Doxa’s Black and Yellow Forged Carbon Sub 300 is Unlike Any Other Doxa

Doxa is a brand whose watches can produce an almost visceral reaction among aficionados. Much digital ink has been spilled extolling the virtues and pitfalls of the iconic Sub 300 series, with its unique shape and somewhat off kilter proportions, and who could forget the veritable uproar over the solid gold Sub 200 T.  Graph released at Basel a year ago? Even the recent release of the comparatively very normal Sub 200 has drawn strong reactions from watch lovers, both positive and negative. Something about the brand brings out nothing but the hottest takes. And that’s not likely to change with Doxa’s latest release, a Sub 300 Aqua Lung in forged carbon. It’s quite a thing, let’s take a look.

Doxa Sub 300 Aqua Lung US Divers 

• Case Material: Forged carbon/titanium
• Dial: Black
• Dimensions: 42.5 x 13.4 x 45mm 
• Crystal: Sapphire       
• Water Resistance: 300 meters  
• Crown: Screw down                    
• Movement: ETA 2824-2
• Strap/bracelet: Rubber 
• Price: $4,790
• Reference Number: n/a
• Expected Release: Available for pre-order now, delivery in August 

The Sub 300, of course, is the iconic diver in the Doxa collection, and what most casual observers probably think of first when Doxa comes up. It’s a curious watch with a whole lot of charm that doesn’t really resemble anything else on the market, whether we’re talking vintage or the contemporary reissue. The general shape of the cushion style case isn’t too unique, of course, but that small dial (often in bright orange) and unusual no-deco bezel give this watch a look all its own, calling to mind a tool you’d pick up at a dive shop more than a piece of jewelry you’d pick out from well lit vitrine. 

What we have here is the Sub 300 Aqua Lung US Divers, with Aqua Lung branding on the dial (a partnership that dates to the earliest days of both brands) and a forged carbon case and dial, all with a dark camo pattern and plenty of yellow highlights for contrast. It’s pretty striking, and is basically the antithesis of the charming vintage tool that we think of when it comes to Doxa dive watches. This is completely modern and downright aggressive in its styling, and I imagine that beyond brand diehards who collect everything that gets released (Doxa fans are known to be extremely enthusiastic and genuinely love these watches) this will appeal to a very different type of customer. 

Why forged carbon? Beyond the aesthetics, the material is a lightweight and strong alternative to stainless steel. Here, the carbon surrounds a titanium inner shell for maximum strength and rigidity. All of Doxa’s watches are extremely technical and capable of performing as required in real world dive situations, so this edition really does seem to come down to the unique look. Unlike Doxa’s steel lineup, the case of this Doxa 300 is completely matte, giving it an obvious tactical look. The bright yellow minute hand jumps out loudly from against the carbon dial. At 42.5mm with such an electric color scheme, this watch is likely to have a ton of wrist presence. 

The Sub 300 Aqua Lung US Divers is limited to 300 pieces, and carries a retail price of $4,790. It’s available for pre-order right now on Doxa’s website. Doxa