Squale's Brand History
Squale is a watch brand with over 60 years of history behind it and is still a family business. It has always represented strong ties between company and family, history and tradition. Its first incarnation was in 1946 under the name of C.Von Büren SA, founded by watchcase manufacturer Charles Von Büren. The Squale we now know today was a product of a professional collaboration which took place in 1959 between the keen scuba diver Von Büren and the Maggi families who were both based in Neuchâtel, Switzerland. Today, the brand is still managed by Andrea Maggi, who took over from his father.
Squale 1521 - Credit WatchGecko
$2,439.00 AUD
In 2019 Squale commemorated its anniversary by launching a new watch inspired by the iconic early models of the brand. The 60-Year Special Edition introduced a limited 150 unit design reminiscent of the 1950s.
The 39mm watch displayed the launch date "July 10, 1959" in French on the dial and was powered by a Sellita SW200 (Elaboré) movement. It featured vintage lume and a crystal insert on the bezel. Andrea Maggi commented,
"I love history. I want this [watch] to be linked to something. Best to honor tradition while trying something new at the same time. Step by step, I want to try something new, but always keeping in mind where I come from."
In 2020 the transition process was concluded and Squale relocated back to its roots, moving its business headquarters to Switzerland, where it all began more than 60 years ago.
Here are some articles and a video which will provide you with a general overview of the collection:
Squale Throughout the Years
1950: Von Büren SA watch factory is Founded
Credit Squale
Charles and Helene Von Buren establish the Von Büren SA watch factory in Neuchâtel, Switzerland. Inspired by their personal passion for diving and water sports, their focus immediately turns to sub-aquatic watchmaking - still an unexplored field at the time.
1959: Squale is Trademarked
Charles Von Büren registered the “Super-Squale” trademark together with the “Squale” brand itself.
Super Squale - Credit WatchGecko
$2,216.00 AUD
$2,216.00 AUD
Here is a review of the whole Super Squale Collection.
Alternatively, check out these in-depth reviews of specific models:
1962: SUB-39 is Launched
The first models are launched, including the prototype for the SUB-39 model which is reviewed in detail here.
1967: Launch of the Master model
Squale Master - Credit WatchGecko
You can read an in-depth review here of the revamped edition released in 2024.
1968: Launch of the 2002 model
Known for its impressive 1000-meter water resistance, this model is built to withstand the most demanding underwater conditions. The Squale 2002 features a durable stainless steel case, a reliable automatic movement, and a uni-directional bezel for precise timekeeping during dives.
1970: 1521 Collection is Introduced
In 1970 we were introduced to the 1521 Collection. Having evolved over the years, 2024 sees 33 individual models taking their place in the collection.
The key specifications of the 1521 family is the crown at 4 o'clock and the 120-click adjustment bezel.
Here are a few hands-on reviews for you:
2023 Range of 1521 Models Review
Credit Squale
Individual Reviews:
1982: Squale is sold to the Maggi Family
In preparation for his retirement, Charles Von Büren sells the brand to the Maggi family. You can listen to an interview with Andrea Maggi here.
2005: Squale is Relaunched
The Maggi family decides to relaunch Squale watches onto the market, restarting production of the most iconic models.
2012: WatchGecko Starts Stocking Squale
2012 marks the launch of the 2002 LUX model, presented with a bezel set with diamonds. WatchGecko becomes an official stockist.
2015: Launch of the Matic model.
Launch of the Matic model which is reviewed in detail here.
2019: Squale's 60th Anniversary
60th anniversary celebration of the birth of the company.
2020: New Headquarters
- Regular price
- $3,440.00 AUD
- Regular price
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- Sale price
- $3,440.00 AUD
- Unit price
- per
- Regular price
- $3,440.00 AUD
- Regular price
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- Sale price
- $3,440.00 AUD
- Unit price
- per
- Regular price
- $3,440.00 AUD
- Regular price
-
- Sale price
- $3,440.00 AUD
- Unit price
- per
Launch of the T-183 model, the first Squale model to be offered in fiberglass and carbon. Squale moves its headquarters to Ticino, Switzerland, and closes its headquarters in Milan.
Current Philosophy
In 2024, Squale continues to prove its reputation as a premier manufacturer of dive watches, offering a robust lineup consisting of eight distinct collections. Each collection is designed to cater to diving enthusiasts and professionals, featuring exceptional water resistance, durability, and precision. The brand's heritage, rooted in Swiss watchmaking excellence, shines through in each model, combining classic aesthetics with modern technology to deliver reliable and stylish dive watches.
If our history of Squale Watches has sparked your interest, keep reading for some recommendations which you can source from our store.
Squale 1521 Range on WatchGecko
- A great example of Squale's high-quality professional dive watches
- Equipped with the Automatic Sellita SW 200-1 Elaborè movement
Super Squale Range on WatchGecko
- Offers lightweight design with a water resistance of 200 meters
- Highly legible dial presented with old-radium Super-LumiNova lume
