The enduring appeal of the Sicura Submariner, often mistakenly identified as a Breitling, is a fascinating case study in horological history and the power of design lineage. While not a Breitling itself, its close relationship with the brand, both historically and aesthetically, continues to propel its popularity among collectors and enthusiasts. This article delves into the intertwined stories of Sicura and Breitling, exploring the specific models that cemented this connection and examining why the Sicura Submariner remains a highly sought-after vintage diver.
The SICURA and BREITLING Story: A Tale of Two Brands
To understand the Sicura Submariner's enduring allure, we must first explore the relationship between Sicura and Breitling. This isn't a simple parent-subsidiary relationship; rather, it's a story of shared heritage, design influence, and ultimately, a pivotal moment in Breitling's history where Sicura played a crucial, even salvific role.
In 1979, after a century of watchmaking excellence, the "G. Leon Breitling" firm ceased operations. This marked a significant turning point, threatening to erase a prestigious name from the horological landscape. The reasons for the closure are complex and multifaceted, encompassing various economic and market factors. However, the subsequent events highlight the critical role played by a seemingly unrelated entity: Sicura.
While Breitling's history stretches back to 1884, Sicura's story is less well-known, yet equally important in this narrative. Sicura, a Swiss watch manufacturer, established itself as a producer of high-quality, often sporty timepieces. Their designs were often characterized by robust construction and a focus on functionality, traits that would later become synonymous with many Breitling models. The exact nature of the business relationship between the two companies prior to 1979 remains somewhat obscure, but the post-1979 events solidify the importance of Sicura.
The key figure connecting these two brands is Willy Breitling, the owner of Sicura, and a member of the Breitling family. This familial connection, combined with Willy Breitling's astute business acumen, proved crucial in the resurrection of the Breitling brand. While the details of the transactions remain largely confidential, Willy Breitling’s ownership of Sicura allowed him to leverage resources and expertise, potentially aiding in the eventual revival of Breitling. It is likely that his knowledge of the market, manufacturing processes, and distribution networks proved invaluable in the process. This act essentially saved Breitling from oblivion, solidifying the enduring, albeit indirect, connection between the two brands.
Sicura Submarine: A Precursor to the Legend
The Sicura Submarine, a range of divers' watches produced by Sicura, laid the groundwork for the aesthetics and functionality that would later become associated with the Sicura Submariner 400 and its perceived connection to Breitling. These watches, often featuring similar design cues to some Breitling models of the era, share a distinct visual language: robust cases, legible dials, and functional complications. This shared design DNA is a crucial factor in understanding the enduring appeal of the Sicura Submariner. The Sicura Submarine models, though not directly branded as "Submariner" in all instances, established a design language that would be further developed and refined in later models.
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