The phrase “start-up” typically evokes images of people in garages with desks crammed between cardboard boxes building the latest and greatest tech company. Some of the most famous modern tech companies, like Apple and HP, began in these musty spaces. Technology, however isn’t limited to modern computers.  Mechanical watches are some of the earliest and un-changing technology pieces on the market. So, it may come as a surprise to know that DOXA, a dive-watch company, was a tech start-up some 125 years ago.

DOXA’s humble beginnings started in a backyard workshop. Georges Ducommun began as a watch repair apprentice at the age of 12 and then by the age of 20 he opened his own shop. Quality and customer service were cornerstones of his reputation. As a result, he would oftentimes hand-deliver his repairs 20km on foot.

In the early 1900’s Georges was creating his own movements, and in 1908 he presented the 8-day power reserve. So, at the time, this was quite a horological feat. DOXA, as a company, continued to innovate and in the 1960’s they would go on to create their most famous model, the Sub.

In the watch community, the DOXA Sub is a standard-setter for dive watches. The original version was highly functional. It had a depth rating of 300M as well as a signature orange dial. The original SUB also had a “ratchet” mechanism built into the clasp. This allowed the wearer to size the watch without removing links. In 1999, the market saw a re-launch of the DOXA Sub. It has since taken on some variations, but has never lost its signature look.

In partnership with DOXA, Crown & Caliber is excited to have a curated collection of some relatively rare, and in some cases, sold out, timepieces to kick off 2018. There are 20 pieces total in this collection, spanning five models. Once this collection is sold, it won’t be restocked.

These editions are collaborations with the National Underwater & Marine Agency (NUMA). Founded by Clive Cussler, NUMA’s goal is to preserve the world’s maritime heritage through discovery, archaeological survey, and the conservation of shipwreck artifacts.

This limited run of 50 NUMA timepieces featured a turquoise dial. This is a special pre-production model from that original run. It features a 42.5mm stainless steel case and a helium-release valve. It also has a signature unidirectional rotating dive bezel engraved with the U.S. Navy non-Decompression table.

This limited run of 100 NUMA timepieces featured a navy blue dial. This is a special pre-production model from that original run. It features a 42.5mm stainless steel case and a helium-release valve. It also has a signature unidirectional rotating dive bezel engraved with the U.S. Navy non-Decompression table.

This model, the Mission31, was the official timekeeper for Fabian Cousteau’s historic 31-day expedition.  specifically designed for this trek. This journey was into Aquarius – an undersea research facility off the coast of Florida. This timepiece had a limited edition run of 331 pieces. It features a 45mm stainless steel case as well as a helium release valve. The watch has an orange ISOfrane rubber dive strap. Additionally, it features a unidirectional rotating dive bezel engraved with the U.S. Navy non-Decompression table and is water-resistant to 1000 meters.

The DOXA Sub 5000T “Seaconquerer” is machined from a single, solid block of stainless steel. It is water resistant to a depth of 5000 feet and sports a 45mm case. It features a helium-release valve and also has a signature unidirectional rotating bezel engraved with the U.S. Navy non-decompression table.

This DOXA Sub 5000T “Seaconquerer” is made from a single, solid block of stainless steel. This military version has a black PVD coating finish, unlike its shinier counterpart. PVD stands for physical vapor deposition and enhances the scratch-resistance of the steel.  It is not only water resistant to a depth of 5000 feet but also features a 45mm case and helium release valve. It also has a signature unidirectional rotating bezel engraved with the U.S. Navy non-decompression table.

These timepieces give a nod to DOXA’s past as well as celebrate its modern innovations. Whether or not you are a dive watch fan, there is no denying this collection is nostalgically cool.

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