Vintage Sea Wolfs (Wolves?) have long been great buys, rarely exceeding $700 even for good examples. This is thanks to the brand’s fall from grace and the relatively tiny size, which didn’t translate well to modern wrists. But if you’re willing to wear something a little smaller, you can own one of the original dive watches and one with real history, for way less than a grand. The no-date Sea Wolf is slightly more desirable and reliable than the push-in quickset date Datographic version, and though the engraved metal bezel is older, the Bakelite bezel versions are beautiful if you can find one in good condition.

Fossil has recognized the value of heritage and retro styling, with examples set by Tudor, OMEGA, and others in recent years, and with the Zodiac name, has the vehicle to exploit it. They’ve recently started offering refurbished vintage Zodiacs like the Astrographic, the Aerospace GMT and the Sea Wolf on the Zodiac Website, with warrantees. Name another brand that does that. Also, they’ve started to release new watches inspired by their vintage icons as part of its “Heritage Collection.” First back was the Astrographic, then the Sea Dragon, which are both pure '70s design, and in 2015, the Sea Wolf returns. It was shown early in 2014 and has created a buzz among people who wouldn’t normally give Zodiac a second look. We couldn’t wait to give one a try and got our hands on an early example to not only check out, but also take diving, a fitting way to review this homage to one of the first of its breed.