Gul Watches
ActiveOverview
Gul Watches is a Swedish watch brand launched in the early 1980s under license from the UK-based Gul watersports company, founded in 1965 by Dennis Cross in Cornwall for wetsuits and apparel. It produces durable, waterproof sport watches with Japanese Miyota movements, sapphire or mineral glass, and various strap options, positioned as affordable options with authentic watersports heritage. The brand emphasizes classic and sporty designs suited for water activities, with over 2 million units sold in nearly 40 years.245
History
Gul originated in 1965 in Cornwall, UK, founded by Dennis Cross for watersports apparel like wetsuits. In the early 1980s, Sten Warfvinge, a Swedish dinghy sailing world champion, and associate Anders Delander through their company Delva began distributing Gul wetsuits and launched Gul Watches to complement the wetsuit line with durable, waterproof timepieces. The watches have been produced for nearly 40 years, reaching 2 million units, maintaining the brand's surf heritage while operating as a Swedish brand since 1986.25
Product Lines
| Product Line | Positioning | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Classic Dive Watches | Timeless waterproof designs | $150 - $400 |
| Sporty Surf Watches | Adventure-ready with Velcro straps | $200 - $500 |
| Color Dial Models | Customizable vibrant options | $180 - $450 |
| Leather Strap Variants | Swedish elk skin for style | $250 - $600 |
Manufacturing
Gul Watches are designed in Sweden and use Japanese Miyota movements known for accuracy and shock resistance. Cases feature sapphire or hardened mineral glass, with assembly details not specified but focused on durability for watersports. Straps include options like Velcro, silicone, PU, stainless steel, and elk skin leather.2
Notable Products
- Original Velcro Strap Watch - Iconic model with sport heritage and 10ATM waterproofing.
- Sapphire Crystal Diver - Durable dive watch with hardened glass and Miyota movement.
- Elk Skin Leather Watch - Unique Swedish strap variant blending style and function.
- Multi-Color Dial Sport Watch - Offers dial color choices for personalization.
Reputation
Gul Watches is recognized by enthusiasts for its genuine watersports roots tied to the original Gul wetsuit brand, offering reliable 10ATM waterproofing and Miyota movements at accessible prices. Professionals note its value in durability and strap variety, though it lacks prestige of luxury brands due to licensed production and quartz focus. Criticisms are minimal, centered on limited mechanical options and niche appeal outside surf culture.24