Squale
Chiasso, Switzerland · Est. 1959
Founded by Charles von Büren
Squale is a Swiss watch brand whose history dates to 1946 in Le Locle, Switzerland, originally manufacturing watch cases and bezels for other brands including Blancpain. Relaunched under the Squale name, the brand today produces professional-grade diver watches with Swiss movements, best known for the 1545 and 20 Atmos series.
- Founded
- 1959
- Headquarters
- Chiasso, Switzerland
- Group
- Independent
- Price Segment
- Entry
- Status
- Revived
Key Collections
- 1521 — The brand's signature dive watch, rated to 500 metres with a distinctive cushion case and domed sapphire crystal, available in numerous dial variations.
- 50 Atmos — Professional dive watches rated to 500 metres, featuring a more angular case design than the 1521, with rotating bezels and SuperLuminova.
- Master — Heritage-inspired collection referencing Squale's 1960s designs, with slimmer cases suitable for everyday wear beyond diving.
Timeline
- 1946 — Charles von Büren founds Squale in Neuchâtel, Switzerland, initially producing watch cases for other brands.
- 1960 — Begins producing dive watch cases for major Swiss brands, becoming one of the leading suppliers of professional diving cases.
- 1970 — Launches its own branded dive watches, leveraging decades of case-making expertise for professional divers.
- 2010 — Revival of the brand under new management, reintroducing the 1521 and 50 Atmos collections to a new generation of dive watch enthusiasts.
Frequently Asked Questions about Squale
- Did Squale make cases for other brands?
- Yes — Squale was primarily a case manufacturer for decades, producing dive watch cases for brands including Blancpain and others. This expertise underpins the quality of their own-brand dive watches.
- What does 'Squale' mean?
- Squale is the French word for 'shark,' reflecting the brand's deep connection to diving and the underwater world.