The DBF007 from every angle
Diver watches have been among the best-known types of watch since the 1950s. Originally designed for underwater use, they have since become a classic example of Swiss watchmaking. With the DBF007, we present our own take on this iconic design.
Features of a Diver watch
Diver watches were developed for professional use underwater. Reliability, robustness and legibility have therefore always been essential features. These functional characteristics continue to define the appearance of the watch to this day. The classic features of a Diver include:
- High water and pressure resistance
- A unidirectional rotating bezel for measuring dive time
- Luminous hands and hour markers for excellent readability in low light
- A robust construction for use in demanding conditions
The DBF007 draws on these features and reinterprets them in the DuBois et fils style.
What makes the difference: The DBF007
Case back
Like classic Diver watches, the DBF007 does not have a glass case back. This design is essential for ensuring the robustness and water resistance of the case.
However, thanks to the watch’s digital registration in the DuBois et fils blockchain, the historic Swiss movement remains visible and can be accessed at any time via the customer’s personal account, along with the watch, its movement and its history.
The back of the Diver watch is engraved with the DuBois et fils family coat of arms, which features numerous elements. Three fir trees dominate the case back. Not only are they a beautiful feature, they also emphasise our connection to the DuBois family. A fir tree grows high up in the mountains, remains green all year round, and is highly resilient to wind and weather. The fir tree is emblematic of the Jura region and thus lies at the heart of the Swiss watchmaking industry.
Bezel
The DBF007's bezel is easy to operate and provides a secure grip, even underwater. To make the rotating bezel more attractive and feel higher quality, it is made from premium ceramic.
On Diver watches, the bezel only rotates in one direction. This prevents it from being accidentally adjusted and ensures reliable measurement of dive time.
Hands and dial
This Diver watch boasts exceptional luminosity thanks to Superluminova. The large, round dots on the dial ensure that the time remains clearly visible, even underwater. The bezel is also fitted with Superluminova.
Another distinctive feature of the DBF007 is the Superluminova hands. They are long and extend all the way from the centre to the edge. This design ensures particularly good readability of the time or elapsed minutes whilst underwater.
Crown
The crown is used to set the time and wind the power reserve. These are two essential functions for this Diver watch. On the DBF007, the crown is securely screw-down to prevent water ingress.
Furthermore, the crown enhances the watch’s appearance. On the DuBois et fils Diver watch, it is an eye-catching feature. As with other models, the fir tree from the DuBois et fils logo is engraved on the crown for identification purposes.
Historic Swiss movement
Each DBF007 is powered by an AS-1895 automatic movement manufactured by A. Schild SA, based in Grenchen. This movement was produced in 1960.
DuBois et fils has overhauled all of these movements and incorporated them into the DBF007.
The Art of Production
A small manufacturer based in the Swiss Jura region produces high-quality watch cases for renowned brands. Due to its precision and high-quality standards, DuBois et fils has decided to collaborate with this specialist company (see the article ‘What does “Swiss Made” mean at DuBois et fils?’ for more information).
Here are some fascinating details about the manufacturing process:
- The DBF007 case was milled, not stamped. This opened up significantly greater design possibilities (see the article ‘The DBF007 Design Process’).
- The case rim is satin-finished on the sides and polished in between. This is a labour-intensive finish that lends the watch additional depth and a sense of quality.
- The sapphire crystal is hand-cut at the sides, not domed. This creates striking light reflections that emphasise the watch’s distinctive design.
With the DBF007, DuBois et fils has created an extraordinary reimagining of the classic Swiss diving watch.
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