Description

Breitling Superocean: History, Review, Specs & Complete Guide

The Breitling Superocean is one of the brand’s best-known dive watch collections. It combines a sporty design with strong water resistance and Swiss mechanical movements.

Since its introduction in 1957, the Superocean has developed into a broad collection. Today, Breitling offers different sizes, colours, straps and configurations.

The collection is designed for water-based activities. However, its clean design also makes it suitable for everyday wear.

In this guide, we look at the Breitling Superocean in detail. We cover its history, design, movements, sizes, water resistance, specifications, pricing and key features.

What Is the Breitling Superocean?

The Breitling Superocean is a Swiss luxury dive-watch collection.

Breitling introduced the Superocean in 1957. The original concept focused heavily on underwater legibility and timing.

Over the years, the collection evolved while keeping its strong connection with diving.

The modern range includes several case sizes. Breitling currently lists 36mm, 42mm, 44mm and 46mm Superocean models. Depending on the reference, water resistance can range from 300 metres to 1,000 metres.

This variety makes the collection more flexible than a single-size dive watch.

For example, smaller models can suit buyers who prefer a more compact watch. Meanwhile, larger models offer a more substantial wrist presence.

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Breitling Superocean History

The history of the Superocean begins in the 1950s.

During this period, recreational scuba diving was becoming increasingly popular. As a result, watch brands began developing dedicated dive watches.

Breitling responded with the Superocean in 1957.

The company focused on making the watch easy to read underwater. Clear markings, strong contrast and a practical diving design were important parts of the concept.

Breitling watch later developed the Slow Motion concept during the 1960s. The design removed features that were not needed underwater and focused on legibility.

The result was a simple and highly functional appearance. Breitling describes the design as having chunky luminous indexes, squared-off hands and a high-contrast dial.

Over time, the Superocean became more than a specialist diving watch.

Today, it is also positioned as a sporty luxury watch for everyday use.

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Breitling Superocean Design

The modern Breitling Superocean has a strong sports-watch appearance.

The case normally uses stainless steel, although particular references and special editions can vary.

A large dial, broad hands and strong hour markers help create the collection’s recognisable look.

The design also focuses on practical underwater timing.

Many Superocean models use a unidirectional rotating bezel. This type of bezel is commonly associated with dive watches because it helps track elapsed time.

The crown is also screw-locked on many models.

For example, the current Superocean Automatic 42 uses a screw-locked crown with two gaskets. It also has a screwed caseback and a cambered sapphire crystal with glareproofing on both sides.

Together, these features support the watch’s water-resistant construction.

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Breitling Superocean Sizes

One of the biggest advantages of the current Superocean range is the choice of sizes.

Breitling lists four main case sizes:

• 36mm
• 42mm
• 44mm
• 46mm

Superocean 36

The 36mm model offers the smallest case size in the current range.

It can suit people who prefer a more compact watch. In addition, its smaller proportions can work well on slimmer wrists.

Superocean 42

The 42mm model sits in the middle of the range.

It offers a balance between sporty proportions and everyday wearability.

For example, the current Superocean Automatic 42 reference A17366D81C1A1 measures 42mm across and 13.32mm thick. Its lug width is 20mm.

Superocean 44

The 44mm version offers a larger wrist presence.

It can appeal to people who prefer a bold sports-watch design.

Superocean 46

The 46mm version is the largest standard size in the collection.

As a result, it creates a particularly substantial look on the wrist.

However, case diameter is not the only measurement that matters. Thickness and lug-to-lug length also affect how a watch wears.

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Breitling Superocean Water Resistance

Water resistance is one of the most important parts of the Superocean collection.

Breitling’s current collection page states that Superocean models can offer water resistance from 300 metres to 1,000 metres, depending on the model.

However, buyers should always check the exact reference.

For example, the current Superocean Automatic 42 A17366D81C1A1 is rated to 500 metres, or 50 bar.

Other Superocean Automatic 42 references are rated to 300 metres. Breitling’s UK listing for reference A173757A1B1A1 gives a 300-metre rating.

Therefore, it is important not to assume that every Superocean has the same water-resistance rating.

The exact reference number should always be checked before making a purchase or using the watch for water activities.

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Breitling Superocean Movement

The movement depends on the model and reference.

Current Superocean Automatic models use Breitling automatic mechanical calibres.

For example, the Superocean Automatic 42 uses Breitling Caliber 17. Breitling lists it as a self-winding mechanical movement operating at 28,800 vibrations per hour.

The listed power reserve is approximately 38 hours.

The movement also has 25 jewels in the current 500-metre reference.

Some other Superocean references can have different specifications. Therefore, checking the exact model is important when comparing watches.

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Breitling Superocean Automatic 42 Specifications

The Superocean Automatic 42 is one of the most useful models to examine because it represents the modern collection clearly.

Here are the specifications for Breitling reference A17366D81C1A1:

Specification	Detail
Model	Superocean Automatic 42
Reference	A17366D81C1A1
Case	Stainless steel
Diameter	42mm
Thickness	13.32mm
Lug width	20mm
Movement	Breitling 17
Movement type	Self-winding mechanical
Power reserve	Approx. 38 hours
Frequency	28,800 v.p.h.
Jewels	25
Water resistance	500m / 1,650ft
Bezel	Unidirectional, ratcheted
Crown	Screw-locked
Crystal	Cambered sapphire
Caseback	Screwed
Bracelet	Stainless steel

These specifications come from Breitling’s current official listing.

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Breitling Superocean Dial

The dial is an important part of the Superocean identity.

Breitling uses bold hour markers and hands to support quick reading.

The design also works with the collection’s sporty character.

Depending on the model, buyers can find different dial colours.

Current Superocean models include colourful options as well as more traditional black and blue designs. Breitling describes the Automatic 42 as having colourful dials and options for both metal bracelets and rubber straps.

This gives the collection a more modern feel.

It also means the Superocean can look very different depending on the chosen configuration.

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Breitling Superocean Bezel

The bezel is one of the most important components of a dive watch.

The Superocean Automatic 42 uses a unidirectional, ratcheted bezel.

A unidirectional bezel is designed to rotate in one direction.

This design helps reduce the risk of accidentally showing more remaining dive time than is actually available.

The bezel also contributes to the visual identity of the watch.

Large markings and strong contrast make the diving function easy to understand.

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Breitling Superocean Crystal

The crystal protects the dial from scratches and everyday wear.

Current Superocean Automatic 42 models use cambered sapphire crystal.

Breitling also states that the crystal is glareproofed on both sides.

Sapphire crystal is widely used in luxury watches because it offers strong scratch resistance.

The curved or cambered shape can also add depth to the watch’s appearance.

As a result, the crystal combines practical protection with a premium look.

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Breitling Superocean Bracelet and Straps

The Superocean is available with different bracelet and strap options.

Depending on the reference, buyers can find:

• Stainless-steel bracelets
• Rubber straps
• Different strap colours
• Folding clasps
• Pin buckles

For example, Breitling lists the current Automatic 42 with both stainless-steel bracelet and rubber-strap configurations.

A metal bracelet gives the watch a more traditional luxury-watch appearance.

Meanwhile, a rubber strap gives it a more sporty character.

Therefore, the choice can change the overall personality of the same watch.

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Breitling Superocean Price

The price of a Breitling Superocean depends heavily on the model, size, materials and reference.

For example, Breitling’s US website currently lists the Superocean Automatic 42 A17366D81C1A1 at USD 4,950, excluding sales tax.

A UK-listed 42mm reference, A173757A1B1A1, is priced at GBP 4,700 including VAT.

These prices demonstrate why it is better to discuss the price of a specific reference rather than quote one price for the entire Superocean collection.

Prices can also change by market and over time.

Therefore, buyers should check Breitling’s official website for the latest regional price.

Breitling Superocean vs Other Breitling Watches

Breitling has several important sports-watch collections.

The Superocean is focused primarily on diving and water-based activities.

The Navitimer, by comparison, has a strong aviation heritage and is known for its slide-rule bezel.

The Chronomat is a broader sports and chronograph collection.

The Avenger also has a strong professional and adventure-focused identity.

This makes the Superocean a natural choice for people who specifically like the dive-watch format.

Breitling Superocean vs Navitimer

The Superocean and Navitimer serve very different design purposes.

The Superocean focuses on:

• Diving
• Water resistance
• Unidirectional bezels
• Sporty styling
• High legibility

The Navitimer focuses more on:

• Aviation
• Chronograph functions
• Slide-rule bezels
• Pilot-inspired design
• Complicated dial layouts

Therefore, the two collections have very different visual identities.

The Superocean is generally cleaner and more focused on underwater timing.

The Navitimer, meanwhile, has a much busier and more technical dial.

Breitling Superocean vs Chronomat

The Chronomat is another major Breitling sports collection.

However, its identity is different from the Superocean.

Many Chronomat models focus on chronograph functions and versatile luxury sports-watch styling.

The Superocean instead keeps the dive-watch concept at the centre.

As a result, the Superocean normally has a more obvious diving appearance.

Is the Breitling Superocean Good for Everyday Wear?

The Superocean can work well as an everyday sports watch.

Its design is sporty, but many models are not overly specialised in appearance.

For example, the 42mm size provides a relatively versatile middle ground.

The strong water resistance is also useful for daily activities. However, water resistance should not be treated as a guarantee against every form of water exposure.

Users should always follow Breitling’s instructions for their specific model.

The choice of bracelet or rubber strap can also change how the watch feels during everyday use.

Who Is the Breitling Superocean For?

The Superocean can appeal to several types of watch enthusiasts.

Diving Enthusiasts

The collection has a clear connection with diving.

Its rotating bezel and strong water resistance support that identity.

Luxury Watch Collectors

The Superocean offers an alternative to aviation-focused Breitling models.

It also provides several sizes and configurations.

Everyday Watch Wearers

The clean design can work with casual clothing and sporty outfits.

Breitling Fans

For existing Breitling owners, the Superocean adds a dedicated dive-watch option to a collection.

Breitling Superocean Key Features

The main features can be summarised as follows:

• Swiss-made construction
• Mechanical automatic movements
• Stainless-steel cases on many models
• Sapphire crystal
• Unidirectional diving bezels
• Screw-locked crowns
• Strong water resistance
• Multiple case sizes
• Metal bracelet options
• Rubber strap options
• Several dial colours
• Sporty dive-watch styling

The exact specification varies by reference, so the model number remains important.

Breitling Superocean Strengths and Considerations

• Strong diving heritage
• High water-resistance ratings on many models
• Wide range of sizes
• Automatic mechanical movements
• Sapphire crystal
• Sporty design
• Several strap and dial options
• Strong everyday versatility

Things to consider

• Some models are fairly thick.
• Larger versions can feel substantial on smaller wrists.
• Specifications vary between references.
• Prices differ considerably between models.
• The 300m and 500m versions should not be treated as identical.

Breitling Superocean Review

The Breitling Superocean has a clear identity within the Breitling catalogue.

Its history connects it directly with diving, while its modern design gives it wider everyday appeal.

The current collection also provides plenty of choice.

For example, buyers can choose between 36mm, 42mm, 44mm and 46mm sizes.

The 42mm models offer an interesting balance.

They are large enough to retain the Superocean’s sporty character. At the same time, they are not as visually imposing as the largest models.

Movement specifications are also straightforward on the Automatic 42.

Breitling Caliber 17 provides self-winding mechanical operation and approximately 38 hours of power reserve.

The overall design remains focused on legibility and water use.

As a result, the Superocean remains easy to understand within the wider Breitling range.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Breitling Superocean?

The Breitling Superocean is a Swiss luxury dive-watch collection introduced in 1957. Modern models combine diving-inspired features with everyday sports-watch styling.

Is the Breitling Superocean a dive watch?

Yes. The collection is designed around diving and water-based activities. Depending on the model, water resistance can range from 300 metres to 1,000 metres.

What sizes does the Breitling Superocean come in?

The current collection includes 36mm, 42mm, 44mm and 46mm case sizes.

How much water resistance does the Superocean have?

It depends on the reference. Current models include versions rated to 300 metres and 500 metres, while Breitling’s collection information lists models reaching up to 1,000 metres.

What movement does the Superocean use?

The movement depends on the model. For example, the current Superocean Automatic 42 uses Breitling Caliber 17, a self-winding mechanical movement with approximately 38 hours of power reserve.

Does the Breitling Superocean use sapphire crystal?

Yes. Current Superocean Automatic 42 models use cambered sapphire crystal with glareproofing on both sides.

Is the Breitling Superocean good for everyday wear?

The Superocean is designed for both water-based activities and everyday use. Its sporty design, different sizes and multiple strap options make it versatile.

Is the Superocean better for diving than the Navitimer?

The two collections have different purposes. The Superocean is designed around diving, while the Navitimer has a strong aviation and chronograph identity.

Final Thoughts

The Breitling Superocean combines diving heritage, modern Swiss watchmaking and sporty luxury design.

Its history dates back to 1957. Since then, the collection has developed into a broad range of watches for both water activities and everyday wear.

Today, buyers can choose from different case sizes, colours, straps and specifications.

The Superocean Automatic 42 is one example. It offers a 42mm stainless-steel case, Breitling Caliber 17, sapphire crystal and strong water resistance.

Most importantly, buyers should compare the exact reference before making a decision.

Water resistance, thickness, movement, bracelet and price can all vary between models.

That approach makes it easier to find the Breitling Superocean configuration that matches your wrist, lifestyle and personal taste.

For your existing watch content, consider linking naturally to:

• Breitling Navitimer 41
• Navitimer B01 Chronograph 41
• Breitling Chronomat
• Breitling Avenger
• Breitling Superocean Heritage
• Luxury Chronograph Watches
• Swiss Automatic Watches

These links can help create a stronger internal topic cluster around Breitling and luxury watches.