The First Commercial Dive Watch

In 1953 Zodiac introduced the Sea Wolf as the world’s first purpose-built diver’s watch manufactured and sold commercially. It was the first diver’s watch with a rotating bezel, and released at the same time the Fifty Fathoms from Blancpain. Sea Wolf had slightly better depth ratings at 10 ATM (339 feet) than the Blancpain 50 fathoms (300 feet). The original Sea Wolf, and its successor, the 1970s Super Sea Wolf, are widely considered two of the most iconic commercial dive watches.

In 2001, Fossil Inc. acquired the worldwide rights to the Zodiac brand, and in 2015, reissued vintage inspired Sea Wolf and Super Sea Wolf.

Super Sea Wolf 53 Skin

Zodiac has added two new models to their Skin collection and based on the 1953 diver’s watches that solidified the company’s status. These models are equipped with the STP 3-13 movement that is manufactured by Zodiac’s sister company, Swiss Technology Production, under the umbrella of Fossil Group. STP movements can be found in many of the Zodiac models from the Astrographic to the Super Sea Wolf. While STP 3-13 movement has the similar base architecture as the ETA 2824-2, it does have some unique features including a swan neck regulator and a longer, thinner mainspring, that boosts the power reserve to 44 hours. These features are typically associated with a timepiece at a higher price point than what’s being offered here by Zodiac.

The first of the models mirrors the original 1953 version with 316L grade stainless steel case, but brings in a modern material update with a diamond-like carbon (DLC) bezel insert in a matte black color. This version has a black dial and a black rubber strap. The orange accents found on the bezel triangle, the seconds hand, and the Super Sea Wolf logo, add a splash of style breaking up the otherwise monochrome appearance.

The second model changes the material composition from the heritage models for a brushed case and a matching bracelet. The metal top ring insert is filled with black enamel for increased legibility. This model is a clean black and white aesthetic with a more modern aesthetic.

Super Sea Wolf 53 Compression

Two new models have also made their way to the Super Sea Wolf 53 Compression collection. The first brings a bit of shine with the polished finish of the ceramic bezel insert in stainless steel case. The black enamel dial and orange accents gives a modern and athletic finish and the polished 5-link bracelet adds some texture that dresses up the watch.

The second model is a more toned-down black on black that brings to mind the darkest depths of the ocean floor. The matte black coating is the diamond-like carbon (DLC) with a grainy texture and stamped bezel markers. The matte black of the dial and the black rubber strap complete the monochromatic colorway for a great diver’s tool watch.

An Attractive Value

The four new models make a comprehensive set with their black and steel color scheme and the use of the vanilla scented and Italian-made rubber straps or the polished bracelets to complete the vintage-inspired design. Each model is limited to 500 pieces and features numbered case backs. These are great options for the dive watch enthusiast, especially at an attractive $1,095 – $1,295 price tag with a Swiss mechanical movement.

Tech Sprecs

Super Sea Wolf 53 Ref: ZO9213

Case: 39.5 mm, stainless steel, 200 meters water resistance
Movement: STP 3-13 Automatic, swan neck regulator, 44 hours power reserve
Strap: Stainless steel bracelet
Availability: 500 Pieces
Price: USD 1,295

Super Sea Wolf 53 Ref: ZO9212

Case: 39.5 mm, stainless steel, 200 meters water resistance
Movement: STP 3-13 Automatic, swan neck regulator, 44 hours power reserve
Strap: Rubber strap
Availability: 500 Pieces
Price: USD 1,095

Super Sea Wolf 53 Compression Ref: ZO9289

Case: 40 mm, stainless steel DLC coated, 200 meters water resistance
Movement: STP 3-13 Automatic, swan neck regulator, 44 hours power reserve
Strap: Stainless steel bracelet
Availability: 500 Pieces
Price: USD 1,095

Super Sea Wolf 53 Compression Ref: ZO9288

Case: 40 mm, stainless steel, 200 meters water resistance
Movement: STP 3-13 Automatic, swan neck regulator, 44 hours power reserve
Strap: Stainless steel bracelet
Availability: 500 Pieces
Price: USD 1,295