Smiths Astral Diver with Date, Original Lume, circa 1960s

Dealer description — Vintage Watch Specialist

A rugged 1960s Smiths Astral diver date with black dial, rotating bezel and classic British tool watch character Smiths Astral Diver REF. CM4501, Stainless Steel case Smiths Astral models were typically simple, everyday watches, but in later years the line expanded to include more robust, sport-oriented designs. Examples like this diver-style Astral reflect that shift, incorporating rotating bezels, luminous dials and practical features suited to active use. While not as widely documented as Smiths’ dedicated dive watches, these pieces show the brand adapting to changing tastes in the 1960s and 70s, blending reliability with increasingly functional, tool-watch aesthetics. What's on Offer A far cry from the usual Astral, this is Smiths leaning firmly into tool-watch territory. A proper diver-style piece from the 1960s, with a bold black dial, heavy lume plots and a rotating bezel built for purpose rather than decoration. The layout is clean and highly legible, with oversized hour markers, a broad arrow handset and a central seconds hand, all designed for visibility in low light. The date window at three, complete with reverse cyclops magnifier, adds a practical touch, while the lume has aged to a soft, creamy tone that works beautifully against the dial. The stainless steel case has a reassuring presence on the wrist, and the caseback is marked water-resistant to 20 atmospheres — exactly what you’d want to see on a watch of this type. There are light signs of wear throughout, entirely consistent with age, but nothing that detracts from its overall character. Fitted to a black rubber Tropic strap, it wears exactly as it should — purposeful, understated and quietly confident. A slightly under-the-radar British take on the classic dive watch. Ready to enjoy having just returned from the watchmaker after a complete overhaul/service.