Aquastar
Aquastar is a Swiss watch brand founded in Geneva in 1962 by watchmaker and diver Frédéric Robert. It is known for dive watches and regatta timers such as the Benthos and Deepstar.
| Founded | 1962, Geneva |
|---|---|
| Founder | Frédéric Robert |
| Headquarters | Bienne, Switzerland |
| Owner since 2019 | Synchron Group |
| Website | aquastar.ch |
What is Aquastar?
Aquastar is a Swiss watchmaker specialising in timepieces for aquatic use. It was founded in 1962 in Geneva by Frédéric Robert, a watchmaker, scuba diver and skipper from the family behind the JeanRichard brand, which he took over from his father and renamed Aquastar.
History
Under Robert, Aquastar became known for dive watches and diving instruments, and he filed patents for dive watch features. Early models were sold mainly through professional diving equipment outlets. From the 1980s the brand concentrated on regatta timing watches and quartz models. Ownership changed several times:
- 1975: acquired by the Eren Group after Robert retired
- 1982: acquired by the Seinet brothers
- 2019: acquired by Synchron Group under Rick Marei, with the business moving from Geneva to Bienne
Products and positioning
The brand's best-known references include the Benthos, the Regate, the Model 63 and the Deepstar, which returned as a re-edition in 2020. The current range builds on this heritage of tool watches for diving and sailing.
Why it matters
Aquastar is one of a number of historic Swiss names revived by new owners who use archive designs to position the brand in the heritage sports watch segment.
Frequently asked questions
Who founded Aquastar?
Aquastar was founded in Geneva in 1962 by Frédéric Robert, a watchmaker, diver and skipper.
What is Aquastar known for?
Aquastar is known for dive watches and regatta timers, including the Benthos and Deepstar models.