The 1960s and 70s were a golden era for serious diving instruments, with watches for both civilians and military laying down the foundations for some of the most enduring designs in watchmaking. Among the names leading the field was Le Forban Sécurité Mer, a name founded in 1969 and that, like many of its contemporaries, went quiet in more recent decades for reasons that have nothing to do with their watches.
Last year however, in perfect timing with the revival trend, Le Forban Sécurité Mer returned in a big way with the Malouine, a lovely neo-retro diver with more than a few hints of the legendary Fifty Fathoms in its sleek yet utilitarian design. It was a cool, versatile timepiece that heralded a much-welcome return.
Now, despite the recent climate, the Le Forban Sécurité Mer story is moving forward, this time with a more authentic tribute to the sporty first watch of 1969: the Brestoise.
Named after the French port town of Brest, the Brestoise is firmly in line with late 60s diving watches. That means big, bold, lumed numerals, clearly defined hands – including a retro lollipop second hand – and a unidirectional rotating diving bezel.
The Brestoise’ 39mm size is vintage and versatile, a diving watch suited to any wrist size. It’s solidly built too (in Paris, by the way), with 150m water resistance. That’s not as high as many diving watches out there of course, but for just Euro 490 it’s hard to knock – something the Brestoise can survive a fair few of.
Equipped with a Miyota 8215 with a 40-hour power reserve, you’re looking at a solid, practical diving watch with serious aesthetic chops, but that won’t break the bank. We’re not saying it has everything, but this archival re-issue is pretty close.
Price & Specs:
Model: Le Forban Sécurité Mer Brestoise
Case/Dial: 38.4mm diameter, stainless steel
Water Resistance: 150m (15 bar)
Movement: Calibre Miyota 8215, automatic
Frequency: 21,600 vph (3 Hz)
Power Reserve: 40h
Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds, date
Strap: Black silicone
Price/Availability: €490 EUR (approx. £444)
More details at Le Forban Sécurité Mer.
