Doxa continues the trend of celebrating the late adventure novelist Clive Cussler on his birthday, and this year, it comes with the release of a new grade 5 titanium Sub 300. This is the fourth watch to be released in the series, and represents what may be the most compelling configuration yet. In addition to the titanium case, the classic diver welcomes a grey dual-plane dial architecture, a first for the brand. The iconic oversized orange minute hand blazes a high contrast trail against the tone on tone design that dates back to 1967, with even the date disc following suit with a grey base and orange printing.
Doxa watches had become a recurring detail in Cussler’s adventures on the wrist of fictional protagonist, Dirk Pitt. They represented a small but meaningful bit of context that served to bring these worlds to life. The watch was a fitting tool to boot, and remains so in the non-fiction world today with all the features you’d expect, from the 300 meter depth rating to the unique bi-plane bezel. But the most enduring detail remains the charming design that has become synonymous with Doxa, and it’s one that has proven to be quite versatile in nature, as proven yet again with this latest Cussler edition.
The Sub 300 is known for its cushion case and bright dials with high contrast features, and rendering the watch in grey on grey presents a challenge to this formula. It works surprisingly well here, and even provides a level of focus absent on other Sub 300 references thanks to the strong contrast created by the hand set. The orange details jump off of the flat grey base, and the hour markers are accentuated further thanks to the use of dual dial plates that create some depth. There are plenty of first-time choices made for this watch, and they establish new ground for the decades old design.
Using grade 5 titanium for the case is a most welcome decision. The shape itself is unchanged, as are the 42.5mm x 45mm dimensions, and when paired with the lightweight material and 13.4mm thickness (with box crystal) provide what will likely be the most pleasant Sub 300 to wear alongside the carbon references. Doxa is using a Sellita SW200-1 that has been COSC certified. While a SW300 would be a more palatable option befitting of the watch, the SW200 remains a suitable work horse.
This titanium Sub 300 is a big step in the right direction compared to the original Clive Cussler edition, which used a compass bearing design on the dial and a faux weathered finish. That watch felt like something of a prop, whereas the latest effort seen here feels like a real world usable diver that represents the ideals spoken of by Cussler. My only gripe with these watches remains the appearance of Cussler’s name on the dial, a detail I’d rather see on the caseback. Overall, this is a compelling vision of the Sub 300, and a fitting tribute to the legend of Clive Cussler.
Doxa will produce 300 examples of the SUB 300Ti5 Clive Cussler, and each will be priced at $3,390. Doxa
