VULCAIN Chronograph 70's - Blue

An icon underwater reimagined

The Vulcain Cricket Nautical is more than a classic diving watch – it is a technical instrument with historical depth and a fascinating story. With its distinctive 42 mm stainless steel case and the substantial height of 17.35 mm, it embodies the robust presence expected from a professional diving watch. Its carefully polished 316L steel case creates a noble contrast to the functional orientation of this timepiece.

Design meets function

Behind the domed sapphire crystal, which is equipped with a anti-reflective coating, a semi-matte dial in deep black is revealed – featuring integrated decompression tables that are not only visually fascinating but also an essential aid in practice underwater. The polished silver hands and indices give the watch a subtle vintage aesthetic that also appears modern.

Mechanics with signature

Inside the watch beats the manually wound caliber V-10, a complex movement with a total of 165 components. It is a classic alarm movement with a double barrel and the so-called Exactomatic regulation. The frequency is 18,000 half oscillations per hour, and the power reserve of 52 hours emphasizes the endurance and precision of the movement. Particularly remarkable is the alarm function – with a runtime of around 20 seconds – which sounds reliably not only in the air but also underwater.

The sound of the depths

This audible alarm function is enabled by the so-called Triple Case Back – a three-part case back system that acts as a resonance chamber. This design allows the alarm sound to remain audible underwater – a true unique feature. Alternatively, the watch is also available with a sapphire crystal display back, adorned with Vulcain's stylized "V", offering a view of the movement without compromising aesthetics.

Legacy of an adventure

The original Cricket Nautical emerged from a unique collaboration of three pioneers: Hannes Keller, a visionary deep-sea diver and mathematician from Switzerland; filmmaker and researcher Max-Yves Brandily; and certified diving instructor Arthur Droz. Together with Vulcain, they developed the first diving watch that combined a decompression table on the dial with an acoustic alarm function – a milestone in watchmaking history.

A moment of recognition

Especially touching is Vulcain's tribute to Hannes Keller, who passed away on December 25, 2022. His legendary dive mission on November 3, 1966, off Toulon, where he reached nearly 250 meters depth – with a Cricket Nautical on his wrist – was even personally witnessed by Jacques Cousteau. This watch was not only a tool but a faithful companion on one of the deepest documented dives of its time.

Technology for connoisseurs

Two superimposed dials – one fixed, the other rotatable – form the core of the decompression system. An additional screwed crown at 4 o'clock allows the scale to be set individually. Depending on the dive duration and depth, the necessary decompression stops at 9, 6, and 3 meters appear in a rectangular window. A mechanical solution that still sets standards today in its sophistication.

Tradition and innovation united

The Manufactory Vulcain, which originated as early as 1858, remains one of the most significant houses of Swiss watchmaking to this day. Its location in the picturesque Le Locle – in the heart of the Neuchâtel Jura – is not only historically important but also a symbol of the craftsmanship level embedded in each of its watches. The Cricket Nautical is a worthy heir to this long history – a combination of timeless technology and modern standards.

More than a watch

The Vulcain Cricket Nautical is not just a timepiece – it is a professional instrument, a collector's item for enthusiasts, and an expression of decades of engineering craftsmanship. Its unique profile, acoustic functionality underwater, and deeply rooted history make it a true milestone. Whether as a tribute to past heroics or as a tool for new adventures – this watch is ready for whatever comes.

Specifications

• Movement: SW510 M BH b-Manual
• Components: 165 parts
• Double barrel
• Exactomatic system
• Frequency: 18,000 vibrations per hour
• Power reserve: approx. 52 hours
• Alarm duration: approx. 20 seconds (±5 seconds)
• Functions:
• Hours, minutes, central seconds
• Mechanical alarm (audible underwater)
• Adjustable decompression table via crown at 4 o'clock
• Case:
• Material: 316L stainless steel, polished
• Diameter: 38 mm
• Height with triple case back: 17.35 mm
• Water resistance: 5 ATM (50 meters)
• Dial:
• Blue
• Integrated decompression tables
• Indices: white SuperLuminova
• Hands: Polished silver
• Glass:
• Domed sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating
• Armband:
• Width: 22 mm at the lug side, tapering to 18 mm
• Buckle: 316L stainless steel with engraved Vulcain logo