As recreational scuba diving became more and more popular as a hobby in the 1950s, Breitling devised a timepiece specifically crafted for divers: the Super-Ocean.

A Breitling advertisement from the late 1950s states: “Breitling had the honor of supplying 25 of the world’s leading airlines and aircraft companies. From now on, Breitling offers you the same vital precision under the sea: the new Super Ocean 20 atmos (600 feet) was specially created by Breitling for deep sea exploration and to cater for the fast growing popularity of underwater sports.”

While the popularity of this model is arguably less than that of its contemporary peers (such as the Rolex Submariner or the Blancpain 50 Fathoms), the Super-Ocean represents a hidden gem in the panorama of early diver’s wristwatch. Produced in very scarce numbers, its rarity matches the superlative looks of the piece.

The watch is dominated by the large concave revolving bezel - a “must” feature of most if not all diver’s wristwatch models - but the dial as well is a masterpiece of industrial design: the large dagger luminous numerals are eminently readable in all conditions, and the addition of applied metal numerals cutting through round luminous markers at 3, 6, 9 and 12 add enormous flair and character.

Finding a Super-Ocean in such superb condition as the present model is truly an outstandingly rare occurrence which makes the present lot a true hidden gem for the savvy collector of rare vintage timepieces.