A diver’s watch is a timepiece designed for underwater diving that can go up to a minimum depth of 330 feet. Divers use these instruments to keep an eye on the amount of time spent under water, the depth achieved and other information that will keep them safe. These days dive computers have replaced the need to use dive watches, many people however still use them as a backup in case the computer fails. Rose: The Watch Bar brings to you important things to consider while buying a diver’s watch of your own.
Water Resistance:
Water pressure is the biggest nemesis of small delicate mechanical parts that keep a watch running. To ensure the water doesn’t leak into the case even at shallow levels the watch has to be rated with a minimum depth level of 100M (330 Ft). For a nonprofessional diver this minimum depth would be unrealistic but the higher depth rating indicates that the watch has gone through more rigorous testing.
Bezel:
The Bezel allows the diver to calculate the time elapsed under water, this is one of the most important functions of a diver’s watch. The unidirectional bezel found in these watches is a fail proof feature that prevents the bezel from unintentionally rotating further during the dive. This can lead to wrong readings which can prove to be very dangerous for the diver.
Type of Movement:
The movement or calibre is the heart of the watch that keeps it ticking, it moves the hands of the watch that shows time. There are two types of movements: Mechanical and Quartz.
MECHANICAL MOVEMENT
is common in high end luxury watches like Ulysse Nardin and Breitling. These watches are sought after by watch connoisseurs and serious divers due to the build quality, precision engineering and craftsmanship that skilled watchmakers put into it.
QUARTZ MOVEMENT
watches are more affordable compared to the mechanical watches as they use a battery to work. They are highly accurate and require little maintenance (except changing the battery).
Luminescence:
Depending on the depth of the dive there is less or no light underwater so it is imperative that you have a dial that glows in the dark. The mechanical watches make use of luminous paint to make them glow. One important thing to keep in mind is that luminous paint needs to be exposed to light for it charge up and glow in the dark.
Watchstrap:
Straps or bracelets of diving watches are generally made of rubber or stainless steel and use materials that adequately withstand the high pressures of underwater diving. Some watch straps allow an increase in length by adding a diving suit extension strap piece to the standard watch strap.
