Compressor style dive watches have enjoyed low key popularity among dive watch enthusiasts for many years for their ability to mix up a tried and true formula in interesting ways. They originally offered a unique engineering solution to creating a stronger seal at greater depths, though true compressor cases are a rarity these days, their design language has proven more influential than any technology within the case itself. One brand that hangs their hat on their ability to mix up tried and true formulas is UK based Farer, and their compressor style diver, the Aqua Compressor, is getting a welcome refresh this week, as well as the addition of 2 new colorways.
When it comes to colorways, Farer is never content to simply swap colors of individual components. Rather, they step back and rethink many of the design decisions for each color, from the shape of the hands to the execution of the hour markers. As a result, their collections hold a surprising amount of variation from watch to watch, with shifting character that pushes the boundaries of the base design in different directions. The new Aqua Compressor watches are no exception, with the Endeavour Ocean White and Hecla Carmine Red each bringing their own distinct persona to the table.
The Hecla Carmine Red features a deep red dial and bezel with white accents that include Arabic numeral representation of the 12, 3, 6, and 9 o’clock markings. The Endeavour Ocean White uses a white lume base dial and bezel, with a subtle wave texture applied to the central dial portion. Entirely black accents are used here, with a single 12 o’clock numeral at the top, and more traditional circular plots and bars marking the remaining hours. These are time-only watches with no date windows in sight, and legibility is the key factor in each of these watches. The Endeavour Ocean White in particular puts forth a stark contrast between the base dial and the vital timing elements, a welcome detail on a dive watch.
These new designs are placed into a titanium cushion case design that weighs just 62 grams and measures 41mm in diameter and 45mm from top to bottom thanks to the tidy lug design. Total thickness is kept to 12.5mm, even with a domed sapphire crystal thanks to the use of the Sellita SW-200 automatic movement, which is visible through an open caseback. A pair of crowns are set along the 3 o’clock side of the case, with the top adjusting the internal bezel, and bottom handling winding and setting. Each gets the signature bronze Farer end cap.
The new Aqua Compressor collection is priced at $1,190 on a rubber strap, while a titanium bracelet can be had for an additional $245. A third dial is also available, based on the existing black dial Endeavour. Each are Series II watches, and will begin shipping in late February. Farer