Doxa 11804-4 'Shark-Hunter': Unearthing the Pre-SUB 300 Ancestor
Vintage

Doxa 11804-4 'Shark-Hunter': Unearthing the Pre-SUB 300 Ancestor

By Mary Anny · Feb 21, 2022 · 20 replies
Mary Anny
WPS member · Horological Meandering forum
20 replies5814 views9 photos
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Mary Anny's meticulous research unearths the often-overlooked Doxa 11804-4 'Shark-Hunter,' a significant precursor to the celebrated Doxa SUB 300. Her post sheds light on the shared heritage of early 1960s dive watches, particularly those utilizing cases from Huguenin Frères. This exploration provides invaluable context for understanding the evolution of iconic dive watch designs and their interconnected history.

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All right, so, as I promised,

 

I did my research on the ancestor of the Doxa SUB 200. In fact, it seems that there was one early dive watch, prior to the celebrated Doxa SUB 300, in the early sixties. The watch received a case from Huguenin Frères, as several other dive watches from the same era. The main siblings were the more renowned Eberhard Scafograf and some Omega Seamaster like the 165.024.

Here go a couple of pictures of it, the Doxa 11804-4, so called Shark-Hunter. Credit pictures: Analog:Shift

www.analogshift.com












And now, the newcomer on the strap I have found for it!








The watch case in detail...





And the lume...







Now the watch is ready to flight and meet its owner. Hopefully it will dive in the Indian Ocean soon and for many years ahead. Hope to see many photographs of it on its owner wrist!



P.S. I took a chance to “play” a little while with the marvellous, so-called beads-of-rice bracelet that comes with the new watch. I just wanted to rebuild the links I had removed. Now, does anyone know where I can find the inventor of such a devilish device, compared to which the most complicated jigsaw puzzle looks just ridiculous. I mean, in what psychiatric hospital (with all my respect) is he or she locked up for the sake of… 

Best, Simone







About the Doxa Ref. Sub200

The Sub 200 represents an accessible entry point into the brand's dive watch offerings, drawing inspiration from historical designs while incorporating modern manufacturing techniques. It is characterized by its compact dimensions and robust construction, making it suitable for daily wear. This reference maintains the brand's distinctive aesthetic, appealing to enthusiasts who appreciate its heritage-inspired styling.

Crafted from stainless steel, the case measures 42mm in diameter, providing a balanced presence on the wrist. It is equipped with an automatic movement, offering a power reserve of approximately 38 hours. The watch features a sapphire crystal, ensuring durability and scratch resistance, and is water resistant to 200 meters, underscoring its functional capabilities.

This model appeals to collectors seeking a reliable and well-proportioned sports watch with a clear lineage. Its design cues are a nod to earlier models, making it a recognizable piece within the brand's contemporary collection. The Sub 200 is available in a variety of dial colors, offering options to suit different preferences while maintaining a consistent design language.

Specifications

Caliber
ETA 2824-2
Case
Stainless steel
Diameter
42mm
Dial
Multiple options
Water Resist.
200m
Crystal
Sapphire

Key Points from the Discussion

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The Discussion
AM
amanico
Feb 21, 2022
Always great to see the roots of our modern watches. But if I am not mistaken there was also a version of the modern Shark Hunter, no?

Like this one:

MA
Mary Anny
Feb 21, 2022
The SUB 300, of course,

but, it seems that the 11804-4 came first. Many people believe that the one you have posted was the first Doxa dive watch and the 11804-4 is often neglected and forgotten. I didn't know it existed at all either. Someone from this forum should take a chance and go hunting it. And I'm tinking about who this person could be! Thanks for the great picture Nicolas.

AM
amanico
Feb 21, 2022
You are most probably right in the chronology. As for the person who should grab it, I think I have a small idea... ;)

MA
Mary Anny
Feb 21, 2022
Name first letter B?

DR
Dr No
Feb 21, 2022
It's not often a watch gets added to my must-have list . . .

. . . but you've just managed the accomplishment. PS - it's been sold. I wonder who bought it. 🤔

MA
Mary Anny
Feb 21, 2022
I'm so glad you liked it!

It's actually a 50 years birthday present for one of my greatest friends! I've just bought the watch and the rubber strap! I love buying watches for my beloved people because I love watches (the people too) but cannot own more than three or four at a time!😉

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