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Arthur Daley · 3 December 2005, 06:54 AM

Wanted to ask about "best", but quickly realized that the forum would probably quickly deteriorate into a heated debate about what constitutes "best". That, or I'd be slapped for asking a stupid question.

So I'm curious - what's your favourite Swiss (or perhaps even German) dive watch - gotta be automatic w/sapphire crystal.... And why?

3 December 2005, 07:02 AM

I really like the IWC Aquatimer and the Cousteau edition. It's good looking, functional, tough with good lume and doesn't look like most dive watches, i.e. an hommage to a Sub (which is really an hommage to the 50 Fathom).

That's my story and I'm sticking to it.

RogerF · 3 December 2005, 07:04 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Arthur Daley

Wanted to ask about "best", but quickly realized that the forum would probably quickly deteriorate into a heated debate about what constitutes "best". That, or I'd be slapped for asking a stupid question.

So I'm curious - what's your favourite Swiss (or perhaps even German) dive watch - gotta be automatic w/sapphire crystal.... And why?

I am a huge fan of the IWC aquatimer. I just love IWC watches in general and think that the simple uncluttered look of the Aquatimers would make a great everyday watch just like my SD does.

There is no reason behind why I like it, but I dont have anything negative to say about it simply because I have not owned one yet so dont know what its like to live with one.

One things for sure is that I would not buy another SMP, newer Omegas stink! If ppl think that Rolex has quality issues try going to Swatch Canada to get something done under warrenty (2 months is the norm as opposed to 3 weeks from Rolex canada)

3 December 2005, 07:06 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by RogerF

If ppl think that Rolex has quality issues try going to Swatch Canada to get something done under warrenty (2 months is the norm as opposed to 3 weeks from Rolex canada)

And the girls at the Rolex HQ are smokin' hot!

Goodwatch · 3 December 2005, 07:11 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Arthur Daley

Wanted to ask about "best", but quickly realized that the forum would probably quickly deteriorate into a heated debate about what constitutes "best". That, or I'd be slapped for asking a stupid question.

So I'm curious - what's your favourite Swiss (or perhaps even German) dive watch - gotta be automatic w/sapphire crystal.... And why?

I would go for the contemporary Blancpain Fifty Fathoms. In the 'ultra thin' edition. It has the same pedigree as Rolex and is a manufacturer with a great history. But if I really had the choice I would go for a mint early edition 50 fathoms.

Very cool watch but is ruled out here.

GerardoG · 3 December 2005, 07:42 AM

For diving I use 3 watches: sub, Omega Seamaster and Swatch Fun Scuba. Seamaster meets you requirements (auto, s. crystal), but the swatch is a COOL lookng watch!

worktolivelife · 3 December 2005, 07:57 AM

I like this! nice big clean dial in titanium Too!

check out the depth rating and Breitlings Quality control

steve

Sam · 3 December 2005, 09:32 AM

I'd have to go with the Omega Planet Ocean.

mailman · 3 December 2005, 09:56 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Sam

I'd have to go with the Omega Planet Ocean.

Don't you have a black one Sam?

BruceS · 3 December 2005, 10:09 AM

I gotta ask my standard question....do you mean a watch to really dive with or just a shiney, expensive, high end dive "style" watch? To me, there's a HUGE difference. I'm a PADI Divemaster and former wreck diver, btw.

I wouldn't take 75% of the high end stuff I see on a dive. Hell if you banged them on a rusty wreck they wouldn't be so shiney anymore, and you will bang them

Of the high end Swiss stuff, I still think the ultimate dive watch is the Seadweller, and not just because this is a Rolex forum. I would dive with a 'dweller any day. A couple of the Sinn dive watches look good to me too. I also really like the IWC Aquatimer, but more so the older version. I'd dive with that watch! Doxa makes some good ones too. Off the top of my head, I can't think of any other high end "divers" I would dive with, but I might think of some later. There aren't many.

Arthur Daley · 3 December 2005, 10:04 AM

I like the Omega Seamaster Professional as well - got one about 10 years ago, and it's still going strong. Until recently I've never had any problems - been diving to 100ft w/o any issues. Took it to water a couple of weeks ago, and didn't have the crown fully screwed in - so naturally it took in a little moisture. Looked like condensation at first, but turned out to be a little more. Surprisingly, it just kept on ticking - water didn't seem to faze it one bit. It's in the process of having water (and any rust) removed, and under going general cleaning. That's what spurned me on to look for another dive watch.

The Breitling's depth rating is clearly unmatched and very impressive (as are their testing facilities

. For some reason Breitling just doesn't do it for me, however. Like the IWC, and the new Planet from Omega ain't too shabby either, although I think I may actually prefer the look of the Prof.

Haven't seen the Swatch - may have to take a peek. Still prefer the Sub/SD overall, methinks.

Any other favourites folks?

dman · 3 December 2005, 12:11 PM

Fifty Fathoms or an IWC Aquatimer all the way.

Sorry had a late addition to add.

GerardoG · 3 December 2005, 10:37 AM

I agree with you Bruce. I dive for fun (PADI but not experienced as you) plus I live in Cancun; weather here is VERY hard on everything; so a dive watch is a must (leather strap goodies are sitting back in safe box). I recently bought a Fun Scuba (Swatch) while waiting for my ferry back from Cozumel; it is not top notch, nor automatic, but it gives you dive time and depth....for under $100 us with fun colors to match your gear....not bad for a weekend dive!

BruceS · 3 December 2005, 10:41 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by GerardoG

I agree with you Bruce. I dive for fun (PADI but not experienced as you) plus I live in Cancun; weather here is VERY hard on everything; so a dive watch is a must (leather strap goodies are sitting back in safe box). I recently bought a Fun Scuba (Swatch) while waiting for my ferry back from Cozumel; it is not top notch, nor automatic, but it gives you dive time and depth....for under $100 us with fun colors to match your gear....not bad for a weekend dive!

You're a lucky man Gerardo!!

padi56 · 3 December 2005, 08:09 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by GerardoG

I agree with you Bruce. I dive for fun (PADI but not experienced as you) plus I live in Cancun; weather here is VERY hard on everything; so a dive watch is a must (leather strap goodies are sitting back in safe box). I recently bought a Fun Scuba (Swatch) while waiting for my ferry back from Cozumel; it is not top notch, nor automatic, but it gives you dive time and depth....for under $100 us with fun colors to match your gear....not bad for a weekend dive!

Myself same qualification as Bruce done a bit of diving around Cancun and Cozumel myself my favourite diving watch is my Citizen Aqualand 11.There was a dive school on the beach called Manta Divers,remember one dive just looked at my log book San Torivio?,came across the largest moray I have ever seen.

MathewJ · 3 December 2005, 10:29 PM

In order of preference:

Omega Planet Ocean (because it looks cool and retro and might actually get used to dive with due to its lower price aft discount)

Blancpain fifty fathoms (possibly my grail watch, the limited edition with the sapphire bezel that is) the fit, finish, and everything about exudes class..truly a few notches above Rolex in every regard especially price and cost of service which is what kills it for me...Rolex is pretty much my breaking point for sport style pieces and their resale helps to continually raise the bar (remember when I wouldn't pay more than $3500 for a sport watch now it is 4500)...

IWC Aquatimer...cool watch great bracelet and clasp

BruceS · 4 December 2005, 12:10 AM

LOL, I remember when I wouldn't pay more than 2K! Still trying to figure out where I lost my good sense

dman · 4 December 2005, 01:16 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by BruceS

LOL, I remember when I wouldn't pay more than 2K! Still trying to figure out where I lost my good sense

If you find yours, would you please help me look for mine too.

GerardoG · 3 December 2005, 10:50 AM

...well....I enjoy it. Signed up for tomorrow; 2 dives (9 & 11am), coral reefs @ 50 ft. Yesterday the guys saw a whale shark. Today: clear skies, mid 70's.....looking forward to Saturday!

BruceS · 3 December 2005, 10:52 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by GerardoG

...well....I enjoy it. Signed up for tomorrow; 2 dives (9 & 11am), coral reefs @ 50 ft. Yesterday the guys saw a whale shark. Today: clear skies, mid 70's.....looking forward to Saturday!

It's 33F here right now. I'm growing more envious by the moment

GerardoG · 3 December 2005, 10:59 AM

Oops....sorry. Will have a couple of Coronas after the dives for you!

BruceS · 3 December 2005, 11:05 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by GerardoG

Oops....sorry. Will have a couple of Coronas after the dives for you!

Cheers mate. Enjoy the dives and the Coronas

GerardoG · 3 December 2005, 11:08 AM

Will do...BTW, wife's b-day next tuesday. Her present: Discover scuba diving PADI course. She has never done scuba before.

Arthur Daley · 3 December 2005, 11:47 AM

Loved my last diving trip - the Phi Phi islands before the tidal wave hit. Amazing reefs, clear water, brilliant weather and more colours/types of fish than I've ever seen. Spotted a 5-6ft grey nurse shark (it swam straight past me), and was surrounded by about 50 small black tip sharks one evening (snorkelling). Those buggers can swim in 0.5M of water.

Btw - I too have a Citizen dive watch - an Eco-Drive 200m divers. Love the fact that it's solar powered with a power reserve of 3 months. This thing's been incredibly accurate and reliable. And best of all, it's totally slobber-proof, which comes in handy with dogs and kids. Here's one watch I don't mind getting knocked about a bit. Costs less than cleaning a Rolex.

So, as far as "luxury" dive watches go - I think I've heard IWC, Omega, Breitling, Doxa and Blancpain. Any other obvious choices?

baseballduck · 3 December 2005, 01:24 PM

I'll have to say the IWC Aquatimer. I don't have my SCUBA yet but I really want it. BTW Bond007 from "the other forum" says hi.

Tyler

GerardoG · 4 December 2005, 05:57 AM

Well Bruce, reporting. Back from 2 dives; a L O T of fish (as usual) plus turtles and rays. Beautiful conditions; 60 ft and 45 ft. Today's watch (for diving purposes): Swatch Fun Scuba.

Rockrolex · 4 December 2005, 06:55 AM

I swear by my b/b GMT-II. I've been diving many times to 1 m and it has never failed me yet.

dman · 4 December 2005, 08:33 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Rockrolex

I swear by my b/b GMT-II. I've been diving many times to 1 m and it has never failed me yet.

Just like me Ed, living on the edge all the time.

BruceS · 5 December 2005, 06:47 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by GerardoG

Well Bruce, reporting. Back from 2 dives; a L O T of fish (as usual) plus turtles and rays. Beautiful conditions; 60 ft and 45 ft. Today's watch (for diving purposes): Swatch Fun Scuba.

Great stuff Gerardo!! The sea turtles are my favourite. I remember trying to herd one around in circles on a dive in Bonaire so the rest of the people on the dive could see him. They were deeper, down the reef, and I was shallow with an instructor and student we were working with. I was amazed at how fast those buggers could swim!! Man that was fun

dman · 5 December 2005, 01:30 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by BruceS

Great stuff Gerardo!! The sea turtles are my favourite. I remember trying to herd one around in circles on a dive in Bonaire so the rest of the people on the dive could see him. They were deeper, down the reef, and I was shallow with an instructor and student we were working with. I was amazed at how fast those buggers could swim!! Man that was fun

Fast turtle? Like saying shy JJ.

3 December 2005, 06:54 AM	#1
Arthur Daley "TRF" Member Join Date: Dec 2005 Location: USA Posts: 300	Favourite Swiss dive watch besides Sub/SD & why? Wanted to ask about "best", but quickly realized that the forum would probably quickly deteriorate into a heated debate about what constitutes "best". That, or I'd be slapped for asking a stupid question. So I'm curious - what's your favourite Swiss (or perhaps even German) dive watch - gotta be automatic w/sapphire crystal.... And why?

3 December 2005, 07:57 AM	#7
worktolivelife "TRF" Member Join Date: Sep 2005 Location: UK Posts: 1,365	I like this! nice big clean dial in titanium Too! check out the depth rating and Breitlings Quality control steve __________________ MEMBER NO.142 Last edited by worktolivelife; 3 December 2005 at 08:00 AM..

3 December 2005, 10:09 AM	#10
BruceS "TRF" Member Join Date: Jul 2005 Real Name: Sir Daft Location: Cornwall, UK Watch: Too many Posts: 2,464	I gotta ask my standard question....do you mean a watch to really dive with or just a shiney, expensive, high end dive "style" watch? To me, there's a HUGE difference. I'm a PADI Divemaster and former wreck diver, btw. I wouldn't take 75% of the high end stuff I see on a dive. Hell if you banged them on a rusty wreck they wouldn't be so shiney anymore, and you will bang them Of the high end Swiss stuff, I still think the ultimate dive watch is the Seadweller, and not just because this is a Rolex forum. I would dive with a 'dweller any day. A couple of the Sinn dive watches look good to me too. I also really like the IWC Aquatimer, but more so the older version. I'd dive with that watch! Doxa makes some good ones too. Off the top of my head, I can't think of any other high end "divers" I would dive with, but I might think of some later. There aren't many. Last edited by BruceS; 3 December 2005 at 10:11 AM..

3 December 2005, 12:11 PM	#12
dman Lifetime TRF Patron Join Date: May 2005 Real Name: Daren Location: Austin Watch: the road Posts: 13,585	Fifty Fathoms or an IWC Aquatimer all the way. Sorry had a late addition to add. __________________ You either get it or you don't, if you have to ask, YOU DON'T!! I really hope that midget cop doesn't find me in Kokomo.

3 December 2005, 01:24 PM	#25
baseballduck "TRF" Member Join Date: Jul 2005 Real Name: Tyler Location: Pinehurst NC Watch: Explorer 214270 Posts: 1,018	I'll have to say the IWC Aquatimer. I don't have my SCUBA yet but I really want it. BTW Bond007 from "the other forum" says hi. Tyler __________________ Sedit qui timuit ne non succederet. Member #84

3 December 2005, 07:02 AM	#2
Atomic Guest Posts: n/a	I really like the IWC Aquatimer and the Cousteau edition. It's good looking, functional, tough with good lume and doesn't look like most dive watches, i.e. an hommage to a Sub (which is really an hommage to the 50 Fathom). That's my story and I'm sticking to it.

3 December 2005, 07:42 AM	#6
GerardoG Banned Join Date: Oct 2005 Real Name: Gerardo Location: Here Watch: ALL of them Posts: 32,098	For diving I use 3 watches: sub, Omega Seamaster and Swatch Fun Scuba. Seamaster meets you requirements (auto, s. crystal), but the swatch is a COOL lookng watch!

3 December 2005, 09:32 AM	#8
Sam Member Join Date: Jul 2005 Location: Texas Watch: Yes...too many!!! Posts: 426	I'd have to go with the Omega Planet Ocean.

3 December 2005, 10:04 AM	#11
Arthur Daley "TRF" Member Join Date: Dec 2005 Location: USA Posts: 300	I like the Omega Seamaster Professional as well - got one about 10 years ago, and it's still going strong. Until recently I've never had any problems - been diving to 100ft w/o any issues. Took it to water a couple of weeks ago, and didn't have the crown fully screwed in - so naturally it took in a little moisture. Looked like condensation at first, but turned out to be a little more. Surprisingly, it just kept on ticking - water didn't seem to faze it one bit. It's in the process of having water (and any rust) removed, and under going general cleaning. That's what spurned me on to look for another dive watch. The Breitling's depth rating is clearly unmatched and very impressive (as are their testing facilities . For some reason Breitling just doesn't do it for me, however. Like the IWC, and the new Planet from Omega ain't too shabby either, although I think I may actually prefer the look of the Prof. Haven't seen the Swatch - may have to take a peek. Still prefer the Sub/SD overall, methinks. Any other favourites folks?

3 December 2005, 10:37 AM	#13
GerardoG Banned Join Date: Oct 2005 Real Name: Gerardo Location: Here Watch: ALL of them Posts: 32,098	I agree with you Bruce. I dive for fun (PADI but not experienced as you) plus I live in Cancun; weather here is VERY hard on everything; so a dive watch is a must (leather strap goodies are sitting back in safe box). I recently bought a Fun Scuba (Swatch) while waiting for my ferry back from Cozumel; it is not top notch, nor automatic, but it gives you dive time and depth....for under $100 us with fun colors to match your gear....not bad for a weekend dive!

3 December 2005, 10:29 PM	#16
MathewJ Banned Join Date: Nov 2005 Posts: 71	In order of preference: Omega Planet Ocean (because it looks cool and retro and might actually get used to dive with due to its lower price aft discount) Blancpain fifty fathoms (possibly my grail watch, the limited edition with the sapphire bezel that is) the fit, finish, and everything about exudes class..truly a few notches above Rolex in every regard especially price and cost of service which is what kills it for me...Rolex is pretty much my breaking point for sport style pieces and their resale helps to continually raise the bar (remember when I wouldn't pay more than $3500 for a sport watch now it is 4500)... IWC Aquatimer...cool watch great bracelet and clasp

4 December 2005, 12:10 AM	#17
BruceS "TRF" Member Join Date: Jul 2005 Real Name: Sir Daft Location: Cornwall, UK Watch: Too many Posts: 2,464	LOL, I remember when I wouldn't pay more than 2K! Still trying to figure out where I lost my good sense

3 December 2005, 10:50 AM	#19
GerardoG Banned Join Date: Oct 2005 Real Name: Gerardo Location: Here Watch: ALL of them Posts: 32,098	...well....I enjoy it. Signed up for tomorrow; 2 dives (9 & 11am), coral reefs @ 50 ft. Yesterday the guys saw a whale shark. Today: clear skies, mid 70's.....looking forward to Saturday!

3 December 2005, 10:59 AM	#21
GerardoG Banned Join Date: Oct 2005 Real Name: Gerardo Location: Here Watch: ALL of them Posts: 32,098	Oops....sorry. Will have a couple of Coronas after the dives for you!

3 December 2005, 11:08 AM	#23
GerardoG Banned Join Date: Oct 2005 Real Name: Gerardo Location: Here Watch: ALL of them Posts: 32,098	Will do...BTW, wife's b-day next tuesday. Her present: Discover scuba diving PADI course. She has never done scuba before.

3 December 2005, 11:47 AM	#24
Arthur Daley "TRF" Member Join Date: Dec 2005 Location: USA Posts: 300	Loved my last diving trip - the Phi Phi islands before the tidal wave hit. Amazing reefs, clear water, brilliant weather and more colours/types of fish than I've ever seen. Spotted a 5-6ft grey nurse shark (it swam straight past me), and was surrounded by about 50 small black tip sharks one evening (snorkelling). Those buggers can swim in 0.5M of water. Btw - I too have a Citizen dive watch - an Eco-Drive 200m divers. Love the fact that it's solar powered with a power reserve of 3 months. This thing's been incredibly accurate and reliable. And best of all, it's totally slobber-proof, which comes in handy with dogs and kids. Here's one watch I don't mind getting knocked about a bit. Costs less than cleaning a Rolex. So, as far as "luxury" dive watches go - I think I've heard IWC, Omega, Breitling, Doxa and Blancpain. Any other obvious choices?

4 December 2005, 05:57 AM	#26
GerardoG Banned Join Date: Oct 2005 Real Name: Gerardo Location: Here Watch: ALL of them Posts: 32,098	Well Bruce, reporting. Back from 2 dives; a L O T of fish (as usual) plus turtles and rays. Beautiful conditions; 60 ft and 45 ft. Today's watch (for diving purposes): Swatch Fun Scuba.

4 December 2005, 06:55 AM	#27
Rockrolex TRF Moderator & 2024 SubLV41 Patron Join Date: May 2005 Real Name: God Location: Washington, D.C. Watch: What do you think? Posts: 37,926	I swear by my b/b GMT-II. I've been diving many times to 1 m and it has never failed me yet. __________________ Despite the high cost of living, it's still very popular. *Tosser Cabinet Member* Official Member: 'Perpetual 30' Vegas International GTG 2016 Official Member "WIS-CON" Las Vegas International GTG 2017 Official Member "WIS-CON" Las Vegas International GTG 2018 Official Member "WIS-CON" Las Vegas International GTG 2019

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