Delta Watch Hydra

The army of dive watches inspired by the golden age of underwater exploration (the 60s and 70s) shows no signs of abating, nor should it. There is a wealth of design talent unearthed from the depths of these archives. However, a truly great watch can’t rely on style alone. It needs to back it up with functionality and a desirable price. Well, say hello to the Hydra from Delta Watch.

The Hydra wears its 70s design inspiration on its sleeve, referencing the kind of timepieces worn by Jacques Cousteau and professional diving pioneers – watches that not only survive underwater, but thrive there.

Of course, that means an unmistakable vintage look and a spec sheet that rivals that of a military-grade submarine. The Hydra boasts many firsts, with its massive 47mm diameter (including the crown) stainless steel case, high-contrast color, and choice of black or bright orange aluminum dive bezel.

Not only does it match the looks with its impressive 2,000-meter water resistance, but the more unique divers add a left-hand crown and an Omega Ploprof-style helium escape valve for saturation diving. It’s an almost intimidating spec sheet, and one that fits the Hydra perfectly.

Underwater in Fort Knox is a Seiko NH35 automatic movement with a power reserve of approximately 42 hours. It delivers exactly what you’d want from a watch designed for the harshest environments on Earth: accuracy and reliability.

Sealing the movement, you’ll find an ergonomic bubble caseback featuring one of the more unique aspects of the Hydra, as well as a hint at where the watch gets its name: a pair of coordinates for the Greek island of Hydra. Not only is this a favorite of Delta Watch founder Bill Anagnos, it’s also a testing ground for a watch that’s as wholeheartedly prepared to take on the deep as any ancient Greek hero.

Not that you need to be as well-equipped as Odysseus to afford your own take on the mythical multi-headed creature. Despite promising extraordinary performance and style to match, the Hydra is priced at just $379 – or about £280 in older models. Now, that’s the price of something that will stand the test of time.

Delta’s website has a wider range of bezel colours available for purchase, for those who want a backup, or perhaps want a change of style.

Price and Specs:

Model Name: Delta Watch Hydra

Case/Dial: 50mm diameter x 19.2mm thickness, stainless steel

Water Resistance: 2000m (200 bar)

Movement: Seiko NH35 calibre, automatic, 24 jewels, -20/+40 sec/day accuracy

Frequency: 21,600 vph (3 Hz)

Power Reserve: 41 hours

Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds

Strap: Stainless steel bracelet

Price and Availability: £280/$379