The Nautoscaph Superautomatic came to fame in 1975 after the young oceanographer Matt Hooper, played by Richard Dreyfuss, wore it in the blockbuster hit Jaws. Now 50 years after the release of the original model Alsta has recently re-introduced the Nautoscaph Superautomatic into the market. The brand’s reissue of their most prominent watch focusses on expertly combining the classic design with the best modern technology, in order to present to us a new and improved classic.
The Design
In the design of the Nautoscaph Superautomatic reissue, Alsta has shown that you truly can improve and update a classic fan-favourite timepiece but still keeping the character of the original design. The attention to detail in the creation of this watch is evident, however, this is not an absolute duplicate of the original. Alsta has done a good job of streamlining the look of the model in order to optimize its performance.
The case is made of stainless steel with polished edges and the classic cushion shape of the model has been preserved. The case is also larger than the original at 38mm, giving it a more modernized appearance.
Alsta wanted this to be the timepiece for every situation. The versatile design shows this watch was intended to be worn outdoors as well as during more elegant occasions. The dial has been kept fairly simple. Black in colour printed with a mix of large Arabic number hour-markers and indices. All the hands are luminescent, filled with C3 Super-LumiNova. The hours and minutes hands are a sleek sword shape, while the seconds’ hand is thin with an arrow at the end.
The dial is protected by a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal which is domed, as a nod to the original 1970’s design. One of the differences between the original and the new Nautoscaph Superautomatic is the lack of a magnifying window on the crystal. The brand has commented that the decision to remove the window was in order to protect the integrity of the sapphire and to keep the crystal stronger.
The model reissue also comes with either a rubber strap, ideal for diving, or a metal bracelet. The stainless steel bracelet resembles the one on the original design, giving it a stylish vintage look. Fashionable but robust, the design of the bracelet carries on the intended versatility of the watch.
Functions
The new Nautoscaph Superautomatic keeps a lot of its original functions as well. The model was tested to withstand all manner of conditions, be it under or above water. Suitable for diving, mountain climbing, or skiing, the watch is anti-magnetic to a field strength of 4,800 A/m and shock-resistant to ISO 1413 standard.
A true diver’s watch the model has a screw-down crown, making it water-resistant as well as a uni-directional bezel. It is also water-resistant up to 30 bars. It features an automatic movement and the dial also features a date display on the 3 o’clock position.
Whether you are a fan of Jaws and want to emulate Matt Hooper and carry a part of your favorite movie with you, or you just appreciate a fantastically made watch with an interesting history to it, the Nautoscaph Superautomatic is the watch for you. You can purchase this truly a timeless classic here.
Are you excited by the Alsta Nautoscaph Superautomatic’s re-issue? Let us know in the comments down below.
