Squale x Sea Shepherd 1521 Limited Edition Dive Watch Launches to Support Operation SISO

By Brent Robillard

A classic diver reborn for a cause: 100% of profits go toward Operation SISO in the Mediterranean

There are dive watches, and then there are dive watches with a mission. Squale—one of the most respected names in purpose-built tool watches—has just announced a new limited-edition collaboration with marine conservation group Sea Shepherd, timed for release today, July 17th, 2025.

Dubbed the 1521 Sea Shepherd Limited Edition, this is not merely another black-and-orange variation on a familiar theme. With only 100 numbered pieces produced, and 100% of Squale’s profits donated directly to Operation SISO, this model ties Squale’s professional heritage to one of the most impactful marine campaigns in Europe.

Squale x Sea Shepherd 1521 Limited Edition Dive Watch Launches to Support Operation SISO — Squale x Sea Shepherd 1521 Limited Edition

Check out the Helm Vanuatu

We first saw early previews of a number of Squale watches at Time to Watches in Geneva this year—but this one is a stand out. Not only because of its design, but because of its purpose.

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Operation SISO: A Dive Watch with Teeth

Operation SISO (Stop Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated Fishing in the South of Italy) is Sea Shepherd Italy’s flagship campaign in the Mediterranean. Since 2018, the team—working alongside the Italian Coast Guard—has removed ghost nets, illegal FADs (Fish Aggregating Devices), and miles of deadly longline gear from protected waters. In May 2025 alone, 10 kilometres of illegal gear were cleared, saving dozens of marine animals and helping to restore balance to one of Europe’s most delicate ecosystems.

Squale’s new release is not just a marketing exercise—it’s a direct action fundraiser. Every watch sold helps pay for boats, dive crews, equipment, and legal actions against environmental crimes. In the words of Andrea Morello, President of Sea Shepherd Italy:

“This watch will help us remove even more traps from the sea. Thanks to the profit it generates, we are able to be here.”

A Familiar Form, a Fresh Palette

Built around the brand’s iconic 1521 platform, the Sea Shepherd edition features a matte black dial adorned with the Sea Shepherd insignia at 6 o’clock and printed indexes with Super-LumiNova C3. The standout feature, however, is the monodirectional aluminum bezel insert in bright orange—a first for Squale, and a nod to Sea Shepherd’s official campaign colours.

The 316L polished stainless steel case retains its familiar proportions—42mm diameter, 44mm lug-to-lug, and a slim 12mm profile. Water resistance is rated to 500 metres, and power comes from a Sellita SW200-1 Elaboré automatic movement with 42 hours of reserve. An engraved screw-in caseback and a black-and-orange NATO strap complete the package.

Though rooted in vintage form, the watch feels contemporary, rugged, and quietly symbolic—perfect for those who want their watch to make a statement without shouting.

Final Thoughts

This is a watch for those who care about where their money goes. For those who value heritage, but also want to make a difference now. It’s for the diver who understands the fragility of the world beneath the surface. For the collector who wants meaning behind every limited edition. For the everyday wearer who wants their watch to say something—quietly, but clearly. This is one watch that wears its heart—and its mission—on its sleeve.

Availability

The Squale x Sea Shepherd 1521 Limited Edition will be available exclusively at squale.ch starting today, priced at 1190 CHF / 1275 EUR / 1475 USD. Each piece is individually numbered, and given the low production volume and the strength of the cause, we expect this one to move quickly.

About the author

Brent Robillard is a writer, educator, craftsman, and watch enthusiast. He is the author of four novels. You can follow him on Instagram.

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