Dive into the world of horology with a comprehensive look at the Breitling Superocean II A17392. This iconic timepiece, renowned for its robust design and exceptional functionality, has captured the hearts of diving enthusiasts and watch collectors alike. In this article, we will delve into the intricate details of the Superocean II A17392, exploring its history, design features, technical specifications, and its place in the Breitling legacy.

History and Evolution of the Breitling Superocean

The Breitling Superocean has a rich history, dating back to 1957 when Breitling first introduced this model as a dedicated divers' watch. Aimed at professional and military divers, the original Superocean quickly gained a reputation for its reliability and legibility under challenging conditions. Over the decades, the Superocean has undergone numerous iterations, each building upon the strengths of its predecessors while incorporating modern materials and technologies. The Superocean II, including the A17392, represents a significant evolution in this lineage, blending classic design elements with contemporary engineering.

The initial Superocean models were celebrated for their innovative features, such as a highly legible dial, luminous hands and markers, and a robust case designed to withstand significant water pressure. These early models set the standard for dive watches and were quickly adopted by diving professionals around the globe. As diving technology advanced, so too did the Superocean, with each new version incorporating improvements in water resistance, case materials, and overall durability. The Superocean II A17392 stands as a testament to Breitling's commitment to continuous improvement and innovation in the field of dive watches.

The design philosophy behind the Superocean has always been rooted in functionality and reliability. Breitling understood that divers needed a timepiece they could depend on in the most extreme environments. This understanding led to the development of features such as unidirectional bezels, which prevent accidental adjustments to dive time, and screw-locked crowns, which ensure water resistance. The Superocean II A17392 carries on this tradition, incorporating these essential features while also offering a stylish and versatile design that appeals to a broad range of watch enthusiasts.

Throughout its history, the Superocean has been associated with adventure and exploration. Many professional divers, marine researchers, and ocean explorers have relied on the Superocean to keep them safe and informed during their underwater missions. This connection to real-world use has helped to solidify the Superocean's reputation as a serious tool watch, while also contributing to its appeal as a symbol of adventure and exploration. The Superocean II A17392 continues this legacy, offering a timepiece that is both functional and evocative of the spirit of adventure.

Design and Features of the A17392

The Breitling Superocean II A17392 boasts a striking design that balances sporty aesthetics with functional elements. Available in various dial colors, including black, blue, and white, the A17392 offers options to suit different tastes. The bold, luminous hour markers and hands ensure excellent legibility in all lighting conditions, a crucial feature for divers. The unidirectional rotating bezel, a hallmark of dive watches, allows divers to accurately track elapsed time underwater. The stainless steel case provides robustness and durability, while the sapphire crystal protects the dial from scratches and impacts.

One of the standout features of the A17392 is its impressive water resistance of up to 200 meters (660 feet). This makes it suitable for a wide range of water activities, from recreational swimming to professional diving. The screw-locked crown further enhances water resistance by preventing water from entering the case. The A17392 also features a date display at the 3 o'clock position, adding to its practicality for everyday use. The overall design of the A17392 reflects Breitling's commitment to creating timepieces that are both functional and stylish.

The dial of the A17392 is designed for maximum legibility, with large, luminous hour markers and hands that stand out against the dial's background. The markers and hands are coated with Super-LumiNova, a luminescent material that provides long-lasting brightness in dark environments. The dial also features a minute track around the outer edge, allowing for precise time reading. The Breitling logo is prominently displayed at the 12 o'clock position, adding to the watch's overall aesthetic appeal.

The unidirectional rotating bezel of the A17392 is another key feature that enhances its functionality as a dive watch. The bezel is marked with clear, easy-to-read numerals and graduations, allowing divers to accurately track elapsed time underwater. The unidirectional design prevents accidental adjustments to dive time, ensuring that divers can safely monitor their time underwater. The bezel is also designed to be easy to grip and rotate, even when wearing gloves.

The stainless steel case of the A17392 provides a robust and durable housing for the watch's movement. The case is designed to withstand the pressures of underwater environments, ensuring that the watch remains functional even at significant depths. The case is also finished with a combination of brushed and polished surfaces, giving it a refined and stylish look. The sapphire crystal that protects the dial is scratch-resistant, ensuring that the watch remains looking its best even after years of use.

Technical Specifications

At the heart of the Breitling Superocean II A17392 lies the Breitling Caliber 17, a self-winding mechanical movement based on the ETA 2824-2. This movement is known for its reliability and accuracy, providing a power reserve of approximately 38 hours. The A17392 is also COSC-certified, meaning it has undergone rigorous testing to ensure its precision. The case diameter is 42mm, making it a comfortable fit for most wrists. The lug width is 20mm, allowing for easy strap changes. The watch weighs approximately 95 grams, offering a balanced feel on the wrist.

The Breitling Caliber 17 movement is a workhorse that has been proven over many years of use. It features 25 jewels and beats at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour, ensuring smooth and accurate timekeeping. The movement is also equipped with a hacking function, which allows the seconds hand to be stopped when the crown is pulled out, making it easier to synchronize the watch with a reference time. The COSC certification guarantees that the movement meets strict standards for accuracy, reliability, and durability.

The 42mm case diameter of the A17392 strikes a good balance between presence and wearability. It is large enough to be easily readable but not so large as to be uncomfortable on smaller wrists. The case is also relatively thin, which helps it to fit comfortably under a shirt cuff. The 20mm lug width allows for a wide range of strap options, from stainless steel bracelets to leather straps to NATO straps. This versatility makes the A17392 a great choice for both casual and more formal occasions.

The weight of the A17392 is another factor that contributes to its overall comfort and wearability. At approximately 95 grams, it is not too heavy to be worn all day, but it still feels substantial and well-built. The weight is also distributed evenly across the wrist, which helps to prevent discomfort. The A17392 is a watch that is designed to be worn and enjoyed, and its technical specifications reflect this focus on comfort and usability.

The Breitling Legacy

Breitling has a long and storied history in the world of watchmaking, particularly in the realm of aviation and diving watches. Founded in 1884 by Léon Breitling, the company quickly established itself as a leader in chronograph production. Breitling's close ties to the aviation industry led to the development of iconic models such as the Navitimer and the Chronomat, which became essential tools for pilots. The Superocean, introduced in 1957, extended Breitling's expertise to the world of diving, offering a reliable and functional timepiece for underwater exploration. The Superocean II A17392 is a modern embodiment of this legacy, combining Breitling's commitment to quality and innovation with a design that is both timeless and contemporary.

Breitling's commitment to precision and reliability has earned it a loyal following among watch enthusiasts and professionals alike. The company's watches are known for their robust construction, accurate movements, and functional designs. Breitling's close ties to the aviation and diving communities have also helped to solidify its reputation as a maker of serious tool watches. The Superocean II A17392 is a testament to Breitling's dedication to these values, offering a timepiece that is both stylish and capable.

Throughout its history, Breitling has been at the forefront of watchmaking innovation. The company has developed numerous patents and technologies that have improved the accuracy, reliability, and functionality of its watches. Breitling was one of the first companies to introduce automatic chronographs, and it has also been a pioneer in the use of materials such as titanium and carbon fiber in watchmaking. The Superocean II A17392 reflects this spirit of innovation, incorporating modern materials and technologies to create a timepiece that is both cutting-edge and timeless.

Breitling's legacy extends beyond its watches to its commitment to social and environmental responsibility. The company has implemented numerous initiatives to reduce its environmental impact and support sustainable practices. Breitling is also involved in a number of charitable organizations that work to improve the lives of people around the world. The Superocean II A17392 is a product of this commitment to responsible business practices, offering a timepiece that is both high-quality and ethically produced.

Conclusion

The Breitling Superocean II A17392 is a remarkable timepiece that embodies Breitling's commitment to quality, functionality, and style. Its robust design, exceptional water resistance, and accurate movement make it a reliable companion for any adventure, whether on land or at sea. The A17392's timeless aesthetics and versatile design ensure that it will remain a cherished addition to any watch collection for years to come. Whether you are a diving enthusiast, a watch collector, or simply someone who appreciates fine craftsmanship, the Breitling Superocean II A17392 is a watch that is sure to impress.

In summary, the Breitling Superocean II A17392 is more than just a watch; it is a symbol of Breitling's rich history and dedication to excellence. Its blend of classic design elements and modern technology makes it a standout timepiece in the world of horology. The A17392 is a watch that is built to last, both in terms of its physical durability and its timeless appeal. It is a watch that you can wear with confidence, knowing that it is both stylish and capable.

For those seeking a reliable, stylish, and high-performing dive watch, the Breitling Superocean II A17392 stands out as an excellent choice. Its blend of heritage and modern innovation ensures it remains a relevant and desirable timepiece for years to come. So, if you're in the market for a watch that can handle anything you throw at it while still looking great, the Superocean II A17392 is definitely worth considering.