Have you experienced bringing a watch with you on one of your diving explorations and feeling frustrated after finding out that it died afterwards? The thing about some watches is that the manufacturers claim that they are water resistant. But they fail to explain the details that limit such a feature. There are several reasons why a lot of dive watches fail. For one, a lot of people think automatically that if a watch is advertised as water resistant, they can already wear it for a scuba diving adventure. This assumption is false. With this belief, people end up losing their watch halfway into their dive.
The next time you plan to buy a watch that you’ll bring on your next diving expedition, do not just look for a label that says “water resistant”. Keep in mind that there are actually two standards that are used by manufacturers.
The one that is commonly used is the ISO2281 which is designed for non-diving purposes. This can be used for light activities, such as swimming. Those that are good for diving carry the ISO6425 certification. This means that the watches with this label have gone through rigorous tests, including prolonged underwater submersion, condensation tests and overall external shock resistance. All of these tests simulate the actual conditions that the watch is expected to experience during a scuba diving adventure.
The following is a list of the best dive watches under $500. After all, you do not have to spend a fortune just to get a watch that you can bring to your next adventure trip.
Best Dive Watches Under $500
1. Invitica Mens Reserve
Invicta Men's 5727 Reserve Collection Black Ion-Plated and Stainless Steel Chronograph Watch
Features
- Precise and high-quality Swiss-quartz movement^Flame-Fusion crystal; black and stainless steel case and band^Chronograph functions with 60 Second, 30 Minute and 1/10th Second Sub-dials; date function^Luminous hands and hour Markers; black dial, Screw down crown and Pushers^Water-resistant to 3,280 feet (1,000 M)^Invicta Reserve 5-Year Warranty Included with shipment
This watch is a good-looking and high-performance, perfect for any passionate scuba diver. It may come off as heavy when it comes to its 15.84 oz weight but there’s no doubt it’s one of the best dive watches that you can buy for under $500. Invicta, as a manufacturer, is known for creating stylish and fashionable watches. With its 1000 m water resistance capability, it is one of the most resistant, yet affordable, diving watches available these days.
Pros
- Elegantly stylish
- 1000 meters water resistance
- Easy to complement with other scuba diving gears
- Very affordable for its features
Cons
- One of the heaviest
The Invicta Reserve Subaqua Venom 5727 is constructed under the Flame Fusion patented technology, using a synthetic type of crystal that is similar to the majority of the mineral crystals used. This is the reason why this watch is considered on the heavy side. However, weight is a minor thing compared to all of the capabilities that this diving watch can offer. A lot of divers love this watch because it is incredibly resistant, especially for its price.
2. Victorinox Swiss Army
Victorinox Swiss Army Men's ' Dive Master 500
Features
- Quartz movement
- Antireflective-sapphire crystal
- Case diameter: 43 mm
- Stainless-steel case
- Water-resistant to 1640 feet (500 M)
Victorinox is one of the most reputed brands that is currently available on the market these days when it comes to creating high-quality watches which can be used for diving. While the company is known to create various types of watches, this particular model is one of the most impressive. It has a 500 m water resistance and deep water pressure capability. The best part is that, despite all its capabilities, it stays elegant.
Pros
- 500 m water resistance
- Black dial great for deep dives
- Victorinox is a reliable brand
Cons
- On the heavier side
- Thick, making it difficult to fit under a cuffed shirt
The capability of diving up to 500 m with this watch is what makes it favorable for many divers. This means that you do not have to worry about the security of your watch. At the same time, since this watch is made of a luminous black dial with silver-toned indices, you can still see the time even during deep dives or unfavorable weather conditions. Also, the fact that Victorinox is one of the best brands there is, you can consider it a perfect addition to your collection.
3. Citizen Men’s Eco-Drive Promaster
Citizen Men's Eco-Drive Promaster Diver Watch
$356.40 in stock
Features
- Iconic Promaster watches with advanced functions designed to venture to the deepest depths.
- 3 Hand, Date
- Silver-Tone Stainless Steel
- Luminous Hands and Markers and Anti-Reflective Mineral Crystal
- 300 Meters Water Resistant and 5 Year Limited Warranty
If there is one thing that is noticeable with this model, that would be the price. It is the most affordable option in this list but its capabilities cannot be underestimated. Another standout feature is the fact that it has an Eco Drive function which can use natural light in order to power itself. With the name of Citizen to back this watch up, you can be assured not just of quality but also of good features.
Pros
- Dial that it easier to read
- Larger luminous hands/markers for the hour
- Eco-Drive Patented Technology
- Water resistant up to 1000 feet (300 m)
Cons
- Heavy
- Comes with a rubber band which may deteriorate rapidly
This watch is a product of a well-reputed brand, offering several interesting features, including a watch band which is diver-extended, has good luminosity and many other things. Since it comes with a battery which is powered by natural light, it means that you do not need to charge it often. While it may be considered as heavy by many divers, the fact that it comes with really interesting features and capabilities at a very affordable price makes it a very good option.
4. Seiko Men’s SKX009K2
Seiko Men's SKX009K2 Diver's Analog Automatic Stainless Steel Watch
Features
- Battery-free automatic dive watch featuring two-tone unidirectional bezel and blue dial with day/date window and luminous hands/indices
- 42 mm stainless steel case with Hardlex dial window
- Japanese automatic movement with analog display
- Five-link stainless steel band featuring fold-over clasp with safety closure
- Water resistant to 200 m (660 ft): In general, suitable for professional marine activity and serious surface water sports, but not scuba diving
This Seiko dive watch combines the style with functionality for regular use. The watch comes with a 22-mm wide bracelet that makes it stand out from the usual designs. It has a fold-over safety clasp that makes it pretty easy to close. The style of this band transitions smoothly into the classic case.
The case and band are made using stainless steel with a bright, polished silver finish. It has a deep blue dial that is encased in a scratch-resistant Hardlex crystal for safety. The dial accentuates the light-catching hands and the hour markers for easy time reading.
Pros
- Lovely design
- Sturdy stainless steel construction
- Great size for regular use
Cons
- The bezel is a little misaligned
It is the ideal choice for a regular diver; thanks to the quality and design. The watch can resist up to 200m underwater hence suitable for snorkeling, swimming, diving, etc.
One of the features that stand out is the date and day display at the 3 o’clock position. The analog watch operates on an automatic movement which is powered by the motion of your wrist. It is a stylish yet functional watch for diving and other water sports.
5. Phoibos Men’s PX005B
Phoibos Men's PX005B 1000M Dive Watch
Features
- 43mmX13.5mm brushed and polished 316L stainless steel case with 120-click unidirectional bezel
- Swiss Quartz Ronda 515 movement with analog display, wide date window at the 3 o'clock position
- Helium Release Valve at 2 o'clock position, with waterproof screw down crown
- Water Resistant 100 ATM/ 1000 Meters/ 3300ft suitable for Swimming & Snorkeling & Scuba Diving
- Sapphire Crystal Glass, Super-LumiNavo C3 luminous hands & markers
This dive watch from Phoibos is an accurate representation of style and functionality for any diver. It comes with a 43mm stainless steel case that gives it a polished yet classic look for the modern man. It also has a 120-click unidirectional bezel and has a Swiss Quartz Rhoda 515 movement.
When it comes to the style of this watch, you can bet it will work for different occasions. As much as it is designed as a dive watch, you could still match it up with a casual outfit for the weekend. It has a deep blue band that matches well with the case for a harmonious look altogether.
Pros
- High-quality materials
- Great size for daily use
- Great value for money
- Perfect for professional divers
Cons
- The second hand does not line up with the tick marks at some positions
This model is the best diver watch under 500; thanks to its style and material quality. It can resist water up to 1000 meters which makes it an ideal choice for regular deep sea divers. One other thing, it has the style to work as a daily watch.
6. Neymar Men’s Automatic
Features
- 44 mm X 52 mm brushed and polished 316L stainless steel case with 120-click unidirectional ceramic. sapphire crystal with AR coating.
- Japan NH 35 automatic movement with date indicator and analog display
- Watch total weight 250 g with solid 316 L stainless steel band and waterproof screw down crown
- Water resistant 100 ATM/ 1000 Meters/ 3300 feet suitable for swimming & snorkeling & scuba diving
- Swiss BGW9 blue color luminous hands & markers(Warm tip: This form is suitable for men over 160 pounds.)
If you love stainless steel watches, then this one from Neymar is a great choice. It comes in a beautiful 44mm brushed and polished stainless steel case with a 120-click unidirectional ceramic bezel. More to this it has a sapphire crystal with AR coating for that extra detail and style.
The watch operates on a Japanese NH35 automatic movement with a date indicator. More to this, it has an analog display which is one of the most preferred watch designs. It has an excellent weight to it, so it feels great on your wrist. With the stainless steel band, you can enjoy styling the watch for both casual and formal looks.
Pros
- High-quality material
- Stylish for daily use
- Solid and has a good weight to it
- Ideal for use in the outdoors
Cons
- The pins are too tight to size the bracelet
As long as this watch fits, it is the best diver watch under 500. It has the style and brings functionality as a reliable watch for daily use. The best part is that it is waterproof up to 1000 meters, hence an ideal choice for regular divers.
7. Casio Men’s
Casio Men's Black Resin Dive Watch
$21.92 in stock
Features
- 100 M Water Resistance
- Day & Date Indicator at 3 o'clock position
- Black Resin Case / Black Resin Band
- Uni-Directional Rotating Bezel
- Regular Timekeeping - Analog 3-hands (Hour, Minute & Second)
This Casio watch is an ideal choice for someone that engages in multiple sports but still wants a functional watch for any other day. It comes in a polished black color for the case and the band which makes it suitable for any event or outfit. The simple style makes it easy to pair up with various sports gear and keep it to the minimum as far as style is concerned.
The watch is packed with functional features for quick and precise time reading. It has a 12/24 hour timekeeping and operates on a Japanese quartz movement. The analog display has the minute, hour and second hands for easy time reading. Additionally, it features day and date display at the 3 o’clock position.
Pros
- Lightweight design
- Large font for easy time reading
- Comfortable, adjustable strap
Cons
- The straps tend to trap dirt
You might need to keep the watch away if engaging in activities where it would end up getting dirty. However, it is easy to clean and works well as a sport watch. The lightweight nature makes it comfortable for long hours of use. More to this, you can take it swimming or snorkeling since it has 100-meter water resistance.
8. Invicta Men’s Pro
Invicta Men's Pro Diver Watch
1 used from $58.32
Features
- Stainless steel case 48mm diameter x 16.8mm thick; Black dial; Luminous hands and hour markers
- Japanese quartz movement, VD53 Caliber; Assembled in Japan; SR920SW battery included; Watch weight: 185 grams
- Stainless steel and black silicone band, 220mm L x 26mm W; Buckle clasp
- Flame Fusion crystal; Push/pull crown; Uni-directional stainless steel bezel with black top bezel ring; Functional Subdials: 60min, 60sec, 24hr; 100 meter water resistant: Suitable for recreational surfing, swimming, snorkeling, sailing and water sports. Not suitable for diving.
- Function meets fashion in this Invicta watch, which features sophisticated design details such as a rotating date calendar and black sunray dial with silver-tone hands and markers.
This Invicta watch model is an excellent choice for someone that needs a reliable dive watch at a budget. It has features you would find in high-end brands, and that makes it an excellent buy for an active diver. It is a true definition of fashion and functionality for everyday use.
The watch has a polyurethane band which feels soft to the skin for comfort. Also, it has a stainless steel case that contrasts well with the band for a sense of style. The plastic dial material is stable enough to last long despite regular wear. These materials make it lightweight to keep on yet sturdy enough to withstand harsh conditions.
Pros
- Well-made and solid design
- Comfortable on the wrist
- Accurate and easy to operate
Cons
- Not suitable for people with small wrists
The watch is one of the big designs that work as a statement piece. It has a comfortable design that makes it useful for a full day of sports. This watch can withstand use in water up to 100 meters hence ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and light diving.
9. Citizen Men’s Eco-Drive
Citizen Men's Eco-Drive Promaster Diver Watch
$275.00 in stock
8 used from $212.18
Features
- Iconic Promaster watches with advanced functions designed to venture to the deepest depths.
- 3 Hand, Date
- Silver-Tone Stainless Steel
- Luminous Hands and Markers and Anti-Reflective Mineral Crystal
- Featuring our Eco-Drive technology – powered by light, any light. 200 Meters Water Resistant and 5 Year Limited Warranty
This is one of the best men’s diver watches that work well for a variety of water sports and other outdoor activities. It comes in a simple design that makes it easy to read time and keep it on an entire day. The round watch features a unidirectional bezel and a blue dial with a date display at the 4 o’clock position.
It utilizes the eco-drive technology which is fueled by light. This design ensures you can use the watch without the need for batteries. It is, therefore, an ideal choice for someone that needs one for regular use; say a day-to-day watch. The design allows you to use it as a casual watch and a sports watch. The large 48-mm stainless steel case stands out and complements the polyurethane band.
Pros
- Easy to wear and remove
- The buckle closure makes it easy to adjust
- High-quality construction
- Accurate timing
Cons
- The band is a little stiff while new
The functionality that comes with this watch is worth the money. Although you might need to replace the band, it works fine with the right fitting. At this price, you get to enjoy a 200m water resistant watch for swimming, snorkeling, and other water sports.
10. Stuhrling Original
Stuhrling Original Black Mens Dive Watch
Features
- A crown jewel of the aquadiver collection, the Meridian GMT Diver features a Swiss Quartz movement for ultra-precision while staying water-resistant up to 330 feet.
- Classic diver case with screw-down crown
- Commanding 42mm case in five unique styles
- Featuring A Swiss Quartz movement for total accuracy
- Water-resistant up to 330 feet, keeping time ticking as you dive deeper
If you are searching for a watch that comes in different styles, then this Pro Master from Stuhrling Original is the right bet. It features contrasting colors and finishes to suit your preference. The difference in each is the color of the band, the dial, and the case. This element makes it one of the best men’s dive watches.
The watch has easy-to-read luminescent baton-style hands and indices that are collected in a coin-edge bezel. More to this, these are finished with a signed screw down crown for more detail and functionality. It operates on a Japanese Miyota movement which ensures precise timekeeping. The stainless steel link bracelet is adjustable to get a comfortable fit.
Pros
- Easy to fit and adjust
- Comes in a variety of styles
- Accurate timekeeping
- Solid and has a good weight to it
Cons
- The band scratches after a while
The watch works well for water sports and has the features for functionality. It can resist water damage up to 100 meters underwater which makes it an ideal watch for swimming, snorkeling, and other sports. It allows adjustments for easy fitting and comfort.
11. Orient Men’s Ray II
Orient Men's Ray II Analog Watch
Features
- MPORTED MEN’S WATCH: This classic mens wrist watch was beautifully crafted and produced in Japan by utilizing the latest Japanese street fashion for the world to consume. Perfect for any occasion, formal or casual, and made to last for years to come!
- PREMIUM MATERIALS: Our stainless steel watch features a steel bracelet band, mineral crystal and a bezel function of 120-clicks, for improved precision!
- AUTOMATIC MOVEMENT: No batteries or winding required with the Japanese-Automatic Movement technology.
- WATER RESISTANT 200M: Made to withstand sweat, water splashes and rain! Suitable waterproof watch for professional marine activity and serious surface water sports, but not diving.
- FEATURES: 41mm Case Diameter. Shows date display on face.
This watch comes in a simple style that makes it easy to use. It has a 41mm case diameter which is not too big to overwhelm the wrist. The size is perfect for a casual outfit or matching it with sports gear for an activity. This watch comes in different color finished for you to choose.
The design features a mineral crystal for extra detail. The bezel of this watch has been upgraded to 120-click which is considered ideal for improved precision. The watch utilizes Japanese automatic movement hence easy to read time. The functionality that comes with this watch beats most models that come at a similar price. Therefore, it is an excellent value for money.
Pros
- Plenty of features for the price
- Solid and stylish design
- Useful as a daily watch
- Accurate timekeeping
Cons
- The glass surface tends to scratch after a while
This Orient model is one of the best men’s dive watches for the money. It has the quality of most other expensive watches which makes it an excellent buy for someone looking to invest less. It is easy to set and adjust time hence ideal for daily use.
12. Seiko Prospex
Seiko Prospex Divers Solar Mens Silicone Watch
Features
- Solar, 10-month power reserve once fully charged, magnified date calendar
This Seiko model features a 44mm wide and 12mm thick case. This case comes in black ion-plated stainless steel to enhance durability. It has a one-way rotating bezel and a textured screw down crown for easy use. This watch is one of a kind. It utilizes light energy, so you do not need to use batteries to power it. It operates on a Japanese solar quartz movement.
The watch is a true definition of style. It features a black dial with white accents and silver-tone luminous hands. These contrast well creating a unique style a modern look. The dot hour markers also improve the style and are easy to read at a glance. It comes with a wide, black silicone rubber strap that is soft on the skin for comfortable wear.
Pros
- Unique design
- Easy to read time
- Stylish
- Solid construction
Cons
- The indicators are not as bright in low-light situations
The watch works well as a day-to-day option to work, sports, etc. It has a simple yet stylish look that makes it stand out from other dive watches in the market. It has a water resistance of up to 200m hence ideal for water sports.
13. TEKMAGIC Digital
TEKMAGIC Waterproof Digital Scuba Diving Watch
Features
- Can work or be operated up to 100m underwater with 10 atm water resistant grade, suitable for swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving or other water activities.
- Chronograph, countdown, dual time zone, alarm and hourly chime functions were built-in.
- Support dual time display with digital and analog movements.
- 12/24 hour format switchable.
- Luminous watch, fit to kids, men and women. Note: The battery can be replaced. If you find that the watch is not working or the text on the display is not clear, please replace the watch battery in time.
If you are in need of a dive watch with dual time display, then this one from Tekmagic is the ideal choice. It has both analog and digital time display which makes it easy to read time at a glance. It has an electro-luminescent backlight that helps you to see in low light or dark situations.
The watch is 10ATM water resistant which means it can withstand use underwater up to 100 meters. It is therefore ideal for swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, etc. Some of the additional features it comes with include a stopwatch, countdown timer, alarm and two time zones. It is the best diver watch under $500 that provides this much functionality.
Pros
- The band is comfortable on the skin
- Beautiful design
- Easy to read with the dual time display
- Works well for underwater sports
Cons
- Couldn’t find any
The watch is an ideal sports option for active people that need a simple design with plenty of features. It is lightweight to wear on your wrist, and you can adjust the band to fit the size of your wrist. The solid construction ensures it holds up well for an extended period.
14. Orient Men’s ‘Mako II’
Orient Men's 'Mako II' Japanese Automatic Watch
1 used from $145.19
Features
- Mineral crystal
- Crown:Screwed-down.120-Click unidirectional bezel
- Japanese-automatic Movement
- Case Diameter: 41.5mm without crown. Lug width - 22 millimeters
- Water Resistant 200m (660ft): in General, Suitable for Professional Marine Activity and Serious Surface Water Sports, but not Diving
The design of this Mako II from Orient makes the watch ideal for day-to-day use. The watch has a stainless steel band and case that are designed to last a long time while spicing up your formal and casual looks. The watch is indeed functional for different activities that you like, and you can use it as a sport watch.
The watch operates on a Japanese automatic movement which is one of the easiest to read time. It has a screwed-down crown and features a 120-click unidirectional bezel. This watch works well for professional marine activity and is water resistant up to 200m.
Pros
- Great value for money
- Easy to set and read time
- Simple design for everyday use
- Accurate automatic movement
Cons
- Thing spring bar
This watch is one of the best men’s dive watches. It has the style to use as a casual watch but packed with functionality to use it for different sports. With the solid design, you can be sure it will last a long time. It is comfortable on the wrist and has a good weight to it.
15. Marvin Swiss
Stuhrling Original Mens Swiss Quartz Stainless Steel Sport Analog Dive Watch
Features
- EASY TO READ luminescent hands and indices, collected in a coin edge bezel and finished with a signed screw down crown.
- ULTRA-ACCURATE and reliable Japanese Miyota movement for precision time keeping on your wrist watch
- ADJUSTABLE solid stainless steel triple-row link bracelet, brushed outer links and polished center link with push button deployant safety clasp on the wrist band.
- WATER-RESISTANCE for swimming, snorkeling and even for a professional diver up to 330 feet, threaded screw down crown sealed with rubber gaskets
- COMPREHENSIVE WARRANTY: All Stührling Timepieces include a 2 Year Comprehensive International Warranty for your peace of mind - 100% customer satisfaction is our goal!
This watch is probably one of the best for style and functionality. It is water resistant up to 660 feet which makes it a suitable choice for water sports. More to this, it features a screw down crown that you can find in many professional divers watches. Then screwed down, it creates a watertight seal which prevents water from reaching the inside of the case.
The case comes in a lovely stainless steel material which is preferred by most people. It has a 42mm diameter which is the right size for regular wear. More features include a screw down case back and a unidirectional ratcheting coin edge bezel. It also has an adjustable bracelet with removable links for easy fitting.
Pros
- Accurate in keeping time
- Lovely stainless steel finish
- Has some weight to it
- Comfortable on the wrist
Cons
- A slight misalignment of the numbers on the ring
This dive watch is recommended for the high quality, rugged construction. It works well for water activities as long as you ensure the bezel is screwed tightly for a lasting seal. It has the quality to last long and the style to match every outfit.
Bottom Line
Choosing the right dive watch takes more than just selecting the style that you like. As much as you want to find a style that you like, the most critical factor to keep in mind is whether it caters to your needs as a diver. Or better still if it will work as a sport watch and daily watch as well. On this note, it is essential to consider the specifications it has.
Dive watches should be water resistant to a certain level. The type of activity determines the kind of water-resistant watch you will get. It would be a great idea to find one with a high water resistance level if you intend to engage in more than one serious sport.
Usually, watches indicate the type of activity you can engage in with the watch. Most have 100-m water resistance and work well for light water sports such as swimming. Additionally, you want to consider the quality and the design to ensure the watch serves the purpose for an extended period.
These reviews describe men’s dive watches under $500; hopefully, you get to choose one that caters to your needs. The different specifications work for different purposes so you can be sure to find the right one for you.
The Review
Best Dive Watch under $500
When it comes to choosing a dive watch that is under $500 we have the best options for you!
Review Breakdown
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Invicta Men's 5727 Reserve Collection Black Ion-Plated and Stainless Steel Chronograph Watch
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Victorinox Swiss Army Men's ' Dive Master 500
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Citizen Men's Eco-Drive Promaster Diver Watch
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Seiko Men's SKX009K2 Diver's Analog Automatic Stainless Steel Watch
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Phoibos Men's PX005B 1000M Dive Watch
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Neymar Men's Automatic Watch
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Casio Men's Black Resin Dive Watch
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Invicta Men's Pro Diver Watch
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Citizen Men's Eco-Drive Promaster Diver Watch
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Stuhrling Original Black Mens Dive Watch
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Orient Men's Ray II Analog Watch
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Seiko Prospex Divers Solar Mens Silicone Watch
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TEKMAGIC Waterproof Digital Scuba Diving Watch
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Orient Men's 'Mako II' Japanese Automatic Watch
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9.3
Best Dive Watch under $500 DEALS
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