For all the interesting history and quirky character of vintage watches, diminutive dimensions keep some modern buyers away. There are exceptions, but this is often true even of dive watches. Probably considered massive for their time, here are some cool vintage dive watches measuring around from 42mm to over 44mm which should fit well on wrists that are accustomed to more modern sport watch sizes. One caveat: even though their water-resistance ratings were impressive back in the day, we recommend getting the seals replaced on vintage watches before actually taking them in the water.
Richard Aquamax Supercompressor Diver 8835
What we like: Swiss-made from 1962, this is a cool example of a less common form of dive watch featuring two crowns and a rotating inner bezel in a case type known as a “Super Compressor” — one crown is for time-setting, and one for turning the bezel, and the deeper one dives with the watch, the better the water resistance. As vintage designs have made a comeback, this type of dive watch has also returned here and there in modern interpretations. The Richard Aquamax Supercompressor is the real thing, however, and the indices’ unusual shapes and handset design along with touches like the crosshatch pattern on the crowns give it an unmistakable 1960s character. A domed crystal that seems to echo the shape of the raised dial adds to the charm, and its 42mm width will feel perfectly contemporary.
From the seller: Overall, the watch is in very good condition. The original black glossy dial is almost flawless and shows radium lume. The hands have been professionally color-matched to the dial.
