The Subdial Logo
The Subdial Is On YouTube!

Compression Case

Heading

(kum-PRESH-uhn kays)

QUICK ANSWER

A Compression Case is a type of watch case that increases its water resistance as external pressure increases, using the pressure to compress the case back against the gasket, enhancing the seal.

What does

Compression Case

mean?

A Compression Case, often referred to as a Compressor Case, is a specialized type of watch case designed to enhance water resistance as external pressure increases. This mechanism utilizes the pressure exerted by water to compress the case back against the gasket, thereby improving the seal. As a diver descends deeper underwater, the increasing water pressure compresses the case back more tightly against the gasket, enhancing the watch's water resistance. This design was particularly innovative for dive watches, allowing them to maintain integrity and functionality at greater depths. The concept was pioneered by Ervin Piquerez S.A. (EPSA) in the late 1950s and became a hallmark of mid-20th-century dive watches. The Compressor Case is characterized by its spring-loaded case back, which is not fully compressed until subjected to external pressure, ensuring a secure seal only when necessary. This design not only provides practical benefits for divers but also adds a unique mechanical feature to the watch, distinguishing it from other water-resistant designs. The legacy of the Compressor Case continues to influence modern watchmaking, with many contemporary watches drawing inspiration from this classic design.
ADVERTISEMENT
Charles Simon Advert

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a compression case?

A compression case (also called compressor case) uses water pressure to its advantage: as external pressure increases during diving, it compresses the case back more tightly against its gasket, actually improving the seal. The spring-loaded case back isn't fully compressed until subjected to pressure, invented by EPSA in the 1950s.

How does a compression case work?

The case back sits on a spring mechanism that's partially open at surface pressure. As a diver descends and water pressure increases, this pressure forces the case back down against the gasket with increasing force, creating a tighter seal. The deeper you go, the better it seals—an innovative paradox in water resistance.

Which watches use compression cases?

Compression cases were popular in 1950s-70s dive watches from brands like Longines Legend Diver, Jaeger-LeCoultre Polaris Memovox, and vintage Aquastar models. Modern watches inspired by this design include reissues like the Longines Legend Diver and certain microbrands celebrating mid-century dive watch aesthetics.

ADVERTISMENT
Close-up of a Himalayan Project wristwatch with a gray and pink dial and a fabric strap with a pink stripe.

Latest Articles by 

The Subdial