Circula

Overview

Circula is a German watch brand specializing in mechanical tool watches, particularly divers, assembled in small batches in Pforzheim. Revived in 2019 by Cornelius Huber, grandson of founder Heinz Huber, it emphasizes 'Made in Germany' production with local assembly and quality control. The brand targets enthusiasts through direct-to-consumer sales and community input on designs.

History

Founded in 1955 in Pforzheim by Heinz Huber as part of the family watch wholesale business started in 1926. The company produced wristwatches, chronographs, and divers until fading during the 1970s quartz crisis. Cornelius Huber revived the brand around 2018-2019, shifting to direct sales, Kickstarter campaigns starting with quartz models, and mechanical tool watches using NOS movements from 2020 onward.

Product Lines

Manufacturing

Watches are designed, assembled, and tested in Pforzheim, Germany, qualifying for 'Made in Germany' label. Movements like Sellita SW200 are sourced from Switzerland, inspected and regulated in-house; cases and components from various suppliers but final build uses local craftsmanship.

Notable Products

• AquaSport Diver - 1970s-style diver with modern super-compressor case and automatic movement.
• SuperSport - Super-compressor diver featuring twin crowns and high water resistance.
• AquaSport GMT - GMT diver model released in 2023 with traveler's timezone function.
• Retro Quartz - Vintage-inspired quartz watch from initial revival Kickstarter.

Reputation

Enthusiasts praise Circula for robust tool watches at accessible prices, strong value from German assembly, and innovative community-driven designs. Professionals note its successful revival as a microbrand with reliable quality control. Some criticize limited in-house production and reliance on third-party movements, positioning it below full manufacture brands.