Hands-On With Three New Cuervo Y Sobrinos Buceador Caribe Dive Watches
When Cuervo y Sobrinos offered us a chance to check out its new additions to the Buceador collection, I jumped on the opportunity. I really enjoyed wearing the colorful Buceador Caribe in 2021 when we had it in for review. The summery colors and great wearability made the Buceador the perfect testament to the brand’s Cuban roots. So when Cuervo y Sobrinos announced three new variations of the watch, I knew it would bring back those great memories of the first Buceador Caribe. Besides offering additional colors, the dive watch now also comes with a new movement and a new mesh bracelet, so there’s plenty to check out.
The story of Cuervo y Sobrinos resonated with me the first time I read it. As I explained two years ago in the review of the Buceador Caribe, I have a giant soft spot for the pre-Fidel Castro era of Cuba. The stories of Cuba’s days as the exhilarating capital of the Caribbean are great reads. And it’s in those stories that Cuervo y Sobrinos finds its roots, which are reflected in the style of the brand and its watches. Most of the Cuervo y Sobrinos collection consists of more classically styled timepieces, but the Buceador line is a nice exception. The contemporary looks of this dive watch stand out in the collection, and I had great fun wearing the Buceador Caribe Varadero back in 2021.
Updates to the Cuervo y Sobrinos Buceador collection
Two years on, the Buceador line is now getting an expansion with three new models, so it’s time to check out the new additions. Just as a quick reminder, back in May 2021, Cuervo y Sobrinos introduced the Buceador collection. The word “Buceador” is the Spanish word for “diver,” perfectly conveying the model’s intended purpose. But it’s not simply another traditional dive watch. The Buceador models all come with a 43mm stainless steel container-type case that measures 15.8mm thick and is water resistant to 200 meters. The beautiful domed sapphire crystal partly contributes to the substantial profile.
This case features a mix of brushed and polished finishes that highlight its construction and many angles. The watch also has a crown at 2 o’clock that operates the internal rotating diving bezel once unlocked with the special pusher at 4 o’clock. The main crown on the left side of the case at 9 o’clock lets you set the time and date. This case style with its two crowns makes for a very characteristic and recognizable watch in terms of shape. While you could find hints of inspiration from other dive watches, overall, the Buceador is quite an original design.
Three new dials for the Buceador Caribe
And the original design gets even more character when it comes to the dial. The design is quite a mixture of styles and colors and therefore won’t be for everyone. I remember having to get used to everything that was going on. But I also remember that the different elements created something rather unique and easy for me to get used to. These three latest models also have new colorways, so let’s go over them. It starts with the black and yellow version (ref. 2860.3NY), which features a black DLC stainless steel case and a black dial.
Its stealthy presence gets a vibrant kick of color with the first 15 minutes of the diving scale, the minute hand, the tip of the seconds hand, and the model name in yellow. The rest of the diving scale is black with yellow minute markers and white numerals. To create more contrast, the hour numerals, indices, and hands are filled with bright white Super-LumiNova. Of course, this also makes it easy to read the time in the dark. The watch comes with a black rubber strap with yellow stitching and a yellow lining. An additional black leather strap is included with the watch in the brand’s characteristic humidor case.
The Buceador in navy blue
The second of the three models (ref. 2860.1BL) comes with a navy blue dial with red elements. With this one, the 15-minute timer on the diving bezel has a rich, dark red color, while the rest of the rotating bezel is executed in a different shade of blue. Notably, the numerals on the diving scale are a very nice sand color instead of plain white. The lume used for the large college-style numerals and the hands shares the same sandy hue, creating a nice overall aesthetic that I thoroughly enjoy.
The minute hand, the tip of the seconds hands, the logo, and the model name are executed in a brighter red color that contrasts nicely with the blue shades. In a nice twist, the crown at 2 o’clock is also light blue, and I like that detail. This version of the Buceador Caribe comes with a navy blue strap with light blue stitching. In the humidor presentation box, you will also find a navy blue leather strap for when you’re not diving and perhaps want to spend time in the casino and smoke a cigar.
The third model looks familiar
With the third model (ref. 2860.1LB), we get a nice hint of the turquoise waters of the Caribbean. Additionally, it resembles the model that I reviewed two years ago. But while that one combined turquoise with yellow accents, this new version has a light blue gradient dial that turns to dark blue. It creates a completely different look, especially in combination with the white and red elements on the bezel, hands, and dial. The hands and numerals come with white Super-LumiNova, giving the watch a crisp feel.
Just like the navy blue model, the crown at 2 o’clock is executed in light blue, perfectly fitting the overall aesthetic. Lastly, the watch comes with a light blue rubber strap with white stitching to complete the look and a light blue leather strap to change things up. When it comes to the three different models, I prefer the two blue ones. I think they fit the overall vibe of a dive watch the best. And I gravitated towards the dark blue version the most as I adore the sandy color of the markers on the dial in combination with the navy blue color. On top of that, out of the two turquoise models in the collection, it’s hard to beat the Caribbean vibes of the Varadero model that I reviewed two years ago.
A new Milanese-style bracelet
But that is not where it ends. The three blue Buceador Caribe models (these two new ones and the one I reviewed previously) can now also be ordered with a Milanese-style mesh bracelet made by the German brand Staib. To me, this bracelet turns the dive-watch vibes up to 11, making the models look even more capable. It fits the overall style of the Buceador super well.
We fitted the Milanese bracelet to the navy blue model, and it gave the watch some seriously professional vibes. The bracelet feels undeniably sturdy, and it features several micro-adjustment holes and a safety lock. The comfort and quality of this bracelet is truly top-notch. I was super impressed, especially by how comfortable it was. The clasp is easy to use, and thanks to the micro-adjustments, I could make it fit perfectly. So kudos to Cuervo y Sobrinos for offering the option to buy the three blue models with this bracelet.
A new Soprod caliber to power the Buceador
And if you thought we were done already, think again. The Buceador line now comes equipped with a new movement. For the previous models, the brand used its CYS 5204 movement, which was based on the Peseux 224. That changed, however, because all the models now come equipped with the CYS 8126 caliber, which is, essentially, a Soprod P024. The automatic P024 is based on the ETA 2824-2, operating at 28,800vph and providing a 38-hour power reserve. With all of these models, however, the movement is hidden behind a closed case back with an engraving of a diver.
Wearing the new Cuervo y Sobrinos Buceador Caribe watches
As I said in the beginning, I have nothing but good memories of my first meeting with the Buceador Caribe. Seeing these three new versions was like a warm welcome from a good friend, and I think Cuervo y Sobrinos did a great job expanding the lineup. As I also mentioned, I am definitely a bigger fan of the blue versions. To me, the black model doesn’t really give off diving vibes but looks more like a racing watch. On top of that, the blue models fit the image I have in my head of the Caribbean a lot better.
If you strap any of these models on your wrist, you will quickly find out how substantial it is. With this case measuring 43mm in diameter and 53mm from lug tip to lug tip, it has a bold stance that will likely not suit smaller wrists very well. On top of that, the Buceador is substantial in weight. On the Milanese bracelet, in particular, it becomes quite heavy. As I have no problems wearing an Omega Seamaster Ploprof, it was not much of an issue for me, but I can imagine people finding the Buceador too big and heavy. On the rubber strap, though, the watch is more manageable. If you have ever worn a big diver like a Panerai Luminor, you will have a general idea of what to expect.
The Buceador has a unique presence
The sturdy rubber straps do take some time to break in — time that, unfortunately, I did not have. I love the quality of them, but you might have to wear them for a couple of weeks before they become super comfortable. Speaking of comfort but from a mental standpoint, the looks of the Buceador are an acquired taste. The unique case, the dial with its large college-style font, and the oversized hour and minute hands might seem weird at first. I mentioned it two years ago too, but this time around, I got used to the looks a lot more quickly.
Of course, I had a previous encounter with the Buceador, and that made it easier. But it’s still not a watch that will please everyone. The busy dials are a combination of styles and elements that might take some time to fall in love with, and it’s time that not too many of us are willing to give a watch. I got a second chance and was reminded of how much I like the Cuervo y Sobrinos Buceador Caribe. On a personal level, I love the Cuban roots and find them incredibly romantic. Additionally, the Caribbean is the place to go diving, and that’s what makes the story of the Buceador Caribe even more compelling for me.
Final thoughts on the new Cuervo y Sobrinos Buceador Caribe models
By now, you will know that I have a soft spot for this line of watches. Even though the DLC execution isn’t really my style, the blue models are right up my alley. When it comes to pricing, the new Buceador Caribe models are exactly €3,000 with the rubber and leather straps. If you are in the market for either of the two new blue models with the Milanese bracelet, you’ll have to pay €3,100. However, you will not get the extra strap if you buy it on the bracelet. All three new models and the three previous ones are available now.
Overall, I love how Cuervo y Sobrinos has carved out its position in the watch industry. The company has a unique Cuban history and a distinct collection of watches. While they are not all my style, the new Buceador Caribe with the navy blue dial truly spoke to me. Together with the Varadero model that I reviewed two years ago, they are favorites in a line of quirky but stylish divers that has grown on me tremendously.
For more information, visit the official Cuervo y Sobrinos website.
