Latest Review
If there’s one drum I’m constantly banging in the watch enthusiast discourse, it’s that the Swatch MoonSwatch is probably among the least interesting watches made by the brand. I know, I know. They are a phenomenon. They have probably introduced untold numbers of new collectors to our hobby. And they are meant to be fun and I should just chill out. This is all incredibly valid. But as a somewhat older, somewhat more grizzled watch collector who fondly remembers a pre-MoonSwatch era, I’m very much of the opinion that Swatch remains on the vanguard of creativity, you just have to walk past that MoonSwatch display briefcase in the boutique.
This week saw the release of what I think is a great example of a watch that is more impressive in just about every way than a run of the mill MoonSwatch. The new SCUBAQUA Collection even uses the same Bioceramic material found in the MoonSwatch, but in a way that, to my eye, is more uniquely Swatch. Based on the classic Swatch Scuba collection, the new SCUBAQUA watches are a thoughtful update using new materials with enhanced specs and a more contemporary feel.
The new SCUBAQUA watches are all about color and transparency, achieving what the brand calls the “jelly effect,” a principle common to many similarly transparent and colorful Swatches over the years. Each watch combines Bioceramic in the solid color sections of the case with castor oil derived biosourced materials for the transparent components. The dials in each variant are transparent, which give you a great view of the inner workings of the quartz movement underneath.
Each case measures 44mm in diameter with a rotating bezel made from biosourced materials. The strap is also made from this biosourced material and integrated to the case. A total of five colors are available at launch: Lion’s Mane (red), Black Sea Nettle (black), Egg Yolk (yellow), Blue Fire (blue), and Aurelia Aurita (white). Reassuringly they are all water resistant to 100 meters, so while not “pro” divers by any means, these SCUBAQUA pieces can most certainly get wet during your own summer adventures.
To me, a watch like this is a reminder that Swatch continues to be filled with variety if you look past the Speedmaster homages that have been the focus of the brand over the past few years. Will the SCUBAQUA inspire the masses to rediscover the core of Swatch? Honestly, probably not. And that’s OK. These watches, as well as the Swatch Art watches, the What If? Watches, and more, will always be there for watch enthusiasts who are willing to look beyond the obvious, and that’s enough.
The new SCUBAQUA Collection is available now. The retail price is $150. Swatch
