Aquastar Introduces the Benthos Heritage II
A modern-spec retro diver.![](https://watchesbysjx.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Aquastar-Benthos-Heritage-II-Lifestyle.jpg)
A historical brand that was recently revived, Aquastar continues to mine its past catalogue with the Benthos Heritage II, a contemporary interpretation the original Benthos diver’s watch of 1970. Drawing on sketches from Aquastar’s archives, the new release has a typical 1970s style with a “turtle” case that’s a suitably compact 40 mm in diameter, but with a modern-day ceramic bezel insert and Sellita movement.
Initial thoughts
The Benthos Heritage II is essentially an affordable, wearable dive watch with contemporary specifications and materials. While the brand’s earlier Benthos was a substantial 42 mm by 15.4 mm, the new model is scaled down, reduced by 2 mm in diameter and 3.5 mm in thickness, giving it the smaller, vintage-like proportions that are popular today.
However, Aquastar is just one of many brands producing vintage-inspired dive watches. In fact, its owner was also behind the relaunch of Doxa, also a brand specialising in vintage-remake dive watches. As a result, the new Benthos is not a unique concept, but it is well considering the price.
Priced at US$1,490 on a stainless steel bracelet, the Benthos Heritage II is a decent value proposition. It’s priced similarly to other micro-brand offerings of comparable quality, but unlike startup brands, it comes with the historical background of the Aquastar brand. Part of its affordability is explained by the pre-order sales model, which means orders placed and paid for now will only be fulfilled in May 2025.
Two crowns
Like many other 1970s dive watches, the Benthos Heritage II has two crowns, at the two o’clock and four o’clock positions respectively. The upper crown is for winding and setting the time, while the lower crown functions as a manual helium escape valve.
The cushion-shaped steel case has 300 m of water resistance, and its unidirectional bezel features a ceramic insert. Adding to the vintage flavour are the block-style indices with faux-vintage lume, matched with rectangular hands and a bright orange “stick” seconds.
The watch is powered by the economical Sellita SW200-1, which offers 38 hours of power reserve and beats at 28,800 beats per hour (4 Hz).
Key facts and price
Aquastar Benthos Heritage II
Diameter: 40 mm
Height: 11.9 mm
Material: Stainless steel
Crystal: Sapphire
Water resistance: 300 m
Movement: Sellita SW200-1
Functions: Hours, minutes, and seconds
Winding: Automatic
Frequency: 28,800 beats per second (4 Hz)
Power reserve: 38 hours
Strap: Matching steel bracelet, or “tropic” rubber strap
Limited edition: 500 pieces
Availability: Pre-order now at Aquastar online boutique, with delivery in June 2025
Price: US$1,390 on a strap; US$1,490 on a steel bracelet
For more, visit aquastar.ch