Best Dive Watches for Every Budget Complete Guide 2023
Daniel Louwrens
5 August 2023 | 20 min read
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Divers. We all know them. Some of us love ’em, and some of us won’t leave home without them. Whatever your relationship is with these robust and utilitarian tools, they’re a part of the horology industry and deserve some limelight.
From the famous Omega Seamaster to the Seiko SKX, we’ll be covering the best dive watches on the market and which watch is the best for (almost) every finance bracket, and we might even delve into some dive computers as well. With that said, let’s strap on a rubber… strap and dive into things, shall we?
What makes a Good Dive Watch?
Before we list the ‘best’ options at retail price, we need to discuss what we used as measuring tools. Looks? Depth rating? Size?! Well, each of these will make a difference, and taking all of them into account is key to finding a good diver.
That said, one thing worth noting is that regardless of what we claim and/or say here today, you should buy the watch that you love. Love will trump all, and if you are in love with your wee little G-Shock, you should keep loving it even if we don’t love it. This journey is about you, after all. We’re simply here to give you a few ideas.
Size and Looks
Let’s face it; we live in a world where what you look like matters – a lot. We wish it didn’t, we wish it weren’t so, but if you rock up wearing a 57mm pink ‘gold’ diver with chains attached… I mean, I won’t judge you, but others might!
Size is perhaps one of the most controversial topics when it comes to watches. The Big Crown Submariner James Bond wore in Dr No is 37.5mm, whereas the Titanium Omega Seamaster is 42mm. Both are an excellent choice if you’re a big fan of 007, but the size difference makes it a harder choice (not the only issue and certainly not the biggest).
A 40 mm watch might seem massive, but a snug lug-to-lug will make a watch far more wearable. I can just hear Teddy Baldessare going on about how size isn’t telling you the whole story.
After size, how the watch looks is also a huge factor. The watch industry seems to always be at an impasse – break away from the mould or stick to what works. Every time a company releases a new and groundbreaking design, there are some who are turned off immediately.
Some like the Zodiac Sea Wolf as it always was. Personally, I like the industry pushing for something new every now and then. Nothing wrong with trying something new. Will it work? Not always, and that’s okay.
Lastly, we have to consider complications and how these influence the look. Don’t even get me started on a date feature and whether or not it should even be there in the first place! A chrono diver is a rather distinctive look, polarizing to some. Modern dive watches will all have some features that make them even more capable as a diver, while vintage options will carry a certain patina.
I could chat about looks for another 4441 words, but that’s beside the point.
Complications
We know that a diver is supposed to have more than 100m of water resistance, but what about something else? Something more?
You might be familiar with Seiko watches and, in particular, the new GMT Seiko 5 range. A diver with the addition of a GMT function is damn well the perfect choice! At a low price point of entry, this is a great option for most. For some, they have a good reason to have a chronograph underwater. I’m not entirely sure if a Helium escape valve counts as a complication, but for some, it’s essential.
Value
“Comes with a Ceramic bezel just like the new Rolex Submariner!”
We all want a great buy, great value if you will. Let’s be honest; with a reliable quartz movement, most watches offer good value.
But I want a gold rotor.
I want a 500 m water resistance.
I want a titanium case.
And, and, and… Whatever catches your fancy, be prepared to pay more. Lastly, you will pay more for brand names. Case in point, most Rolex’s will catch a significant price increase when looking at second-hand options. It’s a popular choice, but does it make sense to you? Well… I just bought my dream car, and it costs the same as a 126613LB… which isn’t my dream watch.
Best Dive Watches Under $500
Without further ado, it’s about time we delve into the best dive watches on the market. First, perhaps a segment for your first dive watch – sub $500. You might be able to get an automatic movement, and what’s more, these usually offer exceptional value.
(Honorable Mention Under $100: Casio Duro)
Paying respect to my little cousin, who only gets $10 per week as an allowance, I wanted to include a really cost-effective offering from the value giant themselves – the Casio Duro. Not only is this wee little watch beloved by many but it’s also worn by Bill Gates himself! How cool is that!?
Sure, you don’t get an automatic movement, but you do get some interesting colours, a good size, and an all-around great look. A dive bezel comes standard, and while there is no rich history of diving stories, it’s just a cool watch worth around 50 bucks.
#1 Best Value: Seiko 5 Sports SRPD53
- Size: 42.5mm
- Movement: Caliber 4R36
- Case and Strap Material: Stainless steel with matching bracelet
- Water Resistance: 100m
Seiko is perhaps one of the best when it comes to value. They are perhaps not the best options for those with smaller wrists, but they still offer an impressive design. This particular example is a great choice if you’re not too keen on spending inflated prices for a second-hand SKX.
The movement within is the trusted and reliable 4R36, boasting a 41-hour power reserve, and combined with the highly legible dial you have a diver that’s not only a great first-time option but also a good option if you want to dive with something that’s not too sentimental.
You don’t have to stick to this particular model, as there are about a dozen different color and bezel options to choose from.
#2 Best for Diving: Citizen Promaster Dive ORCA
- Size: 46mm
- Movement: Eco-Drive J250
- Case and Strap Material: Stainless Steel with rubber strap
- Water Resistance: 200m
Are you one of the few that actually uses their watches while diving? Go you! Scuba diving might not make you a professional diver, and to be honest, a professional diver might be spending more than $500 on a dive tool.
That said, if you want to use something to use in extreme conditions, the Citizen Promaster Dive ORCA is simply the best robust option – hands-down. You get a massive 46mm case design combined with an increased 200m water resistance rating. The Promaster is beloved by many as an affordable dive watch that you could actually use while diving. What’s more, this option draws inspiration from Orcas – quite a nice design if you ask me.
#3 Best Vintage Inspired Option: Zelos Hammerhead v3 300m Bronze
- Size: 44mm
- Movement: Seiko Caliber NH35
- Case and Strap Material: Bronze with rubber strap
- Water Resistance: 300m
Bronze is an interesting design choice. After the release of the bronze Tudor Black Bay quite a few companies delved into this world. The only cost-effective way of getting a (good) bronze option is the Zelos Hammerhead v# 300m. This option is matched with a contrasting emerald green dial which is certainly one of the most eye-catching options on this whole list – and I like it. A Seiko movement takes care of timekeeping duties so that you can take care of your diving duties.
Best Divers Under $1,000
A thousand bucks! Certainly not a small amount of money, and at this price point, things begin to really get serious. You are no longer looking at ‘beaters’ but at options that you could wear every day, on several different occasions. Let’s take a look at the four best divers for under $1,000.
#1 Best Overall: Mido Ocean Star Captain Blue
- Size: 42.5mm
- Movement: Mido Caliber 80 (base ETA C07.651)
- Case and Strap Material: Stainless Steel with matching bracelet
- Water Resistance: 200m
Mido hardly needs an introduction, offering exceptional value at a reasonable price range. The Ocean Star Captain Blue is perhaps one of their most famous options, offering a thin case that looks like a true dive watch and performs like one too.
Mido Ocean Star Captain Blue – Source
Presented with a brushed case with subtle sprinkles of polished elements on the case and bracelet. A screw-down crown allows for 200m of water resistance, and come dive time, you will have luminous hands and markers to help you tell time – an essential feature for those who use the watch in low-light environments.
#2 Best for Standing Out: Doxa SUB200 WhitePearl
- Size: 42mm
- Movement: ETA 2824-2 Caliber
- Case and Strap Material: Stainless Steel with Matching Bracelet
- Water Resistance: 200m
Doxa! Ah, always pushing the boundaries of design and what is seen as a ‘normal dive watch’. In this case, we are veering away from what most expect from Doxa and opting for a stark white dial option called the WhitePearl – as I’ve mentioned before – it looks badass.
Doxa carries the honour of being used and loved by world-famous diver Jacques Cousteau – but to be fair, the orange dial options are certainly the most well-known and beloved options. Within the polished steel case, you get a reliable ETA movement, and if white isn’t your favourite colour, there are several different colours to choose from (more than you think).
#3 Best for ‘Rough ‘n Tumble’: Marathon MSAR Quartz
- Size: 36mm
- Movement: ETA High-Torque FØ6
- Case and Strap Material: Stainless Steel with Rubber Strap
- Water Resistance: 300m
Consider yourself a rebel, huh? Are you the kind of person who needs more than a brushed stainless steel case? You need hardened materials, a robust design, and a movement to match. You mean business, and that business takes you places no white gold ‘Sub would survive. Well, for you, my Rambo-like friend, I would suggest the Marathon MSAR Quartz (leave your mechanical snobbery at the door, thank you).
Marathon is famous for constructing watches for the Canadian and US military – divers, field watches, the lot! Take one look at this timepiece, and you’ll immediately know this isn’t a high-end dive watch. Developed according to the Canadian requirements for search and rescue missions, you have the addition of a reliable quartz movement to make sure you can tell time whether you’re buying a lifted F150 or actually on a mission.
An interesting feature is the use of tritium tubes for luminous material, which not only adds to the thickness of the watch but creates a look you just don’t get anywhere else. Personally, I’m a huge fan of everything Marathon does. They don’t lie – it’s utilitarian, get it, or get out. Honesty like that is rare these days.
#4 Best Chrono Option: Unimatic UC3
- Size: 41.5mm
- Movement: Seiko Meca-Quartz VK64
- Case and Strap Material: Stainless Steel with NATO Strap
- Water Resistance: 300m
As mentioned, some folks prefer a chronograph whilst diving. Perhaps the rotating dive bezel isn’t secure enough for you… Whatever your reason, we wanted to include an offering for you as well. The option of choice is this Unimatic UC3. Unimatic is perhaps not the most famous brand on the list unless you classify as a watch collector, in which case you’ll know of them as the minimalist brand from Italy.
The striking feature (or lack thereof) is the unidirectional dive bezel, which is completely dark with a small circle atop the 12 o’clock position. Perhaps not the best for recreational divers, but you win some and you lose some.
The large and legible hour markers and hands ensure you can use the watch in low light environments, and the quartz movement within (not the most accurate, though) ensures you can life carefree without ever wondering if the watch is wound – no Seiko shuffle with this bad boy. Some engravings around the crown and pushers create some extra visual interest. However, this is really a barebones design meant to be lowkey.
#5 Best for Value: Hamilton Khaki Navy Scuba
- Size: 43mm
- Movement: H-10 Caliber
- Case and Strap Material: Stainless Steel with Matching Bracelet
- Water Resistance: 300m
If I could be so bold, if you don’t like Hamilton, you probably don’t like a good buy. Or you’re on your third Rolls Royce… Hamilton is a byword for quality and value, offering some of the best field and aviation-inspired watches at a reasonable price. The Khaki Navy Scuba isn’t usually mentioned, and that’s a shame if we’re being honest. Shadowed under a host of more successful pieces, the Navy Scuba is still a smart buy.
For under $1000 you get a great diver featuring a unidirectional bezel with a Swiss movement within – the H-10, which is really just the Powermatic 80. You have a variety of colours (and strap options) all at the ready to join you as you undergo your diving journeys.
Upon an earlier review, I mentioned the 24-hour scale on the dial might be too much. However, now that I look at the watch again, I realize that this simply increases the functionality of the watch and ties into other designs that Hamilton is famous for. Opt for the option with the colour-matching dial, and you have a look like no other.
Best Divers Under $2,000
Two grand is a lot of money. Spend some time on Facebook Marketplace, and you might even find some cars for this price. Would I buy them? Not even if you paid me. That said, there are exceptional divers for under $2,000, and some of these can take hits from watches a lot more expensive than they are.
#1 Best Overall: Doxa Sub600T
- Size: 40mm
- Movement: Selita SW200
- Case and Strap Material: Stainless steel case with matching bracelet
- Water Resistance: 600m
Another Doxa on the list, and this time it’s coming in swinging with a heavy hitter. Right off the bat, we have a 600m water resistance rating, ensuring all your water sports will be cared for. From there, we have plenty of colour options to choose from, as we have come to expect from Doxa. If you like a plain black dial, go for it. Personally, I’d go for the white or the orange one. You have 38 hours of power resistance which is plenty for most people, if we’re being honest.
The only drawback is perhaps the actual case design. Some have complained that the rather sharp edges and misleading lug-to-lug make for an uncomfortable wearing experience. That said, when buying a watch with 600m of water resistance, you would expect some design features that are ‘odd’. Once you pass the “300 m diver” rating, watches begin to follow function and not just purely form – water pressure is a real thing, and one hell of a powerful thing as well…
#2 Best Looking: Zodiac Super Sea Wolf ZO9293 Meteorite
Size: 40mm
Movement: STP 1-11
Case and Strap Material: Grey DLC-coated stainless steel case and matching bracelet
Water Resistance: 200m
If you are remotely interested in watches, you know of Zodiac. Whether you’ve seen Nico advertise them on his YouTube videos or if you’ve seen them feature on Hodinkee, Zodiac deserves far more coverage than they are currently getting – especially this model. The Sea Wolf is certainly the best model they are known for, but this example holds a place in my heart as something special. It shares the same meteorite dial as you’ll find on the white gold Rolex GMT-Master II. This is special to me because both me and the meteorite are from Namibia, a small country at the Southern tip of Africa; in fact, I was born like 200 miles from the meteorite.
Regardless, you have a DLC-coated stainless steel case and bracelet that, when matched with this darkish dial, creates a beautifully stealthy look, with hints of blue on the minute track and hands. The rest of the watch is a typical Zodiac – reliable movement, water resistant to 200m, and at a reasonably affordable price. Maybe beauty can meet function at a great price after all…
#3 Best for Real Divers: Marathon GSAR 41mm
Size: 41mm
Movement: Selita SW200
Case and Strap Material: Stainless steel case with matching bracelet
Water Resistance: 300m
Marathon is back with another big hitter – literally. Here we have the GSAR 41mm (Government Search And Rescue), and this time it has an automatic movement. Takei it on the nylon strap and you might even save yourself a couple of bucks! This option comes in either an Artic white dial or regular black dial option – personally, the white looks the business.
The movement within is Sellita SW200 allowing for 38 hours of power reserve, and the unidirectional rotating bezel allows for 60 minutes of timing capabilities. And then, to ensure the watch is really a diver, the thick and well-rounded watch affords 300m of water resistance. Again, this is a watch built to be used, and abused, and it will keep coming back for more – you gotta respect that!
#4 Best for Value: Longines HydroConquest
Size: 41mm
Movement: Automatic 888 Caliber
Case and Strap Material: Stainless steel case, Ceramic Bezel, and stainless steel bracelet
Water Resistance: 300m
Longines is a company so close to my heart, with offerings that’ll make you ‘ooh’ and ‘aah’ all the way to the bank until you realize you’re paying a lot of money for a Longines. And the only reason that happens is because the company isn’t as well known as others – which is a shame, really.
After the recent update to the Conquest line, I’m praying the HydroConquest gets a similar treatment because the new Conquest has been making rounds as one fine offering. Regardless, the new HydroConquest is perhaps one hell of a sleeper on this list seeing as you get a Swiss movement (and watch) with a ceramic bezel that comes in various colours.
What?
A combination of these things at this price point is unheard of! Many will claim that it’s still not an in-house movement, but those that know, know that this movement has been so altered by Longines it becomes their own, essentially.
You can even opt for a version featuring a strap, something that’s not only incredibly convenient but also creates a whole new look! I’m just hoping the HydroConquest gets an update, too. Fix those crown guards, and I’ll be rocking one tomorrow!
Best Divers Under $5,000
The big 5-0. Five grand is a ton of money, and you would surely want to make sure your money is going to something worthwhile… Now, since there aren’t a lot of us that would be able to afford one of these, we’ll stick to two options for each segment. Regardless, here are the best divers under $5,000.
#1 Best Heritage Option: Omega Seamaster 300M
Size: 42mm
Movement: Master Chronometer Caliber 8800
Case and Strap Material: Stainless steel case, Ceramic Bezel, and rubber strap
Water Resistance: 300m
The first real big hitter on the list that’ll leave a massive hole in your pocket but will not only get you respect from most but will also hold its value rather well. The Seamaster has been a mainstay in the Omega lineup since… forever. Whether you’re doing recreational diving or simply diving into desk files, the Seamaster 300M is an exceptional option.
The latest iteration offers a stainless steel case with a ceramic bezel and, as always, comes in various colour schemes. Green if you cannot afford or find a Hulk or blue if you’re going classic.
A stainless steel band might not put us in the price bracket we want to pay respect to, so, the strap does lend itself to be more sporty, but pop it on a leather strap if you’re not actually going diving. This is a step up from something like a TAG Heuer Aquaracer but still comes in at a far ‘better’ price than something like a Glushutte.
As a diver watch, you’ll be pressed to find something that offers better value. Perhaps the only polarizing aspect is the helium escape valve, which does add dimension not all of us are very appreciative of. One thing that purists will find nice is the date window that doesn’t feature a Cyclops.
#2 Best Wild Card: Breitling SuperOcean Heritage ’57 Pastel Paradise
Size: 42mm
Movement: Breitling 10
Case and Strap Material: Stainless steel case and leather strap
Water Resistance: 100m
Here we have Breitling, synonymous with hardcore, large, and overbearing timepieces. The option I’m opting for is a wee “little” pastel green diver – the SuperOcean Heritage, offering 100m of water resistance, which arguably isn’t much. However, take a look at this watch, and you just know this is extremely similar to a (predictable) hybrid Bentley car.
Certainly, it has roots if being intimidating and robust, but with the world we live in it’s changed. The massive W16 engine has been replaced with a little hybrid motor, and the stern black and blue colors of the past have been replaced by colors that vegans would love (I am a vegan, so, please don’t get offended).
Within the stainless case beats the Breitling 10, which is based on the ETA 2892-A2, and offers a 42-hour power reserve. Some might complain five grand is a bit too much for a non-in-house movement, but let’s be honest, this watch is all about the looks.
Best Dive Watches Under $10,000
Ten whole grand. At this point, you’re either celebrating or a watch collector. That said, there are some exceptional pieces at this price point to consider. Here are the best dive watches for $10,000.
#1 Best Diver Ever (to Most) Rolex Submariner 124060
Size: 41mm
Movement: Rolex Caliber 3230
Case and Strap Material: Stainless steel case with matching bracelet
Water Resistance: 300m
Finally, we hear from the Crown. Sure, I skipped out on Tudor a bit earlier (and some might be upset, rightfully so), but it’s about time we include Rolex. The Submariner is perhaps the single most recognizable watch on the planet and certainly the most copied one.
You might not be able to opt for a precious metal option or even an option with a date, but you will get a watch that will not only retain its value but might even appreciate in value due to its market demand.
Now, of course, that means chances are you won’t be able to get it at the list price. That said, you still get the new and updated 41mm case with matching black cerachrom bezel and perhaps one of the most famous bracelets. Say what you like; it’s the best for a reason.
#2 Best No-Nonsense Diver: Submersible Bianco PAM02223
Size: 42mm
Movement: P.900 caliber
Case and Strap Material: Stainless steel case with rubber strap
Water Resistance: 300m
What about something from the other side? Bigger, bolder, and even more utilitarian than a Submariner? Well, allow me to introduce the Submersible – not that it needs an introduction. You either love it or hate it. Regardless, we cannot deny just how impactful Panerai has been on the market.
This particular model is rather striking, featuring a white dial – something we don’t see every day on Panerais. The black hour markers and hands ensure a highly legible dial, which makes it perfect for going to the Mariana Trench (which is a wee bit deep). Featuring a 42mm brushed case and rotating dive bezel, creating a unique look when combined with the trademarked crown guard. Once again, this is one of those love-it-or-hate-it options; I’m beginning to like the Panerai offerings.
Best Dive Watches Money No Object
But what about if you already own several Royal Oaks? What if your annual income is so high that you buy and sell watches based on how the wind is blowing? Well, with price no being no object, here are the best dive options…
#1 Best Diver All Things Considered: Rolex Sea-Dweller 126603
Size: 43mm
Movement: Rolex Caliber 3235
Case and Strap Material: Stainless steel and Yellow Gold case with matching bracelet
Water Resistance: 1220m
Big surprise, huh? Well, let’s break it down.
Here we have a massively respected brand offering a (good-looking) diver with more than 1000m of water resistance, and chances are you won’t see someone else wearing this bad boy because it’s not the most sought-after model…
A helium escape valve, a ceramic bezel, and a look that’s been certified and loved for decades. Sure, the two-tone option might not be the one most people want, but yet again, that simply increases the rarity. The calibre 3235 takes care of timekeeping duties and offers you plenty of power, 70 hours to be exact. Also, you get a helium escape valve as well.
This isn’t even ‘that’ expensive when compared to some other hype pieces on the market, then again, divers have never been hyped – unless you’re talking vintage models… And for those saying the watch is too big, yeah, maybe a regular Sub is the one for you.
(Bonus) #2 Best Second-Hand Diver(s): Tudor Pelagos, Seamaster 300, and IWC Aquatimer
Let’s kill three birds with one stone! If you aren’t too keen to spend your hard-earned money on a new offering, the second-hand market will always be there to help. You might want to avoid certain brands to stay away from inflated prices, so here are the top three divers to buy second-hand:
The Tudor Pelagos is about as pure (and cool) of a diver as you can get. A gentle blue colour scheme matched with the shaded hues of a titanium case is somewhat eye candy if you ask me. Plus, if you go for the FXD option, there’s a story attached to it as well.
The Seamaster 300 is your ‘vintage-inspired’ option here and is about as simple as they get. 300m of water resistance, 3 hands, and that’s your lot. Don’t overthink it, you just get a good Swiss diver with heritage and a unique look altogether.
Lastly, the IWC Aquatimer is a wildcard here, if I’m being honest, but I saw a titanium Aquatimer 2000 (IW3536-02) from the early 2000s, and it’s a looker! Sure, you certainly don’t get an in-house movement, and the look isn’t for everyone, but then again, your watch journey is about you and not everyone else…
Bonus – Best Dive Computers
In conclusion, we’ll do a short dive into the world of actual dive computers. As you may (or may not) know, divers have been evolving, and so have their tools. No longer will a perpetual calendar diver (which sounds amazing!) do the job. You need something a little bit more modern, offering more information and more utility. If you Google “Do I need a Dive Computer?” you’ll come across a couple of different answers.
“Because of this, safety is held in very high regard compared to other sports; there is no reason a diver shouldn’t want to take every precaution to keep themselves safe on a dive, and a dive computer is the most important safety item. A dive computer assists in this tedious task, as it tracks and stores all of your dive profile information for you — max depth, water temperature, bottom time, and any safety breaches that occurred on your dive.” – Source
So, if you take your diving rather seriously, you might want to opt for one of these, seeing as they are able to give you way more information than just the time and the date.
Best Dive Computer: Shearwater Perdix 2 Ti
Spend some time online, and you’ll soon learn this option is the one most trusted by those looking to go diving with serious intent. The Perdix 2 Ti is packed to the brim with features, including but not limited to:
- Wireless Air Integration
- Recreational, Gauge, Open-Circuit Tech, and Closed-Circuit/Bail-Out modes
- Bühlmann ZHL-16C algorithm w/ Gradient Factors
- 260 m maximum depth rating
- And a three-axis tilt-compensated digital compass
It comes in just North of $1,000 which is admittedly way higher than other offerings, but as the reviews state, you get what you pay for. The ‘Ti’ in the name alludes to the fact that titanium has been used on the bezel and touch buttons, not only increasing utility but also giving the watch a distinctive look.
Some have complained that the user interface isn’t the friendliest. However, spend some time to learn the ins and outs, and you should be good to go. Battery life is rated at 40 – 100 hours, which coincidentally, is very similar to most high-end mechanical watches.
Do you need a dive computer? Well, according to most real divers, you might. According to a diver on Reddit, “Yes, you can absolutely dive without a computer; between knowing how to plan your dives and diving conservatively, you shouldn’t need a computer.
That being said: Bare-bones simple puck computers cost as little as $100-150 these days and can mean the difference between a relaxed week of diving and constant stress and concerns, especially for a new diver, work of manually calculating dive profiles and tracking your time and depths during dive can be overwhelming while juggling buoyancy, trim, navigation and keeping formation with the group, not to mention enjoying sights.
Conclusion
As Teddy Baldessare so beautifully says, a diver should probably be your first watch. It’s robust, it’s utilitarian, and some of the examples mentioned are really not that big or ‘hulky’ looking. Some of these can really be worn on a daily basis and even to the office. That said, if something was designed to be used for a saturation dive, you’re going to pay the price with a sizable mm case size and a really thick bezel – probably. Overall, divers are simple to the core, and that’s where their beauty lies.
If you take diving a wee bit more seriously, then a computer wouldn’t go amiss. You could wear your Seiko PADI outside the water as a subtle hint to let the world know about who you are – or, a maybe not-so-subtle hint, you could opt for a COMEX Submariner. Show off…