Whenever the “Professional” tag is given to not just dive watches, but any watch in general, the words unreasonable reliability come to mind, along with the image of a no-nonsense, tougher-than-nails watch. Such a watch is packed with innovative features that ensure tip-top performance no matter what fresh hell is breaking all around it. Tissot’s latest incarnation of the Seastar 2000 Professional fits that description to a tee but with a bit of fun thrown into the mix as well.
The Tissot Seastar 1000 is the Swiss manufacture’s range of dive watches built for watersports and exploration. With a water-resistance rating of up to 1000 feet (300m), they will perform suitably for the majority of scenarios. If more assurance is required, then the Seastar 2000 Professional looks set to offer it.
Standing head and shoulders above the current crop of Seastar 1000 models, Tissot ensures the “Professional” tag is not casually used, with an ISO 6425 certification setting the stage for the Seastar 2000 Professional’s ambitions. In order to be certified, the watch must meet the the strict standards set by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) — water resistance (minimum 100 metres); resistance to external forces; resistance to thermal shock and magnetic fields; a dive timing device such as a unidirectional rotating bezel; hands that can easily be read in the dark and are clearly distinguishable one from the other; and a way of seeing that the watch is running even in the dark.
A quick glance through the specifications of the Seastar 2000 Professional suggests overkill. Tissot took the liberty of incorporating a helium valve that, when combined with a greater depth rating, allows for technical saturation dives. With dimensions of 46mm (diameter) by 16.25mm (thickness) and a massive, domed sapphire glass, Tissot addresses any concerns regarding a lack of robustness. The oversized hands and ceramic bezel inlay are filled with Superluminova for guaranteed legibility. Powering the hulking stainless steel unit is the Powermatic 80 calibre, here fitted with the Nivachron balance-spring rather than the silicon version. Nivachron is a titanium alloy that is anti-magnetic and resistant to shock and thermal deformation.
Beyond the supercharged specifications of the Seastar 2000 Professional is a youthful take on an otherwise serious watch. Performance meets style as three lighthearted dial colours replete with wave-patterns are aimed squarely at enthusiasts of extreme nautical style.
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