Watchatlas

Alsta

Glasgow, United Kingdom · Est. 1946

Founded by Angus MacFadyen

Alsta is a vintage Swiss watch brand from La Chaux-de-Fonds, known primarily for the Nautoscaph diver watch from the late 1960s — famously associated with Steve McQueen, who was photographed wearing one at the Sebring 12 Hours. The brand represents a slice of 1960s professional diving history.

Founded
1946
Headquarters
Glasgow, United Kingdom
Group
Independent
Price Segment
Entry
Status
Defunct

Key Collections

  • Nautoscaph — Alsta’s iconic skin-diver family, originally rooted in 1960s tool-watch design and revived in a modern form that keeps the line’s slim, adventure-ready character and heritage-driven identity.
  • Surf n Ski — Retro-styled dual-purpose sport watch line associated with Alsta’s heritage of robust, adventure-ready pieces designed to suit both aquatic and alpine environments.

Timeline

  • 1960 — Alsta established in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland, producing sport and dive watches.
  • 1968 — Nautoscaph diver watch introduced with the distinctive super-compressor case design.
  • 1975 — The Nautoscaph appears on Richard Dreyfuss's wrist in the film Jaws, becoming one of cinema's most recognisable watch moments.
  • 2017 — Brand revived by new owners, relaunching the Nautoscaph as a faithful reissue via Kickstarter.

Frequently Asked Questions about Alsta

What is the Jaws connection?
In Steven Spielberg's 1975 Jaws, Richard Dreyfuss wears an Alsta Nautoscaph throughout the film. It's become one of the most famous movie watches in history.
Is Alsta still making watches?
Yes. Revived in 2017, Alsta produces updated reissues of the Nautoscaph and Surf n Ski, staying true to the original 1960s designs.

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