BY JOVAN K
The original Delfin was introduced by Edox back in 1961, revolutionizing the watch industry with its patented Double O-ring system and a reinforced double caseback. This technical feat allowed the watch to achieve an astonishing 200m water resistance, which was a massive achievement at the time. In 1973, the line was updated with a much more angular shape and a twelve-sided bezel.
The new Delfin 1973 Automatic is a modern continuation of that 70s design, keeping the core look of the original piece, but in a modern take. Edox has also released quartz models, namely the Delfin 1973 41mm, the Delfin 1973 36mm, and the Delfin 1973 Chronograph 43mm; but we are not going to talk about them today.
The steel case measures 41mm x 12.6mm, which is a very wearable size for a modern sports watch. The shape is highly geometric with sharp angles, dominated by the signature twelve-sided bezel that defined the 1973 original. For the finishing, Edox uses a mix of brushed surfaces and hand-polished edges to give the case some visual depth. It features a screw-down crown and a sapphire crystal on the front, and a transparent display caseback on the back so you can see the mechanical movement inside. The case is rated for 200 meters of water resistance, making it a fully capable diver’s watch.
The dial is the main talking point of this release because of its unique texture, as Edox makes these dials by repeatedly striking a brass plate with a linear tool, which stamps a deep horizontal pattern directly into the metal. This gives it a tactile look that resembles the ripples you see on a sandy seabed. The automatic version is available in silver, black, blue, or green. The hands and the applied hour markers are chunky and easy to read, and they are coated in Super LumiNova for visibility in low light conditions.
Inside the watch is the Edox Caliber 80. This is not an in-house movement, but rather a modified Sellita SW-200 automatic caliber. It is a very common, highly reliable Swiss workhorse movement that ticks at 28,800 vibrations per hour (4Hz) with a 38 hour power reserve. Because it is a Sellita base, any competent watchmaker can easily service it down the road, and parts are always easy to find.
You can get the Delfin 1973 Automatic on either a steel jubilee-style bracelet or a rubber strap. The steel bracelet matches the angular look of the case well, while the rubber strap makes it a bit more casual. Prices start at CHF 950 and go up to CHF 995 depending on which strap option you choose. For a Swiss automatic watch with this level of case finishing and water resistance, the price is fair and competitive. It is a solid, straightforward release from an independent Swiss brand that still assembles its watches by hand.
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