9 Great Bargain Dive Watches Under $300 in 2024

Ahoy there, fellow divers (and desk divers)! Ready to take the plunge? Let's get you suited up with the perfect diver.

These are more than just a couple of pretty pieces - they give you the life-saving guidance you need when entering uncharted depths. And they look great, too! Some underwater watches suck though! We'll advise on that also.

Let's see what we can do for $300 with this top 9 list (disclaimer: some of these I own myself).

If you have some more cash to throw around or want to splurge, take a look at our list of the best dive watches under $2000. (most of these I definitely don't own myself, although one of them I do).

NEYMAR Automatic - Top Rated

The Neymar Automatic is the perfect timepiece for the serious diver. It is a 1000m professional diver watch that has a stainless steel case and a strap made from a durable material that is sure to last. The watch features a BGW 9 luminous movement and a sapphire glass crystal. It's got a nice weight to it, and the logo on the back of the case adds a nice touch.

This watch's classic shape, dial window, and material type all come together to create a great-looking timepiece. The display type is digital, and the clasp is a stainless steel buckle that looks and feels great. The metal stamp is a nice touch, and the case material is stainless steel. The diameter of the watch is 42mm, and the thickness is 12mm. But the color really stands out, with its black dial and bezel.

This NEYMAR is ready to take the plunge. It's the real deal - boasting a 1000m water-resistant depth, Swiss super imported blue Luminova lighting, and a unidirectional bezel.

It's built to last - the helium escape valve helps protect against pressure, cracks, and other damage. And with an NH 35 Japanese Automatic movement and date window, you get accurate and reliable timekeeping. Plus, it looks good too!

It's the perfect watch for any man. Readability is no issue with the Luminova lighting, and you'll be able to spot it a mile away with its sleek black dial. So, jump in - and make a splash!

NanaDC Badass Rating: 3/5

• Neymar's thick case may make it sturdy enough to withstand rigorous diving, although this is speculative. It's impressive nonetheless.
• The Neymar's sapphire crystal makes it more scratch-resistant and wear-resistant than other watches. Additionally, the Seiko NH 35 movement provides a forty-one-hour power reserve and is hackable, which adds to the watch's durability and strength.

NanaDC Suave Rating: 3/5

• The Neymar reminds me of a Rolex, but I believe it looks much better than many of the actual Rolex watches out there. I'm really pleased with how it looks on my wrist.

Cressi Leonardo Underwater Diving Computer - Premium Value

Are you looking for the perfect dive computer watch for you or someone else?

Look no further than the Cressi Leonardo Underwater Diving Computer. This diving watch is the perfect choice for any SCUBA enthusiast and is an excellent choice for newbie divers venturing further into the wonderful world of diving.

The Cressi Leonardo Underwater Diving Computer has a solid and robust design that is easy to use, even for beginning divers. The one-button menu navigation is great for novice divers and the large readout display makes it easy to read information quickly and accurately.

The digital computer display is easy to read thanks to its 47 mm case diameter and sufficient backlight surrounding the dial.

The Cressi Leonardo is a premium diver watch, designed to provide superior performance in some of the toughest underwater environments. It boasts a 2-year battery life and up to 50 dives per year.

This watch is the real deal, featuring the Reduce Gradient Bubble Model (RGBM) and deep stop algorithm. It's packed with features, including a USB cable for data storage, and a reset button that clears all the previous info. No more worrying about mixing up data!

And let's not forget its toughness. It's built to last, providing years of reliable underwater performance. Plus, it looks great too. A perfect blend of form and function!

A user-friendly button gives users full control of the watch configurations and settings. You have the option to choose between Air, Nitrox, and Gauge modes.

One of the coolest features of the Cressi Leonardo Underwater Diving Computer is the decompression model that allows divers to dive deeper and longer while still staying safe.

You can also adjust the safety factor depending on the dive conditions, which is great for more experienced divers. The computer also has ongoing maintenance and after-sales support, so you're never left hanging.

NanaDC Badass Rating: 4/5

• I find the Cressi Leonardo dive computer to be extremely user-friendly and intuitive, especially when it comes to planning my dives. By inputting the expected depth and other relevant parameters, I can easily calculate the maximum bottom time for my dive using the pre-dive planner. This feature gives me peace of mind and allows me to fully enjoy my underwater adventure without worrying about exceeding my limits.

NanaDC Suave Rating: 4/5

• The Cressi Leonardo dive computer is not only functional but also incredibly stylish. Its sleek design and elegant black finish make it stand out among other dive computers. The wrist strap is comfortable and adjustable, ensuring that the computer stays secure during my dives.

Casio Diver Inspired Casual Watch - Ultimate Saver's Pick

I recently purchased the Casio Diver Inspired Casual Watch and I'm really impressed with it, especially since it comes in at under $300. The watch has a stainless steel case with a black resin band and a screw down crown that make it look stylish and sophisticated. It has a water resistance of up to 200 meters, which is great for a watch of this size. The date display is also a nice feature.

The analog face has hands, markers, and large fluorescent areas that make it easy to read. The mineral glass protects the face from scratches and is pretty durable. The rotating bezel has an anti-reverse feature that prevents it from spinning the wrong way. The battery life is great and I haven't had to change it yet.

I was surprised by the quality of this watch. It's made of high quality materials and looks great. A cerulean blue dial design practices clear visibility underwater. Luminescent hands, minute, and hour markers fill up the blue dial for easy readability purposes.

The band is comfortable and fits well on my wrist. The hour, minute, and second hands are very precise and keep accurate time. The case is also very sturdy and I haven't had any issues with it.

The Casio Diver Inspired Casual Watch is perfect for any occasion. It's a great addition to my wardrobe and I love wearing it. It looks great with dressy or casual clothes and is definitely a conversation starter.

NanaDC Badass Rating: 4/5

• The Casio's affordable price, combined with its robustness and practicality, make it hard to find fault with as a casual, durable watch.
• The Casio boasts a 200-meter water resistance rating, making it suitable for diving and various water activities.

NanaDC Suave Rating: 4/5

• The Casio's relatively slender 12-millimeter height ensures a comfortable wearing experience.
• The raised, loom-filled rectangular and circular indices contrast well with the glossy dial surface, contributing to a legible and clean design.

Citizen Eco-Drive Promaster Diver Watch

The Citizen Eco-Drive Promaster is another diving timepiece that offers reliability and functionality.

Besides the visually appealing design, it satisfies ISO standards, so expect top-tier durability and performance.

The Citizen Eco-Drive Promaster Diver watch is a rugged, quartz-driven timepiece that's perfect for the man who's always on the go. With its stainless steel case and sporty chrono diver design, this watch has a rugged feel to it that's sure to last. Plus, the Eco-Drive technology ensures that you never have to worry about changing the battery; the light keeps it charged for up to 5 years.

It's got a polyurethane strap that's not only comfortable and strong but also looks great with its emerald green color. The black dial has elapsed time, chronograph, and 12/24 hour functions, plus a date window and divers 200m water resistance.

Inside, the watch features Citizen's reliable Caliber B612 movement, which is now discontinued, so you know it's a good one. The manufacturer's package dimensions are 2.2 x 3.5 x 3.5 inches, and the item model number is BM7400-09E. It's available in the men's watches department and requires one lithium battery, which is included.

For the price, you get a lot of bang for your buck with the Citizen Eco-Drive Promaster.

NanaDC Badass Rating: 5/5

• With its impressive water resistance, I have no doubts about taking this watch with me on any aquatic adventure.
• The screw-down crown and chrono buttons of this watch impressed me, as they prevent accidental pressing and ensure the watch remains in good working condition.

NanaDC Suave Rating: 4/5

• The striking combination of metallic green, black, and silver (chrome) on this watch is a visual delight that makes it stand out from the crowd.
• This watch not only looks great, but it also feels incredibly comfortable on my wrist, making it the perfect accessory for any occasion.

Citizen Eco-Drive Aqualand Watch

The Citizen Eco-Drive Aqualand BN2038-01L is the perfect watch for the guy who likes blue and that loves to dive. This round, silver-tone stainless steel watch has a mineral crystal and a deployment clasp, making it a great choice for those who spend a lot of time in and around water.

The Promaster crown and 16 millimeters of polyurethane provide a comfortable and secure fit, while the 24 millimeters of blue is the perfect hue for a man’s watch.

The Eco-Drive Aqualand offers a date and second hand, as well as 200 meters of water resistance. 

Also offers a collection name and model number, as well as a part number, item shape, dial window material type, display type, case material, case diameter, case thickness, band material, band width, band color, dial color, calendar, special features, movement, water resistant depth, discontinued manufacturer, ASIN, product dimensions, item model number, department, batteries, date first available, and a big water pressure sensor and screw down push buttons.

The Citizen Eco-Drive Aqualand is a badass watch, no doubt about. Order now and you won't regret getting this watch.

NanaDC Badass Rating: 5/5

• This watch has a crown at the four o'clock position, and two push buttons at the 8 and 10 o'clock positions, which allow you to adjust the red and lower hands that indicate depth during a dive.

NanaDC Suave Rating: 4/5

• The brushed finish of the watch gives it a sleek and sporty look, perfect for any adventure.
• The polyurethane strap that comes with the watch is textured, providing a secure and comfortable grip on your wrist.

Seiko Prospex Padi Solar

The Seiko Prospex PADI Solar is a piece of professional submersible watch perfection. With stainless steel cases that measure in at 43.5mm and 12mm thick, the watch has a robust design, making it perfect for dive missions and deep sea adventures. The 200m/660 Feet water resistance makes it ideal for those moments when you need to take the plunge.

The Hardlex Mineral Crystal and Cyclops make it easy to read, no matter the conditions. It also comes with a Blue Dial, Sunburst Effect, Silver Seconds Markers, Red 15-Minute Markers, Stepped Dial Plate, Lumibrite, Huge Hour Markers, White Seconds Hand, Red Painted Tip, Date Magnifier, Rotating Blue Bezel and Screw-Down Crown.

The watch also features a Seiko Solar Quartz Caliber V157, which gives you 10 months of power reserve, and a Three-Link Bracelet with a Triple-Locking Deployment Clasp and Diver's Extension.

The polished middle links and brushed side links of the bracelet make it super comfortable to wear. The only downside to the watch is that the 46mm case size is a bit chunky for some. For those with smaller wrists.

NanaDC Badass Rating: 5/5

• The solar-powered battery of this watch can run for up to 25-30 years without replacement and recharges from light bulbs, normal lights, and the sun. This is a great feature that eliminates the need to worry about battery replacements every couple of years.
• The bright loom of this diver's wristwatch makes it easy to read in low-light situations. It is a great feature for divers who need to read the time underwater. The Seiko Diver watch is an excellent and practical timepiece that won't disappoint.

NanaDC Suave Rating: 4/5

• The Seiko Diver watch has an extension clasp that provides a comfortable fit over a wetsuit, making it perfect for diving. It sits comfortably on the wrist, and the polished center with brushed sides gives it a sleek and modern look.

Suunto Core All-Black Military Sports Watch

The Suunto Core All-Black Military Sports watch is definitely a manly watch. It's made with ultra durable materials, and designed with Scandinavian precision, so you know it's built to last. It's the perfect watch for all your outdoor sports, with storm alarms, an altimeter, barometer, and compass, plus water-resistant features, dual times, date display and more.

The Suunto Core is perfect for all your daily activities, whether you're going for a dive, hitting the gym, or just taking a stroll. It also has sleep tracking, heritage craftsmanship, and relentless accuracy. Plus, it's got pioneering innovation for all your watches, compasses, and dive products.

These record vertical movements, changes in air pressure, and current location, respectively.

A storm alert tracker also provides updates of incoming weather disturbances to ensure the safety of divers and beachgoers.

It can operate at temperature ranges of around 20 to 60 degrees Celsius. The ocean's average temperature is at 17 degrees Celsius, so the Suunto watch should be just fine.

This unisex watch is perfect for all kinds of adventurers, from anthropologists to documentarists, professional photographers, and videomakers. Whether you're trekking through the desert, climbing the high mountains, or exploring the depths of the ocean, the Suunto Core will be there with you every step of the way.

NanaDC Badass Rating: 5/5

• Not only is the Suunto Core All Black watch durable and robust, but it's also straightforward to replace the battery, making it an incredibly low-maintenance device. The battery itself is easy to find, and it lasts a long time, making this watch an excellent investment for anyone looking for long-term reliability.

NanaDC Suave Rating: 4/5

• The Suunto Core All Black watch has a unique, flashy design that makes it stand out. While some may find it a bit ostentatious, I personally love the bold look of the watch. It's perfect for those who want to make a statement with their accessories.

Casio Duro Analog

The Casio Duro Analog watch employs a classic black and white design that may appeal to most fans and divers alike. These colors and the timepiece as a whole evoke aesthetics and functionality.

The MDV106-1A is a quartz battery powered underwater timepiece with a black sunburst dial, luminescent hour markers and a seconds hand. It is rated to 200 meters water resistance and is housed in a stainless steel case with a mineral crystal caseback.

This watch features a 44.2mm x 12.1mm case with a bezel, crown and crown guards, and threading. It has a taut knurled edge, an aluminum bezel insert, and a pearlescent luminous pip. It also has a satin and polished finish with lugs and a bevel. The crown stem and caseback feature a marlin contorting posture.

The dial of the Casio Duro has a sunburst finish, with a grey submariner date window. Quality control has been stringent, and it has a purpose-built demeanor with plenty of visual intrigue. The staccato tick and alignment is dead-on.

This watch has been highly sought after on Amazon, WatchUSeek, Reddit, and Instagram, with even Bill Gates seen wearing one! The MSRP for this timepiece is exceptionally reasonable, and it is sure to turn heads. The simplicity of this watch is bliss!

NanaDC Badass Rating: 3/5

• The Casio Duro's 200 meters of water resistance makes it a legitimate option for diving, swimming, and snorkeling. It's also capable of withstanding everyday wear and tear.
• The quartz movement of the Casio Duro keeps better time, is more durable, and resistant to shocks. It's a low-maintenance watch that functions reliably without the need for winding.

NanaDC Suave Rating: 3/5

• The Casio Duro features a legible and attractive dial design with solid execution and contrast. The conventional finishing of the Casio Duro is well-executed and attractive. It's a watch that looks good on the wrist.

Orient 'Kanno' Automatic

Finally, the Orient Kanno Automatic. It is a stunning timepiece that is sure to turn heads. With its sleek stainless steel case, bezel and bracelet, the Kanno is both rugged and elegant.

It features a 120-click uni-directional bezel, a mineral crystal dial and a 3 o'clock crown. The markers are luminescent, and the sword-shaped hands are sure to be a conversation starter. The Orient Kanno also has a day/date window and is powered by the Caliber F6922 movement.

It's a self-winding, hand-winding and hacking mechanism that can reach 21,600 VPH/3 Hz, and it has 25 jewels. It also has a power reserve of 40 hours. And it can handle depths of up to 200 metres/660 Feet/20 ATM. It's a great watch for any man who wants to make a statement and look good doing it.

The blue iteration of the Kanno is especially eye-catching. It has a finish that is second to none, and the silicon strap is comfortable to wear all day. The Kanno is also incredibly accurate, with deviations of only a few seconds each day.

NanaDC Badass Rating: 5/5

• With a 40-hour power reserve and the capability to be hand-wound, the Orient Kamasu offers a practical and durable timepiece that won't let you down.
• The Orient Kamasu's full-featured movement sets it apart from cheaper options, making it one of the excellent automatic watches you can get in the $300 price range.

NanaDC Suave Rating: 4/5

• The design of the Orient Kamasu is a great balance of style and practicality, with its diving chronometer roots and modern touches like the day-date complication. The watch has a presence on the wrist without feeling too bulky, and the attention to detail in the design is evident.

Worst Under $300 Diving Watch - Seiko SKX007

The Seiko SKX007 is a beloved dive watch known for its durability and classic design, yet some enthusiasts have pointed out a few less-than-ideal aspects. Here's what some people don't particularly fancy about the SKX007:

• Outdated Movement: The 7S26 caliber is somewhat archaic by today's standards, lacking both hacking and manual winding features, which are somewhat disappointing for meticulous watch enthusiasts.
• Mediocre Bracelet: The stock jubilee bracelet, while iconic, is often described as flimsy and lackluster, leaving a bit to be desired in terms of quality and comfort.
• Hardlex Crystal: Seiko's proprietary Hardlex crystal is more prone to scratches compared to the more robust sapphire crystal, a slight letdown for those who prefer their watch face flawless.
• Lume Longevity: While initially bright, the lume can fade quicker than expected, a minor annoyance for those who value long-lasting luminosity.
• Bezel Alignment Issues: A few users report misaligned bezels, a small but nagging quality control issue that can be a thorn in the side for perfectionists.
• No Hand-Winding: The lack of hand-winding can be a slight inconvenience for those who prefer the tactile, engaging experience of winding their watch manually.
• Accuracy Concerns: Some have noted the movement can be hit or miss with its accuracy, a slight frustration for those who value precision.
• Bulkiness: While its size is typical for dive watches, individuals with smaller wrists might find it a bit cumbersome and less comfortable for daily wear.

How to Buy High-Quality and Affordable Diver's Timepieces?

With so many options out there, it can be tough to make the right choice. But don't worry! Here are a few tips to help you find the diver's wristwatch of your dreams.

First and foremost, consider the brand. Different makers put their own spin on the same features, so it's important to get familiar with the various labels out there. Don't forget to check out reviews—they can really help you narrow down your options.

Next, think about your budget. Diving timepieces come in a range of prices, so you don't have to break the bank. That said, investing in a quality watch is always a good idea. Look for features like water-resistance, durability, and battery life.

Finally, style matters. Sometimes the most important factor is how your watch looks. Choose a color and design that speaks to you. After all, you should feel proud to wear your underwater watch!

Finding the right submersible watch can be a challenge, but with a bit of knowledge and research, you can find the perfect one for you. Go get 'em, champ!

Water-Resistance

It's a no-brainer: water-resistance is the top priority when it comes to a diver's watch. With a minimum depth of 100 meters, you can make sure you won't get any nasty surprises underwater. Higher water-resistance is always a bonus for extra peace of mind.

Durability, accuracy, and legibility are all essential features too, but there's no point having them if you can't rely on the water-resistance. It's the one thing you don't want to mess with when it comes to diving safety.

To round it off, a diver's watch should also include a few neutral attributes, such as a robust design, a comfortable fit, and an attractive aesthetic. All of these help make the watch an all-round winner. So don't scrimp on quality - it's not worth the risk.

Easy Readability

A key factor to consider is the visibility of the watch dial underwater. It's gotta be clear and easy to read - no one wants to be squinting in murky waters. Look for watches with luminous hands or glow-in-the-dark abilities - that'll make all the difference.

Bottom line: pick a watch that won't leave you in the dark.

Accurate Timekeeping

Underwater watches should always keep time accurately and reliably. Whether it's an automatic or quartz movement, you can trust your watch to stay in sync underwater.

Don't let incorrect time readings ruin your dive experience. With a diving watch, you can trust it to help you make the most of your underwater adventure.

Of course, no watch is perfect. The occasional typo can happen, but overall you'll be glad you chose a diver's timepiece. Don't let any negative attributes stop you from getting in the water. Submersible timepieces are here to stay!

Long-lasting Lifespan

Avoid the worst-case scenario of your watch suddenly dying mid-dive. Make sure to choose a watch with dependable battery life. If you're going for a battery-powered one, don't forget to replace them every few years (before important dives at least). Or, go for a mechanical movement, which won't let you down!  

But watch out for those cheap knock-offs. You'll get what you pay for - low-grade materials, sluggish performance, and unreliable craftsmanship. Don't let a sub-par watch ruin your diving session. Go for a quality watch and you'll be good to go.

Stylish Design

Get ready to turn heads with your new underwater wristwatch! Disclaimer: It will mostly be men who notice it. Women don't seem to care about watches.. At any rate, you'll be able to find the perfect one to suit your personal style and taste. Whether you prefer a classic stainless steel bracelet or something more modern, you're sure to make a statement with a diving wristwatch.

If you are having a hard time choosing, try picking the one that has your favorite color. It may help in narrowing down your choices.

Finding the perfect diver's timepiece doesn't have to be a hassle. With so many great options, you're sure to find the perfect timepiece that'll be the envy of all your friends!

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some questions that you may need to consider when picking a diver watch. Is it water-resistant? Is it comfortable to wear? are the main ones, but here are more:

Why Should Dive Wristwatches Have a Unidirectional Bezel?

This unidirectional bezel is a crucial component of any watch. It's the bane of every diver's existence, yet an absolute necessity to make sure you don't run out of oxygen underwater.

It's critical for accuracy, and must be aligned with the minute hand before descent. Otherwise, you'll end up with an overestimated reading and a dangerously low supply of oxygen.

Plus, it needs to have an anti-reverse movement to avoid any mis-calculations. It's an easy thing to overlook, but it could cost you dearly if you don't take the time to set it up properly.

Are Diving Watches Under $300 as Good as the Expensive Timepieces?

For the man on a budget, it's not necessary to break the bank to get a quality watch. Even the more affordable models can hold up to the more expensive ones.

Take diving watches under $300 For example: they're built tough with stainless steel casing and can handle depths up to 200m. Plus, they're accurate and reliable. You won't be left in the lurch with these watches.

Now, don't get me wrong. You won't get the same level of prestige or maybe even the same craftsmanship from the cheaper watches. But, if you're looking for a great timepiece without breaking the bank, these diving timepieces are the way to go.

Overall, you'll get a good bang for your buck when it comes to watches in this price range. So, don't be afraid to take a chance on these watches. Just make sure you do your research and you're sure to find something that fits your style and budget.

Wrap Up

I hope you enjoyed going over my picks for the amazing diver's wristwatches under $300. When in doubt, give the buying guide a couple of reads or look at other dive timepieces reviews.

These may help in terms of narrowing down your choices and buying the ideal divers' watch. For more questions or inquiries, feel free to contact me below.