Alessia Zecchini conquers -113 metres in constant weight and sets her 40th career record, in the year Seiko celebrates 60 years since its first diver’s watch.
One metre. On land, we walk it without thinking. It takes just one step. But in the sea, holding your breath and letting yourself slide into the blue, those 100 centimetres can become an insurmountable barrier. It is the fine line between what the body can endure and what seems impossible. Alessia Zecchini knows this boundary well and, every time, she tries to push it a little further.
On 18 May 2025, in front of the global freediving community, she descended to -113 metres in constant weight with fins, achieving the 40th personal record of an extraordinary career. This milestone is not only a sporting achievement but also a symbol: it is the same year that Seiko celebrates the 60th anniversary of the launch of its first diver, the watch that opened the doors to the sea for entire generations and of which Alessia is now an ambassador. We met her the day after this new feat and here is what she told us.
What are you looking for in every descent?
I try to enjoy every dive to the fullest. It’s not just about setting a record, but about living every second of the descent to the fullest. That was the case this time too. Perhaps that’s what made this latest experience so special.
Did you already have the new record in mind? When did you realise that the time was right?
In these cases, you proceed step by step. First, I reached 110 metres, then 112 metres. I felt I had the right confidence, even though every dive is different. But I knew I could do it.
How long have you been working towards this goal?
I like to test myself. Most of my performances are either records or very close to them. Recently, I’ve been focusing on two specialities: constant weight without equipment and with fins. I chose to focus on the latter because it stimulated me more.
What makes this attempt different from the previous ones?
Every achievement has its own story, even if from the outside it may all seem the same. In reality, the technical balance and sensations change. This time, I worked a lot on my technique. And it worked.
Forty records in your career. Is there one that means more to you than the others?
Two. The first was when I reached 102 metres and then 104 metres in constant weight with a monofin. It was also featured in my documentary film: a dream I shared with special people. The other is the dive to -123 metres in 2023. Adding 20 metres in six years is no small feat.
Your 40th record comes on the 60th anniversary of the first Seiko diver. What role has the Japanese brand played in the spread of diving?
A very important one. Seiko has brought a new audience to the underwater world, showing the beauty of the sea through a technical object such as a watch.
Do you find Seiko’s values in your approach to freediving?
Absolutely. Precision and reliability are essential underwater. Seiko has always emphasised these aspects, demonstrating that limits are there to be exceeded. In this respect, I feel very close to its philosophy.
What has freediving taught you in life?
So much. It helps you get to know yourself better, to manage your heartbeat, your emotions and your mind. It shows you that we have the power to control our bodies and thoughts. Above all, it teaches you to breathe. A simple gesture, but one that is often forgotten.
Matteo Zaccagnino
