A Re-evaluation: The ISOfrane VS 1969 Strap's Comeback

Dive watch enthusiasts are celebrating the return of a historically significant accessory: the ISOfrane VS 1969 strap. While the original ISOfrane is widely recognized for its robust construction and enduring presence in diving history, the VS 1969, a distinct design from the same era, has quietly re-emerged. This re-release offers a fresh perspective on vintage watch accessories, combining historical authenticity with modern wearability.

Rick Marei, a prominent figure in the watch world known for revitalizing iconic dive watch brands and accessories like Synchron and Aquastar, is the visionary behind this reissue. His deep appreciation for the heritage of dive watches extends to their accompanying gear. The VS 1969, first introduced in 1969, was a factory-fitted option for models such as the Aquastar Benthos 500 and smaller Aquastar timepieces like the Seatime. Its distinct characteristics set it apart from the more commonly known ISOfrane.

Unlike the traditional ISOfrane, which is often characterized by its substantial feel and length designed to fit over wetsuits, the VS 1969 presents a more refined profile. It is noticeably thinner and features a series of vertical vents, contributing to its enhanced flexibility. The strap also exhibits a subtle taper in both its width and thickness, providing a more elegant aesthetic and a comfortable fit for everyday use. A practical update for the modern wearer is the inclusion of quick-release spring bars, simplifying strap changes, a contrast to the original's reliance on sturdy, removable pins.

Crafted from vulcanized natural rubber, the new ISOfrane VS 1969 is available in 20mm and 22mm lug widths. Collectors and enthusiasts can choose from a palette of four colors: black, blue, orange, and green. Each strap is equipped with two sliding keepers and a sleek stainless steel buckle, which itself is designed with a more slender profile than its counterpart on the original ISOfrane. This thoughtful design ensures that the VS 1969 maintains its historical essence while meeting contemporary expectations for comfort and style.

Initial tests demonstrate the strap's versatility. When paired with an Aquastar Benthos 500 re-edition, the VS 1969 proved to be an ideal complement, enhancing the watch's aesthetic and providing a comfortable wearing experience. Its slimmer profile and enhanced flexibility were particularly appreciated on smaller wrists. Furthermore, fitting the black version onto a Seiko diver, a watch typically associated with vented rubber straps, highlighted the VS 1969's adaptability, suggesting it's a suitable companion for a wide range of dive watches, both classic and modern.

This renewed vintage strap, offering a blend of authentic design and contemporary comfort, is now available to watch enthusiasts. Its presence in the market provides a valuable alternative for those seeking a high-quality rubber strap with a rich heritage, capable of elevating the wearability of various timepieces.