The Serica 5303 has been a great, original dive watch platform since it first released in 2021. Its split bezel and integrated link fit within a twisted lug case was a perfect example of micro brands at their best. With early examples experiencing winding stem issues, however, it’s not a watch that ever felt all that roust. In the years since, Serica has ironed out any worrying niggles, and it seems is prepared to take this watch to the next level by creating a variant in collaboration with the Amicale des plongeurs démineurs, aka mine clearance divers for the French Navy, aka Explosive Ordinance Disposal (EOD). The result is the 5303 PLD.
The core appeal of the 5303 remains here in the PLD variation, with a few notable revisions done in service to the unique needs of the divers it was designed for. The first thing you’ll notice are the new bezel markings. It’s still split into two sections, though now it pairs a depth with a time in minutes. The idea being to give the diver their allotted time at each depth during their ascent so as to avoid a decompression stop. This is called a DT Max scale graduation, and it’s labeled as such on the inner ring, with the outer dark blue ceramic ring getting the ‘Profondeur’ label to mark the depth (the word’s literal meaning).
Serica is using a COSC certified SoProd M100 automatic caliber within the 39mm steel case, which boasts an impressive 30 bar (~305 meters) depth rating. The watch is also anti-magnetic thanks to a soft iron cage for the movement. This takes the old-school route, and it follows through with the rest of the watch. The dial receives only two lines of text marking the above two details in French, “Chronomètre Amagnétique”. Keeping your kit free of any electronics is vital when working around munitions, so this watch feels right on point, a rare thing in the world of mechanical divers.
The dial design itself remains largely unchanged. The small but squat arrow tipped hour hand remains, as do the lollipop hour markers that extend well into the dial. As charming as this design is, I’d have loved to have seen a new design fit for purpose presented here. Perhaps larger hour markers and a different hand set design for better at-a-glance legibility would have fit the theme and set it apart from the standard 5303 variants. Alas, it was not meant to be this time. But it’s such a unique design language from the young French brand, and I’m curious to see how it evolves. This felt like a perfect opportunity to do so.
One entirely new feature to be found with this watch are the PLD straps, which can be had in blue or green with a thin stripe down the center. If you’re familiar with Erika’s original straps, you’ll immediately recognize these. The PLD can also be had with a tight mesh bracelet fit to that articulating end link. Either is a great design, and the PLD straps are a welcome nod to history.
The Serica 5303 PLD is limited to 350 units planned for civilian production (150 units will be produced for the Military), with pricing set at CHF 1,690. Available will begin May 20th. Serica
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