2005 Aqua Lung Mistral Regulator: A Modern Take on a Classic Vintage Scuba Gear Australia

The Aqualung Mistral 50th Anniversary regulator #5006103

Historical Background and Significance

The Aqua Lung Mistral regulator holds an iconic place in scuba history. The original Mistral was first released in 1955 by La Spirotechnique (Aqua Lung’s precursor) as a simplified twin-hose regulator. It was derived from Cousteau and Gagnan’s pioneering twin-hose “Aqua-Lung” of 1943, which introduced demand-based air supply to scuba diving. Unlike its predecessor (the two-stage Cousteau-Gagnan CG45), the 1955 Mistral used a single-stage mechanism to drop tank pressure to ambient in one step. This venturi-assisted single stage had fewer parts, making it cheaper, robust, and reliable. Divers in the 1950s and 60s prized the Mistral for its smooth breathing and rugged simplicity, and it became famous through underwater explorers and media (the “Sea Hunt” era). The twin-hose design also vented bubbles behind the diver’s head, improving forward visibility and reducing noise – a boon for photographers and marine life observation.

By the late 1960s, twin-hose regulators like the Mistral were eclipsed by newer single-hose regulators. Single-hose models offered easier breathing in any position and convenient features like direct feeds for buoyancy compensators and an octopus (backup second stage). Twin-hose regs gradually vanished from mainstream use by the early 1970s (the Nemrod Snark III in the late 90s was one of the last to disappear). However, the legacy of the Mistral endured among vintage gear enthusiasts and collectors.

Why the 50th Anniversary Edition? In 2005, to celebrate roughly 50 years since the original Mistral’s debut, Aqua Lung reintroduced the Mistral as a retro-styled regulator. This 50th Anniversary release was a “high-tech nostalgia trip” – combining vintage twin-hose aesthetics with modern regulator technology. Aqua Lung wisely played the nostalgia card, targeting seasoned divers who remembered (or romanticized) the golden age of twin-hose diving, as well as younger divers curious about experiencing “how it used to be”. The new Mistral was also the first twin-hose design in decades to meet modern standards (reportedly the first modern double-hose to pass the EN250 breathing performance tests required in Europe). By blending old and new, the 2005 Mistral paid homage to scuba heritage while ensuring safety and performance for contemporary use.

2005 Release Versions (Sport vs. Limited Edition)

Aqua Lung offered two versions of the 2005 Mistral, catering to different audiences:

Sport Diver Mistral (Prod. #125900): This was the standard edition, supplied in a padded zippered regulator case. It was not limited in quantity and was marketed to divers who wanted a functional vintage-style reg for actual diving It came with user manuals and the necessary hoses, and had an MSRP of about $900 USD
50th Anniversary Limited Edition (Prod. #125960): A collector’s edition of only 500 units was produced. Each came in an elegant velvet-lined wooden presentation box with a signed certificate of authenticity and serial number. This version, often referred to as the “Limited” or “Collector’s” Mistral, was sold at a premium and quickly became a sought-after item in the dive industry. (It’s reported that many of these sold to dive shops and industry insiders as display pieces or investments) Aside from packaging and possible cosmetic touches, it was technically the same regulator, though some sources note the limited series featured high-end finishes (one owner even mentions a carbon-fiber regulator body on his 50th unit).

2005 Mistral Variant	Packaging & Presentation	Production	Notes
Sport Diver Mistral	Padded zipper case (soft case)	Regular production (not limited)	Aimed at divers seeking a retro dive experience with modern reliability. MSRP ≈ $900 .
50th Anniversary Limited Ed.	Wooden collectors box with velvet lining+ signed certificate	500 units only (numbered)	Aimed at collectors and commemorative buyers. Higher initial price. Includes certificate; each has unique serial. Often kept as a display or collectible.

Technical Specifications and Design Features

The Aqua Lung Mistral 50th Anniversary regulator (Sport Diver edition) shown in its padded case with the user manual, hoses, and accessories. The twin corrugated hoses connect the mouthpiece to the regulator body, which attaches to the tank valve.

Despite its throwback appearance, the 2005 Mistral is a thoroughly modern regulator under the hood. It retains the classic double-hose configuration – meaning the regulator’s working parts (first and second stage) are mounted together at the tank, and two hoses loop from the unit to a mouthpiece: one for inhalation and one for exhalation. Exhaled air travels back to the tank-mounted unit and exits behind the diver’s head, just like in the 1950s design. This placement keeps bubbles out of the diver’s face and ears, which improves visibility and reduces noise, a key benefit of twin-hose systems.

Where the Mistral 50th diverges from its ancestor is in its internal technology. The regulator is built around Aqua Lung’s proven Titan first-stage regulator The Titan first stage is a balanced diaphragm design known for reliability and capable performance. It brings the tank pressure down to an intermediate pressure (typical of any modern two-stage regulator). The second stage (the part that delivers air on demand) is housed in the twin-hose body and is an updated demand valve that feeds into the two-hose loop. In effect, unlike the single-stage original Mistral, the 2005 version is a two-stage regulator – first stage at the tank, second stage delivering to the diver – hidden within a retro twin-hose layout. This yields more consistent breathing performance across varying tank pressures and depths than the old single-stage could achieve.

Key technical features and specs include:

Materials & Build: The main regulator body (the twin-hose “canister”) is made of modern materials. Accounts differ on specifics, but it features a durable metal or composite housing (some limited editions may feature a carbon-fiber or high-impact polymer case for weight reduction and appearance). The twin hoses are large-bore, corrugated rubber hoses sourced from Draeger, a company famous for rebreathers. In fact, Aqua Lung partnered with Dräger for this project – the hoses, mouthpiece, and one-way valves are adapted from Dräger semi-closed rebreather designs (such as those used in the Dolphin/Atlantis series). The mouthpiece features one-way non-return valves on both sides, ensuring that exhaled moisture or water doesn’t flow back into the intake hose – a design that makes clearing the reg easier and was present in later vintage twin-hose regs as well. Additionally, the mouthpiece on the new Mistral has an adjustable bite or shutoff (a “Dive/Surface” valve similar to rebreather mouthpieces) which allows the diver to close off the loop – a convenient feature to prevent water ingress when the mouthpiece is out of the mouth, or during entries/exits.
First Stage and Ports: The Titan first stage provides multiple low-pressure (LP) ports and at least one high-pressure (HP) port, just like any standard modern regulator. This means divers can attach a pressure gauge (via the HP port) and additional devices like a BC inflator hose and even an octopus second stage on an LP port. In fact, the Mistral was often sold/provided with a “modern slim” octopus second stage and inflator hose included in the package. This is a crucial upgrade over the original twin-hose regs, which lacked extra ports (back in the 50s, things like pressure gauges and BCDs weren’t in common use). The presence of these ports makes the Mistral 50th Anniversary fully compatible with contemporary dive gear. (For example, one diver’s Mistral setup included the double-hose reg as primary, plus an octo, BC inflator, and even a drysuit inflator – all hooked up simultaneously) The first stage is available in both yoke (A-clamp) and DIN connector versions, supporting standard 200-300 bar tanks.
Second Stage and Performance Features: The second stage housed in the twin-hose body is an environmentally sealed, downstream demand valve. “Environmentally sealed” in this context means the mechanism is sealed off to prevent water entry or contaminants, improving cold-water performance and reducing corrosion or sediment ingress. (It’s effectively a byproduct of using a diaphragm design in the twin-hose canister – water pressure is transmitted via a flexible diaphragm rather than flooding the mechanism.) The internal workings owe more to modern design than the simple levers of the old Mistral, but Aqua Lung tuned it to preserve a bit of that classic “venturi effect” feel – early reports noted it delivers a strong, smooth airflow when you inhale, reminiscent of the original’s famed easy-breathing burst The reg supports Nitrox/EAN up to 40% O₂ out of the box, which is standard for most new regulators .
Hoses and Weight: The Draeger-sourced twin hoses on the 2005 Mistral are notably wider in diameter than those on vintage double-hose regulators. This was likely to ensure adequate airflow and low work-of-breathing, but it had side-effects: the hoses hold more air volume (affecting buoyancy) and are bulkier in profile. Some users found the larger hoses made the unit feel more buoyant in the water or “floaty” around the head. To counter this, experienced divers would ensure any excess buoyancy was mitigated (one diver quipped that his hoses were “perfectly weighted” after some adjustments. The overall weight of the reg (on land) is a bit higher than a typical single-hose reg + octopus setup, due to the twin-hose canister and larger hoses, but underwater the difference mostly vanishes aside from the hose buoyancy. The limited-edition’s wood box obviously adds to collectible weight but not relevant in-water.
Unique Design Aspects: The Mistral 50th has a short intermediate hose that connects the first stage to the twin-hose second stage canister. This is a small hose (sometimes visible in photos) that gives some flexibility in mounting. Essentially, the twin-hose body doesn’t screw directly onto the first stage turret; it’s tethered by a short hose. Some critics pointed out this makes the unit stick out a bit and could have been integrated more elegantly However, the design likely allowed Aqua Lung to use a stock first stage and simply route one LP port to feed the twin-hose part, which is practical. The mouthpiece assembly, as noted, includes modern one-way valves and is often an adjustable/closing design (borrowed from rebreather mouthpieces) – a new convenience that vintage divers didn’t have. There is no purge button on the mouthpiece like modern second stages; purging a twin-hose reg is done by raising the mouthpiece above the regulator or by exhaling sharply to push water out the exhaust hose, or in some cases by briefly depressing the second stage diaphragm through the housing. This “old-school” purge method is something users must learn, as noted by reviewers.

In summary, the 2005 Aqua Lung Mistral combined a vintage layout (twin hoses, tank-mounted regulator) with 21st-century engineering. It has all the trappings of a modern scuba regulator – balanced first stage with multiple ports, safe materials, compatibility with accessories, and adherence to standards – but packaged in a form that looks like it swam out of a 1950s Cousteau documentary. It even carries Aqua Lung’s contemporary branding (“First to Dive”) alongside the nostalgic Mistral name. As one description put it, the new Mistral “integrates the first and second stages at the tank” and delivers air via corrugated twin hoses while honoring its vintage roots with modern components like the Titan core and rebreather-style hoses.

Comparisons to Earlier Mistral Models and Other Regulators

Compared to the 1950s–60s Mistral: The original Mistral (circa 1955–1970) was a marvel of simplicity. It was a single-stage, unbalanced regulator – meaning tank air was delivered in one step directly to the diver, with a venturi assist. It had very few parts: essentially a big diaphragm, some levers, springs, and a valve mechanism in a dual-hose canister. This simplicity made it extremely robust (less to go wrong) and easy to service in the field. Divers often recount that an old Mistral could be stripped and fixed on a picnic table or even on a rocking boat between dives with just a basic toolkit. Its breathing performance was considered good for its era – especially at shallower depths and when the tank was full – but because it was unbalanced, the breathing resistance increased as tank pressure dropped. Also, the optimal breathing position on those old twin-hose rigs was somewhat specific: ideally, the regulator (on your back) should be around the same level as your lungs. If you changed orientation (say, went vertical or head-down), the effort could change noticeably

The 2005 Mistral differs in that it is effectively a two-stage, balanced regulator. The incorporation of a modern first stage means that as the tank pressure changes, the intermediate pressure feeding the second stage stays constant, so the breathing effort remains uniform until the tank is very low. This gives the new Mistral a big performance edge over any vintage single-stage unit – “as a modern regulator, the 2005 Mistral performs far better than any double-hose from the 1950s and ’60s” in objective breathing tests. Indeed, Aqua Lung advertised that the Mistral 50th met all modern performance standards. One trade-off is the increase in internal complexity (it has more parts overall than a vintage Mistral), but the design still aimed for reliability and easy maintenance. In fact, since it shares core components with the Titan, servicing the Mistral 50th is as straightforward as servicing any contemporary Aqua Lung reg – parts are readily available and any competent technician can handle it

Another difference is ergonomics and use: Vintage Mistrals had no extra ports or connections – no pressure gauge, no inflator hoses. The diver typically dove with a J-valve for reserve and no SPG. By contrast, the 2005 Mistral has all the ports needed for gauges and inflators, making it much more user-friendly for a modern diver. Old Mistrals also lacked an octopus (the concept of a backup second stage came later), whereas the new one can accommodate an octopus easily – and as noted, often came with one. The presence of a proper second stage on the new Mistral (second stage in the canister) also means it has a true exhaust diaphragm valve at the same height as the inhalation diaphragm, so theoretically it’s tuned to minimize free-flows and exhaust resistance in the intended position. However, both old and new Mistrals share the fundamental limitation of any twin-hose demand system: the regulator’s performance is sensitive to the diver’s position in the water. The new Mistral mitigated this to an extent, but not entirely. ScubaLab’s testing and users both found that in a vertical or face-up orientation, the 2005 Mistral breathes as easily as top-tier single-hose regs, but when you go face-down (swimming horizontal face-down or head-down descent), inhalation effort rises noticeably. This is the same “law of physics” that governed the originals – the difference in hydrostatic pressure between the regulator and the lungs. A single-hose reg, which has the second stage in your mouth, doesn’t suffer from as large a difference in most positions.

In essence, the new Mistral gives you vintage form with modern function, but it cannot defy physics. It is much easier-breathing overall than an original Mistral (especially as depth increases or tank pressure wanes), and it even has some advantages like a built-in venturi and better exhalation due to improved valve design. But a diver used to modern single-hose regulators will still find it a bit quirky – you have to adapt to hose placement, lacking a purge button, and the need for situational awareness of reg positions. On the flip side, the vintage diver will find it luxuriously easy-breathing compared to a poorly-tuned DA Aqua-Master or Mistral from the 60s.

It’s also worth noting that the “Mistral” name itself had lineage. After the original single-stage Mistral, Aqua Lung (US Divers) introduced two-stage twin-hose regs like the Aqua-Master and in Europe Spirotechnique had the Royal Mistral (1965) which incorporated a tiny first stage in the can to moderate breathing as tank pressure fell. The 2005 Mistral is more akin to those later developments in function (two-stage), though its branding hearkens to the simpler original. Some vintage aficionados initially bristled at this, as the new Mistral wasn’t a true single-stage “Mistral” in the classic sense – it was more of a “Royal Aqua-Master in Mistral clothing.” But Aqua Lung’s goal was to maximize reliability and performance while achieving the vintage feel, so the design choice made sense.

Compared to Modern Single-Hose Regulators (circa 2005): When placed against other high-end regulators of its own time, the Aqua Lung Mistral 50th is a bit of an odd duck. Contemporary regs in 2005 (like Aqua Lung’s Legend, Scubapro MK25/S600, Atomic Aquatics T2, etc.) were all single-hose, compact second stages with highly refined breathing characteristics. In objective testing, the Mistral held its own surprisingly well. Scuba Diving Magazine’s ScubaLab test in 2005 reported that in the face-up and vertical positions, the Mistral scored equivalent to a “Very Good” on their breathing machine – on par with many single-hose units. Where it lagged was face-down, as mentioned. Test divers also noted it was bone-dry when upright or looking up, but could allow a bit of water ingress or wet feeling in some positions (common for double-hose regs, which rely on a one-way exhaust valve – any tilt can let a bit of water in before it reseals). Single-hose regs tend to maintain consistent breathing resistance in any position (as one diver noted, his modern reg breathed the same even upside-down), whereas the twin-hose will remind you to adjust your posture for easiest breathing.

Another comparison point is ease of use and training. Modern divers are all taught to use single-hose regs, including using the purge button and donating an octopus in an emergency. Using a twin-hose like the Mistral requires old-school techniques for some skills: e.g. buddy breathing (sharing one mouthpiece alternately, since you might not have a traditional octo in your mouth – though the new Mistral can have an octo attached, a purist might try diving without one) and clearing water (you can’t just press purge; you have to blow out or tilt). These techniques were standard in the 1960s training but are unfamiliar to many younger divers. So, part of comparing the Mistral to a normal reg is the learning curve and skill aspect. Reviewers noted that a diver used to single-hose gear would need a bit of practice to get comfortable with the Mistral’s operation – but many also found that to be part of the fun, almost a “rite of passage” into vintage-style diving.

In terms of cold-water or extreme conditions: The 2005 Mistral, with its environmental sealing and modern first stage, is theoretically as capable as most mid-range regs. But twin-hose regs inherently keep the second stage mechanism close to the body, which can actually be an advantage in cold water (the old double-hoses were beloved by some cold-water divers because the regulator internals stayed warmer next to the diver’s body, reducing freeze-up). The new Mistral didn’t explicitly market this benefit, but it’s a known quirk of the design. Modern top-end regs might still outperform it in extremely cold or deep scenarios, but the Mistral 50th would handle standard recreational diving limits comfortably.

Compared to other double-hose regulators: Given that twin-hose regulators had been out of production for decades, the main comparisons were historical (as discussed). However, not long after the Mistral 50th, a small renaissance of twin-hose designs occurred in the dive community. For instance, a group of enthusiasts later developed the Argonaut Kraken twin-hose regulator (released in the mid-2010s) as a modern twin-hose with even more optimizations. The Kraken and similar boutique projects were directly inspired by the Mistral 50th’s attempt – essentially proving there was a niche interest in new double-hose regulators. The Kraken, for example, uses a high-performance modern first stage and a specially designed second stage, achieving even better work-of-breathing numbers, and addresses some Mistral 2005 criticisms (like using lighter hoses and a different hose routing). In a sense, the Aqua Lung Mistral 2005 opened the door for twin-hose regulators to be looked at again seriously. It showed that “retro” gear can be brought up to code, and it gave the vintage diving community a focal product in the 2000s.

A quick note on Aqua Lung Mentor: The Mistral 50th was a civilian product, but Aqua Lung’s military division around the same time created a twin-hose called the Mentor for combat diver training. The Mentor was not commercially available; it was more like an updated CG45 intended for Navy use (to train rebreather divers on open-circuit twin-hose as a transition). It speaks to the fact that twin-hose regulators still had some applications and that Aqua Lung was the go-to company to revive them.

In summary, compared to earlier Mistrals, the 2005 model is more complex but higher performing, and compared to modern single-hose regs, it’s unique and capable, though not as universally convenient. It stands alone in its class (mid-2000s) as essentially the only widely released double-hose reg of that era. Many diving publications at the time treated it as a curiosity – a head-to-head comparison was almost less important than the novelty of “look, a double-hose reg in 2005!”. It was truly a blend of past and present: one dive magazine dubbed it “Back to the Future: Aqua Lung Mistral”, which aptly captures that dual nature.

Reviews and User Experiences

When the Mistral 50th Anniversary regulator hit the market, it garnered a lot of attention and a wide range of user experiences – from veteran divers who learned on double-hoses decades ago to younger divers who had never seen one except in movies.

Professional Reviews (Scuba Magazines): Scuba Diving Magazine’s ScubaLab review in 2005 gave the Mistral a thorough testing. Their write-up noted that “Divers nostalgic for the Sea Hunt era will get a kick out of the new Mistral” and that Aqua Lung had remained very true to the 1950s design in form, while using modern parts (Titan first stage, etc.). In their test results, ScubaLab reported that in ideal orientations the Mistral breathed on par with modern regs – “when you’re vertical in the water the Mistral breathes just as easy as a single-hose reg” (quantified as equivalent to a Very Good score on their breathing machine). They also specifically praised how easy it breathed when the diver was looking up or swimming on the back – in those positions, having the hoses and canister lower than the lungs creates a slight positive pressure, making breathing effortless. However, the review dutifully pointed out the downside when going face-down or head-first: “inhalation effort increases markedly” in those positions. This wasn’t a deal-breaker, just an acknowledgment that it doesn’t deliver uniform performance in all postures like the best single-hose regs do. The magazine also highlighted the “old-school steps” needed for things like purging and buddy breathing, advising that it would “take some getting used to” for divers trained on single-hose gears But overall, the tone was positive – essentially saying if you want to experience the good ol’ days of diving, the new Mistral delivers the fun along with modern reliability. Notably, ScubaLab listed the price at $900 and suggested it was a special item for those looking to “explore the past”.

Undercurrent (a respected diver insider newsletter) called it a “high tech nostalgia trip” and discussed how it attracted interest for its novelty. They likely mentioned (as others did) that Jacques Cousteau’s grandson was involved in promoting it – there were reports of it being showcased at dive shows with the Cousteau name attached, adding to the historical mystique.

User Experiences – Vintage Divers: Among veteran divers who had used twin-hose regulators in their early days, the reception was mixed but often appreciative. Dr. Bill Bushing, a well-known California diver who started with double-hose regs, tried the new Mistral and commented that it quickly reminded him “why I made the transition from double to single hose regs in the 60s.”In other words, it brought back memories of the old limitations (likely the position-sensitivity and the less convenient handling). Many older divers had long since adapted to single-hose convenience and weren’t looking back. On the other hand, some experienced “vintage equipment divers” were thrilled that Aqua Lung brought a double-hose back. On forums like ScubaBoard, individuals who actively dive vintage Aqua-Masters and Mistrals compared notes on the new reg. Some were initially very skeptical – one diver admitted his “gut reaction was that it’s a plastic piece of garbage not worth the money”, dismissing it because of its modern materials and perceived overpricing. However, a number of these skeptics were won over after actually diving it.

For instance, an avid vintage double-hose diver on ScubaBoard (“Captain” and others) tried the 50th Mistral and came away impressed. In one detailed review from 2010, the author describes how he did a series of test dives with the new Mistral in all orientations, fully expecting it to perform poorly – “I wanted it to breathe poorly, but it didn’t. I wanted it to be uncomfortable, but it wasn’t.” He was surprised to find that “I’ll be damned, it really outperformed my Royal Aquamaster in every way.” Coming from someone with thousands of dives on double-hose regs, this was high praise. He ended up trading some of his beloved gear to acquire the new Mistral and said “I love it… It breathes oh so nice, very smooth.”This review, however, wasn’t all rosy: he also noted “it’s ugly, kinda makes you look like the Predator, and that short LP hose is stupid – Aqua Lung could have come up with a much better design.” In other words, even fans acknowledged the aesthetic and design quirks. The large hoses were often commented on – they look oversized on a diver’s back and had a tendency to make one look like a “sci-fi movie” character or “an octopus”. Some divers didn’t mind this at all (some even think it looks cool), but others felt self-conscious.

Another user, who had never used twin-hoses before, bought a Mistral 50th as his first double-hose reg. He reported a “love-hate relationship”: “I know it has design flaws and the hoses are too big and it looks stupid, but…I just can’t go back to a single hose reg after diving a twin hose.” He said he wouldn’t necessarily recommend it to everyone, but he personally enjoyed it immensely and it became a favorite. This sentiment – “ugly but I love it” – nicely encapsulates many users’ feelings.

User Experiences – Modern Divers: For divers who grew up only on single-hose regs, trying the Mistral was a novel experience. Many dive shops that had one in stock would let interested customers pool-test or demo it. Reports from these trials indicated that initial adjustments included figuring out how to clear it (since instinctively reaching for a nonexistent purge button can be amusing) and getting used to the mouthpiece and hose positioning. Once they got past the learning curve, many divers found it “fun” to use on recreational dives, especially in calm conditions where they could tool around looking at marine life without blowing bubbles in their face. Underwater photographers in particular gave positive feedback: the Mistral’s bubble-free field of view is a huge perk. As the UK magazine Diver noted, for photographers and videographers, “twin-hoses were one of the best accessories – your body shields the noisy exhalation, making it easier to approach timid creatures”. Not scaring skittish fish and having no bubbles in the frame or viewfinder is a real advantage. Renowned wildlife photographers like Dan Beecham and Thomas Peschak acquired Mistral 50th regs for this reason, finding them useful for certain shooting situations. Tom Peschak even commented that having a clear view (no bubbles) can be safer around sharks, since you maintain better situational awareness of the animals’ movements around you.

There were also technical divers and enthusiasts who pushed the Mistral’s limits. Some took it deeper and on more demanding dives. The consensus was that, while it’s fully functional, the Mistral 50th was best enjoyed within recreational depths and settings – it wasn’t really aimed at technical diving or heavy-duty use. It lacks things like a second independent regulator (unless you carry one) and can’t be sidemounted or used on doubles in the typical way. It’s more of a specialty / nostalgia piece for fun diving and photography.

Criticisms & Quirks Highlighted by Users: Apart from the already-mentioned large hose diameter and short connector hose, a few other criticisms surfaced:

Some users felt the work of breathing was still higher than top-end single hose regs when doing heavy exertion. For example, swimming hard against current while face-down, a modern high-performance reg will usually supply plenty of air with minimal resistance, whereas the Mistral might make you work a bit more for it. It’s not that it will starve you – it passed EN250 which means it can support two divers breathing at 62.5 liters/min each – but the perception of “lightness” of breathing wasn’t as high as the very best single-hose models. Aqua Lung likely tuned it toward the middle of the road to avoid free flows, meaning it might have a touch of positive pressure when ideal and a bit of negative when not ideal.
The lack of a quick way to drain water: If water did get into the hoses (say you took the mouthpiece out and it flooded), clearing it requires technique. Some divers unfamiliar with that found it disconcerting at first. With practice (and using the shutoff valve on the mouthpiece if fitted), it becomes easier.
Bouyancy of hoses: The big hoses can tug a bit upward. A trick some vintage divers use is to put a small amount of weight on the hoses or tie them down gently to the harness to prevent them floating too high. One comment from a diver humorously compared owning the Mistral to “having an ugly, less talented sibling – you know it’s flawed but you love it anyway”.
Looks and questions: Be prepared for fellow divers on the boat to ask, “What is that contraption?!” Since it’s such a rare sight, many divers in the 2000s had never seen a double-hose regulator in person. Mistral users frequently found themselves giving a history lesson during surface intervals, which for most was part of the fun. It definitely makes you stand out on a dive boat!

Overall, user experiences ranged from nostalgic joy to mild disappointment, largely depending on the diver’s expectations and use-case. Those who approached it as a way to relive history or enjoy a different style of diving tended to be very happy with it. Those who expected a revolution in performance or bought it purely as an investment toy sometimes ended up shelving it after a few dives. Importantly, because the internal parts were standard, servicing the reg was straightforward, so even if someone dove it regularly, maintenance wasn’t a headache – a point many appreciated.

Now, nearly 20 years on, the consensus in the community is that the 2005 Mistral was a successful tribute to vintage diving. It didn’t convert the masses back to twin-hose regulators (nor was that Aqua Lung’s intent), but it delivered on what it promised: a functional piece of diving nostalgia that could actually be used safely under modern conditions. Many of the units sold have very few dives on them (some none at all), having been scooped up by collectors. But a subset of passionate users continue to dive them for the sheer enjoyment of the twin-hose experience. As one fan put it: “I just can’t go back to a single hose reg… it’ll always have a special place in my heart.”

Reception in the Diving Community and Collector Circles

Upon release, the Aqua Lung Mistral 50th Anniversary edition made waves in both the general diving community and among collectors/historic diving enthusiasts.

General Diving Community: Broadly, the reception was polite interest and niche adoption. Most recreational divers saw it as a cool novelty rather than a must-have piece of kit. Dive instructors and industry veterans often viewed it with nostalgia – it was common to hear “Oh, my first regulator was a double-hose; it’s great to see this back!” – but few intended to replace their everyday regulators with a Mistral. The training agencies didn’t incorporate anything specific for double-hose use (after all, this was a specialty item). That said, the Mistral did a lot to raise awareness of diving history. The fact that a major manufacturer like Aqua Lung put out a product like this lent credibility to the idea of vintage diving. Historical Diving Society (HDS) members and vintage gear aficionados applauded the move. It was often exhibited at dive shows, helping bridge conversations between generations of divers.

Enthusiast forums had lengthy threads discussing the Mistral 50th. Early on, there was skepticism – some thought it was just a gimmick or feared Aqua Lung might have “dumbed it down.” But as reports came in from actual users, the tone turned to appreciation. It became clear that Aqua Lung had done a quality job. A few vocal detractors remained – typically arguing that for real-world diving, a modern single-hose is simply more practical and that the money could be better spent on other gear. This is a fair point: in 2005, ~$900 could buy you a top-of-the-line regulator set or almost a full kit of gear. Purchasing the Mistral was often an emotional decision rather than a utilitarian one.

Vintage Diving Community: For those already involved in collecting or diving vintage scuba gear, the Mistral 50th was big news. It was the first factory-produced double-hose reg in decades, so it held a special allure. The Historical Diving Society (HDS), both in the USA and internationally, featured announcements about it. In Australia, for example, a post commemorating its 20th anniversary in 2025 noted that “only 500 units were produced, making it a collector’s item”. Members of HDS and similar groups often tried to get their hands on one of the limited editions.

From a collector’s standpoint, the limited edition of 500 was immediately recognized as potentially valuable. Many dive gear collectors (who might collect things like old regulators, helmets, etc.) bought the Mistral LE and never intended to dive it at all. It was a display piece – especially with that handsome wooden box and certificate. Dive shops that cater to vintage gear sometimes kept one in the glass case as a conversation starter. Aqua Lung numbered each unit and included a card signed (possibly by company executives or Cousteau family members – need confirmation on signature) as a way to anchor its collectible status. The limited edition regulators were often referred to by their number (e.g., “I have #250 of 500”). Some collectors went further and tried to get them autographed by diving legends – having Cousteau’s son or other famous divers sign the box or certificate, for example, to enhance the sentimental value.

The Sport Diver version (unlimited production) initially did not have the same cachet since it wasn’t scarce. However, Aqua Lung did not sell an enormous number of these either – production only lasted a couple of years. It’s unclear exactly how many Sport units were made/sold, but it was likely limited by demand. This means that even the “regular” 2005 Mistral is now fairly rare on the used market, simply because not many were in circulation to begin with. Over time, these too have become minor collector items (especially if in good condition with the original case and manual).

Industry and Trade Reception: Within the dive equipment industry, the Mistral’s release was seen as a bold and somewhat sentimental move. Aqua Lung essentially created a product with a very limited target market, which is atypical in an industry that generally chases the latest tech or the broadest appeal. Many saw it as a tribute to Aqua Lung’s own heritage – after all, Aqua Lung (as U.S. Divers) was co-founded by Jacques Cousteau and was the originator of the twin-hose regulator. So there was a sense of brand pride in reviving the Mistral. Dive shop owners who are history buffs loved having one in stock. Some reported that the limited editions “sold well to the trade”, meaning many of the 500 limited units were snapped up by dive industry folks, not just end-user divers. It wasn’t uncommon to hear that a dive shop owner kept one in box as a collectible and maybe another to actually dive occasionally.

However, from a purely business standpoint, the Mistral 50th was not a huge money-maker or a revolution in sales. It was a niche product and Aqua Lung treated it as such. After a couple of years, it quietly disappeared from Aqua Lung’s catalog (with no further twin-hose models introduced). There was no second generation or follow-up model; the Mistral 50th was a one-time special edition. In that sense, it accomplished its goal and bowed out. The impact it left was more cultural than economic – it reminded the diving world of its roots and got people talking about double-hose regulators again.

Contemporary Views (2020s): Today, in 2025, those who own a Mistral 50th Anniversary often hold onto it. It’s a conversation piece and a collector’s treasure. On social media and groups, you’ll see proud owners posting photos of their Mistral, often with comments like “hard to believe it’s been 20 years since this was released!” Divers who encounter someone using one may do a double-take, as it’s still a rare sight underwater. The reception remains largely positive – it’s remembered fondly as a cool project that Aqua Lung did. Any initial controversies (hoses too big, etc.) are now just part of the lore. In collector circles, having a complete limited edition set (with box and papers) is definitely a prestige item, especially for those focused on vintage Aqua Lung/US Divers memorabilia.

In summary, the Mistral 50th Anniversary regulator was well-received for what it was: a respectful homage to diving history. It didn’t convert the whole community back to twin-hoses (no one expected it to), but it carved out a legacy of its own. It’s now a part of diving’s rich tapestry – connecting the era of Cousteau’s pioneering dives to the modern day, one bubble at a time.

Current Market Value and Availability

If you’re looking to find a 2005 Aqua Lung Mistral 50th Anniversary regulator today, be prepared for a bit of hunting. Both versions (Sport and Limited) occasionally appear on secondary markets, and their market value has generally appreciated or held steady given their rarity and collectibility.

Initial Pricing (2005): The Sport Diver version retailed around $900 USD in 2005. The Limited Edition with the wooden box was priced higher – many dealers listed it somewhere in the ~$1200-$1500 range at release (some dive shops essentially treated it as a special order item). Exact MSRP for the limited wasn’t widely advertised, since it often sold out through pre-orders. Anecdotally, some buyers paid a premium above list to secure one of the 500 units. Each limited unit came with a certificate and its serial number, which added to the value.

Used Market (2010s to now): The supply of Mistral 50th regs is small (especially the limited edition: only 500 exist), and many owners are reluctant to sell, so they don’t show up for sale very often. That said, a number of units have traded hands via online forums, auction sites, and estate sales. The Sport Diver (standard) edition tends to be a bit less expensive than the Limited, but still commands a premium due to scarcity. As of the mid-2020s, a used Sport Mistral in good, dive-ready condition with its case and accessories typically sells in the range of $1500 to $2,000 USD. For example, one was sold in 2024 with the original padded bag, manuals, and even a console gauge included for $1600 Another diver-to-diver sale in 2024 saw the Limited Edition (with wood box and cert) sell for about $3,250 USD. These figures indicate that even after nearly 20 years, the Mistral holds its value well – essentially selling used for about what it cost new (or a bit more for the limited version).

Some specialty vintage gear dealers list pristine or new-old-stock units at higher prices. One vintage scuba site noted that a Mistral 50th in excellent/new condition can go for “upwards of $1,800 USD” in today’s market. Indeed, collectors have shown willingness to pay a premium for unused examples, especially limited editions with low serial numbers or still in shrink wrap. In extreme cases, asking prices can be quite high – there are instances of sellers or shops quoting $3,000+ for a mint-condition limited edition with all original documentation. Mark Tozer remarked that a complete set in the wooden box with certificate could exceed $3,500 USD in value to a keen collector. While that is on the high end, it’s not impossible if the right buyer comes along (for example, serial #1 of 500 might fetch such a premium, or a unit that was owned by a notable person).

Online auction platforms and estate auctioneers have also handled a few sales. For instance, in late 2023 an unused limited Mistral (#358/500) with its custom bag went up for auction and attracted considerable interest. The final prices in such auctions vary, but generally align with the above ranges unless multiple determined collectors drive up the bid.

Where to find one: If you’re actively looking, the best places to check are:

Diving Forums and Classifieds: Sites like ScubaBoard often have a classifieds section. In fact, the sales mentioned above were on ScubaBoard’s marketplace. Vintage equipment sub-forums are a good place to post a “Wanted” ad or keep an eye out for someone selling their Mistral.
eBay and Online Auctions: eBay sometimes has listings for the Mistral 50th. The frequency is low, but every now and then one appears. Typically, limited editions on eBay will be advertised as such (with the serial number). Prices on eBay have ranged roughly from $1000 up to $2000 depending on condition and completeness. WorthPoint and LiveAuctioneers have archived some past sales (e.g., a limited edition #86/500 with box was noted as a rare find)
Specialist Vintage Scuba Dealers: A few businesses specialize in vintage scuba gear. They sometimes get Mistral 50th units in stock (either on consignment or trade-ins). As noted, Vintage Scuba Gear Australia and Silent Explorers (USA) have in the past sold these. Silent Explorers had brand-new old stock units listed around $1,200 (when available) These outlets might have higher pricing but offer the assurance of condition checks and sometimes servicing.
Collector Networks: The community of double-hose enthusiasts (like members of VintageDoubleHose.com forum or HDS members) often know who has one. Networking in those circles can lead to a private sale.

Current Availability: Since the Mistral 50th hasn’t been made since mid-2000s, what’s out there is all there is. The Limited 500 units are mostly in private hands now. A few of those may remain unused in collections and could emerge in the future if collectors pass them on or liquidate collections. The Sport edition might have a few more units in the wild, perhaps sitting in someone’s garage or dive locker largely forgotten. It’s not uncommon for one to pop up when a retired diver is cleaning out gear. Keep in mind that any unit you find will likely need a thorough service before use, simply due to age of O-rings (unless it was serviced recently). The good news is service kits for the Titan first stage and second stage components are still readily available, and any authorized Aqua Lung service tech can perform maintenance, as the internal parts are common

If you acquire one, also consider getting any accessories that come with it: original hoses, mouthpiece valves, etc. While the Titan-based internal parts are common, the twin-hose specific parts (like the large diaphragm, mouthpiece, corrugated hoses) are not being produced by Aqua Lung anymore. However, even those aren’t too hard to find equivalents for – the vintage diving community has reproduced hoses and mouthpiece valves that can fit if the originals deteriorate. In fact, one benefit of Aqua Lung having collaborated with Dräger is that replacements for the Dräger mouthpiece and hoses were available through rebreather supply channels for some years.

Value trajectory: The Mistral 50th has basically transitioned fully into “collector’s item” territory. It’s safe to say its value will remain stable or even increase slightly over time, especially for complete limited sets. It’s a piece of diving history, a commemorative item, and also a functional reg – a combination that keeps demand steady among a small group of enthusiasts. As with most collectibles, provenance and condition affect price: a unit with the original documentation, box/case, and in mint condition will fetch the highest prices. A heavily used unit missing the special case might sell for less (though as dive gear, it would still be perfectly usable after servicing).

In conclusion, the current market value for a 2005 Aqua Lung Mistral 50th is roughly: $1500-$2,500 for most used examples, and potentially $3,500 or more for unused or limited editions in prime condition. They are sporadically available – you might have to be patient and vigilant to snag one. If you do get one, you’ll own not just a regulator, but a tangible slice of scuba diving heritage that still turns heads on the dive boat.