Some people go for a cheap dive watch to save money. Others buy one that is so expensive and flashy, it's worth spending more on the strap than you would have spent on the actual watch itself. This blog will help you decide which type of person your are: someone who'll get more enjoyment from their timepiece or someone who has an eye-catching accessory they can enjoy every day!
The "best dive watches under $2,000" is a category of the best affordable dive watches that are priced under $1,000. The list includes Casio ProTrek Divers Watch, Citizen Promaster Diver's 200m Automatic Watch, and Seiko SKX007K2 Dive Watch.
In This Article...
We Enjoy A Cheap Watch That Makes a Statement.
Every time you find yourself in the water, a nice diving watch is almost a need. A excellent dive watch should be able to keep up whether you're actively diving or just want to relax in the backyard pool.
Not all dive watches are created alike, nor do they all have to be too robust deep-divers. The watches I selected for this list were first arranged according to their levels of Water Repellency, and within each category, I ranked them according to their prices. With the arrival of new and significant dives, this list will continue to expand and change over time.
View all of the diving watches we've tested out and evaluated.
Let's go forward!
Criteria
We are only mentioning timepieces that are durable and worth wearing. This list excludes everything that isn't challenging.
Affordability
$1,000 is the maximum grey market price. You may choose to purchase items off-label, but we're pointing out the difference between the street price and the MSRP.
Quality
No garbage, end of story. There are mainstream and microbrands on this list, but there are no random, rip-off, or poorly-performing brands.
Water Repellency
If it can’t get wet you won’t find it here. We only looked at watches that could survive and thrive in the water. All the watches here carry at least 200m / 660ft of Water Repellency.
1. “Duro” CASIO MDV-106-1AV
- Quartz movement
- Water Repellency: 200m / 660ft
- MDV106-1AV is the model number.
- Price: $70
- 44 mm in size
- Mineral makes up the crystals.
I was astounded by how superior of a watch the Duro is in comparison to its cost when I evaluated it in April 2018. The Duro is still on sale for less than $50 on Amazon as of this writing.
The Duro employs a quartz movement, a mineral crystal, and ordinary entry-level components, so technically speaking, it isn't all that remarkable. However, its degree of polish much beyond its price of admission.
On the MDV106-1AV, Casio chose an enamel dial that, under the correct lighting, actually looks fantastic. The hour markers and hands have respectable lume and are simple to read.
The Duro would still be a fantastic watch even if Casio had priced it at $150 or $200. It's excellent at the current sub-$50 pricing.
2. II Orient Mako
- Mineral Crystal.Power Reserve:Approximately 40 hours.
- 120-Click Unidirectional Bezel
- Case Diameter: 41mm.Power Reserve:Approximately 40 hours.
- Movement:Orient Cal.F6922 Automatic, Hand-winding, Hacking...
- Water Resistant 200m (660ft): in General, Suitable for...
- Automatic, F6922 caliber movement
- Water Repellency: 200m / 660ft
- FAA02002D9 is the model number.
- PRICE: $160
- AREA: 41.5 mm
- Mineral makes up the crystals.
The Orient Mako is regarded as one of the budget-friendly diver darlings, and it has been featured in almost every watch forum and watch blog. We are not an exception, having evaluated the Mako ourselves in late 2016.
Since then, Orient has improved the Mako, offering it a much improved design and a more competent and feature-rich movement. All of Orient's movements are produced on-site; the most recent Mako employs the company's relatively recent caliber F6922 automatic movement, replacing the original Mako's Caliber 46943 automatic movement.
The new car deserves the commotion it has received. Although the fact that all of Orient's movements are mechanical and manufactured on-site is quite remarkable, the caliber 46943 auto is a solid albeit sparse movement that lacks "basic" features like hand-winding and hacking. All of it is altered by the new movement, which ultimately ushers the Mako into the twenty-first century of horology.
3. ORANGER RAY II
- Case
- - Case Material: Stainless Steel
- - Case Colour: Silver
- - Crystal: Mineral crystal
- Movement
- Automatic, F6922 caliber movement
- Water Repellency: 200m / 660ft
- FAA02005D9 is the model number.
- Price: $165
- AREA: 41.5 mm
- Mineral makes up the crystals.
Two Orientals are listed here? That's accurate, and both should be present.
The Ray II and Mako II are mechanically quite similar, it must be said. The Ray's dial is more open and "rounded" in contrast, which is where the difference in aesthetics can be seen. The caliber F6922 automatic movement that has taken both the Mako and Ray series of divers into the twenty-first century powers both the Mako II and the Ray II. Regards, Orient
The Ray has been compared to the Rolex Submariner by many, and although I can definitely see the similarities, the Ray is visually distinctive enough to stand out on its own. It would have been obvious if it had replicated the date magnifying window. However, that is not the case, so let's continue.
The Ray has a 120-click rotating bezel that enables accurate assessment of the amount of time passed while diving and superb lume.
Which of the Mako II and Ray II is the ideal entry-level diving watch for you? You won't know, I guess, until you have one or the other on your wrist.
4. SEIKO SKX007K
- Quality Japanese Automatic movement; Functions without a battery;...
- Hardlex crystal
- Case diameter: 42 mm
- Stainless-steel case; Black dial; Date-and-day functions
- Water resistant to 660 feet (200 M): suitable for recreational...
- Seiko 7S26 automatic movement
- Water Repellency: 200m / 660ft
- SKX007K is the model number.
- Price: around $275
- Size: 42mm
- The crystal is made of hardlex.
Although I haven't got an opportunity, I will shortly do a hands-on assessment of the SKX007K. However, I have had opportunity to don the 007. It is constructed nicely, is sturdy, and is driven by an automatic movement that was built in-house by Seiko (in this case, the 7S26).
The SKX is often referred to be the ideal entry-level diving watch. Thanks to what is, in my view, one of the greatest value propositions you can find in a diving watch—a sturdy and dependable automatic movement, a reasonable price (as of right now, the SKX007K on Amazon costs roughly $220—it has amassed and garnered a following throughout the world.
The 7S26 won't disappoint you down when it matters, despite the fact that the movement utilized is quite utilitarian and just gives a day/date display while falling short of other, more sophisticated movements in terms of precision and hacking. Spartan, certainly, but what else should you expect from a beginning diver?
The case is 200m/660ft water resistant and ISO approved, making it suitable for activities like swimming and snorkeling.
Unfortunately, despite being out of production, the SKX007K is still readily available on grey market websites like Amazon.
5. 1970 Dan Henry
- Limited edition vintage watch 1970 individually numbered pieces
- Mate black dial with date, orange chapter ring, double crown and...
- 44mm stainless steel 316L case / Water resistant to 200 meters -...
- Automatic movement with 41 hours power reserve / Sapphire coated...
- One leather and canvas watch roll with three slots included /...
- Seiko NH35 automatic movement.
- Water Repellency: 200m / 660ft
- 1970 is the model year.
- Price: $270
- 44 mm in size
- Crystal Composition: Mineral with sapphire coating
The 1970 Dan Henry was a surprise to me. When I first received it, I was unsure of what to expect. Dan Henry was a brand I was unfamiliar with- I reached out to them at the request of a reader. I was entering uncharted territory and was excited to see how it’d turn out.
As you can see, the 1970 is a retro-inspired watch that gives historical aesthetics a contemporary feel. The dual-crown casing has a rotating inner chapter ring (as opposed to an externally-mounted bezel). It comes with an extremely comfy silicone band and a traditional dial that is available in orange or grey.
The 1970 is notable for not having a screw-down crown. I have worn it countless times in the pool and at the beach, but it has never been wet.
A Seiko NH35 automatic, a fantastic starting automatic that hacks and hand-winds, is located within. The 1970s are a great place for this positive trend to flourish. Your 1970 may be ordered with a 40mm or 44mm casing.
6. Alpine SEIKO SARB017
- Automatic Movement with 50-hour power reserve
- Sapphire Crystal and Inner Rotating Compass Ring
- Japanese-automatic Movement
- Case Diameter: 39.5mm
- Water resistant 200m (660ft): in general, suitable for...
- Seiko 6R15 automatic movement.
- Water Repellency: 200m / 660ft
- Identifier: SARB017
- Price: around $500.
- 38.5 mm in size
- Sapphire crystal material
The Alpinist is a versatile "Jack of All Trades" watch that can be worn everywhere, even underwater, and is included in my list of the top mechanical watches.
Its dual-crown design features a rotating inner chapter ring (that’s what the 4 o’clock crown is for), while the main crown screws-down for maximum Water Repellency. While it isn’t a dive watch stylistically, it sports 200m of Water Repellency and is perfectly fine in a pool or for shallow-water use (snorkeling/etc.).
The Seiko 6R15 automatic movement, which is excellent for the price range it is available in, drives the Alpinist. It hacks, has a 50-hour power reserve, and is hand-windable. Lume is one area where the Alpinist falls short of competing timepieces. Despite having lume, the Alpinist's lume is not nearly as brilliant or durable as other of the more dive-focused watches on our list. The Alpinist is still a terrific option if you want a watch that is at home in both the workplace and the swimming pool.
Please take note that the Alpinist was terminated at the start of 2018. Purchase yours right now before they become scarce.
7. Watches by Scurfa Diver One
- The most striking feature is the left hand crown at 8 o’clock....
- The whole case is made of 316L stainless steel, in guarantee of...
- Equipped with a stable and reliable SII NH38A movement, the use...
- Featured the flat sapphire crystal glass with three layers...
- The upper dial cleverly uses a circular hollow design along with...
- Quartz movement, Ronda 515SM
- Water Repellency: 300m / 990ft
- Diver One, the model number
- Price: $250
- 40 mm in size
- Sapphire crystal material
Back in the summer, a reader sent me an email wondering whether I intended to evaluate a watch from the UK-based microbrand Scurfa Watches. I got one directly from their website and excitedly anticipated its arrival since I am always interested in what my fellow Commonwealth citizens are doing.
When I examine a microbrand watch, I often detect one or two minor manufacturing flaws, but not with the Blue Diver One model I was sent. The quality of the Diver One is quite superb, matching or surpassing that of several "big name" watch companies. it only cost $250, however.
There are numerous various color options for the Diver One, but my favorite is the blue. Rich blue is used for the bracelet, bezel, and dial, and all three have exceptional finishes. Blue lume, which charges quickly and has a long lifespan, carries on the blue motif.
The Diver One was created by a real pressure diver, which is the best part. Paul Scurfield, owner of Scurfa, is a pressure diver who may often be seen under the waves at the greatest depths. You can't get a greater endorsement than wearing one of your own watches, as seen by the man's wrist.
8. Vintage Steinhart Ocean One
- Stainless steel case 40mm diameter x 13mm thick; Exhibition case...
- SW200 Swiss Automatic movement, 26 jewel; Assembled in...
- Stainless steel band, 215mm L x 20mm W; Band is adjustable by...
- Flame Fusion crystal; Screw-down crown; Unidirectional stainless...
- Automatic, elaborate ETA 2824-2 movement
- Water Repellency: 300m / 990ft
- 103-0294 is the model number.
- Price: around $470
- 42mm in size
- Sapphire crystal material
Here’s something a bit different (and a watch you won’t find on the usual “dive watch lists”): the Vintage Steinhart Ocean One. If you’re a WYCA reader, you may recall Auke’s review of a different version of the Ocean One (review here). While not the same watch as the Vintage I’m recommending here, the Ocean One Auke reviewed is powered by the same ETA 2824-2 Elaboré-grade automatic movement.
I was drawn to the Ocean One Vintage due of its distinct design and complete absence of complexity. The Ocean One Vintage ignores such complexities and instead concentrates on the time and the depth... and that's it. Every other watch on our list up to this point has a date or day/date display.
A splash of orange at the baseline indication is the only decoration on the revolving bezel, a must for any self-respecting dive watch.
At this price range, the Elaboré-grade movement is unusual, but it is not at all a negative thing. Many watches use the ETA 2824-2, a reliable Swiss automatic movement that is more accurate than the normal 2824-2. However, only a small number of these watches are of the elaboré grade.
This German-made watch is unmistakably unique compared to what you would typically find, and chances are good that you would be the only one wearing one for miles. Look into it.
9. Hamilton Navy Sub Auto in Khaki
- Black date dial
- Stainless steel case and bracelet
- Automatic-self-wind movement
- Case diameter: 42mm
- Water resistant to 984 feet
- Automatic, ETA 2824-2 movement
- Water Repellency: 300m / 990ft
- H78615985 is the model number.
- Price: $1,145
- 42mm in size
- Sapphire crystal material
I adore Hamilton Watches because of their elegance, accessibility, and worth. The Sub Auto is no exception, bringing once again a fantastic balance of fashion, affordability, and toughness. The Khaki Navy Sub Auto has an automatic ETA 2824-2 movement and a 300m/990ft water resistance certification. You may create a sturdy Swiss-made watch by combining sapphire glass, excellent design, and other features.
It's uncommon to find a diving watch that is really attractive, but the Sub Auto succeeds in being so owing to a detailed dial and stylish casing. This attractive diver is as at home at a business meeting as it is underwater.
The Sub Auto is likewise an excellent deal and can be found for between $450 and $550 on the street. Even without considering one as attractive and well-made as this, it is a reasonable amount to pay for a Swiss-made automatic from a reputable company.
In July 2018 when I evaluated the Sub Auto, I referred to it as "my new favorite diving watch." Even if there are several that I enjoy, the Sub Auto is still the one that I like wearing on my wrist.
10. Ecozilla Citizen Promaster BJ8050-08
- Diver's watch with easy-to-read dial, rotating bezel, and large...
- Eco Drive technology is fueled by light and it never needs a...
- 48 mm stainless steel case, mineral dial window, and Japanese...
- Rubber band with buckle closure ; Functions : B873, 3 Hand with...
- Water resistant to 300 m (1000 ft); Accuracy: Within...
- Eco-Drive quartz motion
- Water Repellency: 300m / 990ft
- BJ8050-08E is the model number.
- Price: $425
- 48mm in size (!!!)
- Mineral makes up the crystals.
Isn't this watch among the craziest-looking you've ever seen? Despite its diving-style, the Ecozilla is a serious dive watch. It takes both its profession as a diver and its desire to stand out seriously. Wowza.
The BJ8050-08E, often known as the "Ecozilla," is a 48mm broad monster that can unquestionably go as deep as you'd want to take it—and maybe even deeper. It's difficult to understand the enormity and scale of this monster without seeing it in person; the photographs don't really do it credit.
But if you can get beyond the appearance, you'll see that this is a really good diving watch. It utilizes Citizen's renowned Eco-Drive movement, which charges its battery using light (any light). The Eco-Drive movement within may function without light for up to six months after being completely charged.
The Ecozilla is a tall watch, so be aware that it may take some time for you to get used to wearing it on your wrist. As long as you don't start a battle with a block of titanium, the watch can withstand it. Simply because you'll probably harm the object the watch strikes instead than the watch itself is the reason I'm bringing this up.
What an absurd timepiece. My favorite.
11. Tissot Powermatic 80 Seastar 1000
- Featuring a Black Band, Rose Gold PVD Case, Scratch Resistant...
- Eco-Drive quartz motion
- Water Repellency: 300m / 990ft
- BJ8050-08E is the model number.
- Price: $425
- 48mm in size (!!!)
- Mineral makes up the crystals.
A few years ago, I was given the Tissot Seastar Powermatic 80 by some close friends of mine. The watch was brand-new at the time and featured the Powermatic 80 movement, which has a still-amazing 80-hour power reserve.
The Seastar 1000 is a new iteration of the Seastar that Tissot has produced. This Tissot Seastar has a beautiful look that is distinctly Tissot while yet being instantly recognizable as a diver. It has a 300m / 990ft water resistance, the aforementioned automatic movement with an 80-hour reserve, sapphire glass, an exhibition caseback, and amazing features.
The Seastar is just 43mm, which is enormous but not very large for a diver, despite how big it seems in photographs (the crown guards add to its visual heft somewhat). There are no extra complexities on the face than the date display at 6 o'clock. Even yet, the date display blends in well since it is buried away between the Seastar insignia and the hour indices at 6 o'clock.
This Tissot is excellent, just like every other Tissot I've reviewed, including an earlier Seastar.
Related Tags
- best dive watches under $500
- best dive watches under $1500
- best dive watches under $100
