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Dive Watch

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(dahyv woch)

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A dive watch is a timepiece designed to withstand underwater pressure, featuring water resistance, a unidirectional rotating bezel, and luminous markers for visibility in low-light conditions.

What does

Dive Watch

mean?

A dive watch is a type of timepiece specifically designed for underwater diving. It is characterized by its water resistance, typically rated to at least 100 meters, though many models exceed this depth. Dive watches often feature a unidirectional rotating bezel, which allows divers to track elapsed time underwater safely. The bezel's unidirectional nature ensures that accidental knocks can only shorten the dive time, not extend it, which is crucial for safety. These watches are built to withstand high pressure and are often equipped with luminous hands and markers for visibility in low-light conditions. The construction materials are usually robust, such as stainless steel or titanium, to resist corrosion from saltwater. Additionally, dive watches may include features like a helium escape valve for saturation diving and a screw-down crown to enhance water resistance. The design of dive watches is both functional and iconic, often featuring a bold, legible dial and a sturdy strap or bracelet. They are not only practical tools for divers but have also become popular as everyday watches due to their durability and distinctive style.
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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes a watch a dive watch?

Dive watches must meet ISO 6425 standards: minimum 100m water resistance (though 200m+ is standard), unidirectional rotating bezel for tracking dive time, luminous markers visible at 25cm in darkness, and clear time-running indication. They're built for underwater use with enhanced sealing and shock resistance.

Why do dive watches have unidirectional bezels?

Unidirectional (counter-clockwise only) bezels prevent accidental rotation that could extend your calculated dive time. If bumped, the bezel only moves to show less time remaining, providing a safety margin. Moving clockwise could indicate more air remaining than actual, creating a dangerous situation underwater.

Can you swim with a 100m dive watch?

Yes, 100m (10 ATM) is suitable for swimming and snorkeling. However, serious diving requires 200m+ (20 ATM) rating. The rating indicates static pressure resistance; dynamic pressure from swimming strokes and water impact temporarily exceeds stated depth, so higher ratings provide safety margins for active use.

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Close-up of a Himalayan Project wristwatch with a gray and pink dial and a fabric strap with a pink stripe.

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