Making the Mara: The Story Behind Our First Dive Watch

In 2023, during a conversation with journalist, diver, and adventurer Jason Heaton, we found ourselves discussing what really makes a great watch for the water, from clarity required at depth, functionality you can trust, and colour choices that don’t just look good on land, but perform where light fades and conditions change.

This got us questioning, what would a Paulin dive watch look like? Could we create a functional tool watch that met the demands of the sea, but stayed true to Paulin’s playful, distinctive character?

Photography: Brad Wakefield

We’re known for our bespoke typography, clean geometry, and bold use of colour. Bringing those qualities into a serious tool required careful negotiation, retaining our signature character while meeting the uncompromising demands of a professional dive watch.

Through early prototypes and trials, we tested different SuperLuminova applications and dial contrasts, learning how certain colours worked brilliantly in daylight but lost their visibility  under water. We knew from the outset that green and blue SuperLuminova offered the strongest luminosity, but early prototypes showed how print colours could alter their tones and reduce clarity under water. By refining various combinations, we found a balance where lume and dial worked together, equally effective in daylight and at depth. Advice from Jason during the sampling process helped us to land on the final crisp, high-contrast colourways. 

Colour combination development © Paulin Watches

Once we’d built something we were proud of, the next step was to put it through its paces off the rugged Scottish coastline. Since the idea began with Jason, it felt natural to invite him to test the finished watch in the field. In May 2025, we set out on a multi-day trip across the Outer Hebrides, covering some of Scotland’s most beautiful and remote locations. 

Photography: Brad Wakefield

From Glasgow to the Isle of Skye, then on by ferry to Harris, the journey took us through the dramatic Scottish landscape, from Hushinish to Luskentyre and out to Eillan Glas Lighthouse. Along the way there were winding coastal roads, wild ferry crossings, and days filled with hiking, snorkelling, and diving.

The conditions were exactly what we wanted. Shifting weather, bright coastal light, and moments where the sea was both serene and challenging. It was the perfect backdrop to showcase the Mara in its element.

Photography: Brad Wakefield

The Mara was born from a conversation, shaped by careful design, and proven on the rugged coasts of Scotland. You can watch the full road trip adventure—from ferries to lighthouse dives—over on our YouTube channel.