Dive watches are among the most popular categories in horology. Originally developed in the 1950s as professional tools for underwater exploration, they have since become everyday icons prized for their durability, water resistance, and versatile style.

Whether you’re searching for your first reliable diver or a professional-grade instrument, there’s a dive watch for every budget. Below, we break down the best options by price range, from affordable entry-level models to luxury favorites.

What Defines a Dive Watch?

To qualify as a dive watch, a model typically includes the following complications:

• Water resistance of at least 200 meters
• Rotating bezel for tracking elapsed dive time
• Highly legible hands and markers with lume for low-light visibility
• Robust construction, often featuring screw-down crowns and casebacks
• ISO 6425 certification for professional divers (on some models)

Dive Watches by Budget

$0–500

Seiko SKX/Seiko 5 Sports Divers (~$250–400)

• Legendary among enthusiasts, known for its robustness and reliability.
• Features an automatic movement, strong lume, and true tool-watch DNA.
• Although discontinued, the SKX remains popular in Seiko 5 Sports Divers.

Citizen Promaster Diver (~$200–300)

• Eco-Drive solar technology eliminates the need to replace batteries.
• ISO-certified dive watch offers great value and durability.
• Bold design, excellent water resistance, ideal for entry-level divers.

$500–1,000

Tissot Seastar 1000 Powermatic 80 (~$700)

• Swiss-made diver with a ceramic bezel and an 80-hour power reserve.
• Sporty, modern design with serious underwater capabilities.

Orient Star Diver 200m (~$800–1,000)

• Upgraded sibling to Orient’s budget divers.
• In-house movement, sapphire crystal, and high-quality finishing for the price.

$1,000–2,000

Longines HydroConquest (~$1,600–1,800)

• Refined Swiss diver featuring a ceramic bezel and a sturdy build.
• Balances the watch's performance with daily elegance.

Doxa Sub 200/300 (~$1,000–2,000)

• Legendary diving heritage dating back to the 1960s.
• Famous orange dials, cushion cases, and professional-grade water resistance.

$2,000–5,000

Omega Seamaster Diver 300M (~$4,500)

• Famous from James Bond.
• Ceramic bezel, wave dial, and Co-Axial movement.
• One of the most accomplished modern divers.

Oris Aquis Date (~$2,200–3,000)

• Independent Swiss brand, known for value and quality.
• Versatile design that looks great whether you're on the ocean or in the office.

$5,000+ Grail Divers

Rolex Submariner (~$9,000+)

• The most legendary dive watch of all time.
• Benchmark for durability, precision, and prestige.

Blancpain Fifty Fathoms (~$14,000+)

• The original modern dive watch, introduced in 1953.
• Luxurious finish, rich history, and advanced performance.

Final Thoughts

Dive watches are more than just tools for underwater activities. They’re durable companions designed for adventure and style. From the accessible Citizen Promaster to the iconic Rolex Submariner and Blancpain Fifty Fathoms, there’s a diver's watch for every budget and lifestyle.

Whether you’re just starting your watch journey or aiming for a grail piece, dive watches show that function and style go hand in hand, whether on land or at sea.