The firm started by Leon Breitling in 1884 is best known for its technical aviation and oceanic watches. Breitling's foray into dive watches started in the late 1950s and with the new Super Ocean 20 atoms (600 feet) a model was created for deep sea exploration and to cater for the fast growing popularity of underwater sports.

This particular example, a limited Reference 4048, dating to the 1970s features an extremely sharp 42mm case constructed from steel. The overall design is quite radical with its large cusion form case, the polished countdown bezel indented to protect the large domed crystal and a silvered dial, accented with large luminous markers for all hours. Based on precision and strudiness the present timepiece represents a hidden gem of rare Breitling diver’s wristwatches. Produced in very scarce numbers, it has never appeared on the market.