Robert A. Barth

Robert August Barth
Robert A. Barth in 1963.
Nickname(s)Bob Barth
Born(1930-08-28)August 28, 1930
Manila, Philippines
DiedMarch 26, 2020(2020-03-26) (aged 89)
Panama City, Florida
AllegianceUnited States United States of America
Service / branchUnited States Navy
Years of service1947–1970
RankChief Quartermaster USN

Robert August Barth (August 28, 1930 – March 26, 2020) was a United States Navy Chief Quartermaster, pioneering aquanaut and professional diver. He was the only diver to participate in all U.S. Navy SEALAB missions led by George F. Bond.[1] Barth is considered to be the father of the Rolex Sea Dweller. In 1967, he developed the idea for the helium release valve which was patented by Rolex on November 6, 1967.[2][3]

  1. ^ Schwartz, John (April 13, 2020). "Robert Barth, a Pioneer of Deep-Sea Diving, Dies at 89". The New York Times. Retrieved February 2, 2021.
  2. ^ "The Sea-Dweller Chronicles: Genesis Of The Decompressing Watch". Perezcope.
  3. ^ "Bob Barth's Historic SEALAB Rolex Submariner". Hodinkee.