deeply as Favre Leuba. Founded in 1737, this Swiss watchmaker has consistently pushed the boundaries of innovation, crafting timepieces that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The brand's legacy is intertwined with the spirit of exploration, and their dive watches, in particular, have earned a special place in the hearts of collectors and enthusiasts. As Favre Leuba celebrates the 60th anniversary of their iconic Deep Blue model, they've unveiled the Deep Blue Revival, a timepiece that pays homage to its predecessor while embracing the advancements of modern watchmaking.

Before we delve into the specifics of the Deep Blue Revival, it's worth taking a moment to appreciate Favre Leuba's rich history. The brand's journey began in the picturesque Jura mountains of Switzerland, where Abraham Favre established a workshop that would eventually become a powerhouse in the watchmaking world. Over the centuries, Favre Leuba has been responsible for numerous groundbreaking achievements. They were pioneers in the development of high-altitude and deep-sea diving watches, creating timepieces that could withstand the most extreme conditions. The Bivouac, launched in 1962, was the world's first mechanical wristwatch with an aneroid barometer, capable of measuring altitudes up to 3,000 meters. The Bathy, introduced in 1968, was the first mechanical watch to measure diving depths up to 200 meters. These innovations cemented Favre Leuba's reputation as a brand that pushed the limits of what was possible in watchmaking.



The original Deep Blue, launched in 1964, was a testament to Favre Leuba's commitment to creating robust and reliable dive watches. It was a timepiece designed for professionals, capable of withstanding the immense pressures of the deep sea. The watch's distinctive design, with its bold markers and rotating bezel, quickly became synonymous with underwater exploration. Now, six decades later, Favre Leuba has reintroduced this iconic model as the Deep Blue Revival. This reissue stays true to the original's design principles while incorporating modern materials and technology.

The Deep Blue Revival is a watch that exudes vintage charm while remaining firmly rooted in the present. The sunray-finished gray dial, adorned with baton-shaped indexes, is a direct nod to the original design. The iconic round date window at 4:30, with its polished and glossy finish, further reinforces the connection to the past. The indexes and hands are filled with egg-shell colored Super-LumiNova®, a modern luminescent material that evokes the radium used in vintage watches. This subtle detail not only enhances legibility in low-light conditions but also adds a touch of retro appeal. The distinctive green glow of the Super-LumiNova® is a unique feature that sets the Deep Blue Revival apart from its contemporaries.



The Deep Blue Revival's case, measuring 39mm in diameter and 12.75mm in thickness, strikes a balance between robustness and wearability. It's crafted from 316L stainless steel, a material known for its durability and corrosion resistance. The case is designed to withstand water pressure up to a depth of 300 meters, surpassing the 200-meter rating of the original Deep Blue. The unidirectional rotating bezel, a crucial feature for divers, allows for precise calculation and monitoring of no-stop dive times. The solid case back, engraved with the 'Favre Leuba 1737' and hourglass emblem, is a subtle reminder of the brand's heritage.

At the heart of the Deep Blue Revival beats the La Joux-Perret G100 automatic movement. This Swiss-made caliber is renowned for its reliability and precision. It offers a power reserve of 68 hours, ensuring that the watch will keep ticking even after being left unworn for a few days. The movement's functions include hours, minutes, central seconds, and date, all displayed with exceptional clarity on the dial.



While the Deep Blue Revival pays homage to its predecessor, it also embraces the advancements of modern watchmaking. The original model featured an acrylic crystal, which has been replaced with a sapphire crystal in the reissue. Sapphire is known for its exceptional scratch resistance, ensuring that the watch's dial remains pristine for years to come. The bezel, originally made of bakelite, now features a sapphire insert printed on the back. This preserves the visual effect of depth while offering superior durability. The luminous triangle at 12 o'clock and the white printed scale on the bezel remain key identifying features, further connecting the Deep Blue Revival to its heritage.

Let your gaze linger on the sunray-finished gray dial, a subtle yet captivating backdrop for the watch's intricate details. The baton-shaped indexes, meticulously applied, catch the light with every flick of the wrist. The round date window at 4:30, framed by a polished bezel, adds a touch of refinement. And then there are the hands, their polished surfaces reflecting the world around you. These elements, seemingly simple in isolation, come together to create a harmonious whole that's greater than the sum of its parts.

As day gives way to night, the Deep Blue Revival reveals another dimension of its beauty. The egg-shell colored Super-LumiNova®, filling the indexes and hands, emits a mesmerizing green glow. It's a reminder of the watch's connection to its vintage predecessors, a nod to the radium-filled dials of yesteryear. But this isn't just about nostalgia; it's about functionality. In the depths of the ocean, or simply in a dimly lit room, the Deep Blue Revival ensures that time is always at your fingertips.



Run your fingers along the unidirectional rotating bezel, its sapphire insert cool to the touch. The white printed scale, reminiscent of the original Deep Blue, invites you to explore the underwater world. The luminous triangle at 12 o'clock, a beacon in the darkness, adds a touch of adventure. This bezel isn't just for show; it's a tool, a testament to the watch's diving heritage.

Beneath the sapphire crystal lies the La Joux-Perret G100 automatic movement, a marvel of Swiss engineering. Its 24 jewels and 28,800 vibrations per hour ensure precise timekeeping, while the 68-hour power reserve means you can take the watch off for the weekend and still find it ticking come Monday morning. This movement isn't just about functionality; it's a work of art, its intricate details visible through the exhibition case back.

The integrated five-link steel bracelet, with its polished finish, complements the watch's refined aesthetic. The triangular links, a signature element of the original Deep Blue, add a touch of visual interest. The butterfly clasp, engraved with the Favre Leuba logo, ensures a secure and comfortable fit. This bracelet isn't just an accessory; it's an integral part of the watch's design, a seamless extension of its personality.



At CHF 2,250, the Deep Blue Revival offers exceptional value for a watch of this caliber. It's a timepiece that seamlessly blends heritage and innovation, offering a level of craftsmanship and attention to detail that's rare to find at this price point. Whether you're a seasoned collector or simply someone who appreciates fine watchmaking, the Deep Blue Revival is a worthy addition to any collection.

While the technical specifications of the Deep Blue Revival are impressive, they only tell part of the story. This watch is about more than just numbers and features; it's about the emotions it evokes, the memories it creates. It's a watch that inspires you to explore, to push your boundaries, to embrace the spirit of adventure. It's a watch that connects you to a legacy of innovation, a reminder that time is precious and should be cherished.