This is Breitling’s first major update to the Superocean Heritage since 2017, and the changes run deeper than you might expect. The Swiss manufacturer refined everything from the case proportions to the movement selection, creating a fresh take on their most elegant dive watch while maintaining the retro charm that made the original so appealing.
The Superocean Heritage receives this sun-soaked refresh at a time when the diving watch market continues to evolve rapidly. Breitling’s approach feels distinctly different from the industry’s typical playbook of minor tweaks and new colorways. Breitling has restructured the entire lineup around its new B31 movement, simplified the color palette, and introduced sizing options that should appeal to a broader range of wrist sizes.
A movement revolution
The most significant change lies beneath the dial. Breitling has equipped most models with their new B31 movement, which debuted earlier this year. This three-hand, automatic caliber offers an impressive 78-hour power reserve and maintains the brand’s commitment to COSC chronometer certification. Measuring 28.40 mm in diameter and just 4.80 mm thick, the movement allows for slimmer case profiles across the range.
The 42 mm chronograph variant continues with the proven B01 movement, Breitling’s flagship chronograph caliber, which has a 70-hour power reserve and column wheel construction. Only the 36 mm model uses the Calibre 10, a practical decision given size constraints.
The Superocean Heritage is the most elegant of our dive watches, and this new design is all about elegance,” says Georges Kern, Breitling’s CEO. “We’ve perfected every detail, but the spirit remains the same: maritime style.”
Proportions and presence
Breitling has expanded the size range to include 36mm, 40mm, 42mm, and 44mm options, plus the 42mm chronograph. The addition of the 36mm and 40mm models fills a gap in their previous lineup. The 36 mm model, in particular, makes the collection accessible to those with smaller wrists without compromising the integrity of the design.
The cases maintain 200-meter water resistance across all sizes and feature screw-down crowns and sapphire crystal case backs on most models. The ceramic bezel inserts now match the dial colors exactly, creating a more cohesive aesthetic than previous generations. These unidirectional timing bezels feature a ratcheting action that feels precise and confidence-inspiring.
Case thickness varies by size, ranging from 10.42 mm on the 36 mm model to 14.55 mm on the 42 mm chronograph. These dimensions strike a reasonable balance between presence and wearability, though the chronograph is on the chunky side.
Color and character
The color palette has been streamlined to three core options: black, blue, and green. This simplification feels refreshing after years of increasingly complex lineups from many manufacturers. The green variant particularly catches the eye, evoking the tropical forests that inspired this Hawaiian-influenced redesign.
The dial design retains the distinctive arrow and spear hands that have defined the Superocean Heritage since its origins in 1957. Combined with the applied indices and Super-LumiNova treatment, these hands ensure excellent legibility underwater and in low-light conditions. The date window is positioned at six o’clock to maintain dial symmetry, an improvement over the traditional three o’clock position.
Breitling has introduced responsibly sourced 18-karat red gold accents on select models, which add warmth without overwhelming the design. The gold bezels are certified by the Swiss Better Gold Association, which addresses growing concerns about ethical sourcing in luxury goods.
Strap and bracelet options
Both the rubber straps and the Ocean Classic steel bracelet have been redesigned to integrate better with the case. The rubber straps taper more dramatically and feature improved deployant clasps. The steel bracelet uses a butterfly clasp system. These details might seem minor, but they significantly impact daily wearing comfort.
The rubber straps come in colors that match the dial options, and their integrated design eliminates the gap between the strap and case that plagued earlier models. For those who prefer metal bracelets, the Ocean Classic option provides a more substantial feel, which is appropriate for the watch’s diving heritage.
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Hawaiian Inspiration
The campaign imagery draws heavily from Hawaiian surf culture, reflecting the watch’s connection to ocean sports. This isn’t just marketing positioning; the proportions and colorways genuinely reflect the relaxed confidence associated with surf culture. The green dial variant especially captures the tropical aesthetic without being overly themed.
Breitling has also created a limited edition in collaboration with surfing legend Kelly Slater. However, specific details about this partnership are scarce. The brand’s commitment to ocean sports extends beyond marketing; the Superocean Heritage serves professional divers and enthusiasts alike.
Technical considerations
All models are water resistant to 200 meters, which is more than adequate for recreational diving and water sports. The screw-down crowns feature dual-sealing gaskets, and the sapphire crystals have an anti-reflective coating on both sides to improve underwater visibility.
The ceramic bezel inserts are more scratch-resistant than aluminum alternatives and maintain their appearance over extended use. The unidirectional rotation provides the safety margin required for dive timing. However, most buyers will likely appreciate this feature more for its tactile satisfaction than for actual diving use.
Breitling hasn’t announced official pricing yet, but the addition of in-house movements typically commands a premium. The previous generation offered solid value in the luxury dive watch segment, so maintaining that positioning will be crucial for the updated models’ success.
The variety of sizes and simplified color range should help streamline inventory and improve availability. The 36 mm and 40 mm options fill genuine market gaps for those seeking luxury dive watches that won’t overwhelm smaller wrists.