The Roebuck SCUBA watch, inspired by the 1970s with an integrated strap and complemented by a gradient layered dial, offers a refreshing new take on the neo-vintage diver. Why bring back this retro style? Why not? The SCUBA's integrated strap offers a seamless, cohesive design that provides clean aesthetics and incredible comfort. Today, there are many reissues of 1970s watches, but SCUBA does not recreate a specific model or design, instead utilizing the style and design ethos of the golden age of watchmaking, crafting a meticulously rugged yet polished diver with its own flavor.
In creating a modern diver, Roebuck wanted the dial to stand out from the crowd of 70s-inspired divers. Answering why he created SCUBA, brand founder Guy Roebuck said: “It was quite simple. At the time of creating the SCUBA model (2019), I was uncomfortable using any of my watches for more rugged outdoor activities, so I decided to create my own adventure-proof watch. And here we have SCUBA.”
Each SCUBA dial features a deep gradient sunburst hue that dynamically reflects light. But what truly sets the dial apart is Roebuck's decision to use cut-out indices to create a layered dial with a luminous layer beneath the sub-dial - this approach gives the dial depth and texture while providing exceptional readability at night. The SCUBA model is available in three color variants, each with its own unique character and aesthetic.
Whether it's the summery shades of Deep Sea with a blue dial and orange bezel, the sporty gray dial and red bezel of Storm, or the stylish Coral with a burgundy dial and gray bezel - there's a style for everyone. Speaking of bezels: the 120-click unidirectional sapphire bezel lights up along with the dial, crown, hour, minute, and second hands, making the SCUBA watch as impressive in low light as in sunlight. Regarding other color options,
Roebuck says: “I will be offering a green dial version as a stretch goal during the Kickstarter campaign. If the campaign is successful and there is demand for version 2, I have some great ideas that will be very exciting.”
While the bold and colorful dial and bezel may be the first to catch the eye, there's much more to the SCUBA model. The 42mm stainless steel octagonal case features sharp angular lines. This is especially noticeable on the lugs, which allow the rubber strap to blend seamlessly into the case. A short lug-to-lug distance of 47.3mm and a compact height of just 11.75mm ensure comfortable wear on wrists of different sizes. Completing the picture is the signed (and luminescent!) crown with knurling matching the bezel, giving the watch a refined and finished look.
The SCUBA watch is available in both no-date and date configurations, equipped with Miyota 90S5 and 9015 calibers, respectively. Manufactured by Citizen Group, Miyota movements are reliable 24-jewel automatic movements known for their dependability. These movements operate at 28,800 vibrations per hour, feature a second hand, shock absorption, and a 42-hour power reserve.
Dive watches never go out of style - and the SCUBA is undoubtedly a stylish watch - but that doesn't mean Roebuck overlooks functionality in the aquatic environment. Water-resistant to 300m and equipped with a two-tone rubber strap, the SCUBA lives up to its name and is suitable for scuba diving, sailing, fishing, surfing, and swimming. Even if you never approach water, the durability and reliability of SCUBA make it perfect for hiking, camping, and any other land adventures.
The SCUBA is Roebuck's second watch model, the first being the Diviso (translated from Italian as "division"), a racing-inspired watch released in January 2020. Due to challenges that arose during the pandemic, Roebuck will be financing the release of SCUBA through Kickstarter, with the campaign launching in July.
The super early price on Kickstarter will start at $400, with the final retail price being $600. Be sure to visit the brand's website for more information on Roebuck's watches, and subscribe to the brand's newsletter for the latest news and updates on the Kickstarter campaign.
