THE ESSENTIALS
MAKE: BREITLING
MODEL: 2005
YEAR: 1968
BOX/PAPERS: NO/YES
CASE DIAMETER: 42mm
CASE MATERIAL: STAINLESS STEEL
BRACELET MATERIAL: STAINLESS STEEL / RUBBER
MOVEMENT: MANUAL WIND
The year of 1957 was monumental for diving watches, seeing the release of Rolex Submariner, Omega CK2913, and Blancpain Fifty Fathoms all within 12 months (hard to believe, we know). Amidst these iconic names, another historic manufacturer, Breitling, also released their versions of the underwater tool - the SuperOcean. The Ref. 807 and 1004 were packed with innovations such as the concave glass-protecting bezel and chrono function (yes, on a diver) which took Breitling from the wrists of pilots to the sea.
However, Breitling did not stop innovating - just seven years later, they introduced the SuperOcean, Ref. 2005. In contrast to the sleek lines of its predecessors, the 2005 was built to be the ultimate wrist machine. It features a 'slow counter' chronograph function that simplified elapsed time tracking by removing the chronograph seconds hand, focusing on minute counting—a practical move for divers. The contrasting dial and utilitarian hands ensures legibility under water. Observant eyes will also notice the aperture at six o'clock, an indicator that switches to a large white luminous dot when the chronograph is active and a black dot with white bullseye when paused.
Originally sold in Romford of all places in June of 1968, this example has been kept in remarkable condition. The original receipt confirms Mr Slater purchased the watch for £49 and the bracelet for a further £5, equivalent to £730 in todays money!! The dial and hands are spotless, retaining all of its original tritium which glow brightly under UV. The case remains very strong, with the original chamfers clearly visible. The modified Venus 188 movement has just been serviced and running perfectly at +5 s/d, 272 amps, with a 0.1 ms beat error. Exceptional SuperOcean models are rare finds, and this one, complete with its receipt, papers, booklets, and unworn original tropic, would be a valuable addition to any serious collection.