FFESSM 50th Anniversary Regulator (2005) – Limited Edition by Aqua Lung

Introduction

In 2005, Aqua Lung and the Fédération Française d’Études et de Sports Sous-Marins (FFESSM) joined forces to commemorate FFESSM’s 50th anniversary with a special scuba regulator release. The result was the FFESSM 50th Anniversary Regulator, a limited-edition twin-hose scuba regulator that paid homage to diving history while incorporating modern technology. Only 100 units were crafted, making this regulator exceptionally rare and highly coveted among collectors​. In parallel, Aqua Lung also produced a broader 50th Anniversary Mistral edition (1955–2005) of about 500 units for the global market​ This report delves into the historical background of the FFESSM–Aqua Lung collaboration, the regulator’s technical design, its presentation, and its status in today’s collector market, including community discussions and value estimates.

Historical Context & Collaboration

FFESSM’s Legacy: FFESSM, founded in 1955, is the national governing body for scuba diving and underwater sports in France. Its establishment in the mid-20th century paralleled the pioneering work of Jacques-Yves Cousteau and Émile Gagnan, who in 1943 developed the first popular scuba regulator known as the Aqua-Lung​. Over the ensuing decades, FFESSM championed diving safety, training, and marine exploration in France, often in tandem with technological advances in dive gear. By 2005, FFESSM reached its 50-year milestone, symbolizing half a century of French contributions to recreational and scientific diving.

Aqua Lung’s Role: Aqua Lung (originally La Spirotechnique in France) was the company that sprang from Cousteau and Gagnan’s early scuba invention. In 1955, it introduced the iconic Mistral double-hose regulator, an evolution of Cousteau’s design​. That same year (“1955”) is significant as it marks both the birth of FFESSM and the debut of the Mistral regulator. Fast-forward to 2005, Aqua Lung conceived a “retro” commemorative regulator to celebrate these linked anniversaries​. Aqua Lung chose Subaqua (FFESSM’s official magazine) to unveil this modernized Mistral as an “extraordinary exercise in style” honoring two golden jubilees – the mythical regulator’s 50th birthday and FFESSM’s 50th anniversary​. The project was a tribute to France’s diving heritage and the close historical ties between the federation and Aqua Lung’s founding figures.

The FFESSM 50th Anniversary Regulator: Through this collaboration, Aqua Lung produced only 50 units exclusively for FFESSM​. These were not sold to the general public; instead, they were distributed to prominent members of the French diving community. FFESSM allocated the regulators to distinguished instructors, long-time federation contributors, museums, and private collections as a way to honor their contributions to the sport​. Each regulator was adorned with both the FFESSM and Aqua Lung logos and special “50ème Anniversaire” markings, underscoring the joint celebration​. This extremely limited run instantly became one of the most sought-after commemorative regulators in diving history​.

Design & Technical Specifications

Vintage Aesthetics, Modern Engineering: The FFESSM 50th Anniversary regulator was designed to visually echo the classic twin-hose regulators of the 1940s–50s, while being fully functional by contemporary standards​. It features the hallmark twin flexible corrugated hoses and a two-hose mouthpiece, which route inhaled air from and exhaled air back to a chamber on the diver’s back. This configuration eliminates bubbles in front of the diver’s face, a benefit for photography and an homage to early Aqua-Lung design principles​. Externally, the regulator has a polished chrome finish and robust build that mirror the mid-century originals – high-grade chrome-plated brass construction with black hoses and fittings​. However, beneath the nostalgic exterior, the breathing apparatus employs 21st-century technology for reliability and performance.

Modernized Breathing System: Unlike the single-stage 1950s Mistral, the anniversary edition uses a two-stage setup. The first stage is a balanced diaphragm design derived from Aqua Lung’s modern regulators (sources note it as based on the Titan or Legend first stage)​. This first stage attaches to the tank valve and reduces tank pressure to an intermediate level with stable output. It is equipped with multiple ports – typically 4 low-pressure (LP) ports and 1 high-pressure (HP) port – to support additional hoses for accessories like an octopus (alternate second stage) and a pressure gauge​. The second stage is integrated into the twin-hose assembly. A small hose from the first stage feeds the second-stage demand valve, which resides inside the twin-hose regulator body​. This second stage is a balanced, environmentally sealed demand valve – meaning it delivers breathing gas smoothly at depth and is sealed to prevent water intrusion or freeze-ups​. The twin hoses (inhalation and exhalation) are rebreather-style corrugated hoses with improved materials for flexibility and durability, compared to vintage rubber hoses​.

Performance Characteristics: In practice, the anniversary Mistral breathes much like a classic twin-hose regulator, with some physics-driven quirks. When the diver is upright or face-up (on one’s back), the regulator breathes very easily – the position of the hoses and internal diaphragm provides minimal resistance​. Many users report an effortless inhale/exhale when looking upward or while swimming on the back​. In a face-down posture, however, inhalation effort increases slightly (a common trait in twin-hose designs due to the regulator’s placement on the back)​. This means a diver might notice it’s a bit harder to breathe when swimming belly-down, especially at certain angles. Such nuances are part of the nostalgic experience; they’re precisely how original double-hose regulators behaved. Nonetheless, the overall breathing performance is smooth and on par with modern regulators in most orientations, thanks to the balanced first stage. (Independent tests in 2005 measured work-of-breathing around 1.9 J/L at 50 meters depth and high demand – indicating a safe performance within modern standards​.) Many divers have compared the feel to the legendary Aqua Lung Royal Aqua Master (a late-model twin-hose from the 1960s), noting the 2005 Mistral’s slightly larger hose buoyancy but otherwise comparable breathing comfort​.

Key Technical Specifications: Below is a summary of the FFESSM 50th Anniversary regulator’s technical details and design features:

Feature	Description
Type & Design	Twin-hose (double-hose) regulator, limited-edition commemorative model (50 units)​. Vintage look with modern function (retro Mistral style)​.
First Stage	Balanced diaphragm first stage (based on Aqua Lung Titan/Legend design)​. 4 LP ports and 1 HP port for accessories (e.g. octopus, inflator, gauges)​. Supports yoke 232 bar or DIN 300 bar tank connection.
Second Stage	Integrated twin-hose second stage (demand valve housed in back-mounted unit). Environmentally sealed, balanced mechanism for consistent breathing effort​. Inhalation/exhalation through twin corrugated hoses with rear exhaust​.
Materials & Build	Chrome-plated brass body and hose connectors​. Durable rubber/silicone twin hoses and mouthpiece (improved over original 1950s materials). Removable silicone mouth-cover lip for comfort (as noted in French review)​.
Compatibility	Standard air and Nitrox/Oxygen blends up to 40% O₂ compatible out-of-the-box​. (Materials were chosen to be O₂ compatible; an M26 Nitrox DIN version was offered to comply with European standards.)
Accessories	Included a modern Aqualung octopus (backup second stage) and a BCD inflator hose in the package​, allowing use as a complete dive system. These plug into the first stage’s LP ports.
Special Markings	Engraved with “50 ans FFESSM” (50 years FFESSM) emblem and Aqua Lung logo on first stage​. Each unit individually serial-numbered (e.g., 1–100 for FFESSM series)​. The general 500-unit edition had “1955–2005 Mistral” markings and its own serial sequence​.
Packaging	Delivered in a wooden presentation box with a velvet lining and an embossed metal plate “Aqua Lung 1955–2005 Mistral” on the lid​. Also came with a padded carry bag embroidered with “Aqua Lung – First to Dive – Mistral” for transport​​. A signed certificate of authenticity and user manual (multilingual) were included in the kit​.

The above specifications highlight how this commemorative regulator bridges past and present. For example, the twin-hose configuration and rear exhaust pay tribute to Cousteau’s original design (reducing bubbles in front of the diver)​, while the inclusion of high-pressure and low-pressure ports, an octopus, and compatibility with modern tanks ensure it meets contemporary diving needs​. In essence, Aqua Lung achieved a functional piece of nostalgia: divers could actually dive with this regulator (and some did), but it was just as often cherished as a display collectible.

Release, Presentation, and Imagery

Launch and Promotion: The FFESSM 50th Anniversary regulator was officially announced in early 2005, ahead of that year’s diving season. As noted, FFESSM’s Subaqua magazine featured an exclusive first look, complete with a detailed review by editor Pierre Martin-Razi and photos by Alexis Rosenfeld​. This early review — titled “Mistral Gagnant!” (a play on words meaning “Mistral Wins!”) — praised the regulator’s blend of “concept ancien et technologie actuelle” (ancient concept with current technology) and confirmed it was not just a showpiece but a capable dive regulator in its own right​. The article provided both nostalgic anecdotes (recalling the original Mistral’s fame in France) and technical test results, cementing the new Mistral’s credibility among the diving community. By tying the release to FFESSM’s anniversary, Aqua Lung effectively honored the French diving community that had helped popularize the original Aqua-Lung gear.

Commemorative Packaging: Each of the 100 FFESSM edition regulators was presented as a collector’s set. The centerpiece was a polished wooden box (reminiscent of a fine presentation case) with an engraved metal plaque on top reading “Aqua Lung 1955↦2005 Mistrasl. A numbered certificate of authenticity was provided, usually placed in the lid of the box or included in the documentation pouch​. Additionally, Aqua Lung supplied a zippered Mistral regulator bag (black cordura with branded embroidery) for practical storage and transport​. This dual presentation—both an elegant wooden display case and a functional carry bag—catered to collectors and users alike.

Visual Highlights: The regulator itself stands out with special branding elements. The most striking is the golden FFESSM 50th anniversary badge on the first stage (see Figure 2), signifying the regulator’s commemorative nature. The twin-hose assembly features a shiny black cover on the intake horn that has the Aqua Lung logo, and the mouthpiece assembly is a classic twin-hose mouthpiece design with a modern silicone bite (removable cover on the mouthpiece for hygiene/comfort). These details were often captured in promotional photos and later in auction listings. Contemporary images (such as those provided by vintage equipment collectors) showcase the unit’s aesthetic: the loop of twin hoses, the chrome yoke and first stage, and the mix of 1950s style with a modern slim-line octopus attached (which interestingly contrasts the old-school main regulator)​. Aqua Lung’s marketing emphasized that this regulator “combines vintage charm with modern performance”, appealing to both divers who “remember when” and newer enthusiasts fascinated by retro gear.

It’s worth noting that while Aqua Lung produced 500 units of the 50th Anniversary Mistral for general sale (often referred to simply as the “2005 Mistral”), those versions did not carry the FFESSM 50 ans logo. The FFESSM-exclusive 50 units are thus distinguishable by their engraving and provenance, making them even more special to identify in photographs or collections.

Community Reception & Collector Discussions

Upon release, the 50th Anniversary Mistral stirred considerable excitement in diving communities, especially among vintage scuba enthusiasts. Diving forums and clubs in 2005 buzzed with the news of a new two-hose regulator – something not seen on the market for decades. Seasoned divers who learned on double-hose rigs were eager to compare the experience, and younger divers were curious about this throwback device. Early user reviews and reports highlighted a few key points:

• Nostalgia Factor: Divers lauded Aqua Lung for reviving an iconic design. Many saw it as a fitting tribute to Cousteau-era diving. “The appeal of a double hose with the design and ease of service of a modern regulator!” wrote one user, noting the unit uses standard Aqua Lung parts for maintenance​. This meant one could relive the past without sacrificing reliability – a strong selling point.
• In-Water Performance: Those who dived the new Mistral reported that it “breathed as easily as a single-hose regulator” in most positions​. Especially when looking up or floating on one’s back, it delivered air effortlessly, creating a unique feeling of freedom with no bubbles in front of the face​. Some divers did notice the classic twin-hose behavior of increased breathing resistance when face-down or during head-first descents​. However, this was typically described not as a flaw but as an inherent characteristic to be mindful of (and part of the charm for vintage aficionados). A few experienced divers compared it directly to authentic vintage models like the Royal Aqua Master, saying the 2005 Mistral had “larger, more buoyant hoses” but still offered “an overall smooth breathing performance”​.
• Adjustment for New Users: Divers used to modern single-hose regulators sometimes found the twin-hose Mistral had a learning curve. Techniques like buoyancy control, finding the purge (which on a twin-hose is usually a button on the regulator canister rather than a front cover), and buddy-breathing (sharing air) are different with a twin-hose reg​. FFESSM instructors who received the units noted these points when demonstrating them. Overall, the consensus was that the regulator was dive-worthy, but many owners chose to keep it in pristine condition given its collectible nature.
• Collector Sentiment: On vintage scuba forums and collector groups, the announcement of only 100 FFESSM units created an immediate buzz. Members speculated on how to obtain one (though initially they were not for retail sale). A few lucky individuals who got the general 50th Anniversary Mistral (from the 500-unit series) shared photos of their numbered sets, fueling interest. By the late 2000s and 2010s, threads would occasionally pop up with titles like “50th Anniversary Mistral for sale” or “Looking for 50th Anniv. Aqua Lung Mistral”. Responses invariably noted how rare these are, especially the FFESSM-marked version. As one scuba forum member put it, “Divers rarely see these anniversary regulators available for sale. When one does appear, it attracts immediate attention”​. Collectors around the world networked through forums to buy/trade these regulators, often keeping the transactions low-profile due to the high values involved.

One interesting discussion point has been whether to dive these regulators or not. Given their modern internals, they are fully capable pieces of equipment. A subset of enthusiasts have taken them underwater for nostalgic dives (and reported enjoyable experiences). However, many owners treat them as museum pieces. As the years passed, an increasing number of divers decided to leave these regulators unused to preserve their mint condition and value​. This trend has only enhanced their mystique – they’re functional artifacts largely destined to be admired on display.

Collector Demand and Market Value

From the moment of release, the FFESSM 50th Anniversary regulator was a collector’s item, and its cachet has only grown. Both the 100-unit FFESSM edition and the 500-unit general edition have become highly sought after in the vintage scuba gear market. Below we explore the current market interest, recent sales, and estimated values for these regulators.

Rarity and Interest: The FFESSM edition (100 units) is one of the rarest post-2000 scuba regulators. Most of these 100 were gifted to individuals or institutions in France, meaning few ever reach open commerce​. This scarcity creates intense demand among collectors of dive memorabilia. Even the broader 500-unit Mistral 50th Anniversary is considered “a collector’s item” today​. For context, 500 units worldwide is a small run in scuba terms; many of those have been tucked away by enthusiasts. As a result, any appearance of a 50th Anniversary Mistral on the market garners attention across diving forums and collector networks.

Notable Listings: In the past few years there have been a handful of public sales:

• On ScubaBoard (a large online diving forum), at least two owners have posted their 50th Anniversary Mistrals for sale. In one 2024 listing, a seller offered a “1955–2005 Aqua Lung Mistral Limited Edition” (from the 500 run) in near-new condition with box, bag and certificate for $3,250 USD​. Another user in Florida listed a similar set, asking $2,800 USD and noted it had only been dived once since 2005​. These posts were met with enthusiasm; the regulators sold quickly, suggesting the pricing might have been on the lower end of market value (possibly a friendly price within the community).
• In auction houses, these regulators have fetched higher prices. For example, an auction in December 2023 by Nation’s Attic (specialists in historical dive gear) featured a 50th Anniversary Mistral, serial #358 of 500, “brand new never used…with custom bag, unused condition.”​. While the exact hammer price wasn’t publicly disclosed, auction watchers noted strong bidding interest, and vintage scuba dealers suggest such pristine units often exceed $3,500 at auction. The inclusion of the original certificate and packaging adds significantly to value​.
• As for the FFESSM 100-unit versions, public sales are virtually nonexistent. These pieces reside in collections where owners are reluctant to part with them. Now and then rumors surface of a private sale or an estate sale in which one changed hands, but documentation is scarce. One known instance is a unit that eventually made its way to an Australian collector (the source of the photos in this report); it was described as “extremely rare” and valued higher than the standard edition due to the FFESSM connection​. We can infer that if one of the 50 did hit the open market, it would easily command a premium over the ~$4k figures of the regular edition – potentially $6,000+ given its dual collectibility in both the Aqua Lung and FFESSM realms (though as of this writing, no confirmed sale at that level has been published).

Estimated Value Range: The table below summarizes value estimates for the 50th Anniversary regulators, based on available information and market trends:

Category	Estimated Value (USD)
Original Retail Price (2005)	~$1,500 – $2,000 (introductory price for the kit)​.
Used Market (standard 500 edition, 2020s)	~$3,000 – $3,500 (typical range for complete set in good condition)​.
Mint Condition w/ Box & Cert	$4,500 or more (often achieved in auctions/collectors’ sales for unused sets)​.
FFESSM 50-unit Edition	Rarely sold. Likely exceeds $4,000 if sold; potentially $6,000+ to the right collector (extrapolated from its extreme rarity; no recent public sales to quote).

Table: Approximate market values for Aqua Lung 50th Anniversary Mistral regulators. Values for the FFESSM edition are speculative due to lack of public transactions.

These values underline that the 2005 Anniversary Mistral has appreciated significantly. What started as a ~$1.5k luxury regulator in 2005 now sells for double or more in used condition, and mint examples have more than tripled in value. The sentimental value is also high – many owners simply will not sell at any price, because the item represents a piece of diving history.

Collector Profiles: Typical buyers/owners of this regulator are seasoned collectors of dive equipment, diving history museums, or diving veterans with a personal connection to the era. Some FFESSM honorees who originally received the 100-unit edition have kept them as family heirlooms. Internationally, the demand comes from not just France but the U.S., Australia, and Asia – essentially anywhere there are vintage scuba enthusiasts. In recent years, younger divers interested in retro-tech have also entered the market, sometimes driving prices up as they compete to acquire one of these iconic pieces.

In summary, the collector demand for the FFESSM 50th Anniversary regulator remains very strong in 2025. Limited supply and the rich backstory ensure that prices are likely to stay high or even rise further. As one vintage equipment expert remarked, “with prices on the rise and availability limited, those looking to add one to their collection should act fast before this legendary regulator becomes even harder to find”​.

Conclusion

The FFESSM 50th Anniversary Aqua Lung regulator stands as a remarkable intersection of diving history and modern craftsmanship. It was born from a unique moment in 2005 when a company and a national federation decided to celebrate their intertwined legacies – resulting in a regulator that tells a story with every detail. From the engraved “50 ans FFESSM” badge to the classic twin-hose silhouette, it evokes the pioneering days of Cousteau, Gagnan, and the early divers who embraced the original Aqua-Lung. At the same time, its contemporary inner workings and complete accessory kit reflect how far diving technology had advanced in fifty years.

For collectors and historians, this regulator is a tangible piece of heritage, linking the 1950s to the 21st century. For those fortunate enough to dive with one, it offers a one-of-a-kind experience – a blend of nostalgia and functionality, where one can imagine what diving felt like generations ago, yet trust the reliability of a modern design. Diving communities have celebrated this regulator in forums and meet-ups, and it frequently serves as a centerpiece in exhibitions of vintage scuba gear.

As of 2025, two decades since its release, the FFESSM Anniversary Mistral has itself reached a 20-year milestone. The Historical Diving Society and other groups have even noted this “collectible within our lifetime” anniversary​, further cementing its status. With only 100 ever made for FFESSM and a limited number of the general editions surviving in pristine shape, these regulators will likely continue to appreciate in value and esteem. They remind us that innovation and tradition can elegantly coexist – much like FFESSM’s ongoing mission to honor the past while advancing the future of diving.

Sources: This report drew on information from vintage scuba diving forums, collector databases, auction listings, and specialized diving publications. Key references include the Vintage Scuba Gear Australia archive (which provided detailed history and specifications)​, first and forum posts on ScubaBoard discussing sales and user experiences​, and the original 2005 Subaqua magazine review that introduced the regulator to the public​. These sources collectively paint a comprehensive picture of the FFESSM 50th Anniversary regulator’s significance in both historical and present-day contexts.