Squale 2001 Collection: the return of a myth
Squale brings back to its permanent collection a true icon of diving watchmaking, a model that made history in the 1960s and 1970s, accompanying the adventures of the great freedivers of the era. Today, this legendary timepiece returns for modern explorers, carrying its historical significance and timeless appeal.
From Limited Edition to Permanent Collection
In 2024, to celebrate the brand’s 65th anniversary, Squale introduced the Reference 2001 Heritage as a limited edition, a faithful reproduction of the original model. This watch became legendary thanks to Jacques-Yves Cousteau, who gifted it to Michel Laval, first officer of the Calypso research vessel, during the 1972 Antarctic expedition. Now, the Ref. 2001 officially enters the permanent collection, fulfilling the wishes of enthusiasts worldwide.
A Revolutionary Design That Set the Standard
In the 1960s, the asymmetric "barrel" case and innovative sapphire crystal – an absolute rarity at the time – made this model one of the most advanced in terms of water resistance. Worn by the great freedivers of the time, the 2001 remains distinguished today by its sleek and timeless lines, perfect for those who love the sea, sailing, and adventure.
Faithful to the Original with Modern Enhancements
The continuous production version stays true to the original design. The 316L stainless steel case with hidden lugs maintains perfect proportions: 43 mm in length, 13 mm in thickness (including the flat sapphire crystal), and an overall diameter of 40 mm. The integrated crown is positioned at 4 o’clock, while the bezel – now featuring a sapphire glass insert for enhanced durability – retains the sophisticated “push to release” safety mechanism, which allows unlocking only with perpendicular pressure.
A Dial and Performance at the Highest Level
The dial, with a date window at 3 o’clock, is framed by a white rehaut with contrasting minute markers. The polished steel indices are applied and coated with SuperLuminova C3, ensuring maximum readability even in extreme diving conditions. The iconic “Saphir” inscription at 6 o’clock also returns, marking the presence of the sapphire crystal, which protects the watch up to 600 meters (60 atmospheres) deep.
A Cutting-Edge Mechanical Heart
While the original model featured the ETA 2772 caliber (produced from 1969 to 1982) with a frequency of 21,600 A/h, the new Ref. 2001 Heritage is equipped with the more reliable and high-performance automatic Sellita SW 200-1 in the Elaboré version, operating at 28,800 A/h.
An Authentic Touch: The Iconic Bracelet
Completing the watch is a detail that will delight true connoisseurs: the 316L stainless steel bracelet with skeletonized links, a distinctive feature of the era that adds even more character to this extraordinary timepiece.
With the return of the Ref. 2001 Heritage, Squale keeps the spirit of exploration and watchmaking excellence alive, offering enthusiasts a piece of history ready to defy time and the depths of the sea.
