The Devil is in the Details - the subtle beauty of the Bathyscaphe 300

Okay, in all fairness we are talking about a watch that measures 47 mm in diameter and 53 mm from end to end.  So subtlety might not be a word that springs to most minds, but I continue to be impressed by the quiet way that the Aquadive Bathyscaphe 300 flexes its dive watch muscles.  The Bathyscaphe's HRV (Helium Release Valve) is a prime example of this -

How many times do we see a watch company go out of their way to make sure you see a large, protruding HRV nob to ensure that anyone and everyone will know what a rugged, tough guy you are?  To be clear, there is nothing wrong with this, if that's what makes you happy.  Then there are the other, more reserved design approaches where the HRV is an "automatic" (meaning you do not have to unscrew the crown), and they sit in a dignified manner - usually at 9 o'clock on the case just opposite the crown.

But the folks at Aquadive had a far more elegant solution in mind.  They placed the HRV in between the lugs of the watch case at 6 o'clock.  The result is an HRV that works just as well as those placed at 9 o'clock, and easier than those that must be manually unscrewed.  Moreover, it is protected from potential harm as the strap and spring bar must first be breached for any possible damage to befall it.

I think what I like most about this solution, is that the wearer still knows it's there.  It is hidden, not obvious, not for everyone to see - and I like that!

Subtle strength.