Invicta VINTAGE Pro Diver 31290 Men's Automatic Watch - 40 mm

Product Information

In 1991, the company was revived under American ownership and has been producing watches since. They’re not shy about flaunting their Swiss heritage, even incorporating the Swiss cross into their logo. Though they do produce watches in Switzerland, many of their watches are also produced in Asia. It's not supposed to be a BB is it, it's supposed to be a homage to the very first Rolex sub dating from 1953. On-wrist it feels a little like a mishmash of a modern diver and a vintage one. They’ve attempted to imitate the original Submariner, to the extent where they even have its release year on the dial, yet have failed to fully encapsulate the essence of a vintage watch. I think we’ve seen other brands such as Timex do a better job of capturing that soul and spirit with their Q Lineup, which may be a factor in their popularity, despite the lower-end specifications.

Invicta on Chrono24 Invicta on Chrono24

Given that it’s essentially got the same look as the Submariner, the 1953 is a fantastically versatile watch, debatably more so than the 8926OB. It’s got enough water resistance and a tough enough movement to be worn for years to come, yet is dressy enough for less casual events. Its standard lug widths also allow you to dress the 1953 up and down with NATO, rubber, and leather straps. Though, if you can look past the connotation Invicta carries, some of their watches are solid value propositions.

🍪 Privacy & Transparency

I personally like the look of a coyote brown NATO, as the color is spot on with the gilt accents. Lume I presume there's a similar VAT deal to the CW seem to have for sales going the other way. Its helpful if dealers can manage the VAT without buyers having to get involved.

Invicta Watch VINTAGE Pro Diver 31290 - Official Invicta Invicta Watch VINTAGE Pro Diver 31290 - Official Invicta

Unfortunately, I wasn’t quite so impressed by the watch itself. In fact, I think it’s a bit overhyped. Here’s why. We’re treated to a signed crown on this one. The crown takes on a matte, seemingly bead-blasted finish with radial brushing around the Swiss cross symbol.Despite my reservations about the execution of the design, it’s worth highlighting that some of the physical aspects of this watch are very impressive indeed.

Invicta 1953 - Christopher Ward Forum Invicta 1953 - Christopher Ward Forum

You are correct, it is missing the standard Invicta engraving on the side of the case. Thank Christ.The unguarded crown is faithful to the Rolex and functionally is excellent. Not only does it have plenty of grippy serrations but is perfectly responsive and a pleasure to use during time adjustments and winding. Bracelet It’s a watch that shows Invicta is capable of pulling off restrained designs, and I hope to see more like it in the future. The lugs are brushed diagonally, while the sides of the case are brushed horizontally across. Like many others, I was relieved to see no “INVICTA” script engraved into the side of the case, which was the most common grievance with previous Pro Diver references.