Aquastar (watch brand)

Aquastar was a Swiss watch brand founded in 1962 by Frédéric Robert. The brand specialized in producing high-quality, professional-grade diving watches and nautical instruments. Aquastar gained a strong reputation among divers and sailors for its innovative designs and robust construction.

Key features and innovations associated with Aquastar watches include:

• Regate Timer: Aquastar developed and patented the "Regate" timer, a complication designed to assist yachtsmen in timing the start of a sailing race. This feature involved a five-minute countdown display, changing color to indicate the time remaining before the starting gun. The Regate timer became a signature feature of some Aquastar models.

• Deepstar Chronograph: The Deepstar chronograph was a notable model known for its oversized single subdial for elapsed minutes, optimized for underwater timing. It's considered a significant dive watch in collectors' circles.

• Water Resistance: Aquastar watches were generally built to withstand significant water pressure, often exceeding the standards of the time.

• Technical Focus: The brand emphasized functionality and durability, rather than purely aesthetic considerations, making their watches popular among professionals who relied on accurate timekeeping in demanding environments.

In the 1980s, Aquastar, like many Swiss watch brands, faced challenges due to the quartz crisis. The company eventually ceased operations.

In recent years, the Aquastar brand has been revived and is producing updated versions of its classic models, continuing to focus on dive watches and nautical instruments. The revived brand aims to retain the spirit of innovation and quality that characterized the original Aquastar.