Here at WatchGecko, we’re huge fans of the Squale brand, which is one of our consistent bestsellers.
So any news from Squale is going to be important for us – and it doesn’t get much exciting than a new 1521 collection. Firstly, a bit of history. The 1521 name comes from the original reference that company founder Charles Von Buren gave this emblematic watch case back in the 1960s – and it’s been largely unchanged since. Squale was a real pioneer in the world of diving watches: anyone who wants to find out more should look at this truly brilliant short film, which tells the story up to now so well:
The latest 1521 watches keep the same enterprising spirit but put a new spin on them. In particular, there are two new models that introduce some striking styles and colours (but don’t worry: the iconic blue is still there). All of them are serious workhorses, with 500 metres of water resistance.
Let's start with the 42mm 1521 Green Ray, with a green dial that fades to black closer to the edge: just like a descent into the depths of the ocean. Featuring a Sellita SW200-1 movement, it’s available on a green leather strap or black rubber tropic (with the green leather the more immediately striking to our eyes). These will be available for around £1000 very shortly.
Squale 1521 Green Ray - Credit Squale
The 1521 full lume Militaire (also at 42mm) is another exciting release, blending the qualities of the existing 1521 Full Lumen model and the impressive 1521 Militare. This truly brings an added professional aspect to the Militaire, offering stunning visibility under all circumstances (with Superluminova on the bezel as well, another novelty). This is a watch that certainly stands out with orange markings on the bright white lume face. It looks the business and is instantly cut out for some serious diving, especially when on a Milanese mesh strap (black rubber tropic is available too). On the Milanese, it will retail for £1310, a bit less on the rubber.
Squale 1521 Full Lume - Credit Squale
My personal favourite is almost certainly the most polarising – and something quite different to what has been seen before: the new 1521 Bronze. Take a good look and let all the details sink in. Aside from the case, the other big visual difference is the crown moving from 4 o’clock to 2 o’clock, for increased comfort. It’s the only watch in the new 1521 collection that comes on a NATO strap, underlining its functional credentials. The dial (and strap) is Squale’s characteristic blue, and this might just be a case of love at first sight. Of all of them, it’s the one I can’t wait to get on my wrist. To own one, the price in the UK will be £1540, which looks like great value for such a striking bronze watch.
Squale 1521 Bronze - Credit Squale
Technically, the biggest difference is the introduction of COSC certification on the two top levels of the 1521 collection; providing independent Swiss attestation of the capabilities of these watches and as a result moving them into the big league. The finish of these watches is different too, with the brushed and polished surfaces adding to the perception of Squale’s notable step up the prestige ladder. They will be available for the same price as the bronze, putting an interesting dilemma in place for potential purchasers.
Squale 1521 full range for 2023 - Credit Squale
For now, we’ve only had the chance to read about these new 1521 watches and look at the stunning photography – and they have definitely made us excited. What’s even more exciting though is the possibility to try the watches on, which should be coming to us soon as we have a visit to Squale headquarters planned.
From what we can see so far, the new models add a genuine new dimension to Squale’s already strong offering, with the stunning bronze version in particular having all the hallmarks of a future classic.
