Strap Up: DOXA Unveils the SUB 600T on NATO
This summer, DOXA, a brand well known for its pioneering dive watches, is unveiling a new iteration of the SUB 600T, now paired with matching NATO straps. This latest update to the line marries the vintage appeal of the iconic 80s model with a sporty, cool-casual vibe, perfect for both divers and style aficionados alike. Available in DOXA's seven emblematic colorways, this new offering promises a vibrant tribute to the brand’s past whilst striking a chord with contemporary trends.
A Brief History of the SUB 600T
During the 1980s, under the ownership of Aubry Frères, DOXA first introduced the SUB 600T. At the time, it marked both an evolutionary and revolutionary milestone within the diving community. Renowned for its unmistakable design, including the brilliant orange dial, the SUB 600T was instantly recognizable as a DOXA diver. This model laid the groundwork for what many enthusiasts affectionately refer to as a parallel SUB universe—a realm where functionality meets form in seamless harmony.
A Modern Tribute
Fast forward over forty years, and DOXA has not merely revisited this chapter of its rich heritage; it has reimagined it. The modern SUB 600T still boasts the robust design elements of its predecessors and is carved from a solid block of 316L stainless steel and topped with a sapphire crystal. The 40mm case, prominent dial, and the strategically placed crown at 4 o'clock continue to characterize the distinctive silhouette of the iconic SUB 600T.
However, the newly introduced feature for this family is the tone-on-tone NATO straps that are both in tune with modern styles as well as a nod to their military origins. Known for their durability and comfort, NATO straps have evolved from their utilitarian roots to become a staple in the world of luxury watches. The watches will come fitted with quick-release spring bars for easy swaps, making them as functional as they are fashionable.
Practical and Elegant
The term "NATO strap" originates from the NATO Stocking Number (NSN) for a design based on military-grade specifications. Initially introduced by the British Ministry of Defence in 1973, these straps were built to withstand rigorous use. Today, they have transcended their military heritage to become a versatile and easy choice among watch enthusiasts, blending reliability with aesthetic flexibility.
Due to their construction from weaved nylon threads, NATO straps are both lightweight and incredibly durable. They were ideal for combat diving as the straps were able to withstand the trails of the military life and ensured that the watch was always securely fastened to the diver’s wrist. This was an era that predated wrist-mounted dive computers and a diver’s watch was a lifesaving tool.
Technical Excellence Meets Style
The SUB 600T is not just about looks; it is a serious tool watch. With a unidirectional rotating bezel and a depth rating of 60 ATM (600 meters), it is engineered for professional divers but has always appealed to horological enthusiasts for either collecting or diving; and ideally a mixture of both! The watch features a three-hand display and a date function, in line with the DOXA dive watch formula of the past. All critical dive indications, including the unique ‘shark tooth’ markers, are coated with Super-LumiNova®, ensuring optimal readability under low light conditions.
Easy Summer Living
With the launch of the SUB 600T on NATO straps, DOXA is tapping into the summer spirit, offering a perfect blend of performance and style. This watch is not just an instrument for divers; it's a statement piece for anyone who values the legacy of a timeless design combined with the practicality of contemporary features.
Not only are NATO straps easy to swap but maintaining them is very easy to do. The straps can be easily rinsed in fresh water to remove any salt residue when used in the ocean. Likewise, if the strap is showing signs of use, a gentle wash on soap and like scrubbing with a brush will bring it back to like new!
As the DOXA community celebrates this hotly anticipated release, the SUB 600T in steel with a tone-on-tone NATO strap stands out as a testament to the brand's commitment to honoring its history whilst evolving with the times. It’s a celebration of enduring design and modern functionality—a true icon, reborn for today's watch lovers!
