Sea Hornet single hose regulator
Sea Hornet was an iconic Australian company renowned for its contributions to diving equipment, particularly spearguns and scuba gear. Founded in the late 1950s by Theodore Duncan (Bob) Preece, the company initially focused on precision tools before venturing into the diving industry. In 1959, they introduced their first product under the Sea Hornet brand—a two-piece hand spear crafted from brass tubing. This launch was followed by the production of CO2-powered spearguns, cementing Sea Hornet’s reputation as a leader in underwater equipment.
In 1961, Sea Hornet released the all-Australian aqualung, featuring a demand valve inspired by earlier designs and cylinders treated with zinc spray for durability. These innovations set the company apart and highlighted its commitment to developing reliable diving gear. By the 1980s, Sea Hornet re-entered the scuba market by becoming the exclusive Australian distributor for the Sportsways Waterlung product line. Around the same time, the company began producing its own regulators. The Sea Hornet Mk1 regulator, introduced in 1981, was designed by Peter Katz and featured a new first stage and a modified Waterlung second stage.
Sea Hornet’s journey exemplified constant innovation and a passion for diving. Despite its success, financial difficulties led to the company’s deregistration in September 2018. The closure marked the end of a significant chapter in Australia’s diving history, but the impact of its contributions remains influential.
Sea Hornet’s legacy lies in its pioneering role in spearfishing and scuba diving equipment. Its products were trusted by divers and spearfishers across Australia and beyond. From early hand spears to advanced regulators, Sea Hornet remains a symbol of ingenuity and excellence in the underwater world.
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