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Case

Helium escape valve

Probable

A one-way valve that vents helium which has permeated the case during saturation decompression. A real mechanical fitting through the case flank, not a marking or a decorative disc — and useless outside commercial saturation diving, which means its presence on a watch is a statement about lineage rather than about capability.

Part reference

Brand
Doxa
Material
Sprung one-way valve fitting through the case wall
Introduced
1969

Documented variations

Classification

FactoryDocumented as shipped from the factory for this reference and period.PeriodNot original to this watch, but correct for its production period.ServiceFitted by the manufacturer's own service network. Not a defect.AftermarketThird-party part. Affects originality, not authenticity.ModifiedGenuine parts in a configuration the factory did not sell. Affects originality and value, not authenticity.CounterfeitDeceptive reproduction intended to pass as genuine.UnknownEvidence on file does not settle the question.

  • Functioning valve fitting

    FactoryProbable

    Whole production

    An external component with a mechanism behind it, seated in the case wall. Verifiable as a fitting rather than accepted as a marking.

  • Decorative valve-shaped protrusion

    CounterfeitProbable

    Whole production

    Counterfeits and low-grade homages reproduce the appearance of a valve with nothing behind it. Establish that the fitting is real before treating it as evidence of the reference.

Documented on these references

Provenance of this record

Sources & Evidence

Primary sourceManufacturer documentation

Doxa — collection specifications and brand heritage material

Doxa SA

Accessed
2026-08-19

Cited for

This referenceProbable
View source ↗

Last verified: Not yet reviewed