This is something I wanted to embark on since months but never quite felt the urge to dive into it (the truth is, it actually went outta my mind) until this morning the mail hit.

There’s another reason, too. I’m not a swimmer; thrown into the water, I might survive few minutes before shout for help and if I go that deep, the watch doesn’t matter. Until someone digs to bring it back. I don’t really feel its need and find not much to fall for.

Nevertheless, I find the topic of interest. And can’t help but admit any watch collection is incomplete without one.

The current revival of the Dive-watch style puts it onto a new demographic. The divers (also other water sports enthusiasts and those in professions related to water) needed them anyway; the new slew of buyers doesn’t mind investing a little more lest they choose to spend a day by the beach.

A personal view, though: The first dive-watch to make into a collection must be a plain one. The chrono– or the Superior may enter only after that.

To purists, even the strap matters; for the casual wearer, bracelets are best. But, that won’t hold much if you plan to wear it in the pool or under the shower. Choose adjustable synthetic straps, in that case. They also sit better on the wrist, even over a wetsuit without risking it falling off while in water. A great watch usually comes with an adequate strap, if it doesn’t; fitting a new strap is a better idea.

It’s the chunky look that makes dive-watches hot things in the dress circle. It looks tough (and is actually tough) with minimal aesthetic complications; often with teeth on the side. Those are the grips to rotate the bezel. Or, it could be just an esthetic addition. Doesn’t matter, it looks good all the way.

Here, we might clear a wrong concept. The rotating bezel is not just an attractive element to a diving watch. It’s simply a convenience tool which, used correctly, can often come to great use. The bezel counter can be turned counter clockwise (in most watches; also referred as unidirectional bezels) to set countdown.  Else, it might lengthen time and result in fatal consequences for time bound events. In case of diving, that means: The breathing gas gets over before you know. A lockable bezel is, therefore; much desired in scuba diving watches.

That’s one way to know an authentic, diving watch. Also find out if it conforms to ISO 6425 standards and rigorous quality testing certified. Other necessary features are the Divers mark earned after clearing the ISO 6425 tests.

Seeing the time at thalassic depths needs extra glow for longer periods. It’s all about how well it charges with an exposure to sunlight, or luminescent paints that glow indefinitely. Some of those are as sharp and bright as to be seen from several feet away. But while underwater, high-contrasts and cluttered/busy dials are best avoided. Distinctly marked numerals and hands go a long way.

But like everything else, it all depends on budget. And good ones at a good price are hard to find. Except for in days like these.

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