Tissot T12 Automatic Dive Watch, Internal Rotating Bezel, Super Compressor Case, circa 1970

Dealer description — Vintage Watch Specialist

A Rare Tissot T12 Automatic Dive Watch With An Internal Rotating Bezel and a Stainless Steel Super-Compressor Case, Fantastic Condition, c.1970 The super compressor watch case, a notable invention in the realm of horology, emerged in the late 1950s and became widely recognized for its ingenious approach to enhancing water resistance in dive watches. This innovative design was pioneered by Ervin Piquerez SA (EPSA), a Swiss case manufacturer, which sought to address the limitations faced by divers and underwater adventurers. At the heart of the super compressor mechanism lies a simple yet brilliant concept: utilizing water pressure itself to fortify the watch’s sealing capabilities. The design features a unique case-back system that becomes more tightly sealed as external water pressure increases. This is achieved through a spring-loaded mechanism that compresses further as depth (and thus pressure) grows, enhancing the watch's water resistance dynamically with depth. Super compressor cases are easily identifiable by their distinct features: most notably, two crowns on the side of the case. One crown is used for setting time and possibly date, while the second operates an internal rotating bezel used for tracking dive times. Despite technological advancements making traditional super compressor designs less common today, they remain highly revered among collectors and enthusiasts for their unique blend of functionality and vintage charm. Their legacy continues to influence modern dive watches, embodying an era where innovation met practicality head-on beneath the waves. What's on Offer This Tissot is in sublime condition for being over 50 years old. The T12 Super Compressor was a top spec divers watch produced by Tissot utilising compression innovation way ahead of its time and a unique and stylish stainless steel case built for extreme depths when diving. This watch features a solid black dial with accents of blue on the second hand and a chrome finish on the hour and minute hands as well as the very unique slanted hour plots which add a nice look to this piece. This watch has a very sophisticated but sporty look and offers class but also durability. There is also a date complication with an aperture at 3 o'clock. At 44mm this is a meaty watch but it wears very comfortably on the wrist and looks great on the wrist. The dial is really well-preserved given this watch is over 50 years old! The watch is paired with its original Tissot bracelet which is also in great shape. This watch is fairly rare to find, and especially in this condition and it really is in fantastic shape.