Playing the blues with the Zodiac Super Sea Wolf 53 Compression

In our previous Zodiac review, we were also talking about a Super Sea Wolf 53 Compression – but today’s looks like a much different piece. There were two new blue watches in the collection that had been just-announced (and we briefly covered in the prior review), and we got to spend some time with the ZO9275 model of the Zodiac Super Sea Wolf 53 Compression.

If you were just looking at case profiles, this Zodiac Super Sea Wolf 53 Compression would really look no different than the previous one. Which, you know, sort of make sense, as the “Compression” in the name is a feature of the case. While the lugs are still long, they feel less-so with the stock rubber strap that comes on this version. While I do really like that jubilee bracelet, this is a pretty nice rubber strap. The top side has a woven/textile texture imprinted, while the reverse side has diamond depressions that give you some air space between the strap and your wrist. Additionally, for those that look for it, this has a nice, subtle taper down to the signed buckle.

Obviously, changing from the polished jubilee to a black rubber strap takes things into a sportier, less-dressy realm. When you gaze at the dial, you are definitely changing things as well – say, jumping forward a decade or so in terms of the inspirations. Set on top of the sunray teal blue dial you’ve got got applied, lumed indices, just inboard of a yellowed minute track. Some part of me hoped against hope that the hue meant the minute track was lumed, but that was not to be. There is plenty of lume to be otherwise had, though, which is of course quite functional.

Really, that’s the key change in this Zodiac Super Sea Wolf 53 Compression from the previous one – it’s taken things into a more practical look and feel. Which isn’t to say I don’t like the other version (I actually do prefer that dial and handset), it’s just this one really has more of the feel of an everyday, no-nonsense watch. Either would work fine as a daily wear, it’s really a question of what look you’re going for. Oh, I should also note that there’s a different movement in this as well. Here, we’ve got a STP 3-13 movement (the other one has a STP 1-11) giving you the time and date along with swan-neck regulation.

Coming in at a price of $1,095, this new blue Zodiac Super Sea Wolf 53 Compression is obviously a more affordable option as well compared to the prior version. I’m always a fan of a good blue dial, and the teal tone we’ve got here is a change of pace from a lot the deeper blue tones we’ve had in other watches lately. All are good, but sometimes, you might just be looking for something brighter and colorful. If you’re searching for a compact, retro-inspired Swiss diver, you could certainly do worse than these new additions to the Zodiac Super Sea Wolf 53 Compression collection. zodiacwatches.com

Review Summary

Brand & Model: Zodiac Super Sea Wolf 53 Compression (ZO9275)

Price: $1,095
Who’s it for? You want a modern vintage-look sport watch that brings a splash of color to the mix
Would I wear it? Sure, but I think this is my less-favorite dial/handset version from the collection