A dive watch is the most useful kind of watch you can own: water resistant, legible in the dark, tough enough for anything, and at home with a T-shirt or a jacket. That is why it is the most popular category of luxury watch. Here are eight we recommend, from the least to the most expensive in our stock, with what each one does best. Prices are live.
What makes a dive watch
- Water resistance of at least 200 m with a screw-down crown.
- A unidirectional bezel to time a dive: it can only turn the safe way.
- Luminous hands and markers.
- A secure bracelet or strap, usually with an extension to fit over a wetsuit.
For what the depth ratings really mean, read watch water resistance explained.
The eight
| Watch | Why buy it | In our stock |
|---|---|---|
| Seiko Prospex | The best value in dive watches; real diving heritage since 1965 | 432 from $245 |
| Longines HydroConquest | Swiss, 300 m, ceramic bezel, at a moderate price | 215 from $860 |
| Oris Aquis | Independent brand, distinctive case, long power reserve on Calibre 400 models | 171 from $880 |
| Tudor Black Bay | Vintage looks, in-house movement, three case sizes | 553 from $2,025 |
| Tudor Pelagos | Titanium, 500 m, the most capable tool watch here | 56 from $2,785 |
| Omega Seamaster Diver 300M | Master Chronometer accuracy and anti-magnetism; strong character | 58 from $4,000 |
| Rolex Submariner | The reference point; the best resale | 192 from $6,290 |
| Blancpain Fifty Fathoms | The original of 1953; fine watchmaking and a five-day movement | 361 from $5,370 |
How to choose
By budget. Under a few thousand dollars, Seiko, Longines and Oris give you a complete dive watch. The middle of the market belongs to Tudor and Omega, where you get in-house movements and chronometer accuracy. Rolex and Blancpain are the top.
By wrist. Dive watches run large. If your wrist is under about 17 cm (6.75 in), look at the Black Bay 58 (39 mm), the Black Bay 54 (37 mm), the HydroConquest 39 or the Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe 38. Our size guide explains how to measure.
By use. If the watch will actually go in the sea, a rubber strap or a bracelet with a quick extension matters more than the depth rating: every watch here goes far deeper than you will.
By resale. If you may sell later, the Submariner and steel Black Bay hold their value best.
Head-to-head guides
- Rolex Submariner vs Omega Seamaster
- Rolex Submariner vs Tudor Black Bay
- Tudor Pelagos vs Black Bay
- Rolex Sea-Dweller vs Submariner
- Seamaster Diver 300M vs Aqua Terra
- Blancpain Fifty Fathoms buying guide
Every watch we sell is checked by our specialist before it ships, and watches rated as water resistant are pressure-tested. See how we inspect.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best luxury dive watch?
The Rolex Submariner is the benchmark. The Omega Seamaster Diver 300M and Tudor Black Bay offer comparable quality for less, and the Blancpain Fifty Fathoms is the choice for fine watchmaking.
What is the best dive watch for the money?
The Seiko Prospex at the lower end, and the Tudor Black Bay among watches with an in-house movement.
Do I need 300 m of water resistance?
No. Recreational diving rarely goes below 40 m. A rating of 200 m or more simply means the watch is well sealed and safe for any water activity.
Can I wear a dive watch every day?
Yes. Dive watches are built to be worn constantly, which is why so many people choose one as their only watch.
