Founded in 1889 in the heart of Swiss watchmaking, Le Locle, DOXA quickly established a reputation for quality and innovation under Georges Ducommun. Initially recognized for award-winning pocket watches and robust dashboard clocks (like the patented 8-Day Caliber used in Bugatti race cars), the brand took a decisive plunge into the world of underwater exploration in the 1960s. This era cemented DOXA's legacy, particularly with the 1967 launch of the revolutionary SUB 300. Developed in collaboration with diving pioneer Jacques-Yves Cousteau, the SUB 300 introduced groundbreaking features like the highly legible orange dial (proven ideal for underwater visibility) and the patented unidirectional bezel incorporating US Navy no-decompression dive limits. This commitment to professional-grade functionality, combined with distinctive designs and accessible pricing, earned DOXA a dedicated following among professional divers, military units, and watch enthusiasts who value robust, reliable tool watches with a unique heritage.
The DOXA SUB 300 Beta collection represents a contemporary evolution within the legendary SUB lineage, blending the brand's formidable tool-watch engineering with a refined aesthetic suited for modern life. While retaining core DOXA DNA like the cushion-shaped case and exceptional legibility, the SUB 300 Beta introduces key distinctions. It features a slimmer case profile (42.5mm diameter, 11.95mm thick) for enhanced wearability and incorporates a sophisticated ceramic bezel insert, often in black, adding scratch resistance and a touch of polished style. The dials showcase elegant sunburst finishes, frequently adorned with a subtle wave pattern, moving slightly away from the purely utilitarian look while maintaining clarity. Water-resistant to 300 meters and typically powered by a reliable Swiss automatic movement, the SUB 300 Beta offers the robustness expected from DOXA but is consciously designed, as indicated by the 'Beta' (ß) signifier, to transition seamlessly from underwater exploration to urban environments, offering a versatile choice for those seeking both performance and style.