Welcome to the finale of the “Undersea Explorer Series” by the Analog Explorer for the Made Under Pressure podcast!
Fabien Cousteau almost needs no introduction. He is a renowned aquanaut, explorer, environmental advocate, and filmmaker who is one of the leading figures in ocean exploration and conservation. But deeper than that, he is a father, a vintage motorcycle enthusiast, and a friend of ours in the #watchfam.
Time & Depth
The sea has driven him to undertake ambitious projects and innovative partnerships, blending his scientific pursuits with education and advocacy. One of Fabien's most notable recent achievements is "Mission 31." Linking science and the #watchfam, he and 31 Doxa timepieces spent 31 days living and working in Aquarius, the undersea marine laboratory and habitat off the coast of the Florida Keys. This mission set a new record for the longest-ever expedition in a stationary habitat beneath the sea. Accelerating research, it captured vital data and imagery showcasing critical issues, such as climate change and its impact on marine ecosystems—significantly contributing to our understanding of the underwater world, its ecology, and the urgent need for its conservation.
(Tool)Watches
The Cousteau family has a long history of using, testing, and collaborating on dive watches. With Fabien, some might say that through his exploration and the partnerships he’s developed with brands such as Doxa and Seiko, he forged a new form of 'tool’ in ‘toolwatch.’ Going beyond creating a watch for a mission, these collaborations help raise funds and awareness for marine conservation. As dive watches for oceanic research and preservation, they provide a bridge for divers and non-divers alike to connect with the importance of the world's oceans. Diver and ‘desk diver’ alike can appreciate these tool watches in both form and functionality, demonstrating the powerful synergy between advanced technology and environmental stewardship, regardless if they dive 40m or from a keyboard.
Throughout his career, Fabien Cousteau has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the oceans. His immersive underwater missions, educational outreach, and innovative watch collaborations continue to inspire a global audience to appreciate and protect our planet's precious marine environments. Fabien's work stands as another beacon of hope and a call to action for the preservation of our underwater world.
Wristshots | Fabien’s Collection
*photos courtesy of Fabien Cousteau
Update for the #watchfam
After recording with Fabien, and now after almost 50 years, Fabien put his childhood water-powered watch in some water, and it still works. Here it is next to his Apple Watch Ultra. It's one of the coolest things I think I’ve had sent to me after a recording of the Analog Explorer to date. 🤓
Show References
Education
As a dedicated advocate for ocean health, Fabien founded the Fabien Cousteau Ocean Learning Center (FCOLC). This non-profit organization is committed to raising awareness and promoting education about the vital role oceans play in sustaining life on Earth.
https://www.fabiencousteauolc.org/
Science
Proteus Ocean Group -
https://www.proteusoceangroup.com/
Watchfam
Hodinkee- Diving To Aquarius: Doxa Delivers 31 Limited Edition Watches To Fabien Cousteau For Mission 31 (We’re Along For The Dive) (Jason Heaton) - https://www.hodinkee.com/articles/diving-to-aquarius-doxa-delivers-31-limited-edition-watches-to-fabien-cousteau-for-mission-31-were-along-for-the-dive
