Tick-Talk TickTalk Blog
The iconic Shell Starcollectionis symbolicof Delma’s dive watch expertise. Over the 45years since it was first released, the Shell Starhas show cased an evolution of style, materials and functionality. The Shell Star Decompression Timer presents sophisticated diving technology built upon the collections’ cherished design. This latest release boasts a rarely seen featurein a timepiece that is equally technical, durable and stylish.
The functionality of the Shell Star Decompression Timer is based on research of the 1950s and 60s by Swiss dive pioneers Hannes Keller and Albert Bühlmann. Both former students at the University of Zurich, their combined expertise in mathematics, physics and diving motivated them to performrevolutionary researchin the diving field.They recognized the impact of altitude on decompression and developed tables with specific gas mixturesfor different elevations. Bühlmann focused on identifying the correct combination of gases while Keller performed experimental dives to test their theories. The resulting tables enabled safe decent at sea levelandin mountainous terrainand were even adopted by the Swiss military in 1972. Still todayconsidered to be the most intuitive of their kind, they uniquely take into account the need for multiple decompression stops for deeper and longer dives.Technical Timekeeping
The Delma Shell Star Decompression Timer is optimized for diving with air breathing at 0-700 meters above sea level.The diver uses the unidirectional bezel to time his dive. The vertical scaleon the dialat 12 o‘clock corresponds to theirdive depth in meters or feet. It enables the diver to clearly see if their dive is within the no-decompression limit (NDL)where no decompression is required or whether decompression stops are necessary.The NDL time is reflected by the white markings on the rings, while the amount of decompression stops and their duration are shown by the numbers.
*Andreas Leibundgut, Head of Marketing at DELMA «The Shell Star holds a special place for DELMA as the brand’s first professional divers’ watch. Since the release of the first edition in 1975, the series has evolved technically and visually. With the new Shell Star Decompression Timer weshowcase our expertise in diving with a new function rarely seen in mechanical timepieces.»
Unlike other comparable timepieces, DELMA’s Shell Star Decompression Timer utilizes Keller and Bühlmann’s research to clearly display when multiple decompression stops are needed for dives at sea level and beyond. In keeping with its technical diving functionality, the Decompression Timer features ahelium escape valve and a water resistance to 500 m/1650 ft.It is offered with a black, blue or orange unidirectional bezel with either a stainless steel bracelet or rubber strap. All models are automatic and contain a SW200 movement with dateand DELMA customized rotor.Key historical characteristics include a spade central seconds hand, the railway track andorange and white indexes. The stainless steel case is sealed with a transparent case back revealing the intricate movement.*Please consult the user instructions for a detailed explanation on how to correctly use the Decompression Timer
Durability and strength have always been essential to the Shell Star and this new release is faithful to the collection. The bold decompression timer functionality completesa unique diving tool worthy of attention. Shell Star Decompression Timer Stainless steel bracelet CHF 1150/ EUR 1250 / USD 1350 Rubber strap CHF 1100/ EUR 1200/ USD 1290
Essential Features
Case & Dial44mm diameter,13.8mm thick case
Helium escape valve at 9 o’clock
Luminescent indexes and hands
Black or blue dial with decompression timer
Unidirectional bezel in black, blue or orange anodized aluminum.
