There is no doubt that diving watches hold a special place in the hearts of many collectors, ourselves included. In fact, Analog:Shift was founded nearly ten years ago with its eyes set squarely on vintage divers.

With their simple designs and robust movements, the tool watches of the 1960s and 1970s were built to accompany the adventurer across the globe and to keep time at its great heights as well as its dark depths. Yet for every Rolex Submariner, Blancpain Fifty Fathoms, or Omega Seamaster, there were scores of other lesser-known names that ooze charm and merit consideration from the vintage watch enthusiast.

What you don't expect to see, is a dive watch from Heuer - arguably the biggest name in wrist chronographs in the 1960s and '70s. At this time, Heuer was looking to capitalize on the demand for dive watches, but having no experience in the dive watch segment, Heuer initially outsourced their cases and movements. They would borrow some design cues from existing divers of the era, but also introduced a few features that were not yet common.

This watch, a Reference 844, was amongst the very first Heuer dive watches introduced in 1979. Featuring a contracted 42mm 'Monnin' case, a gorgeous black Tritium dial with "Professionel" text denoting its French-made origin, a luminous cathedral handset, and an excellent 'ghosted' ratcheting bezel - this watch is loaded with looks and features to back them up.

If you are looking for a quirky, functional, and endlessly charming dive watch from one of the best names in the business, look no further.