What Is a Dive Watch? Everything You Need to Know
Also known as a diver’s watch, this type of timepiece offers more than just water-resistance features.
To be classified as a dive watch, the model must meet specific standards set forth by the International Standardization Organization (ISO). More specifically, the watch must be able to accurately function during scuba diving and deep sea diving, at depths of at least 100 meters (or approximately 328 feet).
Since this is the bare minimum depth at which a dive watch must be able to function, you’ll find some dive watches that will continue to function at much, much greater depths — as much as 15,000 meters, or nearly 50,000 feet!
But that’s just the beginning of the magic of these incredibly unique luxury watches.
Keep Reading to Find Out…
- What is a good dive watch?
- How do dive watches even work?
- Is a dive watch right for you?
- How do you go about shopping for the best model?
- What are some affordable dive watches?
What You Will Learn
When Did Dive Watches First Come About?
It may come as a surprise, but the dive watch isn’t even 100 years old yet! It was first introduced in the 1930s.
Then again, the concept of wristwatches is fairly new. Pocket watches remained the preferred option until the 1900s, when wristwatches became popular due to their greater ease of use. Yet even in the vast modern world of watches, not all models are the same. There are many different types of watches nowadays, from racing watches to aviator watches to diving watches.
The Rise of Waterproof Watches
Water-resistant watches preceded the modern dive watch, with the waterproof Rolex Oyster rolling out in the 1920s. The Rolex Oyster is still a favorite watch today. Other watchmakers, such as Cartier, followed suit with their own waterproof models.
Then, in the 1930s, Omega took things to an entirely new level, with the Omega Marine, a watch tested at never-before-seen depths of 73 meters to ensure functionality. Divers began wearing the watch, and the demand increased during World War II for practical reasons.
After the war, diving became more mainstream among the general public (or at least for people who could afford this luxurious hobby), and the demand for underwater timepieces continued to grow for those who could invest in high-quality, luxury timepieces.
Today, you can easily find dive watches for sale from almost all major watch brands.
How Does a Dive Watch Work?
If you try to take a typical watch beneath the waves, it will begin to deteriorate and malfunction due to various factors. The water will negatively affect the precious metals used to manufacture the watch and the strap materials. The water could seep into the watch itself, damaging the movement. Furthermore, changing water pressures found deep underwater can impact the watch’s accuracy.
On the other hand, a dive watch is made from materials that can be exposed to water without deteriorating. It also features gaskets or o-rings designed to keep water out of the interior. Some dive watches may further feature details like a helium escape valve intended for specific types of diving, such as saturation diving. (However, the average wearer doesn’t need something that specific, as they’re likely not participating in such extreme types of diving.)
Is a Dive Watch Right for You?
If you’re an avid diver, investing in a dive watch is a great idea. However, even if you’re not a frequent diver, you could find that it’s still a worthwhile purchase for certain circumstances.
Consider buying a dive watch if:
- You frequently boat or swim, as the watch’s superior water-resistance features will still be valuable, even if you don’t dive.
- You want an ultra-durable watch that you don’t necessarily need to baby like you might other models.
- You want a watch that sports a rugged appearance to match its durability.
Of course, you should also consider your budget as you decide whether or not a dive watch is an ideal fit. Dive watches are notoriously expensive, so you may experience a little sticker shock if you’re unfamiliar with the luxury watch market.
Shopping for a Dive Watch: The Best Brands
If you’ve decided that a dive watch is right for you, many brands offer high-quality options at a range of price points, including:
How much can you expect to spend on a dive watch? Many go for thousands of dollars. For example, the Rolex Submariner can easily cost a cool $10,000, and that’s for one of the more affordable options. Some models go for $30,000 and up.
That said, if you want something more affordable, it is possible to buy a dive watch for under $1,000 via Seiko or Citizen.
Features of a Good Dive Watch
A truly high-quality dive watch should offer the following features and functions (and if the watch does not, it may not meet ISO diving watch standards):
- Clearly legible and distinguishable hour and minute hands, both from a distance and in the dark
- Magnetic, shock, and water-resistant features
- Water-resistant watch straps (metal bracelets made from titanium are preferable)
- Diving time indicator
- Unidirectional rotating bezel
- Screw-in crown
However, this is not a be-all, end-all list of desirable qualities in a dive watch.As with any jewelry purchase, it’s important to thoroughly research a piece before buying it.
What Is a Diver Watch FAQs
What Makes a Dive Watch Unique?
The primary factor that makes a dive watch unique is its ultra-water resistance. If the watch can function and remain water-resistant at depths of at least 100 meters, the piece can technically be called a dive watch.
How Are Dive Computers Different from Diving Watches?
While a dive computer may appear somewhat similar to a diving watch, they are very different. At its core, a dive watch is still a timepiece. In contrast, a dive computer is explicitly designed to offer information related to diving, such as oxygen levels, rate of ascent, and more.
What Are Tool Watches?
Tool watches are timepieces designed to serve specific functions or industries. Dive watches are considered tool watches. Other types of tool watches include racing watches and aviation watches.
What Are GMT Watches?
A GMT watch is simply a model that simultaneously shows the time in two time zones. While a GMT watch isn’t necessary for many wearers, it’s still a nice function that some enjoy, particularly if they travel frequently.
Can You Wear a Dive Watch Every Day?
Yes! In fact, dive watches make excellent everyday watches due to their greater durability. Thanks to the water-resistant and durable materials in a dive watch, you can easily go about your everyday activities without worrying about damaging your timepiece.
Purchased a Dive Watch? Protect It with BriteCo Insurance
No matter what type of watch you buy, ensure it’s adequately protected with luxury watch insurance from a specialty company like BriteCo. If your watch is damaged or lost, BriteCo’s comprehensive coverage can help repair or replace it with zero deductibles. Learn more and get a free quote from BriteCo now.
Related Article: How Much Is Watch Insurance & What Does It Cover?
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