DIVE WATCHES
They say time and tide wait for no man, and that’s never more true than when you’re afloat. Here are three dive watches that aren’t afraid of salt and spray. —Roger Roy
CITIZEN PROMASTER DIVER
HIGH TIME: On the water is the perfect place to let the sun do some work for you. The Promaster’s Eco-Drive harnesses light to keep its battery topped off, eliminating the need to ever open the titanium case. The titanium bracelet is comfortable and classy, and has the extra security of a double-locking clasp.
TIME OUT: The titanium bracelet isn’t as easy to expand if you’re slipping it over a bulky wetsuit sleeve.
PRICE: $495; citizenwatch.com
ORIS AQUIS TITANIUM DATE
HIGH TIME: Powered by a self-winding Swiss movement, the Aquis gives you a peek at its spinning works through a mineral glass window in the titanium back. The rubber strap closes with a folding titanium clasp that allows for quick and easy size adjustments. With its polished bezel and understated dial with date window at the bottom, it’s a bit more at the elegant end of the rugged elegance scale.
TIME OUT: Life at sea won’t hurt the Aquis, but it’s just pricey enough that it might hurt you to ding it.
PRICE: $1,650; oris.ch
SEIKO PROSPEX DIVERS 200M
HIGH TIME: The crown at 4 o’clock and the curved contours recall Seiko’s dive heritage, but with a splash of color that will have you thinking of the deep blue even when you’re glued to a desk. Automatic movement (with a 41-hour power reserve and manual wind capability) keeps things running, and the LumiBrite hands and markers will glow through the darkest night.
TIME OUT: While the bezel is marginally the smallest of the bunch, the cushion case can make the watch seem a bit oversize on small wrists.
PRICE: $495; seikousa.com