In a surprising move for a brand that has clearly mastered the stainless steel dive watch, Doxa has just announced a fresh version of the Doxa Sub 300 ‘Aqua Lung’ edition. What’s different? Well, this special edition comes with a fully forged carbon case, dial, and bezel. To my knowledge, this is the very first time Doxa has experimented with this material and the watch should attract a new set of collectors looking for something a little stealthier. So here it is, in a short run of 300 pieces: the Doxa Sub 300 Carbon Aqua Lung US Divers Limited Edition.
The watch itself features pretty much the same dimensions you’d get from the classic Sub 300 50th anniversary re-edition. My guess is that the watch would feel incredibly light on-wrist, especially with the inclusion of an integrated rubber strap. Doxa also claims that the watch is “fitted with a pressure-resistant titanium chamber to protect the movement” in addition to the screw-down crown to ensure durable construction. Looking at the press photos, I have to say, I’m kinda digging this as an owner of the 2017 Doxa Sub 300 Aqua Lung reissue. In a way, it also reminds me of the older blacked-out Sub 5000T ‘Military” models produced a while back – but lightyears ahead in terms of material and style choices.
Doxa Sub 300 Carbon Aqua Lung US Divers Limited Edition Specs
- Case Diameter: 42.5mm
- Case Thickness: 13.4mm
- Lug-to-lug: 45mm
- Case Material: Forged carbon
- Water Resistance: 300m
- Movement: ETA 2824-2 COSC Certified
- Crystal: Box sapphire
- Strap: Rubber with Doxa folding clasp
- Price: $4,790
Another interesting tidbit that I’m noticing: Doxa is actually listing this as a “Sharkhunter” on its website. This makes me wonder if we’ll see any other forged carbon releases that iterate on the Searambler (white) and Professional (Orange) colorways. It might seem a little wild, but I’d be interested to see the forged carbon format blended with classic Doxa orange in some way. Finally, the price. This thing is $4,750, which isn’t cheap, but falls in line when you consider the limited run, materials, and the fact that limited Doxa releases have been holding their value very, very well. I won’t be going for this one. But if you’ve been looking for something sleek with that matte black Aventador feel, I think this might be a Doxa worth considering. Learn more about the Doxa Sub 300 Carbon Aqua Lung US Divers Limited Edition on the brand’s official site. Doxa
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Michael Peñate is an American writer, photographer, and podcaster based in Seattle, Washington. His work typically focuses on the passage of time and the tools we use to connect with that very journey. From aviation to music and travel, his interests span a multitude of disciplines that often intersect with the world of watches – and the obsessive culture behind collecting them.
This one has me scratching my head. Diving is a hard use activity. Gear gets knocked around, scraped, and abraded. Carbon fiber is inferior to stainless for hard use. It requires the user to exercise some care. I broke a carbon road bike frame last year that cost $1500 to replace. Damaging a carbon fiber watchcase at this pricepoimt would be very painful.
Keep up the great work on the blog.
Upon further contemplation…forged carbon is probably very different than carbon fiber.