Since Doxa’s relaunch in 2001, there have been multiple iterations and limited editions of their classic dive watches. These include contemporary versions with various depth ratings, multiple dial colors, and new case materials. In May of last year, Doxa launched the Sub 300T Clive Cussler, paying tribute to the legendary author and explorer. This model has classic proportions and is made of distressed stainless steel. It has a matching distressed beige dial with a compass rose motif at its center. The case back features inscriptions, specifically the names of shipwrecks and other historical artifacts discovered or surveyed by NUMA, the non-profit agency founded by Cussler.
New for 2024, Doxa is releasing the SUB 300T Sharkhunter Clive Cussler edition as a follow up. Sharkhunter is the name they use to identify their black-dialed dive watches. This watch has the same wonderful details as the previous Clive Cussler homage but with, you guessed it, a black dial. The case is 42.5mm in diameter and only 44.5mm from lug to lug, with a thickness of 14mm. Its trademark cushion case makes this large watch suitable for nearly any wrist size. The Swiss-made Sellita SW200-1 powers the watch, which beats at 4hz and has a power reserve of 38 hours. It is also water-resistant to 300 meters, as all SUB 300T’s should be.
The Clive Cussler connection began almost 50 years ago when he took a $400-per-month gig at a dive shop after quitting his job as a creative director at an advertising firm. This was right after his first book was published and his dream of becoming a professional author came true. He was over-qualified, having been diving since 1952 while in the service, but the shop owners allowed him to use his portable typewriter during slow periods. After finishing his second book, they congratulated him and presented him with an Orange Doxa SUB 300T dive watch. As he kept writing, he decided that Dirk Pitt, the hero of many of his novels, would also wear one.
The original Doxa SUB300T was discontinued in 1977, and it wasn’t until the relaunch mentioned above in 2001 that Doxa made a comeback with a complete redesign of the model. This new one was much larger and taller, had fixed end-links built into the case, and had a ladder-styled bracelet. However, it retained its distinct look and orange dial. Best of all, it appeared on Matthew McConnaughey’s wrist in the 2005 movie Sahara, based on Clive Cussler’s book of the same name. Thus cementing and making the Doxa-Cussler connection official.
Like the other Clive Cussler edition, this SUB 300T Sharkhunter version is not a limited edition and costs $3,250. More information can be found at the Doxa website here.
