The DNA Of The SUB
Discover the synergy of rugged tool watch craftsmanship and modern urban style in the latest DOXA SUB 300β. Featuring a sleek black ceramic case, an 18K 3N gold bezel, and crown. This timepiece embodies the ideal fusion of durability and metropolitan sophistication. Whether submerged in water or exploring city streets, the DOXA “β” presents a captivating blend of colours, materials, and textures. These commands attention, accentuated by a subtly modified slim bezel. Another pioneering achievement by DOXA!
In 1967, DOXA introduced the groundbreaking SUB concept, which is regarded as the pioneer of mainstream professional diving watches. Its revolutionary features swiftly established it as the industry benchmark for professionals. Boasting a water resistance of 30 ATM (equivalent to 300 meters or just over 984 feet). The SUB was the first to incorporate a unidirectional rotating bezel with dive time and depth indications, enabling safe ascents to the surface without decompression stops.
During that era, the US Navy’s no-decompression table was the standard for divers, allowing them to track their underwater time based on depth, ensuring a secure return to the surface without the need for stops. Drawing from the US Navy’s scientific principles, DOXA engineers integrated dual scales into the bezel: an orange “depth” ring and a black “minutes” ring – a patented DOXA innovation.
The DOXA SUB watch swiftly gained iconic status. Notably for being the first diving watch to feature a vibrant orange dial, distinct from the traditional black or white dials of its time.
Starting from 1968, the wrists of divers leaping from the Calypso’s deck to embark on legendary missions into “The Undersea World of Jacques Cousteau” prominently showcased DOXA SUB watches. Captain Jacques-Yves Cousteau, a co-inventor of the Aqua-Lung underwater breathing device and a pivotal figure in modern scuba diving, was so captivated by the SUB concept that he secured exclusive rights to distribute these watches in the US.
Embracing the Spirit of the Times: The SUB 300β Sharkhunter
Following the iconic orange of the inaugural SUB 300, the vivid hues charting the concept’s progression. The camo variant echoing the brand’s Swiss Army affiliation, and the recently unveiled vintage patina style of the SUB 300T Clive Cussler special edition. Now emerges the SUB 300β Sharkhunter – a striking Black & Gold rendition. Yet another pioneering feat by DOXA.
Over 50 years since its initial debut, DOXA embraces a colour blend both captivating and evident. The SUB 300β Sharkhunter showcases a two-tone palette, intertwining darkness and brilliance, matte and gloss, boldness and subtlety. This aesthetic is intricately intertwined with the quintessential DOXA elements that have defined its iconic status.
The ‘β’ Factor: A Calculated Innovation
The “β” symbolises “beta,” denoting a leap beyond conventionality. It’s not merely about reimagining colours, materials, and textures; it’s about embracing the contemporary lifestyle and recognising that dive watches must harmonise with urban living. DOXA has crafted a timepiece that seamlessly fuses urban refinement with modern grace.
Built on the foundation that a sports watch should feel ideal in any setting. The DOXA SUB 300β Sharkhunter maintains its original essence while cultivating a more refined, stylish allure. DOXA has subtly refined the design to achieve a slimmer form, resulting in a mere 11.95mm profile (compared to 13.65mm for the SUB 300T) and a slightly lower bezel height (decreased by 0.5mm) than the SUB 300T.
The SUB 300β Sharkhunter – Faithfully Aligned Characteristics Of The SUB Series.
The outcome is opulence in harmony with a sense of balance, employing materials that bridge the watch to the modern era. An artful arrangement that unveils elements that appeared to have lingered just beneath the surface. The black ceramic case and the subtly textured matte dial adorned with black-on-black markings. Contrasting vividly with the essential data presented by the hands and indexes, and the utilitarian components of the 18K 3N gold bezel and crown.
Adorning a black FKM rubber strap for optimal comfort, the DOXA SUB 300β Sharkhunter exudes DOXA insignias on both sides. Its black PVD folding clasp, equipped with a wetsuit extension and a ratcheting mechanism, boasts the embossed ‘DOXA Fish’ emblem. Remaining true to the DOXA ethos, this watch defies norms, pushing the boundaries while retaining a hint of…
DOXA’s ethos has always been centred around the incremental and meticulous enhancement of its diving watches. This principle is particularly evident in its most iconic creation. The SUB 300T, a watch that has significantly shaped the annals of Swiss watchmaking history. And this legacy continues to thrive.
With a diameter of 42.5mm, the SUB 300β Sharkhunter features a pressure-resistant titanium housing to safeguard the movement. It proudly showcases the patented DOXA unidirectional rotating bezel crafted from 18K 3N gold, boasting dual indicators for dive time (in minutes) and depth (in feet), allowing uninterrupted dives. The screw-down crown, also in 18K 3N gold, ensures water resistance of up to 30 ATM (equivalent to 300 meters). Inviting exploration of the ocean depths with complete liberation. Its sapphire crystal, resistant to scratches, is treated with an anti-reflective coating. The COSC-certified Swiss automatic movement provides an approximate power reserve of 38 hours.
The SUB 300β Sharkhunter emerges as an indispensable companion for those reliant on a dependable, high-performance timepiece for underwater escapades. Simultaneously, it exudes an elegant and contemporary sport-chic aesthetic, making it an embodiment of versatility and style.
The Ultimate Dress-Diver!
As an owner of the original Sharkhunter from the 70’s (see left), when this release dropped, my preconceptions were blown out of the water. With a black ceramic case and 18k gold highlights, this literally jumped off the page at me. I can’t stop staring at the details and the exquisite finish, this I really need to see up close. For me the only sticking point is the price, at £6950.00 this I feel is in the high side. Sure they are upping the anti with this. However, the range currently starts with the SUB 200 at £900, climbing to the Carbon 300T at £3790. At 54% increase from their most expensive model, its way out of reach for the majority us. For that i really am gutted, as had it dropped at under £5k I feel that would be more reasonable.
In the world of watchmaking, technology costs, as does marketing. So whatever my thoughts on the price, this still is a 1st for Doxa and an amazing watch. No doubt the photos won’t do it justice, so until i get my paws on one, these photos will have to do. Doxa, I tip my virtual hat to you, you have done exceptionally well with this release, the DOXA SUB 300β is a winner.
For more information on the SUB 300β Click HERE
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