Watch writer Shinichi Sato introduces the Bulova "Archives Series Snorkel" as a noteworthy release for 2026. This model is a redesign of Bulova's masterpiece, the "Devil Diver," with vibrant, pop colors. The iconic oval case is made of hybrid ceramic, a composite material of ceramic and plastic, giving it a light and airy feel. It is available in four colors inspired by marine life, and the case, dial, and rubber strap are coordinated to match each color, which is another appealing feature.
Text by Shinichi Sato
[Article published on January 8, 2026]
A new model that gives a pop-art twist to Bulova's 70s diver's watch, the "Devil Diver."
Among the new watches announced in 2026, writer Shinichi Sato is particularly interested in the "Archives Series Snorkel," which features a hybrid ceramic case and a pop of color, based on the "Devil Diver" model. While maintaining almost the same substantial size as the original model (41mm case diameter, 14.6mm thickness), the hybrid ceramic case gives it a remarkably light feel. This article will revisit the original Devil Diver and delve deeper into the appeal of this new model.
The history of "Devil Diver" and its reissue models
This model is a derivative of the "Oceanographer," which was created in the 1970s, and its reissue model, the "Archives Series Oceanographer 'Devil Diver'." Therefore, before introducing this model, let me explain the original Devil Diver.
The 1970s, when the Oceanographer was born, was a time when diving was beginning to gain popularity as a leisure sport. A little earlier, in the 1960s, Bulova, based in the United States, was experiencing a surfing boom, and there was an increase in models with high water resistance for marine sports.
The Oceanographer was unveiled at this event. At the time, most watches had a water resistance of around 300 feet (approximately 90m), but the Oceanographer boasted a high water resistance of 666 feet (approximately 200m). It also attracted attention for the "666 FEET" inscription on the dial to indicate its performance. The "666" inscription was reminiscent of the devil's number that appears in the Book of Revelation in the New Testament, and the watch became known by the nickname "Devil Diver."
A reissue of the original model. A diver's watch compliant with ISO 6425 standards. Automatic movement. Stainless steel case (41mm diameter, 14.6mm thickness). 20 ATM water resistance. ¥90,200 (tax included).
The "Archives Series Oceanographer 'Devil Diver'" is a reissue of this original model. It inherits the iconic design of the original model, including the oval case, rotating bezel, cross design on the dial to aid visibility, indices made of transparent parts that look like jewels held in place by prongs, and thick hour and minute hands for high visibility, resulting in a highly refined timepiece.
Bulova's new release is the "Archives Series Snorkel".
Bulova's new Archives series, the Snorkel, is a model based on the Devil Diver but with a pop color scheme. A Bulova representative explained that the original idea for this model was inspired by the movement of incorporating old family belongings into one's own style. Furthermore, in the context of increasingly diverse fashion, there is a renewed interest in the 1970s (which may be linked to the trend of incorporating old family belongings), and the choice of base model likely reflects these trends.
Four variations are available, and the highlight is the hybrid ceramic case, which is color-matched to each model. Hybrid ceramic is a composite material of plastic and ceramic, and as with this model, it can be made in a variety of colors. This model boasts 10 ATM water resistance, which is not suitable for diving, but is sufficient for everyday use. The bezel is also made of hybrid ceramic.
Designs that incorporate originality
The Archives Series Snorkel inherits the iconic styling of the Devil Diver, but with a new, more pop-inspired color scheme and an original design. The most striking change is the indices. They are now more conservative bar indices, and the hour and minute hands are thinner, giving it a stylish look that's perfect for everyday wear. The dial features a wave-like pattern reminiscent of water's surface, expressing its lineage as a diver's watch.
The four colors are inspired by marine life, and the case back is engraved with the creature that inspired each model. The blue model, Ref. 98B445, is inspired by the blue and yellow two-tone surgeonfish. A part of the bezel of each model features an accent color, and in this model, the lemon yellow that is a charming feature of the surgeonfish is used as the accent color.
Quartz movement. Hybrid ceramic case (41mm diameter, 14.6mm thickness). 10 ATM water resistance. 46,200 yen (tax included).
The green Ref. 98B446 is inspired by a sea turtle. The light green case is paired with a brown dial reminiscent of a sea turtle's shell. The case and rubber strap are finished in shades that evoke blue, perhaps representing a sea turtle swimming in a clear emerald green ocean.
A green model featuring a sea turtle motif. Quartz movement. Hybrid ceramic case (41mm diameter, 14.6mm thickness). 10 ATM water resistance. 46,200 yen (tax included).
The orange model Ref.98B448 is inspired by the clownfish. The clownfish is characterized by its orange base with white stripes and a black accent, and is popular and well-known, having been the main character in an animated film featuring a fish. This model expresses the clownfish's distinctive three-tone color scheme by using an orange rubber strap, a white case, dial, and bezel, and black on parts of the bezel and various markings.
This orange model is inspired by the clownfish, a popular and well-known fish that has even starred in animated films. It features a quartz movement, a hybrid ceramic case (41mm diameter, 14.6mm thickness), and 10 ATM water resistance. Price: ¥46,200 (tax included).
The gray Ref.98B449 is inspired by the white shark, known as the great white shark in Japan. The white shark is characterized by its two-tone coloration, with white on its underside and gray on its back. While often depicted as a source of terror in many films, it is a shark that needs protection from a biological standpoint due to its declining population. The strap and bezel are dark gray, while the case is light gray, and it was striking that this model had the most subdued color scheme in the lineup.
A gray model featuring a white shark motif, often depicted as an object of fear. Quartz movement. Hybrid ceramic case (41mm diameter, 14.6mm thickness). 10 ATM water resistance. 46,200 yen (tax included).
Experience the benefits of the hybrid ceramic case with its lightweight feel.
This model has a substantial feel, with a case diameter of 41mm and a thickness of 14.6mm, comparable to the previous Oceanographer "Devil Diver." While the previous stainless steel Devil Diver models had a heavy feel, with the rubber model weighing about 99g and the bracelet model about 160g, the Snorkel weighs about 62g, and its lightness is immediately apparent when you hold it.
Colorful and voluminous models like this one are perfect for pairing with short-sleeved outfits in the summer. This light and comfortable feel is one of the reasons why you'll want to choose this item.
The rubber strap on this watch features a design reminiscent of the Tropic straps used on vintage diver's watches. Its distinctive features include a fabric-like texture, ventilation holes that also serve as a design accent, and crocodile-like protrusions on the edge. This combination adds a retro feel to the watch while also contributing to a comfortable, lightweight feel.
Check out this snorkel with a pop twist on a vintage design.
In recent years, Bulova's lineup has been characterized by a simple structure, consisting of modern designs, vintage designs that revive iconic models, or a focus on its own unique movements. In this context, the Snorkel model, while based on a vintage design, is given a pop twist and presented in a light and easy-to-wear package, making it a new and innovative approach.
It's important to consider that the traditional Oceanographer "Devil Diver" is a mechanical model, while the Snorkel is quartz. However, the Snorkel is priced at a more accessible ¥46,200 (including tax), despite using hybrid ceramic (Ref. 96B350 is ¥90,200 including tax). If you're drawn to its unique and colorful design, be sure to check it out in stores.
