Comparison Dive Watches
A function-first instrument, every dive watch complies with strict parameters and could even save your life
A dive watch is about more than sporty good looks. To qualify as a true diver, it must meet the criteria of ISO 6425. These include water-resistance to at least 100 metres, a secure means of measuring dive times, a rotating bezel and indications that remain clearly legible in underwater light conditions. Every detail of this remarkable and potentially lifesaving mechanism is explored in The Millennium Watch Book - Divers Watches from GMT Publishing.
Alpina : CHF 1,795
A good, sound instrument that delivers the essential characteristics of a dive watch thanks to a robust case and a notched rotating bezel that’s easy to grip even with gloves. Luminescent markers and hands stand out against a black dial. Eco-friendly, it’s also price-friendly.
Seastrong Diver 300 Automatic Calanda © Alpina
Seastrong Diver 300 Automatic Calanda in recycled steel, unidirectional rotating steel bezel, 42mm diameter, automatic movement with date in an aperture, recycled plastic strap, water-resistant to 300 metres. 300-piece limited edition.
Eberhard & Co. : CHF 3,780
This dive watch ticks every box, from the rotating bezel and excellent legibility to a hard-wearing rubber strap, among other features. A special mention for the all-black version in DLC-treated steel.
Scafograph 200 © Eberhard & Co.
Scafograph 200 in DLC steel, unidirectional rotating ceramic bezel, 43mm diameter, automatic movement, rubber strap, water-resistant to 200 metres. 135-piece limited edition.
Breitling : CHF 4,600
A reissue of a cult dive watch from 1960, enriched with modern features. Highlights include a ceramic bezel, hands and markers with a coating of Super-LumiNova plus an automatic movement that benefits from a two-year warranty.
Super Ocean Automatic 46 © Breitling
Superocean Automatic 46 in steel, bidirectional rotating ceramic bezel, 46mm diameter, automatic movement, rubber strap, water-resistant to 300 metres.
Omega : CHF 5,400
Introduced in 1993, the Seamaster resurfaces in impressive style. The green of the wave-patterned dial coordinates with the unidirectional rotating bezel in polished ceramic, which carries a diving scale in white Grand Feu enamel.
Seamaster Diver 300 © Omega
Seamaster Diver 300 M in steel, unidirectional rotating ceramic bezel, 42mm diameter, automatic movement with date, steel bracelet, water-resistant to 300 metres.
Panerai : CHF 11,200
Panerai’s aptly-named Submersible returns with a more refined design and execution. This muscular dive watch is deserving of its attractive green colour for its use of eco-friendly recycled materials, with a case in recycled steel and a strap in recycled plastic.
Submersible QuarantaQuattro © Panerai
Submersible QuarantaQuattro eSteel™ in recycled steel, unidirectional rotating ceramic bezel, 44mm diameter, automatic movement with date and small seconds, recycled plastic strap, water-resistant to 300 metres.
Jaeger-LeCoultre : 18,300
Proof that a dive watch can meet the requisite criteria and bring a touch of style to the wrist. Jaeger-LeCoultre has replaced the (can be bulky) rotating bezel with a slim rehaut that sits under the crystal, around the edge of the dial.
Polaris Mariner Memovox © Jaeger-LeCoultre
Polaris Mariner Memovox in steel, 42mm diameter, automatic movement with date in an aperture, steel bracelet, water-resistant to 300 metres.
Rolex : CHF 24,800
Any article on dive watches has to include Rolex. The brand with the coronet produced the first waterproof watch in 1926 and has continued to innovate ever since. Confirmation comes with this 50mm monster that is water-resistant to a record 11,000 metres – an exploit made possible by the helium release valve.
Deepsea Challenge © Rolex
Deepsea Challenge in titanium, unidirectional rotating ceramic bezel, 50mm diameter, automatic movement, titanium bracelet, water-resistant to 11,000 metres.
Blancpain : CHF 28,000
A magnificent example of how a tool watch can become something precious. Blancpain has transformed a diver into a complete calendar watch that dares to pair a gold case with a sailcloth NATO strap, to splendid effect.
Bathyscaphe Quantième © Blancpain
Bathyscaphe Complete Calendar in red gold, unidirectional rotating ceramic bezel, 43mm diameter, automatic movement with day and month in apertures, pointer date and moonphase indication, sailcloth NATO strap, water-resistant to 300 metres.
Brands
Established in 1883, Alpina is recongised as the inventor of the sports watch as we know it today, having presented its Alpina 4 model back in 1938.
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Blancpain is the archetypal Manufacture: with a watchmaking heritage dating back several centuries, it has successfully preserved its watchmaking tradition, whilst welcoming a spirit of innovation.
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From humble family beginnings Breitling grew into a major player in the world of chronographs and aviation instruments. At the dawn of a new era, the brand is poised for a legendary future.
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Since 1887, Eberhard & Co. has been synonymous with passion, innovation and attention to detail and design. These values have defined the Maison ever since it was founded.
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Jaeger-LeCoultre: HOME OF FINE WATCHMAKING SINCE 1833. Located in the serene setting of the Vallée de Joux, our Maison radiates a unique sense of belonging. The soul of La Grande Maison is formed...
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A company of the Swatch Group, OMEGA has been behind major revolutions in watchmaking technology and the timekeeping of numerous Olympic Games. Its watches are worn by world-famous celebrities and...
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Every Panerai watch is as unique as the story it tells. Since 1860 Panerai has produced high-precision instruments and watches, developed and created to meet the most rigorous military standards....
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