Question on dive watches

[LeadTurn_SD]

A bit more expensive, but cheap for a "real" analog dive watch, is this Citizen EcoDrive:

Citizen BN0000-04H Eco-Drive 300 Meter Professional Diver with Rubber Band, at LeisurePro

I've used this watch for over 7 years now, and it has been great.... a few years ago I added a dive computer for about $145, and now wear both, watch on my left wrist, computer and SK7 compass on my right wrist. I'm an old "watch and tables" guy, but do find the dive computer "really" nice and cannot remember why I resisted getting one for so long... the computer displays my run time and depth in a very convenient format.

As you edge up above $100, it makes more sense to start looking at bare-bones dive computers (which are more than enough for most recreational diving!), which can be found starting in the $150 - 200 range new, or less if you are patient and watch ebay.

Best wishes.

 

[agilis]

Seiko SKX007K2. $190 on Amazon. Self winding, mechanical watch, 200 meters waterproof, solid, utterly dependable, accurate, made for scuba diving. I have a couple of its direct ancestors, the oldest purchased at a PX in SE Asia 45 years ago. It still works perfectly, though I no longer dive with it. I use a newer model of the same watch, only about 25 years old.

I applaud your interest in using the tables and a real diving watch. That's how we all used to do it, back when you really needed to understand what you were doing, to know how things actually worked, how theory translated into real world activity. There is no substitute for that level of involvement. I have a good basic computer, and use it primarily as a back up. On most uncomplicated straightforward profile dives I seldom give the computer a second glance. I would have no problem leaving the computer behind, but never the watch.

 

[Stoo]

Anyway, I stumbled upon a video that shows you how to use dive tables, when it occurred to me that I would need some kind of watch. .

Please tell me that you haven't actually taken the course yet. If not, your Instructor will advise you, but watches and tables are pretty "old school" in recreational diving, although knowing how to use tables, watch and depth gauge are critical skills IMHO.

If you are certified and you are relying on "stumbling" across Youtube videos for this sort of information, then respectfully, you should demand your money back.

As for a watch, I just use a god old Timex Ironman. Works like a charm and costs about $40 I have a Tag Heuer as well, but it costs 4x what a dive computer does, so it only comes out for weddings and funerals.

 

[Lorenzoid]

To use dive tables, yes, you need to know how long you've been underwater. A cheap watch might work--they often do--but it's your safety that's at risk. They're not designed for diving and therefore not very reliable for that purpose. So now you're looking at serious dive watches costing, say, $150-$300.

Dive tables are not obsolete--indeed, technical divers rely on them--but in your class, you're going to learn about using a dive computer as an alternative to using a dive table. Whether "alternative" is a good choice of wording is a can of worms, but strictly speaking, if you use a computer then using a dive table is not absolutely required. As others have said, learning to use a table is a good skill, and you may learn it in your class. But the vast majority of divers end up relying on their computer instead. Optimally, divers don't rely on computers as crutches and maintain their ability to use tables, but unfortunately all too many divers let the skill of using tables fade into the mists after their Open Water class.

A dive computer tells you not only how long you've been underwater but much more. A dive computer is pretty much standard equipment these days for most divers. If you have a dive computer, you don't need a watch. You can buy an entry-level dive computer for $250. The decision whether to spend $200 on a dive watch or $250 on a dive computer at your stage of learning seems easy to me.

 

[dytis-sm]

As correctly noted, it is better to get a diving computer which can be wither wrist or console mount. I personally like the wrist types that look like watches... I have a Suunto D6i and I am extremely happy with it.

If you are going to use a watch and go old school, look at diving watches rated over 300m. They way it was explained to me by a watch specialist, the waterproof rating does not take into consideration the activity involved which affects the watches ATM tolerance. Typically a 50m watch is safe to wash your hands with, a 100m is ok for swimming, 200m is ok for free diving, and anything for scuba should be rated 300m and up. Something that has to do with the chronograph and winder seals... Of course those ratings assume that your O-rings are changed properly every time you change batteries.

 

[pdhenry]

I took a DSD dive (so <= 40 feet) in December wearing a Swiss automatic watch (~$650) rated to 100 meters without any issues but when I began my OW course I bought this $40 watch from Amazon:



Casio Men's MDV106-1A Black Analog Anti Reverse Bezel Watch: Watches: Amazon.com

The problem on WR ratings on watches not identified as diver's watches (e.g., watches with ratings less than 200 m) is that the ratings are for static pressure and don't factor the water pressure when you move about or even move your arm. also, the lower-rated watches also stipluate that you can't operate any of the watch controls (such as the pushbuttons on the side of the watch) and keep the watertight integrity of the watch.

 

[cb5150]

I've been diving with a $27 Timex Ironman from Wallyworld for the last 4 years. It's been to 122' with no problems. I've probably taken it on more than 200 dives in fresh and salt water.

 

[rx7diver]

I'm planing on getting my OW this year, and I have a habit of researching everything like crazy. Anyway, I stumbled upon a video that shows you how to use dive tables, when it occurred to me that I would need some kind of watch. My question is, would a regular wally-world watch that claims to be water proof up to 150m would work? Or do I need a watch that is made for diving?


Your help is appreciated.

Texanguy,

There's a neat recent thread here: http://www.scubaboard.com/forums/basic-scuba-discussions/475842-does-anyone-wear-watch.html.

Safe Diving,

rx7diver

 

[TMHeimer]

My standard reply: I've had 3 that were rated to 100m (300')--the 25-$30 type.
First one: accidentally flooded (not the watch's fault, very freak accident).
2nd one: lasted until I dropped it out the car door and didn't notice that.
3rd one: Bought July 2011- still fine (over maybe 100+ dives). Granted only 4 or 5 of those dives were in the 100' range, many much shallower in the 30' range.
When dive is over I let watch run another day (to make sure it's dry), then stop it to save the battery--I've heard that once you replace the battery it's more likely to flood.

Take what you will from all that.

I'll add that I agree with those who recommend a computer if the time comes you can spend the $. Personally I wouldn't spend money on a watch if the price is anywhere near that of a computer. Some buy a second computer as a backup, another good idea. I find the computer + cheap watch/analog gauges a nice combination.

 

[Texanguy]

Please tell me that you haven't actually taken the course yet. If not, your Instructor will advise you, but watches and tables are pretty "old school" in recreational diving, although knowing how to use tables, watch and depth gauge are critical skills IMHO.
If you are certified and you are relying on "stumbling" across Youtube videos for this sort of information, then respectfully, you should demand your money back.

No, I have not yet taken the OW certification. I just wanted to do a little research ahead of time since I didn't know anything about SCUBA diving. All I knew about SCUBA diving before this, is that you have a tank filled with air that let's you breath underwater. I guess that's not really surprising considering that few people really know much about this sport (or maybe I'm just an idiot ). Anyway, I am using dive tables for two reasons.

1. They are reliable (I realize that they are not 100% accurate).
2. I am 17 and have little money to spend on a dive computer outside of the cost of training.

Thanks for all of the help.

Ps.this is the friendliest forum I have ever been on.