Max depths for dive watches

[SouthSideScubaSteve]

So I have 2 watches that are rated as "water resistant" to 100M ? When I took up diving, I figured I was set, I had a backup timing device for my computer; but the first time I took my Victorinoix "100M" watch to 35 feet, I ended up with water droplets under the crystal. Then someone told me that a "100M water resistant" watch is only good to about 33 feet ?So my question is if I want a basic dive watch to use as a back-up timing device, what depth "water resistance" should I look for??

 

[String]

200m is a good start for a dive watch.

Watches are rated for static pressure not dynamic (ie when you move your arms you are further loading it etc). Plus the ratings are hopelessly optimistic even then.

 

[diver 85]

You need one rated to 200 meters......linked is the type I've used, to 165', since the late 80's...under $30 to your front doorstep....don't look back, get it.....

Amazon.com: Casio Men's Classic Alarm Chronograph Shock Resistant Sport Watch #DW290-1V: Casio: Jewelry

 

[seaducer]

200m is a good start for a dive watch.

Watches are rated for static pressure not dynamic (ie when you move your arms you are further loading it etc). Plus the ratings are hopelessly optimistic even then.

Interesting, I never knew that...

I have a Timex Ironman Shock. It is rated for 200 meters, I hope I never get that deep. Anyway it has been to 140 feet, the Indiglo light is easy to see and stays on a second after you hit the button which is nice. All the functions are easy to use, the buttons can be manipulated with gloves on, and I think it cost about 40 dollars.

The first non dress watch I plan on replacing the battery, instead of the watch.

 

[Aquabear]

I also have had the 100m watch break at under 50 ft. In fact, I had 3 in the last year do that! Then, I spoke with a watch Guru who said not only do you look for a watch minimum 200m (as previously stated) but also mandatory screw down crown.
Look for watches specific for diving, not just good looks. You will pay more if you truly want one that will not break but I rely on my watch as a back up in case my computer fails so it is a necessity that it works.
I have a citizen eco drive 200m dive watch. I have a few dives under its band and took it down to a wreck at 98' off NY and it works great-meaning it still works!
After 3 in one year I have learned not to cheap out. Diving off NY affords little room for error as divers have told me and I am finding out by diving myself. To dive here is to really want to dive, not just for pretty fish.
This watch also gives depth which is handy.
Also, some food for thought about extended warranties. I got mine at Macys and have their 2 year in-store extended warranty and boy it has more than paid itself off especially after 3 (breaking and replacing at no cost) different style watches!
Good luck, keep diving.

 

[String]

I use a solar powered eco drive. 5 years on its still fine. No battery means no o-ring seal to go. Rated 200m and ive dived it down to 60 many times without incident.

 

[mpgunner]

I've been wondering about this topic since my kids sport timex (resistance to 100m) got water in it while he was taking a shower... I've become skeptical.

I like the $30 bucks. If something does happen then no problem.

 

[Garrobo]

Walking through Walmarts one day I spotted a rack of cheap watches. Interested, I found a couple which were rated for 200 meters and $9.99 each. I figured "What the heck?" and bought them both.The first one blew out the first dive over 100 feet. The second one is still working. That was one and a half years ago. When I first started diving I paid 'too many' dollars for a "diver's" watch, all pretty and stainless and good for 100 meters, from a well-known supplier. It also blew out the first time I took it below 100 feet. Today, as a matter of fact, I was in Wally's again and, lo and behold, there were the same watches for $9.99. I bought two more of them. We'll see.

 

[PvtStash]

water resistant to 165'

been to 80' multiple times w/o incident

101' once without incident

 

[Theunis]

I've got a Poseidon Professional with a 500m rating. It's a great diving watch and I had it now for three and a half years with no leaking or other problems. But I agree a 200m rating should do the job.