Squale is a Swiss-made, independent dive watch specialist with Italian heritage. Originally established as a premium case manufacturer, Squale supplied robust waterproof cases to legendary dive brands during the mid-20th century. Today, Squale produces watches under its own name, celebrated by enthusiasts for their professional specifications, retro styling, and ocean-going credibility.
Overview
Founded: 1959
Based in: Chiasso, Switzerland
Typical Price Range: £600–£2,500 GBP
Known For: 1521, 2002, Super-Squale, Sub-39
Website: squale.ch
Brand Story
Founded in Neuchâtel in 1959 by Charles von Büren, Squale (the French word for shark) began as a manufacturer of professional watch cases. Von Büren was an avid diver who wanted to create case designs that could withstand extreme depths. Squale’s cases were so well-engineered that they were used by Blancpain (for the Fifty Fathoms), Heuer, Doxa, and Sinn. The Squale curved shark logo on the dial became a seal of quality for professional divers. In the 1970s, Squale became the official watch supplier to the Italian Navy’s diving corps.
Design Language
Squale’s design language is defined by the requirements of professional diving. The iconic 1521 case features a crown offset at 4 o’clock to prevent wrist bite, a highly polished or blasted asymmetrical case shape, and deep blue and orange dial colorways designed for high visibility. Dials feature the double branding of the Squale name at 12 o’clock and the curved shark logo at 6 o’clock.
Movements & Manufacturing
Squale utilizes Swiss automatic movements, primarily the Sellita SW200-1 in its Elaboré grade, ensuring robust daily performance and ease of servicing. Movements are adjusted in-house to verify timing accuracy and water resistance.
Notable Models
1521 Classic: The brand’s signature 500m dive watch, featuring a crown at 4 o’clock and a distinct coin-edge bezel.
Super-Squale: A vintage-style diver based on a 1960s skin diver model, featuring a slim case and high wearability.
2002: A professional 1,000m dive watch featuring a push-to-release safety bezel and helium escape valve.
Why Enthusiasts Care
Squale has genuine history in the professional dive space. They did not just build watches; they built the cases that protected some of the most famous dive watches in history. For enthusiasts looking for a highly capable, historic tool watch that represents the golden era of scuba diving, Squale is a legendary choice.
Official Website
Featured Models
1521 Classic
The Squale 1521 Classic is a legendary 500m professional dive watch, featuring a signature polished case and offset crown at 4 o'clock.
