A good dive watch is an absolute must in every gentleman’s repertoire, as it can easily be worn as an everyday watch and be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. We found the best quality pieces that will prove a great value for your money, all with an eye for a classic, timeless look and paying special attention to the quality of the movement, and the overall sturdiness and reliability. In no particular order, our winners are:
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Stuhrling Depthmaster Heritage
Specs:
- Movement: Automatic
- Caliber: CL-888
- Power Reserve: 36 hours
- Case Width: 42 mm
- Water Resistance: 200 m
The color teal on a watch dial is not something you see everyday. That’s why the Stuhrling Depthmaster Heritage caught our attention as well! Classic dive watch design, with an exciting pop of color that is still subtle enough to be appropriate as your everyday watch. It can worn with a casual Polo, or you can dress this timepiece up with a dark suit. The clean inner-workings of the Depthmaster Heritage are showcased in an exhibition caseback.
Invicta Pro Diver Automatic (35150)
Specs:
- Movement: Automatic
- Caliber: NH35
- Power Reserve: 41 hours
- Case Width: 43 mm
- Water Resistance: 100 m
When considering affordable, quality timepieces, Invicta is always at the top of the list. Their Pro Diver (35150) watch has a Japanese automatic movement sourced from Seiko, providing 41 hours of power reserve. The uni-directional rotating bezel makes a statement with the blue and black color combo, giving the watch an adventurous, outdoorsy flair. The stainless steel bracelet is fitted with a fold-over safety release clasp, and because of the 43mm case diameter, we recommend this option to gentlemen with all wrist sizes.
Dan Henry 1970 Automatic Diver Compressor
Specs:
- Movement: Automatic
- Caliber: NH35
- Power Reserve: 41 hours
- Case Width: 40 mm
- Water Resistance: 200 m
The Dan Henry 1970 is a limited edition timepiece–there are only 1970 pieces out there. It provides great legibility with large handset and indexes. There are different color combinations available, and all of them have great color contrast on the dial, making them highly visible at depths where light may be limited. The 1970 has a two crown design, the 2 o’clock crown operates the inner rotating bezel while the 4 o’clock crown adjusts the date and time. A unique choice, this is not a watch you will see on every corner.
Casio Men’s Duro Analogue MDV106-1A
Specs:
- Movement: Quartz
- Case Width: 44 mm
- Lug Distance: 20 mm
- Water Resistance: 200 m
Whether you are a surfer looking for a reliable way to track time while chasing the waves, or just want a good quality watch that will be your best friend no matter what adventure you embark upon, the Duro Analogue is not going to let you down. We love the black resin band and stainless steel look, and the contrasting dial markings ensure excellent visibility underwater, or in low light conditions.
Citizen Eco Drive PROMASTER Diver, BN0150-28E
Specs:
- Movement: Eco-Drive
- Caliber: E168
- Case Width: 44 mm
- Water Resistance: 200 m
Citizen’s watches with the Eco-Drive movement use light as a source powering them– whether natural or artificial. The energy is then stored in a rechargeable lithium-ion cell that can be charged continuously. You never have to worry about batteries again. The Promaster Diver is a great, classically designed dive watch with a durable polyurethane strap. A functional, practical choice that also happens to look great.
Seiko 5 Sports SRPD93
Specs:
- Movement: Automatic
- Caliber: 4R36
- Power Reserve: 41 hours
- Case Width: 42.5 mm
- Water Resistance: 100 m
Reliable and high quality automatic movement at a reasonable price point? Count us in. The Seiko 5 sports is a great choice by any standard; the moderate case size and the 4 o’clock crown positioning ensures a comfortable everyday wear, and we just love the deep blue color of the dial and bezel. High visibility is a must when it comes to good dive watches, and this one delivers with the contrasting cream colored hour markings.
Orient Kanno
Specs:
- Movement: Automatic
- Caliber: F6922
- Power Reserve: 40 hours
- Case Width: 44 mm
- Water Resistance: 200 m
The large case size on the Kanno by Orient is sure to make a statement, although due to the darker hues of the dial and bezel, the overall appearance is quite understated. This watch has a great automatic movement and a power reserve of 40 hours. It really speaks for itself with not much to add, except that it is a reliable, functional choice. The silicone strap ensures a comfortable wear for every day.
Phoibos Wave Master
Specs:
- Movement: Automatic
- Caliber: NH35
- Power Reserve: 41 hours
- Case Width: 42 mm
- Water Resistance: 300 m
The Phoibos Wave Master diver watch has all the features a classic dive watch should have. Reliable automatic movement (provided by Seiko), anti-reflection coating sapphire crystal dial window, and a three-fold clasp with push button release. To top it off, the Phoibos logo is absolutely badass, and the colorful hands and hour marks provide the perfect pop of color to ensure the eye-catching factor. Definitely one of our favorites.
Timex Navi XL 41mm Fabric Strap
Specs:
- Movement: Quartz
- Case Width: 41 mm
- Lug Distance: 20 mm
- Water Resistance: 100 m
The Timex Navi XL 41 mm Fabric Strap is a great watch with a surprises. First of all, it’s at a very affordable price point. The classic dive watch design with the brushed stainless steel case is a very solid starting point when searching for a new dive watch. It comes with a fabric NATO strap, so it’s comfortable AND durable. Water resistance is up to 100 meters, so feel free to go for that swim (or just drink something by the pool). Here comes our favorite part: it’s a 24-hour watch!