Breitling is expanding its beloved Superocean Heritage line with a new 36mm case size that promises to attract collectors and everyday wearers alike. With refined proportions and a versatile aesthetic, this release brings the elegance of mid-century dive watches into a more compact, wearable form without sacrificing character or substance.
A Legacy of Tool Watches, Refined for Today
Founded in 1884, Breitling has long been associated with aviation and chronographs, but its Superocean collection—launched in 1957—cemented its place among serious dive watch manufacturers. Designed for professional divers and naval forces, the original Superocean combined rugged performance with distinctive design codes. The modern Superocean Heritage line revives those signature elements—the arrow-tipped hands, the mesh-style bracelet, and the polished ceramic bezel—while modernizing construction and materials. By introducing a 36mm variant, Breitling is not only responding to the growing demand for smaller watches, but also reaffirming its ability to bridge heritage with modern sensibilities.
Compact, Robust, and Purpose-Built
The new 36mm Superocean Heritage retains the same visual DNA as its larger siblings but condenses it into a case diameter that sits comfortably on smaller wrists. Crafted in stainless steel with a unidirectional ceramic bezel, the watch offers 200 metres of water resistance—ample for recreational diving and more than sufficient for daily life. The screw-down crown and domed sapphire crystal are in line with the collection’s vintage cues, while the polished case surfaces and bezel insert reflect Breitling’s attention to premium finishing.
Inside beats the Breitling Caliber 10, a COSC-certified automatic movement based on the reliable ETA 2892-A2. With a 42-hour power reserve and smooth winding feel, it’s a proven calibre that delivers accuracy and dependability. The watch is available on either a classic Milanese mesh bracelet or a rubber strap patterned to mimic the look of the original steel mesh, offering a more casual and comfortable option.
A Watch for Smaller Wrists and Thoughtful Styling
The 36mm size speaks directly to a demographic often underserved in the dive watch category—women and men who appreciate compact, well-proportioned watches. It also works perfectly as a go-anywhere, do-anything piece for those who value vintage style in a modern package. Whether paired with a linen shirt on vacation or worn daily at the office, its clean lines, luminous markers, and subtle detailing make it one of the more versatile pieces in Breitling’s current lineup.
Color options include sunray blue, black, and a warm copper tone, each offering a distinct personality. The dial remains uncluttered, with minimal text and polished indices that catch the light without being ostentatious. There’s a quiet confidence in the design, one that doesn’t shout for attention but earns admiration upon closer inspection.
A Welcome Addition to the Superocean Family
With the Superocean Heritage 36mm, Breitling continues to show that it understands both the emotional and practical dimensions of watchmaking. The watch hits a sweet spot in terms of size, aesthetics, and technical performance, making it an excellent option for collectors looking to diversify their rotation or for newcomers seeking a trustworthy daily watch with vintage charm.
Retail prices start at $5,250 on rubber and go up to $5,550 on mesh bracelet, depending on configuration, with availability at Breitling boutiques and authorized retailers worldwide. In a market that increasingly embraces thoughtful proportions and heritage-inspired design, this release feels timely—and well executed. Nothing revolutionary, perhaps, but a logical evolution perfectly aligned with today’s market expectations. With a similar vibe – but far more affordable – Christopher Ward also released a series of dive watches worth taking a look at : the C60 Trident Reef !
