Aquastar Deepstar Chronograph - References, Prices and Owners' Reviews

Aquastar Deepstar Chronograph is a model launched in 1965, conceived as a mono-compax dive chronograph with an engraved decompression-table bezel, a steel skin-diver case and water-readiness for underwater use; recognizable by its oversized 30-minute register at 3 o’clock and running indicator at 9, it returned in the 21st century with a La Joux-Perret automatic column-wheel movement, tall domed sapphire crystals and case sizes of 40.5 then 39 mm that preserve the look of the original Valjoux-powered pieces.

Design & legibility: the model’s identity

The Deepstar’s signature look pairs a sunburst dial with applied markers, a large single register at 3, a central chronograph seconds and a small running indicator at 9; the bezel works as a dive aide-mémoire and its concentric engraving remains readable as light fades, such that the “dive minutes – main hands – 30-minute totalizer” hierarchy pops at a glance without graphic clutter.

Case, bracelet and everyday comfort

Originally housed in a sharp-flanked skin-diver case, the modern Deepstar uses 316L steel, a bi-directional bezel on a ceramic bearing and a highly domed AR sapphire, first at 40.5 mm (2020 re-edition) then 39 mm (2022 collection) with ~49 mm lug-to-lug; 21–22 mm lug widths depending on series, beads-of-rice or Tropic straps, and a screw-down crown make for a stable stance, so despite the perceived height from the dome, it wears “short,” sits flat and tucks under a cuff.

Movement: architecture, performance and care

Period pieces ran Valjoux 23 or 92 hand-wounds, while the 2020–2025 reissues adopt an integrated automatic column-wheel chronograph by La Joux-Perret (4 Hz, ~55 h, bi-directional winding); the mono-compax layout with central chronograph seconds favors positive pusher feel and amplitude stability, so a 4–6-year service cadence plus periodic pressure checks will keep reliability high in mixed sea/desk use.

Timeline & main models (1965–2025)

(1965) Aquastar Deepstar Chronograph “Valjoux 23”:

First generation: steel skin-diver case, bezel engraved with a decompression table, dial with a single large 30-minute register at 3 and a running indicator at 9, baton hands packed with luminous compound and a domed acrylic crystal. The pared-back face simplifies short-interval timing underwater, while the bezel acts as a quick reminder. Hand-winding and assertive pusher feel underscore the tool spirit.

(1966) Aquastar Deepstar Chronograph “Valjoux 92”:

Movement variation to Valjoux 92 on some runs; near-identical aesthetics, with hands/typography tweaks by market and occasional co-branding (Lorenz in Italy, Duward in Spain). Core functionality remains: large 30-minute totalizer, generous lume and the table bezel. This continuity cements Deepstar’s place among 1960s dive chronographs. 

(1967) Aquastar Deepstar Chronograph “Decompression Bezel”:

Consolidated multi-function bezel with decompression markings, compact case and period-correct water rating; intended to give quick reminders without cluttering the dial. Finish details evolve by batch (logos, print, caseback work). This phase permanently defines the Deepstar’s identity as a distinctive diver’s chronograph.

(1970) Aquastar Deepstar Chronograph “Co-brand Lorenz/Duward”:

Southern-Europe distribution under partner brands, with Aquastar geometry and dial language, Valjoux calibres and the table bezel retained; these variants broaden global reach and now attract collectors for their specific markings. Dimensions and read-out remain constant, nurturing the “utilitarian yet elegant” reputation. 

(2020) Aquastar Deepstar Chronograph “Re-Edition 40.5 mm”:

Official return: 316L steel, 40.5 mm, AR domed sapphire, bi-directional bezel, and crucially an integrated automatic column-wheel chronograph by La Joux-Perret (4 Hz, ~55 h), with central chrono seconds, a 30-minute totalizer at 3 and a running indicator at 9; sunburst dial options (grey, blue, green). The brief is to respect DNA while upgrading comfort, reliability and serviceability. 

Conclusion

An emblematic 1960s diver’s chronograph thoughtfully reissued, the Aquastar Deepstar Chronograph suits wearers who want a readable retro-leaning tool powered by a modern column-wheel engine, instantly recognized by its oversized single register and table-style bezel. Pick it for the 39 mm comfort, the aide-mémoire bezel and the clean read-out, then tune it with straps and dial tone; to close your decision, lean on Dialicious customer reviews for comfort, stability and finish longevity.

(Updated October 2025)