Whether you realize it or not, many popular watches actually double as dive watches these days, but they often go under the radar! Most well-known brands have at least one diving watch, and these often sit around the mid-range price. However, dive watches don’t need to be expensive!
If you’re looking for a new diving watch, keep on reading! We’ve selected some of the most premium diving watches that are under $200 to make sure you have a stylish timepiece for your next dive.
What do diving watches include?
Though dive watches have been around for a while, you may not know exactly what sets them apart from standard watches. If you’re new to the dive watch genre or want to recap what features to look for, here’s what makes a good diving watch.
Water Resistance
This feels like an obvious quality for a dive watch, but it’s essential! A watch must be water-resistant to a minimum of 100 meters to qualify as a dive watch, but many of them are resistant to an impressive 200 meters.
Rotating Bezel
Dive watches also come with a rotating bezel. This informs the user of the time that they’ve been underwater, and some watches also show the wearer’s depth.
Legibility
It’s also vital for a dive watch to be clear and legible when underwater. Some even contain luminosity for low-light situations.
Durable Strap
Dive watches need a durable strap so they stay secure when underwater. Many feature stainless steel or rubber straps too. The straps need to withstand humidity, pressure, and seawater.
Helium Escape Valve
A helium escape valve lets divers release any trapped helium if they’re diving for longer lengths of time. This protects the watch from damage. However, not all models have this advanced feature.
Best dive watches under $200
Here are our top picks for the best budget dive watches available now!
1. Orient Ray II
Retailing at approximately $170, the Orient Ray II is a stylish watch for those who want to look good while underwater. This timepiece features a stainless steel case, a blue dial with a day and date index, and a water resistance of 20 bar. The band width of this watch is 22mm, and the diameter of the watch case is 42mm.
2. Stuhrling Aquadiver Regatta
The Stuhrling Aquadiver Regatta is another stylish watch that offers water resistance up to 200 meters. It also features luminous hands, numerals, and indices to ensure you can read it in all visibilities. This sophisticated watch has a screw-down crown, a rotating bezel, and a deployment clasp too.
3. Seiko SKX009
With a water pressure resistance of 20 bar, the Seiko SKX009 is an essential watch for any avid diver. The band material is made of a resistant rubber, and the watch case is created with strong alloy steel. This watch also features scratch-resistant hardlex crystal to ensure the watch stays in good condition.
4. Vostok Amphibian
The Vostok Amphibian watch is designed with automatic movement, an acrylic window, and a durable strap too. If you’re after a watch that can withstand a lot of pressure, this is a great option. It also has luminous markers and hands to ensure you can read it.
5. Luminox Men’s 3001
The Luminox Men’s 3001 isn’t only a great diving companion, but it also looks good too. With a modern black and orange design, this watch is water-resistant until 200 m, and it has permanent lighting. This watch is manufactured in Switzerland, ensuring excellent quality.
6. Spinnaker Helium
Spinnaker is another well-known brand that always delivers quality. Their Helium dive watch features modern Swiss quartz movement, a Canvas Nato style strap, and a shatter-resistant mineral dial window too.
7. Citizen Eco-Drive BN0085-01E
The Citizen Eco-Drive model is powered by solar light, meaning it never needs a new battery. This model is waterproof to 300m and comes with a 5-year manufacturer warranty too. The watch is durable with a mineral glass lens and a rubber strap and buckle.
8. Casio MDV106
At approximately $120, the Casio MDV106 is an affordable option for those who want to start diving. This option is durable to 200 meters, and it features a durable plastic band and mineral glass dial window. Not only that, but the design is minimal and sleek too.
9. Invicta Pro Diver
Invicta watches are known for being reliable and fashionable too. Their Pro Diver model sits at $55 and offers high-quality materials and premium features for a lower price. This watch has an automatic clock, a 20 bar water resistance, and a stainless steel case.
10. Phoibos PX002C
The Phoibos PX002C is another great budget option that costs approximately $99. This watch is waterproof to 300m, perfect for diving and swimming too. The watch is made from stainless steel and sapphire crystal glass, making sure it’s hard-wearing in all conditions.
The Takeaway
There is a range of unique dive watches on this list, giving you different features to suit all needs. Whether you want a stylish option or a purely functional watch, there’s one for every occasion. Hopefully, you’ve found a watch to accompany you on your next dive!
Have you ever tried a dive watch? What model do you like best? Let us know in the comments!
On the same theme, take a look at our favorite waterproof watches here.
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Last Updated on February 28, 2022
Isobel is a freelance copy and content writer who regularly contributes to Superwatches. Well-versed in all the ins and outs of the smartwatch industry. Isobel specializes in Fashion and design and is a First Class fashion design graduate.
Currently lives in Bournemouth, United Kingdom.