The Evolution of U.S. Divers Twin-Hose Aqua-Lung Regulators (1946-1973)
The twin-hose regulators from U.S. Divers, an American distributor of Aqua-Lung (originally developed by Jacques Cousteau and Émile Gagnan), represent a significant era in diving history. These regulators were used by military divers, commercial divers, and recreational enthusiasts, shaping the evolution of scuba technology. This guide provides an extensive overview of all twin-hose models from the first to the last production year.
Early Development (1946-1957)
The first U.S. twin-hose regulators were adapted from French designs by La Spirotechnique. These early regulators were sold under different names and labels.
- CG-45 (1946-1957)
- The first commercially available twin-hose regulator.
- Directly adapted from the original Aqua-Lung.
- Used a two-stage demand system.
- Canadian Liquid Air & L’Aire Liquide Canada (1948-1950)
- A licensed version of early Spirotechnique regulators, produced for the Canadian market.
- SPACO (1948-1950)
- Another early variation.
Broxton Avenue Label Models (1950-1956)
These regulators were produced at the Broxton Avenue address of U.S. Divers and featured different colored labels.
- Black Label (1950-1951)
- Red Label (1951-1952)
- Green Label (1952-1953)
- Blue Label (1953-1955)
Each of these models had incremental improvements but retained a similar overall twin-hose design.
DX Overpressure Series (1954-1956)
This series introduced better airflow and safety improvements.
- DX Overpressure – Broxton Ave. (1954-1955)
- DX Overpressure – Pico Ave. (1955-1956)
These models were among the first to feature a venturi assist system for improved breathing performance.
Mainstream Twin-Hose Models (1955-1973)
DA Aqua-Master (1957-1972)
- One of the most iconic twin-hose regulators.
- Two-stage, unbalanced design with a venturi assist.
- Featured yellow or black hoses with a three-piece check valve system.
- Became the workhorse of the diving community.
DW Mistral (1957-1970)
- A single-stage high-performance regulator.
- Used by Cousteau’s team.
- Had a simpler design compared to the DA Aqua-Master.
DW Stream Air (1956-1957)
- A transitional model before the more refined Mistral.
DY Jet Air (1956-1957)
- Came in two material variations:
- Brown Phenolic
- Black Cycolac
- Focused on improved durability and performance.
DA Navy Approved (1957)
- A military-grade twin-hose regulator.
- Recognizable with its blue and orange color scheme.
Jet Air Adesivado Black Cycolac (1961-1963)
- A later refinement of the Jet Air design.
Royal Series (1964-1973)
The Royal series marked the pinnacle of twin-hose regulator evolution.
- Royal Mistral (1966-1968)
- An upgraded version of the DW Mistral.
- Royal Master (1965-1965)
- Further refinements in breathing resistance and materials.
- Royal Aqua Master (1967-1972)
- One of the last commercial twin-hose regulators.
- Available in shiny chrome finish (1964).
- Tire Yoke Screw (1966) version introduced.
- Heavy Yoke Screw 3000 PSI (1972) version for high-pressure tanks.
Final Years and Production End (1972-1973)
- U.S. Divers officially stopped producing twin-hose regulators in 1972.
- Distribution continued until stock was depleted in 1973.
- The Golden RAM (1969) was one of the last models available.
Key Milestones and Innovations
1956
- Last year for riveted labels.
- Introduction of the Kleer E-Z Mouthpiece.
1959
- DA Aqua-Master introduced with yellow hoses and matching mouthpiece.
1960
- Yellow hoses became standard.
- Black mouthpieces remained an option.
1961
- Nylon clamps introduced for securing hoses.
1964
- Royal Aqua Master launched in shiny chrome.
1966
- Royal Aqua Master with Tire Yoke Screw.
1972
- Royal Aqua Master with Heavy Yoke Screw (3000 PSI version), designed for higher-pressure tanks.
Legacy of Twin-Hose Regulators
Even after production ended, U.S. Divers twin-hose regulators remained a staple in the diving world. Collectors, technical divers, and vintage diving enthusiasts continue to maintain and restore these regulators. Today, they symbolize the golden age of diving exploration and are still sought after for their reliability and historical significance.
If you are interested in vintage scuba gear, the twin-hose Aqua-Lung regulators are a must-have for any collector!
