While ZRC (Zuccolo Rochet & Cie) may not have the same household recognition as luxury dive watch brands like Rolex, Doxa, Blancpain, Omega, or even Seiko, it holds a significant place in horological history. The brand made its mark by responding to the French Navy's need for deep dive watches in 1958, resulting in the development of the S1 diver for testing in 1959. Subsequently, ZRC launched its first commercially available watch, the Grands Fonds 300, focusing initially on bracelets and straps. The Securicode was introduced in 1965, famed for its innovative approach to measuring immersion times at varying depths using a central dial calculator. This groundbreaking design earned it top honors at the 11th Inventors' Exhibition in Brussels. To commemorate its 120th anniversary, ZRC has reimagined the Securicode name with three new dive watch models that pay homage to the original S1 aesthetic.

In the mid-1960s, the Grands Fonds proudly featured a unique 6 o'clock crown design that could only be worn with the crown fully secured, ensuring a watertight seal. Though the new Securicode models do not replicate this feature—since ZRC has an existing modern Grands Fonds collection—they do incorporate familiar dial and bezel elements reminiscent of the late 1950s S1 and the 1965 Securicode.

The new 2024 models are classified by their case materials, but all maintain a practical 39mm diameter and are equipped with sapphire crystals treated with a blue anti-reflective coating. This size is suitable for a wide variety of wrist sizes. Designed for professional diving, water resistance is rated at 300 meters, despite being tested to an impressive 800 meters. Additionally, the innovative case back utilizes a two-part design reminiscent of a submarine's airlock—a clamping ring and shielded case back. This configuration allows for an independent seal without compromising the integrity of the case under pressure, showcasing ZRC's commitment to innovation, albeit not entirely necessary in modern dive watches.

Among the three models, two feature satin-finished stainless steel cases with distinct circular brushing, separated by unidirectional bezel inserts—one model is crafted from steel, while the other boasts a striking black ceramic bezel. Both models feature simple diver's marks enhanced with luminescence. The all-steel version is paired with a retro-style steel expansion band, whereas the model with the ceramic bezel sports a black tropic-style FKM rubber strap.

The third model is a limited edition capped at 200 pieces, merging the black ceramic bezel insert with a classic bronze case while retaining a steel case back. It boasts a luxurious vegetal-tanned leather strap that features a faux patina and off-white stitching. The design's bezel markers and dial elements feature elegant gold tones to complement the bronze case. All the models meet ISO764 standards for magnetic resistance, rated at 4800 A/m.

Each Securicode dial features a black brass surface with ZRC's characteristic S1-style Magnum hour/minute hands and a lollipop seconds hand, all fitted with luminescent inserts. Carefully-placed faceted indices indicate the hours, with a double index marking the 12 o'clock position, while small lume dots enhance night visibility. The detailed minute/seconds track accentuates the dial's perimeter. Color accents differ: the steel models showcase silver indices with green luminescence, while the bronze model displays gold accents with tan luminescent features. Additionally, a framed date window is positioned at 3 o'clock; the bronze and steel/ceramic models present a matching dial background, while the all-steel model opts for a minimalist time-only design.

The new ZRC Securicode watches are powered by the Sellita SW200-1 Elaborated automatic movement, a reliable clone of the ETA 2824-2. This Elaboré grade movement is finely tuned in three positions, ensuring an impressive accuracy rating of +/-7 seconds per day, boasting 26 jewels, a vibration rate of 28,800 vibrations per hour (4Hz), and a 38-hour power reserve. Its functions include central hours, minutes, hacking seconds, and date, with the all-steel model featuring a no-date version (SW200-1 b).

In summary, the revival of the Securicode watch is not only a nod to ZRC's historic legacy but also a promising blend of vintage charm and modern innovation—a must-see for dive watch aficionados! Keep an eye on these fantastic timepieces—they're definitely trending and will be making waves in the watch community soon!