Carl F. Bucherer Patravi ScubaTec Black

Originally launched in 2013, the Patravi ScubaTec is Carl F. Bucherer’s vision of a dive watch. And it packs everything you can expect from a luxury dive watch, being fully-equipped for deep-dives up to 500m. Following the special-edition ‘Black Manta’, the Lucerne-based manufacturer has recently launched a cool black and silver edition. Let’s take a closer look.

The latest iteration of the Patravi ScubaTec comes in an ultra-light titanium case that has been DLC-coated for a stealth black look. The large 44.6mm case stands out with its short angular, faceted lugs. The screw-down, easy-to-grip crown is flanked by a pair of crown guards fixed by hexagonal screws. The large unidirectional bezel operates precisely and double knurling ensures good grip. It is fitted with a black ceramic insert and a large luminescent pearl. The water resistance is rated 50 ATM / 500m and there is a helium relief valve on the side of the case, at 8 o’clock. The overall execution is precise and transpires robustness.

The back dial is embossed with a scale-like pattern. Together with the wedge-shaped raised hour markers, it creates a striking sense of depth. To ensure easy and accurate timekeeping in all conditions, all the dial’s elements are coated with luminescent material that glows blue. 

Turning the watch over, two Manta rays are engraved in relief on the screw-down caseback. Inside is the automatic calibre CFB 1950-1 (based on the tried-and-tested ETA-2824 architecture). The precision of this robust workhorse is certified by the COSC, the Swiss chronometer testing institute. There is a hacking second for precise time-setting. Running at 28,800 vibrations per hour, its power reserve is of 38 hours when fully wound. It displays the hours, minutes, seconds and the date.

The Carl F. Bucherer Patravi ScubaTec Black comes either on an embossed rubber strap or a rubber strap with PET textile layer. It is fixed to the case by screws for additional security. The watch is secured to the wrist thanks to a DLC-titanium safety folding clasp with a fold-out diving extension. On the wrist, this nearly 45mm watch wears snug and compact thanks to the ergonomic short lugs. 

The Carl F. Bucherer Patravi ScubaTec Black is a watch with a distinctive personality. If it has all the attributes of a deep diver (500m water-resistance, HRV), it feels somewhat different from the archetypal dive watch, specifically with its elaborate case design. It is a dive watch that looks good on land and sea. If you like the ScubaTec style, this is without doubt one of the coolest versions: it is hard to go wrong with a silver and black design. Price is set at EUR 6,400. For more information, please visit www.carl-f-bucherer.com.