Best Dive Watches 2022 – Top Rated Watches From Affordable to Luxury

Dive watches are a great addition to any diver’s equipment list.

Apart from the basic functions of a regular wrist watch, they’re great for measuring a diver’s elapsed time under water.

Although diving watches have been superseded by personal dive computers, they still find their niche in the market. 

Hold up, we know what you’re thinking. What if I’m not a diver?

Well, no prob Bob…or Steve…dive watches can make a bold and stylish time piece that compliments the everyday man’s wardrobe.

Even if you’re into other water sports, not necessarily related to diving, a high quality “waterproof” dive watch can still meet your needs.

Due to FTC regulations, watches can no longer be advertised as waterproof, but instead, water resistant to a certain depth, however people still use the term “waterproof” quite loosely and frequently in describing dive watches.

In reality, a genuine, present-day, diver’s watch is designed in accordance with the ISO 6425 standard – test standards for watches suitable for diving in depths of 100m (330ft) or greater.

The market appears to be saturated with cheap dive watches, but chances are you’ll be spending money quite frequently on replacement timepieces, so at All Things Waterproof, we recommend you stick to well-known brands – such as Seiko, Citizen, Omega, etc. By the end of this article, we’ll prove you can find high quality and affordable dive watches for under $500.

Editor’s Pick: Best Dive Watch for the Money

Our Editor’s Pick is the Seiko Men’s SKX007K waterproof dive watch – a versatile, stylish, 21-jewel automatic watch. Its stainless steel case and scratch-resistant Hardlex crystal prove this diving watch can withstand tough environments.

A one-way rotating bezel keeps track of elapsed time – perfect for diving and other activities. This very affordable diving watch meets ISO standards – making it perfect for scuba diving, and is water resistant up to 200m (660 ft).

Definitely a great buy for anyone searching for a fashionable yet practical watch. It’s no wonder it’s our Editor’s Pick. But there are many other great diving watches to choose from, let’s have a look.

Best Cheap Dive Watch Under $100

Note: Price Categories are just for orientation and were correct at time of publication, prices are subject to change, always click the Price Check button to see the latest best price for each watch.

Casio Men’s MDV106-1AV 200M Duro Analog Diving Watch

Casio, stalwarts of the watch industry, nailed it with this low-priced, classic, true dive watch. It features a black resin band and stainless steel case contributing to its classic look.

Water resistant up to 200m (660ft), its anti-reverse bezel gives it classic dive functionality, with an easy-read, simple 3-hand analog. It features a screw-down crown and a date window at the 3 o’ clock position. Atomic timekeeping prevents users from having to reset time.

Said to be inspired by the sea, this is a simple yet functional cheap dive watch for those on a tight budget. Other good dive watches in this category are the Invicta Pro Diver Watches.

Best Affordable Dive Watches Under $300

Seiko Men’s SKX007K Automatic Dive Watch

Our Editor’s Pick is the Seiko Men’s SKX007K automatic dive watch – a versatile, stylish, 21-jewel automatic watch. Its stainless steel case and scratch-resistant Hardlex crystal prove this diving watch can withstand tough environments.

A one-way rotating bezel keeps track of elapsed time – perfect for diving and other activities, and one if its best features is the Seiko SKX007K’s ability to automatically wind itself with the motion of your wrist – yes, no need to change the battery.

This diving watch meets ISO standards – making it perfect for scuba diving, and guarantees waterproof protection up to 200m (660 ft). Definitely a great buy for anyone searching for a fashionable yet practical watch. It’s no wonder it’s our Editor’s Pick.

Citizen Eco-Drive Men’s BN0151-09L Promaster Divers Watch

Back in 1924, when Citizen was established, the architects behind the brand chose the name so it would be “close to the hearts of people everywhere.” Well, they really lived up to the mission statement with the Eco-Drive Men’s BN0151-09L Promaster dive watch.

Water resistant to 200m (660ft), the Eco-Drive is great for water sports, scuba diving, marine activity, and simply daily use. A 43mm stainless steel case provides durability and the analog display is easy to read. The Eco-drive waterproof dive watch utilizes light as a source of power so there’s no need to replace the batteries.

Citizen Men’s BJ8050-08E Eco-Drive Professional Solar Dive Watch

Another great watch by Citizen, the BJ8050-08E Eco-Drive Professional dive watch features an easy-to-read dial with a rotating bezel and luminous hands. Like all Eco-drive watches, battery power is fueled by light – Yup, no need for replacement batteries.

Water resistant to 300m (1000ft), the BJ8050-08E is ideal for scuba diving and almost all water activities, yet its design is still stylish enough to wear almost anywhere. Another great watch by Citizen for those on a budget.

Orient #FAA02003B Men’s Ray II Raven 200M Automatic Dive Watch

Unlike the watches we’ve reviewed so far, the Orient Ray II features a push button deployment clasp but shares the popular stainless steel case. A unidirectional turning bezel and luminous hands and markers are additional features in this diving watch by Orient.

21-jewels self-winding automatic movement, similar to that found in our Editor’s Pick, along with its water resistance of up to 200m (660ft) make this a great watch for diving, swimming, and other marine/water related activities.

Seiko SRP775 Automatic Divers Watch

Seiko, another well-known and respected brand in the world of watches, designed the SRP775 with the diver and common man in mind. Another versatile watch for those on a budget, the SRP775 features both hand and automatic winding capabilities.

Water resistant to 200m (660ft) this watch is good for free diving, water sports, and most water activities, and has a power reserve of approximately 41 hours. It features a unidirectional bezel. This watch definitely holds its own in the under $300 category.

Best Dive Watches Under $500

Seiko Women’s SRPA21 Prospex X Padi Analog Automatic Dive Watch

Another Seiko diver’s watch for the ladies is the Prospex X Padi, water resistant to 200m (660ft), and much like its cousin, the Seiko SRP775, the power reserve provides approximately 41 hours of reserve.

With hand and automatic winding capabilities, this women’s dive watch incorporates a 44mm stainless steel case with three-fold clasp and secure lock. Yet another great watch by Seiko for those on a budget, that incorporates both style and functionality.

Best Dive Watch Under $1,000

Victorinox Swiss Army Men’s 241426 Dive Master 500 Black Ice Diving Watch

Running in the high 3’s price range, this dive watch by Victorinox is water resistant up to 500m (1,640ft) making it exceptionally great for scuba diving and any other water-related event. The durability of this timepiece is owed to its round, PVD-coated, stainless steel case.

This men’s dive watch carries a bezel with engraved minute markings and Arabic numerals and prides itself on its trustworthy Swiss quartz movement and anti-reflective sapphire crystal protection. This is definitely a great product for under $500 and is also available in the Women’s option, with the only real difference being the green strap and gold case.

Marathon WW194018 JSAR Military Diver’s LGP Watch

Now, if you’re looking for a watch that has rugged, durable, built-to-last, and just straight up tough written all over it, then the MARATHON WW194018 Jumbo diver’s watch is the one for you.

Weighing in at just under $900, this price is a steal with features such as MaraGlo photoluminescence paint for the markers and hands, high torque movement, and it’s specific design for search and rescue maritime missions.

Built to Government MIL-SPEC, this diver’s watch can withstand up to 300m (1,000ft) underwater. The Jumbo Search & Rescue (JSAR) toughness combined with the stylish Swiss craftsmanship ensures this watch will get the job done any and everywhere.

Best Dive Watches Under $2,000

Oris Pro Diver Moon Pointer Automatic Men’s Diving Watch

Oris has successfully designed a watch that can withstand unimaginable depths while maintaining a classy, stylish, semi-space age look – these qualities combined make the Oris Pro Diver Moon Pointer what it is.

It features a titanium case and bracelet designed to protect its silver-tone luminescent hands and markers. A screw down crown and scratch-resistant Sapphire crystal backed by a solid case back guarantee this watch can stand formidably against most environments.

The Pro Driver is water resistant to depths of a whopping 1,000m (3,281ft), and although it stands a couple dollars shy of the $2,000 mark, it’s unquestionably worth its price tag.

Dievas Vortex Tactical Dive Watch

Similar to the MARATHON WW194018, this watch by Dievas was designed with the tactical, military client in mind. Manufactured from aerospace grade 5 titanium with a hard, matte black coating for scratch resistance, durability, and of course, aesthetics.

Apart from its screw down crown and precise 60-click bezel, this scuba diving watch also features an Automatic Helium Valve (AHV) making it ideal for saturation dives – with an increased water resistance of up to 500m (1,640ft).

The surface is sealed with blemish-free Swiss grade dome sapphire crystal treated with military grade anti-reflective coating – significantly improving readability. If those aren’t enough features, two tactical strap choices accompany the Vortex Tactical Dive Watch – military green or black.

High-End Dive Watches

Best Dive Watch Under $5,000

Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean Black Dial Men’s Dive Watch

At first glance, the Omega Seamaster carries a simple, borderline “boring” appearance, however, it’s loaded with the qualities expected in any high-end diving watch of its kind.

As expected, it carries automatic self-winding movement, 60-hour power reserve, a sealed, durable sapphire crystal surface – to protect it from scratches, and it’s water resistant to 600m (1,968ft). Equipped with a certificate of authenticity and 4-year International warranty, this watch proves that looks truly can be deceiving. Perfect if you want a great high quality dive watch that doesn’t attract attention.

Tudor Pelagos 25600TN-BKTI Black Dial Titanium Men’s Dive Watch

Pros:

• Unidirectional bezel
• Date-only window
• Good luminosity
• Automatic self-winding movement
• Helium Valve

 Cons:

• Hardly any negative reviews

Another high end dive watch, by Tudor, is the Tudor Pelagos Black Dial Titanium Men’s watch. This lovely men’s timepiece, crafted in Switzerland, features bold hands and hour markers with a neat center second display.

Initially, this watch appears to be dinner or cocktail party apparel, however, it can withstand the trying environments of diving. Equipped with a helium valve – ideal for saturation diving, this watch can withstand depths of up to 500m (1,640ft). It’s also supplied with a black rubber strap.

TAG Heuer CAN1010BA0821 Men’s Aquaracer Chronograph Watch

Pros:

• Unidirectional bezel
• Date-only window
• Good luminosity
• Chronograph

 Cons:

• Skeleton arms make it hard to read

TAG Heuer, a popular brand in the timepiece industry did not disappoint with the Aquaracer. Luminescent hands and markers, polished and brushed stainless steel case and bracelet, unidirectional black ion-plated bezel, and waterproof up to 300m (1,000ft) – this watch is said to combine style, sophistication, and functionality.

Fear not, ladies, it’s available in the Women’s version with a single-locking-fold-over closure and identical waterproofing qualities. Great from diving to dinner.

Best Luxury Dive Watches

Rolex Submariner 116610LN Men’s Dive Watch

Rolex, another household name in watches, have really proven their worth throughout the years and no difference is witnessed in the Submariner Men’s Diving Watch.

A stainless steel case provides protection to the expensive inner workings of this timepiece while a stainless steel oyster bracelet brings you a style to compliment your wardrobe. It also features a unidirectional rotating bezel coupled with luminescent hands and markers.

A scratch resistant sapphire crystal surface makes this luxury diving watch easy to read. Water resistant up to 300m (1,000ft), this watch can survive your most adventurous dive and still make it in time (saw what we did there?) for dinner!

Omega Seamaster 300 Titanium

We’ve seen its equally gorgeous companion the Omega Seamaster Planet, however, on closer inspection the Omega Seamaster 300 adopts a classier look. With a unidirectional rotating titanium (with blue ceramic) bezel, this timepiece is guaranteed to accent any wardrobe.

A blue dial with luminous silver-tone hands and markers, coupled with Arabic numerals at the 12, 3, 6, and 9 o’ clock positions, this waterproof dive watch marries poise and performance. Water resistant to 300m (1,000ft) its scratch resistant sapphire crystal face makes it easy to read just as well underwater as at the cocktail reception.

Rolex Men’s Submariner Automatic Blue Dial Oyster 18k Solid Gold

Welcome to the heavy hitters of our dive watch categories, dominated by Rolex, first up is the Rolex Men’s Submariner Automatic Blue Oyster dive watch, fully loaded with 18k solid gold. At All Things Waterproof, we highly revere the adage, “go big or go home”.

At almost $26,000, this watch is guaranteed to turn heads above and below water. Its band material is crafted from Oyster 18k solid gold, faced with scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, protecting a blue dial with bold, luminous hands and markers.

As gorgeous and elegant as this watch may appear, it still packs a punch with its water resistant qualities of up to 300m (1,000ft). Even the fish will be jealous.

Rolex Oyster Perpetual Sea-Dweller

When you have this watch in your possession, it has ‘new-watch smell’ written all over it. Designed by Rolex, this new generation Sea-Dweller features a larger 43mm case and a Cyclops lens for enhanced date reading.

On your wrist, with the Sea-Dweller, will be a watch that subtly combines technical diver’s watch with opulent event timepiece. Equipped with a helium escape valve, and waterproof to a depth of 1,220m (4,000ft) – the absolute deepest we’ve reviewed thus far, this top dive watch also features a 60-minute graduated, unidirectional rotatable bezel with a patented black Cerachrom bezel insert – in simpler words, it’s virtually scratch-proof and it’s color unaffected by UV rays.

A corrosion-resistant 904L steel case makes it ideal for saltwater use, along with the screw-down crown fitted with Triplock triple waterproofness system. The waterproof Oyster case is ideal for protection of the Perpetual Sea-Dwellers exquisite components. With approximately 70 hours of power reserve, Rolex has encapsulated its awe-inspiring pendulum inside a watertight, ready-for-diving, fashionable dive watch.

Buyer’s Guide – What Am I Looking For When Buying a Dive Watch?

 Water Resistance Rating

As we’ve mentioned before, no watch can be advertised as waterproof due to FTC Regulations, but will instead carry a water resistant rating up to a certain depth. Cheaper watches with a 100m (330ft) are only good for showering, surface swimming, and light water-related activities, however, any watch you plan to take into the world of diving should carry at least a 200m (656ft) water resistant rating.

A simpler way to fully grasp the waterproof rating concept can be seen in our table here:

Rotatable Bezel

While the rotatable bezel in a dive watch can significantly contribute to the aesthetics of the watch, it’s even more important in serving as a reference feature indicating elapsed time – something critically important in the world of diving. Although it’s usually a standard feature in watches worn by divers, it’s still worth keeping an eye out for.

A unidirectional rotating bezel will only turn anti-clockwise and should be easily readable. The bezel saves the diver from having to remember the precise time of entry in the water. Upon entering the water, the diver aligns the bezel with the minute (or sometimes second) hand allowing the elapsed time to be read directly from the bezel.

The unidirectional feature is critically important as well, so that should the bezel be rotated inadvertently the apparent elapsed time would increase – this acts as a “fail safe”. Let’s say the bezel could be turned clockwise (inadvertently), the diver could interpret the elapsed time as being shorter than it really is, leading to a falsely shorter saturation time, and subsequently a dangerous situation.

 Quartz vs Mechanical

The heartbeat, so to speak, of your watch, is known as the caliber – essentially it’s what makes your watch tick. The two types of movement are quartz and mechanical. Quartz movements utilize battery power and are generally less expensive than mechanical. However, naturally, one day you’ll have to change the battery.

On the other hand, mechanical movement is common in high-end, luxury watches. Apart from the obvious not having to change the battery, it’s really the craftsmanship and artistry that make mechanically powered watches a step above the others.

 Luminous Hands & Hour Markers

An easily overlooked feature in the world of watches is whether you’ll be able to tell time in dark environments or not. The majority of dive watches will have luminous hands and markers, whereas, others may have a physical button to engage a backlight.

The advantage of choosing a dive watch with luminous hands and markers, over one with a backlight, is that it’s almost ‘automatic’. Once the hands and markers have absorbed the much-needed light from a light source, you’ll have great ‘glow in the dark’ reference when you need it most.

 Escape Valve

While it could bust your budget depending on what you’ve got planned, spending the extra buck on a watch with an escape valve can serve to be priceless – especially if what you’ve got planned entails pressure and deep-water saturation dives.

An escape valve regulates the pressure accumulated inside the case during decompression phases and although this feature might run your price tag up slightly, it’ll save you having to buy a new watch or spend money on costly repairs in the long run.

 Aesthetics & Additional “Cool” Features

Remember, a watch is a multi-functional tool, especially a dive watch, which can be your best friend both in and out of the water. A professional dive watch may look very purpose-driven and utility underwater, but a few cool features such as bold Arabic numerals, clear enhanced date displays, and tough but elegant bracelets or straps can truly complement your wardrobe out of the water. If it means spending a couple extra bucks on a watch that may have aesthetically inviting features, we say “Go for it!”

Care Instructions

A simple, yet effective acronym, R.I.S.E, is a good way to take care of your dive watch. Here it goes.

R – Rinse your dive watch, just as you would any other piece of equipment, after each dive. We both know the perilous effects of saltwater and subsequent corrosion. regular cleaning of the strap will prevent dust and dirt accumulation.

I – Insuring your dive watch. This may seem a little far out, but if you’ve spent well in the tens of thousands, thousands and even high hundreds on your dive watch, it might pay to obtain insurance that covers unfortunate events such as accidents, theft, loss, etc.

S – Store your dive watch in its original case or aftermarket case if you don’t plan to wear it for a while. This will help prevent the accumulation of dust and the possibility of scratches and nicks should it take and unlikely fall from your bedside table. Additionally, avoid storing in extreme temperatures such as the heat of your car or heat sources, or even places where it can easily be stolen.

E – Enjoy your watch. You’ve spent your hard-earned money on it and once you take proper care of it, it will take proper care of you – from the open water to the dinner table.

Conclusion

A dive watch can be a treasure, a timepiece, and your best friend all at the same time. We’ve given you endless options suitable for varying budgets under varying circumstances.

You don’t have to be a diver to buy a dive watch, and you can guarantee once it’s good enough for scuba, it’ll be just about good enough for any water related activity or accidental land-based water spill.

Follow our Buyer’s Guide and our Care Instruction section and you’ll be guaranteed to be happy with your purchase and enjoy many long years with your waterproof dive watch. Hey, we’ve heard if you treat it good enough, it might even outlive you!