The Superocean Heritage is back – sharper, sleeker and ready for a season of sun and surf. Breitling’s most elegant dive watch has been refined in all the right ways, striking the perfect balance between vintage style and airy modern sophistication. Every detail has been refined, from the size range to the addition of the new B31 manufacture movement. With this new design, Breitling is also launching a limited edition co-designed by surfing legend Kelly Slater, as well as a sunglasses collection in collaboration with Cutler and Gross – all made to transition effortlessly from the waves to the beach. The Superocean Heritage is no ordinary dive watch – and it never was. When Breitling first launched it in 1957, it took a different tack than other dive watches of the era. The Ref. 1004 (a sleek, timeless piece) and Ref. 807 (the world’s first dedicated diving chronograph) wasn’t just about exploring the underwater world – it was also important to look good. The spear-and-arrow hands, anodized rotating bezel, and naturally slim proportions made it a favorite of stylish adventurers who lived for the sea and the lifestyle. Today, that philosophy is still at the heart of the Superocean Heritage. It has the soul of the 1950s, but it’s designed for today. Georges Kern, CEO of Breitling, sums it up: “The Superocean Heritage is our most elegant diving watch, and this update is all about refinement. Every detail has been perfected, but the character remains the same. It’s all about style at sea.” This refresh takes everything that made the Superocean Heritage stand out and makes it even sharper. The collection includes a 42mm chronograph powered by the Breitling Manufacture Caliber 01, the brand’s flagship movement. The automatic models, in 44mm, 42mm and 40mm, introduce the B31 movement, Breitling’s first three-hand, exclusive Manufacture caliber, newly launched in March. A 36mm version houses the automatic Caliber 10. The collection’s color palette is streamlined to a core of black, blue and green, combined with a matching ceramic-inlaid bezel for enhanced scratch resistance, ensuring the watch will look as good as new for years to come. Thinner, more integrated mesh metal and mesh rubber straps ensure a watertight fit against the case, complete with folding clasps for a seamless finish. Other refinements enhance symmetry and proportions. Tonal subdials and a subtle date window at six o’clock create a balanced composition, while distinct hands – an arrow for hours, a spear for minutes – and pointed numerals retain the at-a-glance readability that made the mid-century original essential for divers. Select models introduce responsibly sourced 18-karat red gold on the outer bezels, adding sparkle while maintaining the collection’s sleek aesthetic. The versatile lineup also includes new 36 and 40 mm sizes, designed for those who prefer a smaller diameter that fits a wide variety of wrists. The launch campaign brings the spirit of the new Superocean Heritage to life in color – inspired by the sights, sounds and surf culture of Hawaii. The modern-retro flair draws on the lush foliage, intense colors and sun-drenched energy of the Aloha Islands. |