DOXA is a historic Swiss watch manufacturer renowned for its significant contributions to the world of professional diving watches. Founded in 1889 by Georges Ducommun, the brand initially focused on dress watches and chronographs before pivoting towards robust tool watches in the mid-20th century. Recognizing the need for a reliable timepiece designed specifically for the burgeoning sport of scuba diving, DOXA collaborated with diving professionals, including the legendary Jacques-Yves Cousteau and US Divers, to develop watches purpose-built for underwater exploration. This collaboration cemented DOXA's reputation for creating highly functional, durable, and legible dive watches, characterized by innovative features and distinctive designs that prioritize safety and performance beneath the waves.
The DOXA SUB 300, first introduced in 1967, stands as a landmark achievement in dive watch history and remains one of the brand's most celebrated models. It broke convention with its bright orange dial, chosen after extensive testing for optimal underwater visibility, and its patented rotating bezel incorporating the US Navy's no-decompression limit dive times – a crucial safety feature for divers. Housed in a unique cushion-shaped case designed for comfort and water resistance, the SUB 300 quickly became a favorite among both professional and recreational divers. Its distinctive "beads-of-rice" bracelet, known for its comfort and flexibility, further enhanced its appeal. Today, the SUB 300 (and its close relative, the SUB 300T, which added a helium release valve for saturation diving) continues to be produced in various iterations, staying true to its heritage while incorporating modern watchmaking standards, securing its status as a true diving icon.