Why This Watch Matters “Super” water resistant up to 20 ATM (as noted in the caseback engravings), this unusual diving watch boasts some pretty compelling features. The Full Story Not much is known about the Medco brand or the SEALAB reference, but that does not make this watch any less interesting. The U.S. Navy sponsored experiments with underwater habitation and the effect of long-term exposure to isolation and named the projects SEALAB I, II, and III; these advanced the science of saturation and deep sea diving. SEALAB II even had hot water showers and refrigerators. It’s likely that the U.S. Navy commissioned a supplier of industrial parts, Medco, to make watches either for or inspired by the SEALAB experiments, as indicated by the watch’s aesthetic composition. The combination of the thick luminous strips sandwiched between vivid orange indexes, the bright green numerals on the bi-directional aluminum bezel, and above all, the claim of water resistance to 20 ATM make it quite clear that this watch was meant to go deep. This watch also comes with an automatic ETA movement and a shock-resistant case. A thick handset, skin-diver-style case and a checkered outer chapter ring add some additional good looks to a watch made for legibility in the face of murky depths. The Fine Print Maker: MedcoModel: SEALABReference: 2001/1Year: 1960sCase No: 1852Material: Stainless steelDimensions: 37mm diameter; 13mm thicknessCrystal: PlexiglassLume: TritiumCaliber: Unsigned ETA automatic caliber 2782Bracelet/Strap: HODINKEE Textured Tan Calfskin StrapLug Width: 19mmBox/Papers: N/A What we Love and What You Should Know The case and bezel of this watch have been preserved in exemplary fashion. There is some aging to the tritium strips on the dial and handset consistent with the age of the watch. It is quite unlikely that after all this time, the watch remains water resistant, and we do not advise submerging it up to 20 ATM. There are light scratches and pitting on the caseback. This is an unusual vintage diving watch sure to set you apart.
