Based on Eterna's Caliber 3903M, it shares the same basic design as the Caliber FL311 used in the Bivouac 9000, but because the aneroid cell is housed within the hydraulic chamber inside the case, it is designed as a complete system rather than a standalone movement.
FAVRE-LEUBA
“ORIGINAL BATHY 50's Anniversary”
Favre-Leuba, whose engineering headquarters is located in Solothurn, at the southern foot of the Swiss Jura Mountains, is not only a brand with a history spanning more than 280 years, but is also one of the most cutting-edge R&D brands today. The "Blue Trilogy," released to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the classic "Basy," not only features unique mechanical developments but also a significant improvement in the quality of the exterior.
Text by Hiroyuki Suzuki
Founded in Le Locle in the 18th century (1737), Favre-Leuba is one of the oldest Swiss brands still in existence. It was during the 1950s and 60s that the company achieved some of its greatest accomplishments in watchmaking history. Starting with the FL101, the company actively developed its own movements, and was one of the first to mass-produce formats that have only just become commonplace in modern times, such as the double-barrel + center-second automatic. Turning to special mechanisms, the company released the Bivouac in 62, the world's first wristwatch with an altimeter, utilizing an aneroid barometer. The Bassy, which adapted the same mechanism to act as a depth gauge, was released in 68. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Bassy's launch.
Favre-Leuba's development of special mechanisms has generally been linked to the achievements of polar exploration. The theme of the new models that the company has focused on to mark the 50th anniversary of the Bashy is a return to that frontier spirit. In particular, the "Blue Trilogy" focuses on deep-sea exploration. The main focus of development is the application of the new aneroid cell that was incorporated into last year's "Bivouac 9000," as well as the enhancement of exterior quality.
First up is the flagship model, the Raider Bashy 120 Memo Depth. This model can reach a maximum depth of 200m, but it is equipped with a mechanical depth gauge that can measure depths up to 120m. A chamber room is set up in a space isolated from the base movement and depth gauge module, and seawater is introduced into the case, converting the volume change of the aneroid cell (anaerobic capsule) due to water pressure into depth. The scale up to 30m, the practical range for free diving, is processed more precisely than other models, and there are also markers for 10m and 5m, the depths at which decompression stops are required when ascending.
The new Bassi depth gauge has a dual mechanism: a central hand for real-time depth measurement and a subdial at 3 o'clock for recording maximum depth. A screw-lock pusher at 4 o'clock resets the maximum depth gauge.
This was the first Bassy model, released in 1962. While its maximum measurement depth was 50m, this model already established the method of introducing seawater into a chamber containing an aneroid cell. It features a manual winding (Cal. P320/Peuzeau base), 21,600 vph, and a power reserve of approximately 40 hours. Stainless steel (40mm diameter). Reference product.
The Raider Deep Blue, which is rated to 300m, boasts the greatest water resistance in the current Raider collection, but the mid-sized 41mm case added this year also offers similar water resistance. This case is also shared with the new Raider Seaking, which is an upsized version of the Raider Seabird design, so although the spec sheet states it is water resistant to 10 bar, it actually offers water resistance equivalent to 300m. Starting with this 41mm case, a new case supplier from Biel/Bienne has been introduced, which is one of the reasons for the sudden improvement in quality.
MAX DEPTH 200m
A diving model with a mechanical depth gauge up to 120m. A practical model with a sub-indicator to record maximum depth reached. Manual winding (Cal. FL321/Eterna base). 31 jewels. 28,800 vph. Power reserve approximately 65 hours. Ti (diameter 48mm, thickness 19mm). Price: 920,000 yen (scheduled for release at the end of October).
MAX DEPTH 300m
This new model is an upgraded version of the 37mm Raider Seabird. The fluted bezel now has a satin finish, giving it a significantly improved feel. Automatic movement (based on the ETA2824-2 movement). 25 jewels. 28,800 vph. Power reserve of approximately 38 hours. Stainless steel (diameter 41mm, thickness 13.4mm). Priced at 195,000 yen.
MAX DEPTH 300m
A new mid-size version of the "Deep Blue." Unlike the Sea King's blue galvanic dial, this model features a painted finish for improved visibility. Automatic (based on the Caliber ETA2824-2). 25 jewels. 28,800 vph. Power reserve of approximately 38 hours. Stainless steel (diameter 41mm, thickness 13.5mm). Priced at 270,000 yen.
Contact info: Swiss Prime Brands ☎03-4360-8669
