Sicura Submarine Diver 400 Owner Review : Pleasant, endearing and balanced

SICURA is Breitling's "entry-level" model. If we stopped there, we wouldn't go any further. However, upon closer inspection, and if we consider the historical context, this type of brand corresponds to some beautiful watches priced between €500 and €800 today, which isn't bad at all... from a quality standpoint. This is precisely the feeling I get from this "vintage" watch from 1973-1974. The Sicura Diver 400 (feet), or approximately 120 meters deep. A fine piece of equipment in the 70s. I bought it at auction because the model was understated for a diver and I found it visually appealing. The dial with the tension line in the center intrigued me because of its difference from the many others with a dial featuring cross lines, like the watches from the Carlingue brand, which adopted the same idea. The mechanism is never considered exceptional for this type of hand-wound mechanical watch. However, it does exhibit remarkable regularity, with a deviation of only 20 to 25 seconds per day when worn. The screw-down case back is rather messy. The 20mm lug width does, however, necessitate careful consideration of the strap type, as some 18mm straps fit better. I don't know if this is due to wear/deformation or a defect. The crown is not screw-down. Having not tested other SICURA watches, I cannot comment on the bezel's functionality. However, it is not particularly striking, with a very pleasing proportion to the dial, but the one I purchased has a bezel without a locking mechanism. This is nonsensical for a dive watch. But let's get back to the positives: what impressed me most about this watch is the remarkable proportions and balanced shape of the case, with its symmetrical profile framing the crown. There's a divine proportion—and I mean that sincerely—between the thickness, the shape, the curves, and the symmetry. This makes the watch incredibly appealing, inspiring me to wear it with dress or sport for any occasion. It makes it a truly attractive and beautiful addition to my vintage collection.