Diving into the world of dive watches can be as thrilling as your underwater adventures. If you’re just starting out with your aquatic excursions, having a reliable dive watch is essential. Here’s a beginner-friendly guide to help you navigate the sea of options and find your perfect dive watch among the many luxury watch brands for men.
Water resistance
Water resistance is the most crucial feature of a dive watch. For most divers, a watch with 200 meters of water resistance is more than enough. This rating ensures your watch can handle the pressures of recreational diving. Anything that’s beyond 200m is usually unnecessary, unless you’re among the few diving to the extreme depths of the ocean. The TUDOR Black Bay dive watch is one of the most dependable dive watches today with a water resistance of 200m; but if you’re looking for one with a higher water resistance, the TUDOR Pelagos fits the bill with its 500m of water resistance.
Screw-down crown
A dive watch needs to be watertight, and that’s where the screw-down crown comes in. Unlike regular watches that have push-pull crowns, a screw-down crown creates a more secure seal. This prevents water from seeping in and damaging the watch, even under high pressure.
Bezel functionality
A unidirectional rotating bezel is another hallmark of dive watches, and allows the diver to track their dive time effortlessly. This kind of bezel can be found in watches like the Omega Seamaster Diver 300m. You also need to look for a bezel with clear markings and a secure grip.
Physical design
Dive watches aren’t just functional; they can be stylish too. With a wide variety of designs available, you don’t have to compromise on looks. A well-chosen dive watch can double as an everyday accessory, so you can seamlessly transform from your diving gear into your daily attire. TUDOR’s Black Bay 58 is an extremely popular dive watch for those looking for a smaller, dressier version of Black Bay.
Bracelet
Comfort is key, especially for extended wear. Dive watches typically come with bracelets made of rubber, silicone, or metal. Look for options with a deployment clasp and divers’ extension, which allows the watch to fit comfortably over a wetsuit. One great example of this is TUDOR’s T-fit system that allows for rapid length adjustment and offers five positions.
Legibility
Underwater visibility can be challenging, making legibility a top priority. Dive watches feature bold, luminous markers and hands to ensure you can read the time at a glance. A highly legible 12 o’clock marker also helps with orientation, which is crucial when you’re navigating the depths of the ocean.
Material
Choosing the right material for your first dive watch is also important. Stainless steel is a popular choice for its durability and classic look. Lightweight and hypoallergenic, titanium is perfect for those with sensitive skin, like the Grand Seiko Evolution 9 SLGA015 and the Pelagos 39. For something that is highly scratch-resistant and sleek, ceramic watches like the Black Bay Ceramic and the Omega Seamaster Diver 300m in black ceramic would be your best bet.
Helium release valve
A helium release valve is a specialized feature for commercial or military divers who spend long periods at great depths. It allows built-up helium gas to escape, preventing damage to the watch. However, this feature is not needed by recreational divers and is typically found on high-end professional dive watches like the Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean 600m.
Final thoughts
Buying your first dive watch is an exciting step into a new world of adventure. Focus on the essential features: water resistance, screw-down crown, bezel functionality, and legibility. Consider the material and comfort of the strap or bracelet, and choose a watch that reflects your style. With these tips, you’re well on your way to finding a dive watch that’s not only reliable but also a joy to wear both underwater and on dry land.
