The best dive watches do a lot more than tell the time and look good. They are designed to measure critical statistics such as dive times, depth, and decompression status, while also including a variety of features for greater safety.

Finding the right dive watch can be incredibly challenging, though, considering the vast array of choices available and the fact that not many of us can just order an iconic Rolex Submariner or Omega Seamaster Diver. And since factors such as water resistance, lumen brightness, and material durability must also be considered, the process can become even more complicated. 

Fortunately, we've done the research to find the best dive watches so that you don't have to risk wasting your money. Our top picks have a proven track record of performance and reliability in a variety of diving conditions, making them a surefire choice for any diver.

5 Best Dive Watches

1. Benrus: Sea Lord Dive Watch - Overall Best Dive Watch

2. ADDIESDIVE: Tuna 300 Automatic Diver Watch - Good for Low Visibility Dives

3. Momentum: Torpedo PRO Watersport Dive Watch - Ideal Choice for Diving Hobbyists

4. Casio: G-SHOCK Master of G-Land Mudman Watch - Top Digital Dive Watch

5. Momentum M-Ocean Black Dive Watch - Go-To Dive Watch for Divers With Small Wrists

Reviews of the Best Dive Watches

1. Benrus: Sea Lord Dive Watch - Overall Best Dive Watch

Pros:

• Swiss-made design
• Suitable for deep diving
• Scratch-resistant sapphire crystal
• Unidirectional, stainless steel dive bezel
• Water resistance 300m

Cons:

• Only certain watch parts are covered under warranty

Manufacturer Info

With a storied history that includes airmen, innovation, and royalty, Benrus has long been a symbol of quality watchmaking. The watchmakers take great pride in their craftsmanship, ensuring that every timepiece is a unique work of art.

The Sea Lord watch is no exception, featuring a Swiss-made design that enhances the vintage look. With careful steps taken to ensure the watch is suitable for deep diving and advanced features that keep it in optimal working condition for years to come, Benrus has created a stylish, reliable, professional diver watch that represents the highest level of quality and craftsmanship.

Sea Lord Dive Watch Highlights

If deep diving and extreme conditions are your thing, the Sea Lord from Benrus can stand up to any challenge. This watch features a screw down crown that prevents water infiltration and a unique 316L stainless steel case back design that ensures the watch can handle even the toughest depths with water resistance 300m or 30ATM. 

A lume unidirectional bezel and 39mm face diameter make the Sea Lord easy to read, even in the darkest conditions. While large enough to be seen, the watch is surprisingly lightweight and comfortable to wear all day.

The quick-release strap won't snag or tear your clothes, and the robust design makes it resistant to wear and tear. Those wanting to switch effortlessly from deep diver to modern style can easily switch out the strap for branded Italian leather in blue or black.

Why We Picked Sea Lord Dive Watch

No matter your diving experience, Benrus's Sea Lord dive watch is a top choice for quality and performance. With a Swiss-made design that stands up to deep dives and extreme conditions, the Sea Lord has been designed to help you get the most out of your dive time without hindrance.

Benrus Sea Lord Dive Watch Specs

• Water Resistance: 300m (30ATM)
• Bezel Type: 120-click unidirectional stainless steel 
• Case Materials: Stainless steel, sapphire crystal
• Strap Options: Black rubber, Italian leather

2. ADDIESDIVE: Tuna 300 Automatic Diver Watch - Good for Low Visibility Dives

Pros:

• Automatic divers watch
• Water resistance 300m
• Features luminous indexes & hands
• Large dial for easy reading

Cons:

• Heavier than other watches on this list

Manufacturer Info

ADDIESDIVE draws its inspiration from the spirit of adventure, focusing on creating reliable, high-quality watches that can stand up to any challenge. The brand's clean room workshops ensure nothing gets overlooked, with each detail crafted to perfection.

The Tuna 300 Automatic diver watch is the flagship of their collection and has been designed with the most avid divers in mind. With its superior construction, robust materials, and reliable performance, this watch will stand up to any adventure you throw at it.

Tuna 300 Automatic Diver Watch Highlights

The Tuna 300 Automatic watch is a workhorse and features 316L stainless steel construction that can withstand depths of up to 300 meters. The large, anti-glare dial makes it easy to read the time even in the darkest conditions, with luminous indexes and hands for added visibility.

Built to last, this watch also features a screw down crown case back that makes it resistant to water infiltration and corrosion. The synthetic sapphire crystal offers extra protection against scratches and impacts, while the ceramic unidirectional bezel is perfect for timing dives.

Super comfortable to wear in and out of the water, the Tuna 300 comes and stays secure with a clasping buckle and metal wrist strap that add to its timeless elegance and style.

Why We Picked Tuna 300 Automatic Diver Watch

The Tuna 300 from ADDIESDIVE is the perfect companion for any deep-sea exploration. Its robust construction, reliable performance, and stylish design make it a top choice for serious divers who take their sport seriously and need a watch with water resistance 300m for maximum reliability.

Tuna 300 Automatic Diver Watch Specs

• Water Resistance: 300m (30ATM)
• Bezel Type: Unidirectional ceramic bezel
• Case Materials: Stainless steel, synthetic sapphire crystal
• Strap Options: Metal wrist with folding safety clasp

3. Momentum: Torpedo PRO Watersport Dive Watch - Ideal Choice for Diving Hobbyists

Pros:

• Easy-to-read
• Suitable for depths up to 660ft
• Solid stainless steel case
• Shatter & scratch resistant

Cons:

• It may be cumbersome on smaller wrists

Manufacturer Info

Momentum creates straightforward watch designs that bring a sense of cool and calm to the active lifestyle. Using only quality materials designed to withstand water, shock, and temperature extremes, Momentum watches can handle just about anything life throws at them.

The brand's Torpedo PRO Watersport dive watch represents the 30+ years of watchmaking experience Momentum has put into its designs. Whether used as a tool for navigation or to keep track of dive times, the Torpedo PRO will perform safely and reliably thanks to its durable design and precision engineering.

Torpedo PRO Watersport Dive Watch Highlights

Momentum’s Torpedo PRO can withstand an impressive amount of pressure thanks to its solid stainless steel case. Up to 660ft of water resistance ensures that popular depths for recreational diving can be safely explored without losing the timepiece's accuracy.

The Japanese quartz movement and easy-to-read numerals are illuminated with a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, while the solid screw down crown offers extra protection from water infiltration. 

A unique manufacturing design limits painful wrist strap impressions often left by traditional dive watches and allows for easy adjustments to accommodate different wrist sizes. And with the stainless steel folding clasp, you can guarantee the Torpedo PRO will stay put no matter how rough the journey.

Why We Picked Momentum Torpedo PRO Watersport Dive Watch

The Momentum Torpedo Pro dive watch is an excellent choice for hobbyists and leisure divers looking for a reliable but stylish piece of essential diving equipment. Its precise movement, durable construction, and comfortable wrist strap make it a great everyday companion that can handle depths of up to 660ft.

Torpedo PRO Watersport Dive Watch Specs

• Water Resistance: 660ft (200 meters)
• Bezel Type: Unidirectional bezel
• Case Materials: Stainless steel, scratch-resistant sapphire crystal
• Strap Options: Stainless steel bracelet with folding safety clasp

4. Casio: G-SHOCK Master of G-Land Mudman Watch - Top Digital Dive Watch

Pros:

• 200-meter water resistance
• Mud & shock resistant
• Multifunction display
• Comfortable resin band

Cons:

• It may require extra time to set all features

Manufacturer Info

Casio has long been a leader in the electronics market, catering to both consumers and professionals alike. The company's exquisite craftsmanship is led by innovation, enabling it to create some of the most advanced timepieces using cutting-edge technology.

The G-SHOCK Master of G-Land Mudman is a perfect example of Casio's technical prowess, designed to withstand the rigors and pressure of professional diving, extreme sports, and other outdoor activities.

G-SHOCK Master of G-Land Mudman Watch Highlights

The G-SHOCK Master of G-Land Mudman is designed for the most extreme conditions, boasting 200 meters (660 ft.) of water resistance and mud & shock resistance. The wear-resistant case also features a multifunction display for a stopwatch, calendar, alarm, and up to 29 time zones.

G-SHOCK’s digital display is protected by a stainless steel and resin case for easy viewing in any environment. The comfortable resin band also ensures the watch stays put without causing chafing.

The G-SHOCK watch also features a full LED light for better visibility, an LED backlight display, and a low battery indicator to let you know when the watch needs charging - which should only be every few years.

Why We Picked Casio G-SHOCK Master of G-Land Mudman Watch

The Casio G-SHOCK Master of G-Land Mudman watch is a perfect choice for the most extreme conditions. It boasts superior water, mud, and shock resistance and an incredibly comfortable band that won't cause chafing. So if your diving adventures take you to rough terrain or extreme weather conditions, the G-SHOCK watch should prove to be a reliable companion.

G-SHOCK Master of G-Land Mudman Watch Specs

• Water Resistance: 200 meters (660 ft.)
• Bezel Type: Resin
• Case Materials: Resin
• Band Options: No-chaff resin strap

5. Momentum M-Ocean Black Dive Watch - Go-To Dive Watch for Divers With Small Wrists

Pros:

• Fits all wrist sizes
• Stylish, minimal design
• 200 meter (660 ft) water resistance
• Long battery life

Cons:

• Extra-scratch resistance only available with an upgrade

Manufacturer Info

It is already a given that Momentum creates some of the most stylish and robust dive watches. But the brand's combination of style, innovation, and practicality lends itself to more than intricate watches that can head to the depths of the ocean.

The Momentum M-Ocean Black dive watch is a practical tool with particular attention paid to wrist sizing and comfort, showing that Momentum can craft a quality dive watch that meets the needs of all divers.

Momentum M-Ocean Black Dive Watch Highlights

The Momentum is designed with versatility in mind, making it the perfect companion for both professional and recreational divers alike. With a band option suitable for any wrist size, this watch is perfect for those with smaller wrists.

The 42mm stainless steel case houses an anti-glare mineral crystal that provides an extra layer of protection while also allowing for easy viewing in any environment. This diver’s watch also boasts 200-meter (660 ft) water resistance and a long battery life of up to 5 years with standard use.

It is equipped with a unidirectional rotating bezel and luminescent quartz analog hands and markers, allowing divers to easily track their dive time while also providing a bit of extra style.

Why We Picked Momentum M-Ocean Black Dive Watch

The Momentum watch is the perfect choice for anyone looking for an everyday watch that can also stand up to extreme conditions. With its combination of practicality and style, this watch can be worn as easily outside the water as in it. 

Momentum M-Ocean Black Dive Watch Specs

• Water Resistance: 200 meters (660 ft.)
• Bezel Type: Unidirectional rotating
• Case Materials: Stainless steel screw down crown
• Band Options: Re-ply sport nylon web

How We Picked Our Recommendations for Best Dive Watches

Keeping track of time underwater is obviously the most essential function of any watch designed for diving, which is why we’ve made sure to include only the most reliable dive watches on our list. 

Most important to our research was finding timepieces that offer a range of features and have been tested in extreme conditions.

We looked for watches made from durable materials, with water resistance up to at least 200 meters (660 ft), and luminous hands or markers for easy reading in dark waters.

Special care was taken to include watches with both timeless designs and modern technologies to ensure that all styles and preferences could be included.

After all was said and done, we found the five best dive watches above to represent the ultimate combination of quality and value for recreational and professional diving.

What is a Dive Watch?

A dive watch is a timepiece explicitly designed for underwater activities like scuba diving. These sports watches are known to be reliable companions that can stand up to extreme conditions while also providing accurate readings.

Unlike regular, everyday watches worn by the average person, dive watches must be able to withstand not just moisture and humidity but also great depths. As a result, they are typically made from durable materials such as stainless steel, resin, and heat-tempered minerals and are equipped with features such as unidirectional rotating bezels and luminescent markers or hands.

The most intricate modern dive watch features an array of specialized functions and technologies, but the bottom line is that any dive watch must be able to keep track of time accurately while standing up to extreme conditions.

For this reason, those who make the best diving watches use only the best materials and construction techniques to ensure that their watches are reliable companions for divers, no matter the situation.

What To Look For in a Diver's Watch

Shopping for diving watches isn't always as easy as picking out a regular watch, and knowing what to look for can make all the difference when it comes time to explore the depths and hidden secrets of the seas.

Pressure resistance

The most critical factor in choosing a high-quality dive watch will be its ability to withstand underwater pressure. This is measured in various units, with the most common being water resistance in meters or atmospheres (ATM).

A good rule of thumb when selecting a dive watch is to look for one that has at least 20 ATM (200 meters or 660 ft) of water resistance. This is well within the range for most recreational divers, making it an excellent choice for those who don't intend to go too deep.

Dive watches marked with water resistance 300m or higher offer better reliability for professional divers who often find themselves exploring deeper depths. Additionally, watches with a water resistance 300m or more often have an enhanced casing that better protects the watch from external impacts.

Readability

There are two types of dive watches: analog and digital. In either case, both should have easy readability and legibility. The hands or numerals should be bold and luminescent, which allows you to tell the time even in darker waters.

To reduce underwater light reflection, you may also want to prioritize watches with anti-glare coating or blue-light filtration technology. These features are convenient for divers who often squint at their watches in bright or shallow waters.

Durability

Many dive watches double as personal timepieces, meaning they must be durable inside and outside the water. By design, diving watches are crafted to be extra durable, but some can have more robust construction than others.

For example, dive watches with a sapphire crystal case design often offer better scratch resistance and durability than those with a mineral glass case. However, sapphire crystal may not be as shatter or shockproof as the latter.

In this case, it's important to remember that your dive watch will need to be able to take a beating while also looking good on land, so you may want to consider your lifestyle while choosing to ensure the dive watch can withstand your daily activities.

Bezel design

The bezel is a part of the watch that is often overlooked but can be incredibly useful, especially for divers. This circular piece surrounding the watch's face usually has a rotating or ratcheting function and can help you keep track of time. Most dive watches are made with either a stainless steel or ceramic bezel.

The most common type of diving bezel is the unidirectional (or rotating) bezel, which can only be rotated in one direction. Unidirectional bezels are designed to prevent you from miscalculating your dive time, making them an essential feature for those who spend more than a few minutes underwater.

If you are a professional diver or require additional features, you may want to look for dive watches with a bi-directional bezel. This allows the wearer to adjust the time in either direction and can be useful for divers who need to keep track of decompression times or elapsed time.

Wristband

No matter how great a dive watch is, you won't want to wear it if it doesn't fit comfortably on your wrist. Dive watches typically come with rubber or nylon bands, which provide greater comfort and flexibility than regular watch straps.

However, many watches have interchangeable bands made from stylish leather, stainless steel, and other materials. These bands can help turn your affordable dive watch into a stylish timepiece that is just as suitable for everyday wear as it is for deep-sea excursions.

Benefits of a Dive Watch

Beyond unparalleled timekeeping and durability, dive watches offer a host of benefits that keep divers safe, informed, and stylish. Understanding these benefits can help you decide if a dive watch is right for you.

Preventing the bends

Dive watches are essential for monitoring dive times and avoiding decompression sickness, also known as the bends. This condition can be painful and even fatal if not treated in time, making dive watches a crucial safety tool.

Numerous functions

The features of most dive watches go far beyond telling the time. They often come with extras such as stopwatch functions, digital compasses, and barometers to help divers plan their dives more accurately and monitor their underwater environment.

Reduced Gear

Because dive watches come with all the features a diver might need, they can help reduce gear-related clutter and distractions. This allows divers to focus more on their safety and enjoyment while exploring the depths. 

For example, many digital dive watches feature calendars, alarms, and other functions that can help divers keep track of their activities without the need for bulk computer equipment.

Reliability

Dive watches are designed to withstand intense pressure and extreme temperatures, unlike everyday watches. This makes them incredibly reliable timekeeping devices for both underwater and surface activities. Additionally, the best dive watches have a longer battery life compared to other timepieces, often up to five years.

Can a Dive Watch Be an Everyday Watch?

It goes without saying that a modern dive watch can easily transition into an everyday watch. The incredible durability and long battery life make a diver’s watch an ideal timepiece for everyday use.

Some dive watches even have interchangeable bands that allow you to switch up your look and wear it with any outfit. And with handy features in digital models that track the date, multiple time zones, and more, dive watches offer much more than just reliable timekeeping that can serve to enhance your everyday life.

Pro Tip: If you plan on wearing your dive watch with water resistance 300m or more regularly, always ensure it is properly maintained and serviced as recommended by the manufacturer. This will ensure you get the most out of your dive watch and enjoy its long-lasting performance.

How To Care For a Dive Watch

Dive watches are designed to withstand the harshest conditions but still require proper care and maintenance for optimal performance. Here are a few tips on properly caring for your dive watch.

• Inspect it regularly to ensure there are no signs of wear or damage.
• Clean it with fresh water and a soft cloth after each dive.
• Keep it away from strong magnets, which can interfere with the accuracy. 
• Use a soft brush to remove dirt and debris around the buttons and crowns.
• Have your watch serviced at least once every two to five years.

It is essential to avoid exposing your dive watch to extreme temperatures and chemicals, as this can cause the seals to degrade and reduce its water resistance. Additionally, never attempt to open or repair a dive watch yourself – always have it serviced by a professional who understands the complexities of devices marked at water resistance 300m+.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does a true dive watch have a helium escape valve?

Yes, a true dive watch must have a helium escape valve in order to be certified as an authentic diving timepiece. This feature is essential for ensuring the watch won't be damaged by any pressurized gasses that may get trapped inside while deep-sea diving. 

A helium escape valve can be found on the side of the watch case. Be aware that if your watch doesn't have a helium escape valve, it's unsuitable for deep-sea diving.

2. What are the features of a modern dive watch?

Modern dive watches come with a variety of features to help divers stay informed and safe while underwater. These include chronographs, digital compasses, altimeters, barometers, thermometers, and even cameras. 

Many models also come with stopwatch functions that allow divers to monitor their dive times more accurately. Additionally, modern diving watches come with interchangeable bands and straps, allowing divers to customize their style.

3. How much does a dive watch cost?

Understand that quality and cost go hand-in-hand when it comes to a quality diving watch, but investing in a high-quality deep-sea watch doesn’t have to mean spending huge sums on an iconic dive watch like a Rolex Submariner. 

In truth, an affordable dive watch is easy to find, but you'll need to ensure you aren't sacrificing quality for price to get the most out of your watch. Additionally, investing in a quality dive watch will save you on maintenance and repair costs in the future.

4. How do you use a bezel?

To use the bezel, set the zero marker at the minute hand's position. This marker will serve as the starting point for measuring elapsed time. Once the bezel is set, you can turn it to measure any given amount of time up to an hour. Then, to reset the bezel, simply align the zero marker with the minute hand again, and you'll be ready to start timing your next dive.

5. When should I service my dive watch?

Dive watch manufacturers recommend regular servicing of your dive watch every 2-5 years. Additionally, it is important to have any repair work done by a qualified horologist or watchmaker with experience with dive watches so you can be sure the job is done correctly and that parts are replaced with genuine manufacturer parts. 

With proper maintenance and servicing, you can ensure your dive watch will remain in excellent condition for many years to come.

6. How do you set a dive watch?

Most dive watches are self-winding, meaning they don’t need to be wound manually. To set the time, simply pull on the crown of your watch until it clicks and can be turned freely in either direction. Next, turn it clockwise to move the hands forward or counter-clockwise to move them backward. Finally, when you have the time set to your desired time, push the crown back in until it clicks into place. Your dive watch is now ready for use.

Keep Time Underwater with a Top-Notch Dive Watch

Nothing beats a reliable dive watch when it comes to keeping time underwater. Whether you're a serious deep-sea diver or just looking for an everyday timekeeper with outstanding durability, a dive watch is the perfect choice.

With interchangeable bands, analog and digital designs, and features specifically catered to the needs of deep-sea divers during any activity, investing in a quality dive watch will serve you well for years to come.

If you still aren't sure which watch is best for you, consider purchasing from the top five dive watches above. Chosen for their quality, durability, and design, these models offer unbeatable performance that will withstand the pressures of any deep-sea adventure.

Summary of the Best Diving Watches

1. Benrus: Sea Lord Dive Watch - Overall Best Dive Watch

2. ADDIESDIVE: Tuna 300 Automatic Diver Watch - Good for Low Visibility Dives

3. Momentum: Torpedo PRO Watersport Dive Watch - Ideal Choice for Diving Hobbyists

4. Casio: G-SHOCK Master of G-Land Mudman Watch - Top Digital Dive Watch

5. Momentum M-Ocean Black Dive Watch - Go-To Dive Watch for Divers With Small Wrist