DEPTHMASTER
Collection
DEPTHMASTER
Collection
Collection
Depthmaster COLLECTION
Nivada Grenchen’s Depthmaster: The 3,000-Foot Dive Watch That Pushed the Limits
The Nivada Grenchen Depthmaster stands as one of the most ambitious and technically impressive dive watches of the 1960s. Introduced in 1965, the Depthmaster was an answer to the growing demand for extreme water-resistant timepieces, targeting professional divers and military personnel operating in high-pressure underwater environments.
At a time when most dive watches were rated between 150 and 300 meters, the Depthmaster shattered expectations by offering an astonishing 1,000-meter (3,300 feet) depth rating, making it one of the most water-resistant watches of its era. The watch was advertised as being tested to deeper than any other underwater watch, boasting an array of cutting-edge engineering solutions to ensure complete pressure resistance and mechanical reliability at great depths.
Its unique cushion-shaped case, reinforced construction, and now-iconic Pac-Man dial have since made it a cult classic among vintage collectors and an enduring icon in the history of deep-sea timepieces.
VINTAGE MODELS DEPTHMASTER
Pushing the Boundaries of Dive Watch Technology
When Nivada Grenchen introduced the Depthmaster in 1965, it was not just another dive watch—it was a statement of innovation. The company achieved its 1,000-meter water resistance through several engineering advancements that set it apart from its competitors
• A 38mm cushion-shaped stainless steel case – Constructed from Swedish steel, ensuring durability under extreme pressure.
• A reinforced, screw-down case back with extra threads – Providing additional sealing strength to resist seepage.
• A thick, double-sealed crystal (Crysgard system) – Preventing condensation, breakage, and water penetration.
• An advanced inner shield for the movement – Adding extra protection against moisture and shocks.
• A screw-down, fine-toothed winding crown – Stronger and more resistant to seepage than conventional crowns.
• A bi-directional rotating bezel – Designed with recessed slots to track elapsed dive time clearly.
What is a Helium Escape Valve and Why Does it Matter?
One of the most notable additions to modern professional dive watches, including the revived Depthmaster, is the helium escape valve (HEV). This component is essential for saturation divers—professionals who work at great depths for extended periods and live in pressurized environments filled with a helium-oxygen gas mixture.
• Why is the HEV necessary?
During prolonged dives, helium molecules—which are smaller than oxygen molecules—slowly penetrate the watch case through seals and gaskets. When the diver ascends and pressure decreases, trapped helium can expand, potentially causing the watch crystal to pop off due to internal pressure buildup.
• How does it work?
The helium escape valve automatically releases built-up helium gas from inside the watch case without compromising its water resistance. This feature is critical for commercial and military divers but does not affect regular wear in shallow diving or daily use.
With this addition, the modern Depthmaster is now equipped to handle not just deep-sea diving, but also long-duration professional dives in pressurized environments—a feature that aligns it with some of the most prestigious modern dive watches.
The ‘Pac-Man’ Dial and Design Evolution
Beyond its technical prowess, the Depthmaster gained notoriety for its unconventional dial design, featuring bold, oversized Art Deco numerals—a detail that would later earn it the nickname ‘Pac-Man’ due to the distinct shape of the 6 and 9 markers.
• Dial: Matte black, with « Nivada Grenchen » printed below 12 and « Depthmaster » above 6.
• Hands: Lollipop hour hand, sword-style minute hand, and red-tipped seconds hand.
• Indices: Luminous Art Deco numerals and markers coated with tritium for superior underwater visibility.
• Bezel: Bi-directional fluted rotating bezel with recessed slots to track elapsed dive time.
• Crown: Fine-toothed, screw-down design for superior water resistance.
• Caseback: Engraved with “Automatic, Waterproof, Shock-Resistant, All Stainless Steel.”
Though the ‘Pac-Man’ dial variation is the most well-known among collectors today, the Depthmaster was produced in several different dial configurations, making each surviving vintage model a unique piece of history.
Though the ‘Pac-Man’ dial variation is the most well-known among collectors today, the Depthmaster was produced in several different dial configurations, making each surviving vintage model a unique piece of history.
An Enduring Symbol of Dive Watch Innovation
The Depthmaster is more than just a watch —it is a testament to the ingenuity and ambition of mid-century watchmaking. From its unprecedented depth rating to its quirky yet functional design, it remains one of the most unique and technically fascinating dive watches ever produced.
Depthmaster Book
Reviews & Press
The Depthmaster by Nivada Grenchen
has been celebrated by top watch outlets like WatchGecko and Time and Tide Watches.
A favorite among collectors, the Depthmaster delivers reliable performance and timeless appeal.
