A dive watch inspired by the 1970s

The Phocéa follows the tradition of sporty dive watches, with a design directly inspired by creations from the 1970s. It notably adopts the so-called “Monnin case,” a case architecture widely used at the time in French technical watches.

This 42 mm stainless steel case features a characteristic tonneau shape, combining ergonomics with a strong visual identity. This aesthetic choice is not purely nostalgic; it also serves a functional purpose, offering good readability and a solid wrist presence. The unidirectional rotating bezel, an essential element of a dive watch, allows accurate tracking of immersion time.

The black dial prioritizes quick readability through contrasting markers and the use of luminous material. This approach reflects the requirements of tool watches, designed for use in low-light environments or underwater. The overall design remains intentionally clean, consistent with the technical dive watches of the era.

A production approach rooted in locality

One of the distinctive aspects of the Phocéa lies in its geographical anchoring. The watch is assembled and regulated in Marseille, in the workshops of watchmaker Jacques Bianchi, a recognized figure in the local watchmaking scene.

This production choice reflects a desire to highlight regional craftsmanship. The “Marseille” marking on the dial reinforces this identity, echoing the history of the Frojo house. At a time when much of watch production is globalized, this approach represents a differentiating positioning.

The watch is offered with two straps, typically rubber and textile, and delivered in a leather case. This configuration enhances its versatility, making it suitable for both sports and everyday wear.

Coherent technical characteristics

The Phocéa BE39 is powered by an automatic movement with an approximate 44-hour power reserve, a standard figure for this category. It is water-resistant to 200 meters, making it suitable for recreational diving and water-related activities. These technical specifications follow a logic of balance rather than excess. The watch does not aim to compete with extreme professional models but offers a level of performance aligned with real-world use. The choice of materials and finishes also reflects this approach. The stainless steel case ensures good resistance to corrosion, while the graduated bezel allows intuitive use. Overall, the watch presents a balanced construction designed for long-term use.

A limited edition with a heritage focus

Produced in 170 pieces, the Phocéa adopts a limited-edition approach directly linked to the brand’s anniversary. This reinforces its positioning as a collector’s watch while remaining relatively accessible compared to other limited editions in the watch industry. Beyond the object itself, this edition aims to tell a story: that of a family-run business, a city, and a craft. The watch becomes a narrative element connecting past and present.

The history of the Frojo house

Founded in 1854 in Marseille, the Frojo house began as a family business specializing in watchmaking and jewelry. Its founder, Eugenio Frojo, originally from Piedmont, started as a workshop manager before his son expanded the business under the name Frojo-Charlet. Over the decades, five generations have succeeded one another at the head of the company, ensuring the continuity of artisanal expertise. The house gradually established itself as a key player in watchmaking in southern France, with a network of boutiques and a distribution activity involving major international brands. Alongside this, Frojo has developed its own creations, particularly through special editions. The Phocéa is part of this approach, marking a desire to strengthen the brand’s watchmaking identity. Today, the company continues to evolve while maintaining its local and family roots. It represents a form of continuity in a changing sector, where tradition and innovation coexist.

A watch between heritage and modernity

The Frojo Phocéa BE39 illustrates a broader trend in contemporary watchmaking: the return of historical designs reinterpreted with modern standards. It does not aim to innovate radically but rather to offer a coherent and faithful reinterpretation of an existing model. Its appeal lies as much in its aesthetic as in its production context. Combining a tribute to 1970s dive watches with a strong Marseille identity, it stands out as a distinctive piece on the market. In a landscape dominated by large international manufacturers, the Phocéa offers an alternative focused on identity, history, and proximity. It appeals to enthusiasts sensitive to these dimensions, beyond purely technical performance.

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Editor: Éric Barse

Journalist, entrepreneur, and founder of the websites www.cafe-racer-only.com and www.scooter-3-roues.com, Eric Barse divides his time between his passions: motorcycles, travel, and watches. A graduate of the Saint-Cyr military academy and the 2nd RPIMA (Parachute Regiment) before pursuing a career in communications and digital media, he has a true passion for authentic watches that have accompanied his two-wheeled adventures for many years, from the Indian Ocean to Africa and Latin America!