The Breitling Superocean collection has long been a favorite among divers and watch enthusiasts alike, renowned for its robust build, exceptional water resistance, and undeniably stylish design. The Superocean Automatic 42 sits comfortably in the middle of the range, offering a compelling blend of practicality and sophisticated aesthetics without breaking the bank (relatively speaking, of course). This in-depth review will delve into the specifics of this model, exploring its strengths and weaknesses, and ultimately determining whether it deserves a place in your watch collection.
Powering the Depth: The B17 Movement
At the heart of the Breitling Superocean Automatic 42 beats the Breitling Caliber 17, a self-winding mechanical movement. It's crucial to note that this is an ETA-based movement, specifically a modified ETA 2824-2. This is a significant point for many enthusiasts, as some may have expected the in-house B20 calibre found in other Breitling models. While the B20 offers certain advantages, the B17 provides a proven and reliable platform known for its accuracy and robustness, making it a suitable choice for a diver's watch. This movement offers a respectable power reserve of around 40 hours, meaning you can safely take it off your wrist overnight without worrying about it stopping. The accuracy is generally within COSC chronometer standards, although individual variations can occur.
A Diver's Design: Robustness and Readability
The Superocean Automatic 42 boasts a 42mm stainless steel case, a size that sits comfortably on most wrists without feeling overly bulky or cumbersome. The unidirectional rotating bezel, a crucial feature for any diver's watch, is crisp and easy to grip, even with gloves on. The bezel's luminous markers ensure excellent readability even in low-light conditions. The sapphire crystal is highly scratch-resistant, protecting the dial from the inevitable bumps and scrapes of everyday wear. The screw-down crown further contributes to the watch's impressive water resistance of 500 meters (1650 feet), making it suitable for serious diving activities.
The dial itself is clean and uncluttered, prioritizing legibility. Large, luminous hands and hour markers ensure that the time is easily discernible at a glance, even in murky underwater environments. The date window, subtly integrated at the 3 o'clock position, doesn't detract from the overall aesthetic. Various dial options are available, ranging from classic black and blue to more vibrant colors, allowing for personalization to suit individual preferences. The Superocean Automatic 42 offers a blend of classic dive watch aesthetics with modern design elements, creating a timeless and versatile piece.
On the Wrist: Comfort and Wearability
The Breitling Superocean Automatic 42 is remarkably comfortable to wear, thanks to its well-proportioned case and the choice of bracelet or strap. The stainless steel bracelet is robust and well-constructed, featuring a diver's extension for easy wear over a wetsuit. The clasp is secure and easy to operate, even with wet or gloved hands. Alternatively, the watch is also available with a variety of straps, including rubber, leather, and NATO straps, allowing for greater versatility and personalization. The weight of the watch is substantial, providing a feeling of quality and solidity without being overly heavy or uncomfortable for extended periods.
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