Welcome, fellow divers, to a grand celebration marking a significant milestone in our underwater universe – the 50th anniversary of Apeks. This is a brand that has not merely survived the test of time but has radically transformed the diving industry. As we plunge into the depths of Apeks' history, we are set to navigate through the pivotal moments that have sculpted the brand's identity and commemorate its golden jubilee of unwavering excellence. Here's to Apeks – a beacon of innovation and quality for the last five decades and, undoubtedly, for many more to come.
Apeks: The Early Years (1974-1980)
Apeks made its debut in Blackburn, England, in 1974, established with the ambitious vision to engineer extraordinary diving equipment that would truly revolutionize underwater exploration. The brainchild of two passionate divers, Ken Ainscough and Eric Partington, Apeks rapidly carved out a name for itself for its inventive and dependable scuba diving gear. In 1975, Apeks introduced the world to its first product, the Apeks Manta 5000 - a regulator that would lay the foundation for their continued focus on cutting-edge technology and design, shaping the trajectory of the industry for decades to come.
Expansion and Global Recognition (1981-2000)
The expansion era of Apeks began in the 1980s and continued through the 1990s. This period was marked by the introduction of a diverse and sophisticated product line, designed to cater to the varied requirements of the global diving community. Apeks' steadfast commitment to quality and precision engineering garnered worldwide recognition and admiration, further amplifying the brand's reputation on an international scale. Furthermore, a pivotal moment unfolded in 1997 when Apeks joined the Aqua Lung family, a renowned global player in the diving industry. This strategic alliance not only fortified Apeks' position in the market but also epitomized its profound impact and indomitable presence in the underwater world. At this time, a company accomplished a significant quality management system standard called the BS5750. They made an octopus and started creating dry suit valves. Later, in 1993, they introduced their first commercially dry sealed reg to the market. In 1995, they launched the TX regulator, which broke the mold; it was the first regulator ever to pass the CE standard. The company then moved to its present location in Blackburn, Lancashire, where they continue to operate today.
New Millennium, New Heights (2001-2010)
The turn of the millennium heralded a new epoch of advancement and innovation for Apeks. A company that refused to rest on its laurels, Apeks continued to push the boundaries of diving technology, most notably with the introduction of the highly acclaimed ATX and XTX series regulators. These products, lauded for their exceptional performance and versatility, set new industry standards and reaffirmed Apeks' position as a pioneer in the field. This period also marked a significant shift in Apeks' approach to manufacturing. Demonstrating a strong commitment to sustainability, the company embraced environmentally conscious manufacturing processes. This initiative not only signalled Apeks' responsibility towards protecting our planet's fragile ecosystems but also set the stage for the company's future vision - a more sustainable future in diving.
The Innovation Continues (2011-2020)
The story of Apeks' innovation continued in the next decade. A testament to the brand's relentless pursuit of excellence. In 2012, a well-loved XTX200 was launched, setting a new benchmark in diving gear. The Apeks XTX200, with its state-of-the-art features and superior performance, quickly gained industry and consumer acclaim, asserting itself as the best in the world.
The year 2016 brought forth the introduction of another ground-breaking product - the MTX-R. This cutting-edge technology, with 'M' standing for 'military' and 'R' standing for 'recreational' (whereas 'TX' in their regs refers to 'tec extreme'), further elevated Apeks' status in the diving industry. The MTX-R's design was a clear testament to Apeks' commitment to push boundaries and exceed expectations, constantly redefining the standards of diving gear. However, the innovation didn't stop there. The 'C' on the MTX-RC, standing for 'control', represented another leap forward. This addition brought in features such as a venturi switch and breathing control, further enhancing the adaptability and performance of the product. These advancements not only underscored Apeks' unyielding commitment to delivering unparalleled diving experiences but also marked the ushering in of a new era in the brand's illustrious history.
These technological marvels not only exhibited Apeks' dedication to advancing diving equipment but also fostered a lasting bond with the technical diving community. The decade witnessed the brand continuing its legacy of setting standards and, more importantly, underscoring Apeks' commitment to redefining the frontiers of diving technology.
Apeks Exotec BCD - Harnessing Innovation (2021-Present)
As we celebrate Apeks' 50th anniversary, we can't help but marvel at the brand's recent triumph – the Apeks Exotec BCD. Launched in 2023, the Exotec, back Inflation BCD, boasts a revolutionary pivot equipped harness system, offering unparalleled comfort and freedom of movement. With its modular approach and customizable features, the Exotec caters to the diverse needs of modern divers, ensuring an optimal and personalized experience underwater and on the surface. With every dive, the Exotec BCD reiterates Apeks' unwavering dedication to enhancing the diving experience, pushing the boundaries of what we thought possible, and continuing its enduring legacy of innovation.
Apeks XL4 Ocea - Greener Perspective on Manufacturing (2022)
In 2022, a significant milestone was reached with the unveiling of the Apeks XL4 Ocea - the first-ever scuba diving regulator that incorporates an eco-conscious approach to its design. The Apeks XL4 Ocea Regulator is a remarkable testament to the brand's dedication to sustainable practices. The regulator's second-stage black components are ingeniously manufactured from recycled post-consumer waste. The coloured parts, on the other hand, are crafted from bio-based renewable resources, further exemplifying the brand's green initiative. The first stage is designed using Eco brass, which is entirely lead-free, and is finished with Trivalent Chrome plating for resilience. This revolutionary product sets a new benchmark for sustainable practices in the diving equipment industry. With the release of this ground-breaking regulator, Apeks clearly demonstrates that its innovative edge in dive equipment manufacturing extends beyond performance and quality, reaching into the realm of environmental responsibility.
As Apeks celebrates its golden jubilee, it is awe-inspiring to reflect on its extraordinary journey. From its humble beginnings in a garage, where founders Ken Ainscough and Eric Partington nurtured their vision of revolutionizing underwater exploration, to becoming an industry titan with a futuristic outlook, Apeks has remained at the forefront of innovation and quality. Over the span of five decades, Apeks has transitioned from manufacturing its inaugural Manta regulator to introducing the world-class Exotec BCD and the eco-conscious XL4 Ocea regulator. This journey encapsulates the brand's unwavering commitment to excellence, adaptability to the evolving needs of divers, and sustainability. Apeks' golden jubilee not only commemorates its illustrious past but also heralds the promise of an even more remarkable future.
