There is something deeply fascinating about observing a brand that decides to stop, look back and start again from its origins. That is exactly what Squale has done with its latest creation: the SUB-37 Legend. And yes, as enthusiasts we anticipate it right away, it really could be one of the best dive watches of 2026.
Let’s dive in!
The New Squale SUB-37 Legend
“With the SUB-37 we wanted to return to the roots of our history. Every detail reflects the tradition of professional diving instruments: compact case, authentic proportions, Swiss Made sturdiness.”Andrea Maggi, CEO of Squale, tells us.
Indeed, the 37 mm case is its great strength, but it is the overall proportions that make the difference. The bezel diameter extends to 38.5 mm, while the lug-to-lug of 45.5 mm provides a balanced presence on the wrist (hard to find in diver in this segment). The thickness of 11.2 mm, which drops to 10.7 mm without glass, contributes to a surprisingly modern fit. The 19 mm distance between the lugs completes a coherent, compact and perfectly balanced profile.
In terms of construction, the 316L steel case with polished finish houses a solid structure, with the crown and case back both screwed down. Water resistance of 300 meters confirms a real professional vocation, in keeping with Squale’s long tradition.
The box-shaped sapphire crystal with anti-reflective treatment is another of the timepiece’s winning features. It recalls vintage plexiglass, thus adding strength and visual quality. The result is optimal dial readability, even under the most “extreme” conditions.
The matte black dial is a pleasant constant. Printed white outline markers ensure contrast and legibility, while the Super-LumiNova Old Radium treatment on markers and hands, with its exquisitely vintage hue, offers great visibility even in water.
The 120-shot unidirectional bezel uses a polished black K1 glass insert, with a slight doming that accentuates the overall sense of depth of the dial. Here, too, we find luminescent inserts, designed for practical use, not just aesthetic.
Inside is the Sellita SW200-1 in Elaboré version, modified and without a date display. The caliber operates at 28,800 vibrations per hour and offers a power reserve of about 38 hours. This is a typical Squale technical choice in that it favors reliability, precision and ease of maintenance, which in a diver of this philosophy, is exactly what is needed.
The vulcanized rubber strap, made in Italy, adopts a “ladder” design that enhances breathability and comfort. The 19 to 16 mm progressive clasp accompanies the shape of the case and contributes to a lightweight feel on the wrist.
Our reflections
Having reached this point, it becomes inevitable to dwell on the price. 1,650€. Considering the build quality, technical specifications, historical consistency, and positioning, the SUB-37 Legend easily ranks among the best diver watches of 2026.
Enthusiasts and fervent collectors now is your time! How difficult is it today to find a diver with these proportions, this identity and these technical features at this figure? And could this model become a new benchmark for those seeking an authentic, uncompromising diver’s watch?
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