If you’ve spent any time browsing forums or enthusiast sites for dive watches, you’ve likely come across the name Squale. It’s a brand that carries a certain mystique, often mentioned in the same breath as more mainstream heavyweights but with a unique Swiss-Italian heritage. This Squale Watch Brand Review – Are They Good Quality Dive Watches? – WatchRanker aims to peel back the layers and give you a clear, honest look at what makes this brand tick. Are they hidden gems for the discerning collector, or simply living on past glories?
The short answer is that Squale has earned its respected position for good reason. With a history deeply rooted in supplying robust cases to other watch companies in the 1960s and 70s, including some very famous names, Squale knows a thing or two about building a tool watch that can handle the pressure. This foundational expertise is at the core of every timepiece they sell under their own name today. Let’s take a closer look at what you can expect when you strap a Squale to your wrist.
A Legacy Forged in the Depths: Squale’s History
To truly appreciate a Squale, it helps to know where it came from. The company was founded in Switzerland in the 1940s by Charles von Büren, but its legendary status was cemented in the 1960s. During this golden era of diving, Squale became a primary supplier of water-resistant cases to countless other brands. This is a critical point; they weren’t just designing watches, they were manufacturing a key component that determined a watch’s survival underwater.
Their signature innovation was the “Squale” crown, a design that offered superior water resistance. This expertise meant that many iconic dive watches of the time, from various German brands to even some early Doxa models, were actually housed in Squale-made cases. This heritage isn’t just a marketing story—it’s a direct lineage of technical proficiency that flows into the modern watches they produce today. When you buy a Squale, you’re buying a piece of that tangible, industrial history.
Squale Watch Brand Review – Are They Good Quality Dive Watches? – WatchRanker
So, let’s get to the heart of the matter. Based on hands-on experience and community consensus, Squale watches are indeed very good quality dive watches, especially when you consider their price point, which typically sits in the $800 to $1,500 range. The quality is evident from the moment you handle one. You’ll immediately notice the solid heft, the crisp action of the unidirectional bezel (often with a satisfying click), and the excellent finishing on the case and bracelet.
They use reliable Swiss automatic movements, like the ever-popular Sellita SW200, which is a workhorse known for its accuracy and serviceability. The sapphire crystals are standard, and the lume is typically Super-LumiNova, applied generously to ensure legibility in the murkiest conditions. These aren’t just watches that look the part; they are built to the specifications of a true dive tool, often exceeding their stated water resistance ratings. The attention to detail, from the signed crowns to the engraved case backs, speaks to a brand that cares about its product.
Iconic Models: The 1521 and Beyond
When you think of Squale, one model invariably comes to mind: the 1521. With its distinctive cushion-shaped case, this is the watch that put the modern Squale back on the map. It’s a direct homage to a model they produced in the 1970s, and its unique, vintage-inspired aesthetic has a massive following. It’s versatile, comfortable, and instantly recognizable.
But the collection doesn’t end there. The Sub-39 and Super-Squale models offer more classic, submariner-esque profiles in compact, wearable sizes. The Master series provides a GMT complication for travelers. Each line stays true to the brand’s tool-watch DNA while offering slight variations in style and function to suit different tastes. Whether you prefer bold colors and a retro vibe or a more subdued, classic diver, there’s likely a Squale that calls to you.
How Does Squale Compare to Other Brands?
Positioning Squale in the watch landscape is key. You’re not buying a mass-produced fashion watch, nor are you spending the money required for a luxury titan like Rolex or Omega. Squale exists in a sweet spot alongside brands like Oris, Christopher Ward, and certain Seiko Prospex models. What sets Squale apart is its unique heritage as a case manufacturer and its fiercely independent, family-owned status.
You get Swiss automatic movement reliability and build quality, but with a distinct personality and history that many microbrands can’t offer. While a Christopher Ward might have more modern, angular design language, and an Oris might have broader brand recognition, Squale offers a piece of authentic dive watch history with a very specific, toolish charm.
Is a Squale the Right Dive Watch for You?
Choosing a dive watch is a personal decision, but a Squale makes a strong case for itself in a few specific scenarios. It’s an perfect choice if you value heritage and a story behind your timepiece. That tangible link to the “golden age” of diving is a significant part of the appeal. It’s also a fantastic option if you want a high-quality, Swiss-made watch without the premium price tag of the biggest names.
Furthermore, if you enjoy a brand that flies slightly under the radar, Squale is for you. Watch enthusiasts will recognize and appreciate it, but it won’t draw the same common glances as a more ubiquitous sports watch. It’s a conversation starter for those in the know.
Final Thoughts on Squale’s Value
After examining the history, build quality, and market position, it’s clear that Squale is not just resting on its laurels. They produce seriously capable, well-made dive watches that honor their legacy while providing modern reliability. The value proposition is strong, offering a slice of authentic Swiss watchmaking history and robust construction that can genuinely be used as a tool.
While no brand is perfect—some may desire more original design language beyond homages—the consensus is that Squale delivers on its promise. If you’re looking for a dive watch with character, provenance, and solid mechanics, a Squale deserves a very close look. It’s a brand that proves you don’t need a massive marketing budget to make a truly great watch; you just need the know-how and the passion to build it right.