Aquastar has a rich history in dive watch innovation, and the Benthos line has been a staple for serious divers and collectors alike. With the release of the Aquastar Benthos Heritage II, the brand revisits a 1968 conceptual design, bringing it to life with modern enhancements while maintaining its vintage charm. This limited-edition timepiece is a testament to Aquastar’s commitment to both heritage and innovation.
A Look Back at Aquastar’s Legacy
Founded in the early 1960s, Aquastar has been a pioneer in underwater timekeeping. The Benthos 500, released in 1970, was a groundbreaking piece, becoming the first commercially available dive watch with a 500m depth rating. After the brand’s relaunch in 2020, Aquastar reintroduced this legendary design with modern upgrades. Following the successful Benthos 500 Founder’s Edition and the Benthos Heritage I, the Heritage II continues the evolution of the line.
The Inspiration Behind the Benthos Heritage II
The Benthos Heritage II is based on an early 1968 conceptual sketch, a precursor to the Benthos 500. The goal of this release was to create a timepiece that embodies the essence of the original design while incorporating contemporary technology and superior craftsmanship.
Case and Build Quality
The 40mm brushed stainless steel tonneau case is smaller than its predecessors, offering a more compact yet robust build. With a slim profile of 12mm thickness, the watch sits comfortably on the wrist. While slightly reducing its water resistance to 200m, the addition of a helium escape valve at 4 o’clock makes it suitable for saturation diving.
Dial and Display
Beneath the flat triple AR-coated sapphire crystal, the gloss black dial offers a timeless aesthetic. The applied indices, coupled with a finely printed outer minute track, ensure excellent readability. The Benthos signature baton handset is paired with an orange seconds hand, offering a pop of color and high legibility. With a liberal application of high-density Super-LumiNova, the watch glows bright green in low-light conditions.
Bezel and Crystal
The 120-click unidirectional bezel features a fully hashed black ceramic elapsed-time insert with Super-LumiNova lume, ensuring clarity and ease of use, even in deep waters. The precise action and satisfying “click” add to the watch’s premium feel.
Strap and Bracelet Options
The Benthos Heritage II provides versatility with two strap options:
- A durable ISOfrane/Tropic 20mm rubber dive strap
- A stylish yet functional stainless steel beads-of-rice bracelet with integrated endlinks
Movement and Performance
The Elaboré-grade Sellita SW200-1 Swiss-made automatic movement powers the Heritage II. Known for its accuracy and reliability, this movement ensures smooth operation with a 38-hour power reserve and high shock resistance.
Limited Edition and Pricing
With only 500 pieces available, the Benthos Heritage II is an exclusive offering. Special pre-order pricing includes:
- $1,190 (rubber strap version)
- $1,290 (steel bracelet version)
After February 28th, the retail price increases to $1,490. The first batch of 150 pieces ships in May 2025, followed by a second batch in June.
Why the Benthos Heritage II Stands Out
Few dive watches offer the blend of heritage, build quality, and affordability that the Benthos Heritage II does. With a 904L stainless steel construction, ceramic bezel insert, and helium escape valve, it competes with far more expensive Swiss dive watches while staying true to its roots.
Conclusion
The Aquastar Benthos Heritage II is a perfect blend of history and modern craftsmanship. Whether you’re a collector, a professional diver, or someone who appreciates fine Swiss watchmaking, this timepiece offers unmatched value. If you’re looking for a robust yet stylish dive watch with a true connection to the past, this is it.
FAQs
1. How does the Benthos Heritage II differ from the Benthos 500?
- The Heritage II is smaller at 40mm with 200m water resistance, while the Benthos 500 has 500m depth rating.
2. What makes the Sellita SW200-1 movement special?
- It’s a reliable Swiss automatic movement known for accuracy and durability.
3. Is the watch suitable for professional diving?
- Yes, with its helium escape valve and 200m water resistance, it’s built for serious diving.
4. What are the available strap options?
- Customers can choose between a rubber dive strap or a stainless steel bracelet.
5. When will the first batch of watches be shipped?
- The first 150 pieces will ship in May 2025, with a second batch in June.