Oceanic OC1 v. VT3- how to justify the OC1?

[ttrimble]

I'm looking to get my first dive computer, and have decided I want a wrist unit with wireless air for sure. I've read a lot on these forums, and Oceanic seems like a good brand for rec diving. Both the OC1 and VT3 have the features I want.

The street price of the OC1 is about $800 more than the VT3, so I'm having a little trouble justifying it, as the only difference I see in the specs from oceanic is that the expensive model has a compass. Surely I'm missing something? Granted the OC looks cooler, but a compass and better looks don't seem like they'd add up to $800 in most people's minds.

I usually like to save up and get "the best" stuff, but I can't really justify it in this case, unless someone can convince me of something that the spec sheets don't account for.

Thanks very much.

 

[warmwaterturner]

I love my VT3. $800.00 is a lot of money for a compass - if that is the only difference, but I am not familiar with the OC1. I have the AI sensor for buddy air monitoring on my wifes reg and it is really nice to be able to check her air without ever having to ask. If I had to do it again - I would buy another VT3.

 

[Scott L]

I love my VT3. $800.00 is a lot of money for a compass - if that is the only difference, but I am not familiar with the OC1. I have the AI sensor for buddy air monitoring on my wifes reg and it is really nice to be able to check her air without ever having to ask. If I had to do it again - I would buy another VT3.

Any connectivity issues? Do you prefer over the Galileo Sol?

 

[Scott L]

Too small IMO. You can acquire a X1 Liquidvision for the same price. Nuts!

I'm looking to get my first dive computer, and have decided I want a wrist unit with wireless air for sure. I've read a lot on these forums, and Oceanic seems like a good brand for rec diving. Both the OC1 and VT3 have the features I want.

The street price of the OC1 is about $800 more than the VT3, so I'm having a little trouble justifying it, as the only difference I see in the specs from oceanic is that the expensive model has a compass. Surely I'm missing something? Granted the OC looks cooler, but a compass and better looks don't seem like they'd add up to $800 in most people's minds.

I usually like to save up and get "the best" stuff, but I can't really justify it in this case, unless someone can convince me of something that the spec sheets don't account for.

Thanks very much.

 

[drrich2]

Oceanic Worldwide has a PDF showing some differences.

The first difference is that while the VT3 is a wrist computer, it's larger than a wristwatch unit. The OC1 is a wristwatch computer unit, like the Atom 2.0. So the Atom 2.0 is the more relevant comparison (note: an Atom 3.0 is expected; there's a big, long thread on the forum about it, so take a look before you buy either now). In addition, the OC1 & Atom 2.0 have a # of 'wristwatch functions,' but the VT3 doesn't.

I consider AI wrist dive computers way too expensive to wear around as wristwatches outside of dive trips, and the larger size & thus display on a VT3 appeals to me, but you may differ.

Richard.

 

[DiveNav]

top of my mind ....OC1 has: dual algorithm, compass, deep stops and ... it is a cool looking watch

For more info check the Dive Computers Research Tool

Alberto (aka eDiver)

 

[fnfalman]

Yep, OC 1 has dual algorithms and is newer.

I'm happy with one algorithm, so I think that I'll stick with my VT3/Elite T3.

 

[DiveMaven]

ScubaToys has a demo VT3 with transmitter for like $550...check it out!

 

[warmwaterturner]

Yes, there are "loss of signal" issues at distance but then again if my arms are crossed (holding hoses against my body) close to my waist - say close to a reef or in a tight space then the AI tend to drop the primary signal as well. But, it will require in about 2 seconds - the time it takes to scan for signals.

 

[warmwaterturner]

Did see this post from another site -

BUT IM SELLING A GALILEO SOL, STARTING BID IS 800.00 ON E-BAY , IF YOUR INTERESTED IN IT THE ITEM NUMBER IS 330495951500 COMES WITH EXTRA BATTERY AND I R DONGLE. MORE COMPUTER THEN I NEED.. .