In a world where dive watches often lean towards the oversized and the flashy, the Squale SUB-37 Legend stands out as a refreshing take on a classic. This timepiece is a testament to the brand's rich history and its commitment to the essence of professional dive instruments.
A Return to Roots
Squale, founded by Charles Von Büren in 1959, has an impressive legacy in the world of diving. The company's journey through the golden age of underwater exploration is now being celebrated with a modern twist. Last year's introduction of the Squale 2001 was a nod to the past, and now, the SUB-37 Legend continues this narrative.
Design: Compact and Functional
The SUB-37 Legend is a study in minimalism and practicality. Its 37mm stainless steel case, with a box-shaped sapphire crystal, exudes a vintage charm. The fluted screw-down crown and solid caseback ensure a water resistance of 300m, a testament to its diving heritage.
One of the standout features is the unidirectional bezel. With its clean, precise design and luminous markings, it's a tool first and foremost, a reminder of the watch's functional purpose. The bezel's simplicity and focus on real-world use are a welcome departure from some of the more complex designs seen today.
Dial: Legibility and Style
The dial is a masterclass in legibility. The matte black surface, with its carefully designed indices and Super-LumiNova Old Radium, ensures optimal visibility. The sword-shaped hands and lollipop seconds hand further enhance this readability, especially in low-light conditions.
What I find particularly intriguing is the vintage-toned lume, a subtle nod to mid-century instruments. It adds a layer of character and warmth to the watch, a nice contrast to the modern materials used. The no-date option maintains a clean, symmetrical layout, a design choice I appreciate for its simplicity.
Movement and Strap: Practicality Prevails
Inside the SUB-37 Legend beats a Sellita SW200-1 automatic movement, a reliable and pragmatic choice. With a power reserve of 38 hours, it aligns perfectly with the watch's tool-watch vocation. The movement's no-date configuration keeps the price competitive, a smart move by the brand.
The Bonetto-style vulcanized rubber strap, made in Italy, is a perfect companion to the watch. Its ladder construction enhances flexibility and comfort, a must-have for any dive watch.
Conclusion: A Timeless Companion
The Squale SUB-37 Legend is more than just a dive watch; it's a timeless piece of equipment. Its compact proportions, excellent legibility, and functional integrity make it a versatile companion for any adventure. With a price tag of EUR 1,650, it offers exceptional value for a watch with such a rich heritage and attention to detail.
In a market saturated with trend-driven designs, the SUB-37 Legend stands tall as a reminder of the essence of diving watches. It's a watch that invites you to explore, to dive deep, and to appreciate the beauty of simplicity and functionality. Personally, I think it's a masterpiece of understated design, and a must-have for any watch enthusiast.
