Squale is a Swiss dive-watch brand with a long history as a maker of cases for other companies. Its watches are known for strong water resistance and bright dials. The model numbers, 1521 and 1545, are the first thing to understand.
From case maker to watch brand
Squale began in 1959 in Neuchâtel, Switzerland, as a maker of dive watch cases, supplying other brands before selling watches under its own name with the shark logo. It is still family run.
The designs have changed little: polished cases, strong water resistance and bright dial colors.
1521 or 1545
| 1521 | 1545 | |
|---|---|---|
| Size | 42 mm | 40 mm |
| Crown | At 4 o'clock | At 3 o'clock |
| Case | The classic Squale shape | More conventional |
| Water resistance | 500 meters | See the listing |
The 1521 is the classic: a 42 mm diver rated to 500 meters, with the crown at 4 o'clock.
The 1545 is a 40 mm dive watch with a more conventional case and the crown at 3 o'clock.
Smaller models
The Super-Squale and Sub-39 are smaller watches in the style of the 1960s skin divers.
Reading the dial: atmos
Squale states water resistance in atmospheres on the dial. 50 atmos is 500 meters; 20 atmos is 200 meters. It is the same information as on other brands, written differently.
Finishes and bezels
The same model comes with polished, brushed or blasted cases, and with steel, ceramic or sapphire bezels. These are separate versions, so check the photos and the description when you compare two listings.
Which one should you buy?
- 1521 if you want the classic Squale and the most water resistance.
- 1545 if you prefer a 40 mm case and a crown in the usual place.
- Super-Squale or Sub-39 if you want a smaller, vintage-style diver.
If you are unsure about size, read our guide to choosing your watch size.
Every watch we sell is checked by our specialist before it ships. We are an independent retailer, not an authorized dealer of the brand; the listing says what comes with each watch.
Browse all Squale watches in stock.
Frequently asked questions
What does 50 atmos mean on a Squale?
It means the watch is water resistant to 50 atmospheres, which is 500 meters.
What is the difference between the Squale 1521 and 1545?
The 1521 is 42 mm with the crown at 4 o'clock and is rated to 500 meters. The 1545 is 40 mm with a more conventional case and the crown at 3 o'clock.
Is Squale a Swiss brand?
Yes. It began in Neuchâtel in 1959 as a maker of dive watch cases and is still family run.
Why is the crown at 4 o'clock on the 1521?
It is part of the classic Squale case design.
