14-07-2025
Breitling pays tribute to Hawaiian surf culture with updated Superocean Heritage
The Superocean Heritage is no ordinary sea watch. It never was.
When Breitling first launched it in 1957, it took a different tack from other dive watches of the era.
The Ref. 1004 (a sleek time-only piece) and Ref. 807 (the world's first dedicated dive chronograph) weren't just about exploring the underwater world – they were about looking good doing it.
The spear-and-arrow hands, ceramic rotating bezel and naturally sleek proportions made it a favourite of stylish adventurers who lived for the sea and the scene.
Today, that philosophy is still at the core of the Superocean Heritage. It has the soul of the 1950s, but designed for today.
Breitling CEO Georges Kern sums it up: 'The Superocean Heritage is our most elegant sea watch, and this update is all about refinement.
Breitling Superocean Heritage Automatic 36.
'Every detail has been perfected, but the spirit stays the same. It's about style at sea.'
This refresh takes everything that has made the Superocean Heritage distinctive and makes it even sharper.
The collection includes a 42mm chronograph, powered by the Breitling Manufacture Caliber 01, the brand's industry-leading timekeeping movement.
The automatic models, in 44mm, 42mm and 40mm, introduce the B31 movement, Breitling's first exclusive three-hand manufacture calibre launched in March.
A further 36mm houses the Calibre 10 automatic movement.
The collection's colour palette has been streamlined to a core of black, blue and green, paired with a matching ceramic-inlaid bezel for next-level scratch resistance that will keep the watch looking new long into the future.
Thinner, more integrated mesh-metal and mesh-rubber bracelets ensure a watertight fit against the case, complete with folding clasps for a seamless finish.
Other refinements enhance symmetry and proportion.
Tone-on-tone subdials and a subtle date aperture at six o'clock create a balanced composition, while distinct hands – an arrow for hours, a spear for minutes – and pointed indexes maintain the at-a-glance readability that made the mid-century original essential for divers.
Select models introduce responsibly-sourced 18k red-gold to the outer bezels, adding lustre while preserving the collection's sleek aesthetic.
Breitling Superocean Heritage B31 Automatic 44.
The versatile lineup also includes new 36mm and 40mm sizes, designed for those who prefer a trimmer diameter suited to a wide variety of wrists.
The launch campaign brings the spirit of the new Superocean Heritage to life in full colour – drawing on the sights, sounds and surf culture of Hawaii.
With its modern-retro flair, it channels the lush foliage, saturated tones and sunlit energy that define the 'Aloha State'.
Kelly Slater limited edition
For professional surfer Kelly Slater, Hawaii used to be the dream. Now it's home.
With 11 world titles, 56 event wins and three decades spent redefining the sport, Slater has gone beyond being a champion. He's a force of nature.
As he steps away from professional competition, Breitling is celebrating his extraordinary career with the Superocean Heritage B31 Automatic 40 Kelly Slater, a limited-edition watch infused with the Hawaiian surf culture that shaped him.
Back view of the Breitling Superocean Heritage B01 Chronograph 42.
'From as early as I can remember, I dreamt of travelling to and living in Hawaii,' says Slater.
'It was this far-off land of amazing waves, perfect weather and the ultimate surfing lifestyle.
'After living here, I realised it's much bigger than that.
'The people, the community, the nature, all so intertwined.
'The respect Hawaiians have for their land, people and culture runs deep.
'It makes Hawaii even more special than what I dreamt of when I was a kid. And now I call it home,' Slater adds.
The dial features a foliage pattern, inspired by the light and shadows of a tropical canopy.
Close up of the Breitling Superocean Heritage B01 Chronograph 42.
The caseback is open, revealing the B31 movement, while its outer ring is engraved with 'One of 500' and 'Kelly Slater Limited Edition'.
Available on a blue rubber mesh strap or stainless-steel mesh bracelet, the watch comes in a special presentation box featuring the same Hawaiian floral motif and includes a personal note from Slater himself.
'Breitling has been with me for years,' says Slater.
'This watch reflects everything I love – the ocean, nature and the easy-going style I've always connected with,' he says.
Breitling is also rolling out a sunglasses collaboration with Cutler and Gross.
