Lean, Mean Diving Machines: Best Dive Watches Under $2000

Don your snorkel and wet suit. We’re diving down to sub-$2k territory to find you the best dive watches under $2000

Are you even a real watch enthusiast if you don’t fall down the odd rabbit hole of dive watches? Researching brands, specs, materials, and prices is all part of the fun but time-consuming. A dash of good lume and some water resistance, and you’re away, right? Well, not necessarily. 

Choosing a good dive watch is important because you may want to do more with it than… well…dive! And unless you’ve discovered endless oil reserves in your backyard, the price will have some influence, too.

In this guide, we’ll cover what you need in a good diving watch. Join us as we highlight some of the best dive watches under $2000 on the market right now.

Why Are Dive Watches So Popular?

A solid dive watch should be accurate, legible, and durable. It’s all part of why it’s one of the most popular watch genres to invest in. That and the fascinating history of the dive watch, of course. This sector is festooned with everything from ridiculously heavy-duty dive tools like the Omega Seamaster PLOPROF 1200M to the compact Garmin Descent Mk2S. It’s all about what you like and what you need. But why are dive watches so popular?

Well, a sense of purity and intent exists in the craftsmanship behind a dive watch. Its purpose aligns with a specific task. Yet, in its purest form, there’s also something classic and elegant about one. So much so that you can wear one every day of the week and never look out of place. Some of the most reliable dive watches are those that comply with ISO regulations. But more than anything, you should look for a watch with more than 200M water resistance. Luminosity, dial legibility, a screw-down crown, and a rotating bezel are also essential features. 

Whether you’re learning how to use a dive watch for underwater exploration or not, all project an air of necessity and charm. They look the way they do for a reason. Whether style comes into it or not, their masculine, rugged, tool-like looks have purpose and substance.  

The Best Dive Watches Under $2000

Let’s kickstart this guide to the best dive watches under $2000 with some absolute goldies. These superb options blend classic style with functionality. 

Christopher Ward C65 Aquitaine Bronze COSC

The Christopher Ward C65 Aquitaine Bronze COSC slays with its bronze case and a rich blue sunray dial. Capturing the dive watch era, the model comes on a vintage oak brown leather strap with contrast stitching. Moreover, the detail and patina of its bronze case will continue to develop over time. This warm, tough, and luxurious alloy is as tactile as it is stylish. Plus, with a COSC-certified movement at its center, you know it will always keep a great time. A relatively short lug-to-lug measurement saves this 41mm from becoming too overbearing on small wrists. Lastly, you’re doing something for the environment if you buy this watch. Christopher Ward sends a percentage of each sale to an ocean conservation foundation. 

• Water Resistance: 200M
• Size: 41mm
• Movement Type: Automatic (COSC-certified)
• Price: $1,500

Pros: This dive watch features a COSC-certified movement, and the patina on its bronze case develops its own character with time.  

Cons: With its 41mm case, this isn’t necessarily a dive watch for small wrists. 

Seiko Prospex 1965 Diver SPB143

There are tons of Seiko dive watches to choose from. The ref SPB143, however, is versatile enough to wear with any attire. Its strong steel case measuring 40.5mm recreates the brand’s classic dive watch of 1965, complete with a legible charcoal dial. This 200-meter water-resistant watch offers a 70-hour power reserve thanks to the 6R35 automatic calibre at its center. Choosing a dual-curved sapphire crystal over the usual Hardlex material really pays off in this sub-$2k watch. It’s robust, scratch-resistant, and glare-proof for plenty of adventure. Plus, the charcoal dial and steel bracelet are an excellent combination. 

• Water Resistance: 200M
• Size: 40.5mm
• Movement: Automatic
• Price: $1,200

Pros: Seiko equips this model with a premium crystal for optimum dial protection. 

Cons: A closed steel caseback conceals the 6R35 calibre, so there’s no opportunity to observe the movement.

Farer Leven Endeavor Aqua Compressor Watch

Bringing dive technology out of the depths of history, the Farer Leven Aqua Compressor is both innovative and investible. The watch uses modern materials to harness a technology from the 1950s. The Aqua Compressor case looks like a skin diver watch and uses the forces exerted on the case by water pressure. This pressure compresses the gaskets, making the case more watertight. This Farer Leven watch has a light-absorbing matte black dial and luminous X1 Super-LumiNova details for added visibility. The brand also machines the crowns and case from grade II titanium for a lightweight finish on the wrist. Farer Leven creates this line of dive tools in collaboration with The Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust (HWDT). So, if you want to do your bit for ocean conversation, the Endeavor Aqua Compressor wouldn’t be a bad choice. 

• Water Resistance: 300M
• Size: 41mm
• Movement: Automatic
• Price: $1,195

Pros: The Aqua Compressor uses a unique technology to uphold water resistance.

Cons: Its cushion-shaped case can feel larger than its dimensions. 

Marathon 41mm Large Divers Automatic

The Government Search and Rescue (GSAR) version of the SAR watch collection by Marathon is one of its bestsellers. It’s a 300-meter water-resistant watch that won’t disappoint you in any aquatic environment. The watch works on a Sellita movement with Incabloc technology for superior shock resistance. Its 316L stainless steel case also features a screw-down crown and a sapphire glass top. However, Marathon equips this black dial with tritium-filled tubes that glow incredibly well for maximum legibility. What I love about this watch is that it combines all the necessary features of a dive watch with a field watch aesthetic. For example, it has an inner 24-hour scale and dial hands in a cathedral style.  

• Water Resistance: 300M
• Size: 41mm
• Movement: Automatic 
• Price: $1,800

Pros: The cutouts in this watch’s bezel will help you grip it well under slippery diving gloves. 

Cons: This Marathon watch’s design isn’t the slimmest, so it tends to sit high on the wrist.

Christopher Ward C65 Compressor Elite

Another Christopher Ward watch this time the C65 Compressor Elite. This chronometer showcases the brand’s best engineering and finishings with a three-color decompression scale. Dr. Hannes Keller designed this scale with an internal rotating bezel underneath a box sapphire glass. The watch also features a super thin compression spring, measuring 300 microns wide. Experts place this around the perimeter of the case. When water pressure increases, the caseback pushes against the O-ring gasket for better water resistance. 

• Water Resistance: 150M
• Size: 41mm
• Movement: Automatic
• Price: $1,700

Pros: This watch features an innovative three-color decompression scale to plan your dive down to a tee. 

Cons: The C65 Compressor Elite’s water resistance isn’t the best. Moreover, the watch is suitable for those who love the dive watch style rather than those who are serious about diving.   

Best Swiss Dive Watches Under $2000

You’re in luck if you specifically want a Swiss-made dive watch. We rounded up these great picks for around the $2k mark or less. Let’s take a look at some of the best Swiss dive watches under $2000.

Doxa Sub 600T Caribbean

DOXA is a Swiss master at creating affordable dive tools, officially putting orange as a diver-friendly dial color on the map. Focusing on optimal legibility, DOXA watches are vivid and bold and have a distinctive, eye-catching aesthetic. The 600T Caribbean gives you plenty of bang for your buck. For under $2k, you get a staggering 600 meters of water resistance and a tough steel case. On top of that, DOXA experts complete its water-ready look with a cool matching blue NATO strap that will look great with beach wear. DOXA keeps the signature orange color alive with a distinctive minute hand and markings on a decompression scale. Lastly, the tonneau-shaped DOXA 600T case benefits from a smart sandblasted finish, giving the watch solid tool-like credentials. 

• Water Resistance: 600M
• Size: 40mm
• Movement: Automatic
• Price: $1,450

Pros: The DOXA is a compact 40mm dive watch – the sweet spot for medium to small-sized wrists.

Cons: The 600T series is slightly less vintage-looking than those models from the 300 collection. 

Oris Aquis Date

If you push to a couple of hundred dollars more, you can land yourself a nice Oris dive watch. The Oris Aquis Date is a clean and streamlined timepiece measuring 39.5mm in diameter. Its tough steel case combines with a deep green dial and a matching ceramic unidirectional rotating bezel. You get what you pay for with an Oris Aquis watch. After all, this is the brand’s flagship model and comes with a blend of superior materials. This is a quietly confident model not just for diving but for pairing with daywear, too. The pop of color this Aquis watch affords in its deep green dial is perfect for smarter occasions, too. This is a 300M water-resistant watch with a supple black rubber band for drying quickly.  

• Water Resistance: 300M
• Size: 39.5mm 
• Movement: Automatic
• Price: $2,200

Pros: This lovely compact 39.5mm model is suitable for wearing anywhere. 

Cons: It’s a little over budget, but it’s totally worth it. 

Certina DS Ph500M

Certain dive watches incorporate the DS Concept – the Double Security technology. It comprises an innovative shock-absorbing ring that wraps around the movement and suspends it. The Certina DS Ph500M is a hefty piece, don’t get me wrong, but its 43mm size will certainly demand some attention. Compliant with ISO standards, this tough 500-meter water-resistant watch also features a stark black aluminum bezel. Together, the orange, black, and steel elements combine to create a versatile design you can wear anywhere. 

• Water Resistance: 500M
• Size: 43mm
• Movement: Automatic
• Price: $1,100

Pros: This Certina watch rocks the iconic orange dial, offering a more affordable alternative to the Doxa SUB

Cons: This is a large watch, so try it on for size first to ensure your wrist can carry it. 

Mido Ocean Star Diver 600

Mido may not be the brand that instantly springs to mind when discussing dive watches. But there’s no reason why it shouldn’t be a serious consideration. The Mido Ocean Star 600 features non-magnetic components inside its automatic movement, resisting the adverse effects of magnetism. It’s also COSC certified, promising an exceptionally accurate performance. On top of its staggering 600-meter water resistance, its robust steel case features a helium escape valve. The feature is helpful for safe decompression stops during extended dives. Without a doubt, if you’re serious about diving, be serious about buying something like the Mido Ocean Star Diver 600.

• Water Resistance: 600M 
• Size: 43.5mm
• Movement: COSC-certified automatic 
• Price: $1,780

Pros: The Ocean Star Diver offers exceptional water resistance (600m) for its price point.

Cons: This is a large-wearing dive watch for small wrists

Squale 1521 Blue Blasted Leather

Squale is a Swiss-based manufacturer that offers some excellent dive watch options. The 1521 Blue Blasted Leather model is a great example, and it’s so eye-catching. You can’t miss this watch on the wrist. A vivid blue dive bezel with white markings surrounds a matching blue dial with lashings of Super-LumiNova material. The minute hand also receives a dose of orange color for added contrast. What I love about the Squale 1521 is its ability to blend traditional touches with modern technology. Its beautiful calfskin strap is just the right amount of retro. This 42mm bead blasted model promises an impressive 500-meter water resistance, a screw-down crown, and a sapphire top. 

• Water Resistance: 500M
• Size: 42mm
• Movement: Automatic
• Price: $1,095

Pros: This Squale dive watch benefits from a Sellita calibre – a tried and tested movement. 

Cons: The bezel of the 1521 dive watch is aluminum, which isn’t as scratchproof as ceramic. 

Formex Reef 39.5mm Automatic COSC 300M Green 

Measuring under 40mm in size, this Formex Reef watch is a nice fit for a small wrist. It also packs in a COSC-certified movement for uncompromised reliability. The Reef is an unusual color, catching the eye with its muted moss-green sunburst dial effect. With its nickname of “Baby” Reef, this 39.5mm steel model differs from many other watches on the market. Its exchangeable bezel and strap enable you to achieve a different look without needing any tools. 

• Water Resistance: 300M
• Size: 39.5mm
• Movement: Automatic:
• Price: $2,100

Pros: The Formex Reef has a tool-free exchangeable bezel and strap for limitless configurations. 

Cons: At $2,100, the Formex Reef pushes the budget a little. Still, this design offers multiple configurations, making it worth the extra $100. 

Hamilton Khaki Navy Frogman Auto

Hamilton has an impeccable reputation for creating field watches, but the Khaki Frogman Auto is a great option for underwater exploration. It promises a 300-meter water-resistant capability, making it ideal for spelunking, diving, snorkeling, and mud-trekking.  The watch has a robust bridge-shaped crown guard and boasts a military green dial color that looks ready for action. The black waved rubber strap is the perfect finishing touch for this Hamilton dive watch. It evokes the moving sea’s surface and combines nicely with a black dive scale on the bezel. You won’t struggle to access the bezel in wet conditions, either. The knurling on the bezel’s edge is nice and subtle but simultaneously adds practicability to the timepiece. 

• Size: 41mm
• Price: $1.345
• Movement: Automatic
• Price: $1,245

Pros: The Hamilton Khaki Frogman watch has plenty of Super-LumiNova on its dial markings, enhancing legibility in the dark and underwater. 

Cons: It would be nice to see the rubber band with an action-ready folding clasp rather than a traditional pin buckle. 

FAQs

Here are some FAQs to assist you on your journey to finding the perfect affordable dive watch. 

Who Makes the Best Dive Watches?

Leading manufacturers of dive tools include Omega, Rolex, DOXA, Formex, Blancpain, and Seiko. Dive watches come in all sizes and colors. Finding the right one varies from person to person.

Are Dive Watches Dressy?

Dive watches are a type of sports watch, so they’re not particularly dressy. But some are more luxurious than others. Some models feature materials like gold and diamonds, adding a touch of finesse to the dive watch aesthetic. 

What Are Dive Watches Used For?

Dive watches make superb all-around daily tools. They are reliable, legible, and solid, lending themselves to many outdoor pursuits, not just diving. 

Conclusion

Today, the market offers an abundance of underwater timekeeping tools ranging in size, price, and style. Some brands are even partnering with charities to positively impact the oceans. Others are exploring recyclable materials and reducing their carbon footprint with new manufacturing processes. At the same time, technology continues to develop.

Yet, for the faithful, manufacturers continue to bring us engineering feats that refuse to follow the path of modern technology. For example, you don’t need a watch to tell the time; you can check it on your phone. But you still wear one. You don’t need a watch to dive with – modern dive computers are safe and fault-proof. Yet you still want one. 

So, take the plunge and choose one of these best dive watches under $2000. You won’t regret it. You can get all the features you need in a substantial dive watch for that price. The bottom line is that you don’t have to pay a ridiculous price for one. You can still pay your mortgage, do everything you love, and own one!

What’s your favorite budget-friendly dive watch? Have we missed anything off this list? Leave your comments below and let us know!