The “Devil Diver” nickname comes from the original Bulova Oceanographer’s unusual 666-foot depth marking. Bulova’s historical account equates that figure to about 200 metres and says 300 feet was common for dive watches in the 1970s. Today’s Archive Series revival includes two distinct versions: the 41 mm orange-dial 96B350 on a polyurethane strap and the 44 mm green-dial 96B322 on a steel bracelet.
Why is it called the Devil Diver?
The name refers to the 666-foot rating printed on the original Oceanographer dial. In a 2021 announcement, Bulova Japan said that 300 feet was common for dive watches in the 1970s, while the Oceanographer’s 666-foot marking stood out. Bulova connected 666 with the beast in the biblical Book of Revelation and explained that this distinctive dial marking gave the watch its “Devil Diver” nickname. The 666-foot figure is roughly 200 metres; the historical comparison and naming explanation are Bulova’s account, not an independent survey of 1970s watches. Bulova Japan’s 2021 announcement
The modern Archive Series model is a revival of that 1970s design, not the original watch. Bulova Japan dated the 41 mm orange 96B350’s launch to May 28, 2021, and described details including the older Bulova logo, raised cylindrical markers and a cross-pattern dial. It also called the polyurethane strap a first for the series. These are Bulova’s descriptions of the reissue and its design intent. Bulova Japan’s 2021 announcement
What is the difference between the 96B350 and 96B322?
They share the Oceanographer Devil Diver name and an automatic 821D movement in the listed specifications, but differ in case size, dial colour and band. The values below are tied to the cited model and regional pages; check the listing for the market where you are buying.
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- For the uncompromising thrill seeker, there is no alternative to this all-new Bulova men’s Oceanographer GMT.
- The perfectly sized 41mm stainless steel case features a grey IP coating, a screw-down crown that provides 200 meters of water resistance, and a unidirectional rotating black-and-white timing bezel. Under the box sapphire crystal, the fully luminescent white dial features a black 24-hours scale and minute markers, applied round luminescent hour markers, and a date display.
- The bold handset features luminescent fill for exceptional low-light legibility, and an independently adjusted hour hand that allows you to quickly set the local time. The Oceanographer GMT is powered by a self-winding GMT movement with 24-jewels and a power reserve of 42 hours, protected by a screw-down caseback.
- Paired perfectly with a fitted gray silicone strap with a rugged three-piece buckle. When you need a timepiece that can go everywhere you want and never fall behind, the men’s Bulova Oceanographer GMT is the only option.
- 200M Water Resistant and 3 Year Limited Warranty
| Reference | Case | Dial and band | Other listed specifications |
|---|---|---|---|
| 96B350 | 41 mm | Orange dial; black polyurethane strap; 19 mm lug width | Automatic 821D movement; calendar; Bulova Canada states 200 m water resistance and ISO certification. Bulova Canada |
| 96B322 | 44 mm | Green dial; stainless steel bracelet | Automatic 821D movement; Bulova Canada lists a 42-hour power reserve and 200 m / 666 ft water resistance. Bulova Italy lists 21 jewels and a 40-hour reserve. Bulova Canada Bulova Italy |
Choosing between the sizes and bands
The 96B350 is the smaller option and comes on a polyurethane strap; its Canadian product page specifies 19 mm between the lugs. The 96B322 is 3 mm larger in case diameter and comes on a steel bracelet. The sources establish those dimensions and configurations, but do not provide comparative wrist-fit measurements. For a replacement strap for the 96B350, confirm both the 19 mm width and the attachment style before ordering.
Is the Devil Diver a real dive watch?
Bulova’s product pages describe both references as water resistant to 200 m, and its collection sheet describes the watch as ISO 6425 dive-watch certified with a screw-down crown. These are manufacturer specifications; no independent testing is established here. The collection sheet says to screw the crown back into its normal position to ensure optimal 200 m water resistance. A rating does not establish the condition of a particular watch, especially a used example, and the reviewed materials do not state a service interval. Bulova Canada, 96B350 Bulova Canada, 96B322 Bulova / Citizen Watch collection sheet
Rank #2
- In celebration of America's 250th Anniversary and in collaboration with Sail 4th, this special edition men's Bulova Snorkel adds a patriotic twist to the fan favorite
- Creating striking contrast and imbuing the watch with the colors of the American Flag, the red wave-pattern dial and striking 41mm white Hybrid Ceramic case pair perfectly with the blue unidirectional bezel with a bi-color red and blue insert
- Embodying the American spirit of beauty and perseverance, this special edition Snorkel perfectly balances style and functionality with Bulova's legacy of iconic American watchmaking.Special Edition41mm White Hybrid-Ceramic CaseRotating Ratchet TopringHybrid Ceramic One-Way Rotating BezelRed Dial with Luminous Hands and MarkersDouble Curved Mineral Box CrystalQuartz Movement3 HandDateBlue Rubber StrapWater-Resistance - WR100/10Bar/333ft [Swimming, Showering & Snorkeling]Bulova Style #: 98B474
What is the 96B322’s power reserve?
Bulova’s regional pages disagree: Bulova Canada lists 42 hours, while Bulova Italy lists 40 hours. Both pages concern the 96B322, and neither gives a page date in the reviewed material. Keep the figure attached to the source and market rather than treating one value as universal. Bulova Canada Bulova Italy
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Is the Bulova Devil Diver still available?
Availability depends on region. Bulova Canada marks the 96B322 discontinued, while Bulova Italy lists that reference with a price and retailer-finder link. Bulova Japan’s Archive Series listing displays both references. These listings do not establish current stock worldwide, so check the local Bulova site or a retailer for the specific reference and market. Bulova Canada Bulova Italy Bulova Japan Archive Series
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Quick Recap
Rank #4
- From Bulova's Men's Marine Star Collection, live and play in maritime watches that feature bold accents, iconic patterns and innovative materials inspired by the sea.
- 6 Hand, 1/20 Second Chronograph Measures up to 60 Minutes, Calendar, Small Second Hand
- Silver-Tone Stainless Steel
- Domed Mineral Crystal
- 200M Water Resistant and 3 Year Limited Warranty
Rank #3
- From Bulova's Men's Marine Star Collection, live and play in maritime watches that feature bold accents, iconic patterns and innovative materials inspired by the sea.
- Features: Calendar;Luminous Hands and Markers
- Silver-Tone Stainless Steel;Blue Leather and Black Silicone Strap
- An internal 60-minute timing ring features white accents and is operated with the crown at 10 o’clock.
- 100M Water Resistant and 3 Year Limited Warranty
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
