Introduction
Aquastar has a rich history in the world of dive watches, and their latest release, the Aquastar Benthos Heritage II, is a tribute to a conceptual design from the late 1960s. This new limited-edition timepiece is a fusion of vintage aesthetics and modern technology, making it an exciting addition to the Benthos collection.
The Legacy of Aquastar Benthos The Original Benthos 500: A Game Changer
In 1970, Aquastar introduced the Benthos 500, the world’s first commercially available dive watch with a 500m depth rating. It featured a unique underwater chronograph with a central-minutes counter, revolutionizing dive watch design.
The Revival of a Classic
Following the relaunch of Aquastar in 2020, the Benthos 500 was reimagined as the Benthos 500 Founder’s Edition with a special movement developed in collaboration with La Joux-Perret. This was followed by the Aquastar Benthos Heritage I in 2023, a slimmer, three-hand version of the iconic model.
Introducing the Benthos Heritage II Inspired by a 1968 Concept
The Aquastar Benthos Heritage II is based on a conceptual drawing from 1968, maintaining the signature look of the Benthos 500 but in a more compact size.
Refined Case Design
- 40mm brushed stainless steel tonneau case
- Slim profile at just 12mm thick
- Helium escape valve at 4 o’clock
- Water resistance of 200m
- Gloss black dial with applied indices
- Printed minute track in white
- Baton handset with an orange seconds hand
- High-density Super-LumiNova for superior legibility
- 120-click unidirectional rotating bezel
- Black ceramic elapsed-time insert
- Triple AR-coated flat sapphire crystal
- Screw-down crowns at 2 and 4 o’clock
- Ribbed texture for easy grip, even with gloves
- Powered by Sellita SW200-1 Elaboré-grade Swiss automatic movement
- Reliable and precise with 28,800 vibrations per hour (4 Hz)
- 38-hour power reserve
Dial and Hands: A Nod to the Past Bezel and Crystal: Built for Performance Crown Design: Enhanced Functionality Movement and Performance Strap and Bracelet Options
Buyers can choose between:
- 20mm ISOfrane/Tropic rubber dive strap (lightweight and durable)
- Stainless steel beads-of-rice bracelet with integrated end links (vintage-inspired and comfortable)
- Limited to 500 pieces
- Special pre-order pricing:
Limited Edition and Pricing
○ $1,190 with rubber strap
○ $1,290 with steel bracelet
- Retail price after February 28th, 2025: $1,490
- First batch (150 pieces): Ships May 2025
- Second batch: Ships June 2025
- Perfect blend of history and modern technology
- Exceptional Swiss craftsmanship
- Competitive pricing for a high-spec dive watch
Shipping and Availability Why the Benthos Heritage II is a Must-Have Conclusion
The Aquastar Benthos Heritage II is a worthy addition to the legendary Benthos lineup. With its vintage design cues, modern features, and limited-edition exclusivity, it offers outstanding value for divers and collectors alike. If you’re looking for a classic yet contemporary dive watch, the Heritage II is hard to beat.
FAQs
1. How does the Benthos Heritage II compare to the original Benthos 500?
The Heritage II is smaller, at 40mm compared to the original 43mm Benthos 500. It also has a lower water resistance (200m vs. 500m) but retains key design elements.
2. What movement powers the Benthos Heritage II?
It is powered by the Sellita SW200-1 Elaboré-grade Swiss automatic movement, known for its reliability and precision.
3. Is the bezel fully lumed?
Yes, the ceramic bezel insert is coated with Super-LumiNova, making it highly visible in low-light conditions.
4. What are the strap options?
Buyers can choose between a rubber ISOfrane/Tropic strap or a stainless steel beads-of-rice bracelet.
5. When will the Benthos Heritage II be available?
The first batch of 150 pieces ships in May 2025, followed by a second batch in June 2025.
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Media Contact
Company Name: Aquastar
Contact Person: David
Email: Send Email
City: New York
Country: United States
Website: https://aquastar.ch/
