How to Choose a Dive Watch

Dive watches have become the most enduring and versatile designs in watch history, that it’s just as common to see them under shirt cuffs as it is to see them on dive masters.

But, no matter how mainstream they are today, they are still useful for professional diving – helping the diver track bottom time, safety stops, and more.

Its evolution from a military and professional tool to modern style staple is quite fascinating. Today, it’s common to see many water resistant watches on the market that are called a dive watch – but that isn’t the case!

If you’re in the market for a dive watch, here’s a quick guide on what makes a true dive watch, plus some alternatives:

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WHAT MAKES A WATCH, A DIVE WATCH?

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There are actually specifications provided by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) to determine what makes a true dive watch. Otherwise, the watch should just be labelled “water resistant” or something similar.

The ISO 6425 Diver’s Watch Standards provides key characteristics for a watch to be considered a dive watch:

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Minimum water resistance of 100 meters or 330ft

Magnetic, shock and chemical resistance

Adequate readability in total darkness, and an indicator that it is functioning in total darkness (such as a running second hand with a luminous tip)

A rotating bezel that allows the diver to track total time underwater from the beginning of their dive

A solid strap or band that is adequately water pressure resistant

A case made of water resistant materials to prevent corrosion and rusting

A screw-down crown that will keep water from entering the watch

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Dive Watch History: As the first waterproof watch on the market, the Rolex Oyster (1926) provided the blueprint for the dive watches of the future. Diving watches had their origin in the late 1920’s and 1930’s with the Omega Marine and Panerai Radiomir.

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ISO’s testing standards dictate that the watch goes several different pressure tests to determine if they have these qualities. Lastly, a watch that conforms to the standards is also marked with DIVER’S to distinguish it from water resistant watches.

Two things that are worth noting:

ISO introduced the 6425 standards in 1996, decades after the first dive watches have been launched. So there are dive watches out there that may not have the DIVER’S mark.

ISO does not test the watches themselves, but relies on the word of the watch manufacturer on whether the watch meets the 6425 standards.

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HOW SHOULD I GO ABOUT CHOOSING A DIVE WATCH?

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As you probably will not use all the functions of a dive watch, it’s best to choose a dive watch that will meet your specific needs. Are you a true diver looking for a mechanical watch, or are you after the look of a dive watch, and only need certain features?

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Whatever the case, here’s what you should look for, with some of our favorites thrown in:

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You go on underwater expeditions and will actually use the watch’s functions for actual diving.

What to look for: A watch that can handle underwater pressure. Look for full compliance with ISO 6425 standards and aim for at least 200m of water resistance; marine-grade stainless steel case, and anti-reflective sapphire crystal that will help lessen distortion underwater.

We recommend: Rolex Seadweller Deepsea Ceramic Bezel Mens Watch 116660 Unworn | Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean Mens Watch

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You want a watch that can handle the rigors of your sport, but will not really use it in deep depths.

What to look for: A watch that is durable enough for sea, land and air. Water resistance is a must if you do water sports, otherwise, look for other complications that may be useful to your specific sport – such as a chronograph, compass navigation or a GMT feature. Compatibility with rubber or other bracelet options is also a plus.

We recommend: Rolex Submariner Mens Ceramic Bezel Automatic Mens Watch | Omega Seamaster GMT Great White Mens Watch

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You want a watch that can be used for sport, but is suitable enough for the boardroom as well.

What to look for: A watch that can be dressed-up or down, and is thin enough to fit under the cuff. A steel bracelet or a case design that accommodates a leather strap makes it more versatile.

We recommend: Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra Mens Steel Watch | Panerai Luminor Marina 1950 44mm Mens Watch

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SEE MORE OF THE WATCHES IN OUR VIDEO: