9 Deep-Rated Dive Watches For Sale Under $500 in 2024

Searching for the ultimate diving watch? Look no further! 

Here I've handpicked the best underwater timepieces under 500 bucks. These bad boys have all the features to make your deep-sea diving experience (and desk diving) safe and enjoyable.

These watches are made from high-grade materials and come with pretty much all the bells and whistles.  These bad boys are ready to take on the depths of the ocean and should get you plenty of compliments along the way.

ENRIVA Professional Divers' Watch - Best Overall

For the man who loves to dive and make a statement, the ENRIVA Professional Divers' Watch is an ideal choice. Crafted with stainless steel—along with sapphire crystal and anti-fingerprint coating—it provides top-notch performance and boasts many features: a helium escape valve; luminous hands and dials; a 120-click unidirectional aluminum bezel.

FUN FACT: The ENRIVA diver's watch has the highest water-resistance rating out of all the featured marine watches we have here.

The ENRIVA Professional Divers' watch—a DIY device—has a case diameter of 43mm and thickness of 13mm, making it quite the remarkable piece. What makes this timepiece even more captivating is its shock-resistant element and certification by ISO, providing wearers with reassurance that their purchase is sound. Of course, it doesn't hurt that the rubber band comes equipped with an aluminum insert to exude a stylish aura.

Besides effectively upholding an impressive look and feel, the package also comes inclusive with a padded industrial-style carry box—ideal for safeguarding your precious item(s).

This GiGANTiC MONSTER of a watch--crafted with Swiss movement and COSC accuracy rating--is the perfect choice for any special occasion or birthday. Its features include a screw-down crown, calendar, magnifier, and anti-reflection coating.

It's a reliable timepiece and is surprisingly affordable; why not add it to your collection? Did you know that each model is tested for accuracy before being sold--making it an undoubtable purchase?

The ENRIVA Professional Divers' Watch is a magnificent watch for anybody whose affinity lies in the depths of the ocean or pool. Manufactured with high-quality material, its lifespan will doubtless endure--the perfect pick for any fashionable gent wanting to differentiate himself from the herd. Speckled with herculean features, this timepiece galvanizes one's fashion and fortifies their style.

Grab yours today and see for yourself.

NanaDC Badass Rating: 5/5

• After installing the stainless steel bracelet, it fits very comfortably and securely. It's been almost 5 months since I've started using it and it's been exceptional in terms of durability and reliability.
• I highly recommend this watch for its exceptional movement and automatic features. It's a reliable and robust Diver's watch that exceeded my expectations.

NanaDC Suave Rating: 4/5

• The movement and automatic features of this watch are super nice, and its design is excellent. It's a bit thick, but it still looks great on the wrist and draws compliments.
• I am impressed by how well this watch meets the product description, and its design is absolutely stunning. It looks great on the wrist and catches the eye.

Invicta 4698 Subaqua NOMA Collection Watch - Best Value

The Invicta 4698 Subaqua NOMA collection watch is a breathtakingly constructed Swiss quartz movement piece--crafted with precision, boasting a crystal case of 48 millimeters in diameter with solid stainless steel encasing and black ionic plating. The unidirectional bezel glints in the light, its Tritnite accents contributing to the overall effect of timelessness this timepiece emanates. Hands adorn the face, too--alongside the radiance emanating from its design that serves as homage to long-held traditions of Swiss watchmaking. Does it truly stand out amidst other watches?

This exquisite watch--from Invicta's world headquarters--boasts a resplendent engineering and artistry. Crafted to the highest standards, it is water-resistant for up to 200 meters and equipped with two secure screw down crowns and an eye-catching flare. What wonders does this piece of Swiss machinery possess?

One of the best parts about this watch is the price. Invicta offers supremely crafted timepieces for extremely modest sums. It's a gutsy move, but one that's guaranteed to attract followers. The watch also comes with a 2-year warranty, so you can be sure that you're getting a quality timepiece that will last.

The only downside to this watch is that it's a bit heavy. It's a big watch and can be a bit cumbersome to wear. But if you don't mind the weight, this is a great watch and a great value.

Are you searching for a Swiss-crafted wristwatch that reflects resilience and prudence? Look no further than the Invicta 4698 Subaqua NOMA collection watch — an ideal harmony of classicism and modernity. Featuring superior craftsmanship at a desirable price point, it's sure to grab your attention from day one. Why not acquire it now, and exhibit your strong tastes alongside authentic Swiss sophistication?

NanaDC Badass Rating: 5/5

• This watch is an excellent diver's timepiece that is easy to read at depths of up to 88 feet, thanks to its clear display and robust design.
• I appreciate that this watch keeps accurate time, ensuring that I can rely on it for important events or activities.
• I always trust the build quality, value, and appeal of Invicta watches, and this timepiece is no exception.

NanaDC Suave Rating: 4/5

• I love wearing this watch, as it always sparks conversations and inquiries from others who are curious about its stunning design and unique features.
• The refined gold plating on this watch is a stunning detail that adds a touch of elegance to its already robust design.

Invicta 40 mm Pro Diver Watch - Best Budget Pick

The Invicta 40 mm Pro Diver Watch is the ultimate diver's watch. This bad boy has everything you could want and more. From the robust Sub case to the 200m Water resistance, this watch is a force to be reckoned with.

The Pro Diver 8926OB is constructed with a 40mm Case, Dial and Movement. The Crystal is a mineral, providing the watch with a high quality finish. The Style of the watch is Diver/Sport and has a Lug width of 22mm. The Dial options are classic black, with Yellow branding text. There's also a compas rose, Cyclops/date, and logo. The Hands and Markers are applied and the lume is applied with perfection to emit a bright, glowing presence.

Constructed from high-grade stainless steel, the band on this timepiece boasts a double-locking clasp and is micro-adjustable with a strong friction fit. The folding lock provides added reassurance with its reliable flip-lock closure.

Boasting an NH35 mechanical movement--with up to 40 hours of power reserve and seconds per day accuracy--the watch not only has manual winding as well as automated functions, but also a convenient hacking feature enabled by the screw-down crown for utmost protection against external elements.

The Fit and Finish of this bad boy is out of this world. The Brushed surfaces, Edges, Sharpness and Unrefined details are top notch. The Branding text is perfectly applied and the Lume application is simply gorgeous.

The fact that this watch is only a few hundred bucks is absolutely insane! I mean, this watch is on par with some of the microbrands out there, but at a fraction of the price.

I'll be honest, there's a bit of a stigma that comes with Invicta watches. But at the end of the day, all that matters is that you get what you pay for. And this thing is absolutely killer.

I've been wearing this watch for a few weeks now and I've got to say, it's not been all smooth sailing. I had a few issues with the manufacturer, but after a few emails and a 3 year warranty, I'm more than happy with this bad boy.

So if you're looking for a watch that's going to turn heads and handle splish-splashing, hunting and even diving in robust conditions, then this is the watch for you. The quality and finishing of this piece is unparalleled and it looks absolutely stunning. Plus, you get a 3 year warranty, so what's not to love?!

NanaDC Badass Rating: 3/5

• The automatic movement inside this watch is venerable and reliable. The crown guards which cover a portion of the crown also provide protection from glancing blows. The exhibition case back also allows for a view of the movement.
• This watch offers 200 meters of water resistance, and if that's something you're bothered about, you should have no issues when swimming or during daily tasks, which is a bonus.

NanaDC Suave Rating: 3/5

• I noted that the stainless steel case is constructed with brushed and polished surfaces to an impressive standard considering the price. I also appreciated that the size is often touted as being fantastically versatile for many wrists.
• I found this Invicta Pro Diver to be attractive to look at, even though it's far from unique. There's a reason the Submariner design is copied so often - it just works.

Orient Kamasu Underwater Watch

Gleaning an intriguingly individual look, a man in search of a trusty underwater wristwatch ought to consider the Orient Kamasu Water-Resistant Watch. Endowed with both iconic styling and advanced features, this timepiece makes an ideal companion for any diver—for those who crave something other than Seiko's Turtle or Submariner, that is.

Crafted from 316L stainless steel, the Kamasu provides a 41.5mm case and 46.7mm lug-to-lug size—perfect for everyday watch use. With features such as its 6mm crown, F6922 automatic movement, and 22 jewels delivering 21,600 vibrations per hour with a 40-hour power reserve; along with hacking and hand-winding capabilities—the Kamasu is an ideal timepiece choice.

The Kamasu also features a flat sapphire crystal, an aluminum bezel insert with a minute track, a crisp day/date window, stick-style indices, and polished spear-type hands. On top of all that, the watch also has lume, so you'll always be able to tell the time even in low light conditions. The steel bracelet is 22mm wide and has an orange-peel texture, creating a sunburst effect with teal hues and a white background. The black lettering and red accents on the arrow tip give the watch a unique touch.

It's no surprise that the Kamasu is built to last. Its 316L stainless steel construction ensures longevity, and its EcoZilla G-Shock technology ensures the watch is shock-resistant. The included light/chocolate brown strap features 4 micro-adjusts, making it easy to get the perfect fit.

Encompassing the features of a premier timepiece, without being too hard on the pocketbook—the Orient Kamasu Diving Timepiece is an optimum option for the savvy male in search of dependable and dapper dressing. Albeit, it may not be as waterproof as other models—perhaps leaving one to look elsewhere if needing an exceptionally versatile watch. Are you in need of a trusty and stunning dive accessory? If so, the Kamasu would be well-suited to the task. But before choosing, grant it a thorough examination first—for procuring optimal satisfaction from your purchase.

NanaDC Badass Rating: 4/5

• The lume on the Komatsu diver's timepiece is bright and long-lasting, making it easy to read in low-light conditions. The watch's durability and water resistance of 200 meters make it suitable for diving and other water activities.
• The unidirectional bezel of the Komatsu dive timepiece has 120 clicks and deeply grooved notches, making it impressive for its price range. The bezel is robust, and the watch has an overall durable construction.

NanaDC Suave Rating: 4/5

• The Komatsu diver's timepiece case has a smooth finish with no hairline bevels, giving it a premium look. The watch's design is modern and refined, making it a great choice for watch enthusiasts.
• The absence of a chapter ring on the dial of the Komatsu marine watch gives it a minimalist look, making the minute markings appear right on the dial. The watch's design is sleek and understated, perfect for those who appreciate minimalism.

Citizen Eco-Drive Promaster Altichron Black Watch

The Citizen Eco-Drive Promaster Altichron Black Watch is a must-have for any man looking for the perfect adventure timepiece. This watch has all the features you need for an outdoor adventure, and its black color gives it a sophisticated edge. 

This Citizen watch is a wonder--featuring a standard movement, an Eco-Drive that runs off of light, and an altimeter, compass, plus a date window! Crafted from polyurethane and stainless steel to be lightweight yet reliable, its water resistance reaches up to 100m.

A rarity amongst watches, this gem scarcely needs power--what with its energy-efficient system and use of light. But it's likewise quite strong in its construction; even when exposed to rough elements we can rest assured it'll remain unscathed. To cap it all off, the convenience of being able to tell the day at-a-glance is certainly vast--not least due to its small size which invokes nearness.

This timepiece—with its substantial 44mm case size and a range of features such as Arabic numerals, a date window, and an ion-plated black bezel—is sure to suit any man's wrist ideally. The superior sapphire crystal with its anti-reflective coating grants an always clear viewing of the dial, while the white hour markers and hands make it easy to discern the time quickly.

This watch is blessed with a singular feature: the Imperial Altimeter--rendering measurements up to 10,000 feet in altitude. It boasts a sub-altimeter--surveying air pressure--and a power reserve assuring consistent performance; thereby making it an ideal companion for thrill-seekers and adventurers alike. The electronic compass and chronograph capacities make this device even more indispensable!

The matte black case and black polyurethane strap give the watch a nice balance between style and practicality. The red accents on the dial and pushers give it a sleek and stylish look, while the crown at 4 o’clock and the pushers on the left-side make it easy to use. The aviator-style strap is perfect for any semi-professional adventurers out there like Indiana Jones.

The Citizen Eco-Drive Promaster Altichron Black Watch is a formidable choice for the man embarking on an adventurous escapade. Aesthetically pleasing and functionally sound, the timepiece boasts a wealth of features (including atomic timekeeping), though its battery life may be less than glorious. The sheer array of dials and instruments may present certain issues with clutter—however, if you're after rugged reliability in your wristwatches—this one should undoubtedly not to be overlooked. Could this watch keep up with daredevils? —That's for you to decide. Get yours today and put it to the test!

NanaDC Badass Rating: 5/5

• The Citizen Promaster Alticron is packed with features, such as an altimeter that can measure altitude for up to 10,000 meters minus 300 meters, and an electronic compass. It also boasts water resistance of 200 meters, making it perfect for adventurous activities such as hiking or diving. I find the watch to be both robust and durable.

NanaDC Suave Rating: 4/5

• The Citizen Promaster Alticron looks great on the wrist, and the big chunky rubber strap adds to its unique design. I love how the watch's features cater to outdoor enthusiasts, making it the perfect accessory for any adventure.

Orient Mako XL Diving Watch

The Orient Mako XL is one bad-ass underwater watch. If you're looking for a robust, sporty, and affordable time piece, then this is the one for you. The build quality is second to none and the performance is top-notch. It's got a classic, traditional design that'll make you look masculine AF.

This imposing wrist piece--with its varying permutations--has a formidable presence. You can customize the bezel, case, and dial color to your liking. Its crown guards are complemented by a satin-brushed and polished finish. The unidirectional rotating bezel is indexed with sixty-minute markers. A mineral crystal shields it from harm, and it can endure submersion of up to two hundred meters (660 feet).

The dial boasts large hour markers, hands in the shape of swords, and a sloping chapter ring with numerals for the seconds—a date window and day pane with a white-hued border completing its appearance. The luminous accents on the hands and indices make it effortless to read even in depleted light conditions.

The Orient Mako XL—outfitted with the dynamically efficient Japanese automatic movement caliber 46943, a 21600 BPH frequency and lavish 40-hour power reserve—boasts an exclusive stainless steel case and satin-finished silver band that draws its agreeable aesthetic qualities from an Oyster-like design; complete with hollow end links, push-pins, and a secure fold-over clasp featuring double push-button safety.

This watch is pretty damn cool, but there are a few things that could be better. The bezel function could be smoother and the calendar has some issues. The item weight is a bit hefty at 12.8 ounces, and the lug-to-lug is a bit long at 51mm.

All in all, the Orient Mako XL is a badass watch. It's got all the features you need for a submersible timepiece, plus it looks sick AF. It's got a classic look with some modern touches, and it's super affordable. If you're looking for a rugged, reliable, and affordable underwater timepiece, then this is the one for you.

NanaDC Badass Rating: 2/5

• The Orient's Mako Excel Reference Fe M 7500 is a well-executed diver's timepiece with a sturdy build quality that immediately feels robust and durable in hand.
• The Epson-made caliber four six nine forty-three is a reliable, well-proven workhorse movement.

NanaDC Suave Rating: 3/5

• The watch is aesthetically pleasing, with a green aluminum bezel inset with black numerals, a black dial, and silver hands. The design is reminiscent of the Omega Planet Ocean, with the same fonts and overall style.
• The bracelet itself is finished to a good standard. The brush satin finish on the top side of the bracelet links and also the underside of the bracelet links are brushed into a very good grain finish.

Seiko Prospex Solar-Powered Diver's Watch (Special Edition)

The Seiko Prospex Solar-Powered Diver's Watch (Special Edition) is a fantastic creation—crafted of rugged stainless steel, featuring a gorgeous dial and perfectly smooth bezel, illuminated with luminescent markers. The resilient silicone strap is fitted with a robust clasp for optimal security. What's more, it almost begs you to take the plunge into the depths of the deep blue sea!

The quartz-powered movement of this watch keeps perfect time, and the date window is a pleasing touch–no more winding or resetting needed! Solar power allows for never having to worry about batteries, in addition to its remarkable 200-meter depth rating (ideal for underwater explorations).

This watch—a two-toned blue and green marvel with a beautiful matte finish and perfect case shape for my wrist—is of unquestionable quality. Its crown is easy to grip, the buttons convenient on the side, and every detail meticulously completed. Its impressive durability has been field tested by me with no blemishes or damage arising yet! Even at its price point it offers an excellent value proposition, leaving one to ponder--would I purchase this watch again? Undoubtedly yes; it is absolutely immaculate.

On the downside, the size may be a bit too big for some people. And it can be a little difficult to read the date window, especially if you have bad eyesight. The military time is also a bit confusing for some users.

Aesthetically alluring, – and delivering a construct of unequivocal excellence – the Seiko Prospex Solar-Powered Diver's Watch (Special Edition) is most certainly an extraordinary timepiece. A quartz movement of superlative quality makes this watch ideal for any outdoor pursuits, while its affordable price tag renders it rather opportune. Is this the perfect synthesis of robustness, value and style? Undoubtedly, it begs to be considered! Were one seeking a chronometer that would continue to tick reliably indefinitely – then look no further!

NanaDC Badass Rating: 5/5

• This watch is built to last, with its true 200-meter water resistance and it has drilled lugs that make it easy to swap out the strap for a different look.

NanaDC Suave Rating: 4/5

• The blue whale pattern gives the dial a rich and deep tone, making it a truly beautiful watch.
• The well-done gun finish on this watch is a standout feature that sets it apart from other models.
• The applied indices and track owner on the outer ring add a touch of elegance to the design

Tissot Seastar 660/1000 Watch

The Tissot Seastar 660/1000 watch is one of the most stylish and manly wristwatches I’ve ever seen. Housing a Swiss quartz movement encased within its sleek 11.17mm stainless steel frame and rose gold PVD coating, this 42mm timepiece features an attractive black rubber band with a width of 22mm. The watch is secured with a standard buckle closure,—and displays the day in addition to the time.

This manly marvel of a watch is impervious to intense depths, reaching 300m/1000ft below the surface—so go right ahead and do your thing! It features a hardy sapphire crystal, renowned for its scratch-resistance, while its double-sided antireflective coating guarantees perfect clarity when reading.

The Tissot Seastar 660/1000 watch certainly is a neat little timepiece—dependable, attractive, and hefty. It boasts a screw-down crown, an aluminum bezel ring that you rotate anti-clockwise, two screw-down pushers, and a solid caseback. It's highly accurate and of top quality.

However, pressing the buttons can require some strength; furthermore, its water resistance could be improved upon. Additionally, at 4.7 ounces it can feel cumbersome to wear for extended periods of time. Is this still worth the money? Absolutely! YOLO! Buy it!

Worst Diver's Timepieces - Panerai Luminor 423

The Panerai Luminor 423 Dive Watch, known for its blend of traditional manual timekeeping and modern quality, has a mixed reception among watch enthusiasts. Here are some aspects that people may not like about this watch:

• Manual Movement: The requirement for regular hand-winding to keep time may not appeal to everyone, especially those accustomed to automatic or quartz movements. This feature, while appreciated by traditionalists, can be seen as a hassle for others​​.
• Large Case Size: Its large 47mm case, while stylish and robust, might not be comfortable or aesthetically pleasing for individuals with smaller wrists. This size can be imposing and may not suit all tastes or styles​​.
• Lack of In-House Movement in Entry-Level Models: For some watch enthusiasts, the authenticity and prestige of an in-house movement are important. Panerai's approach of using movements that are variants of ones made by other manufacturers, especially in their more entry-level models, might not sit well with purists​​.
• Price Point: While not explicitly mentioned in the sources, Panerai watches, in general, are known for their premium pricing. The Panerai Luminor 423, like its counterparts, might be considered overpriced by some, considering its features and specifications compared to other luxury dive watches in the market.

Why Should You Buy Water - Resistant Watches Under $500?

Professional diver watches for less than $500? Yeah, I'm sure at least one of these bad boys caught your eye. And don't worry, I'm here to break down why you should take the plunge. 

First, these watches are usually made from top-notch materials, so you know you're getting quality. Plus, they're designed to be tough and durable, so you won't have to worry about them breaking down anytime soon. Sure, you might have some minor issues here and there, but nothing a good repair can't fix. 

Second, you'll be able to show off your style and sophistication. Show the world you've got a bit of class with a stylish snorkeling watch on your wrist. Plus, they look great with any outfit, so you're sure to make a statement. 

Finally, these watches are extremely affordable. You could easily find a high-quality aquatic watch for less than $500. What's not to like?

So, if you're looking for a reliable, stylish and affordable timepiece, you should definitely consider a marine timepiece. Just make sure you do your research and try to find one with all the features you need.

Affordable Price Tag

Cheaper aquatic watches are the way to go if you're not looking to break the bank on a luxury timepiece. With these bad boys, you get all the essential qualities for a fraction of the cost. 

No need to spend hundreds or thousands of dollars to get the full diving experience! 

But, don't get too comfortable. You may miss out on some features that you would've gotten with a more expensive watch. And don't expect the highest-grade build quality; these watches won't last forever. 

Still, they get the job done at a fraction of the cost. Cheaper dive timepieces are the way to go!

Durable Materials

These watches are built for the long haul! Durable materials like stainless steel, sapphire crystals, and mineral glass make sure you're never left stranded in the middle of the ocean. 

But even the toughest of timepieces can suffer from wear and tear. That's why it's important to be mindful of how you store and handle your watch.

You'll want a watch that stands up to the elements and looks great too. And that's exactly what you get with these watches. They're stylish, reliable and long-lasting. Just don't forget to give 'em some TLC every once in a while!

Comfort

Diving's an adventure that needs a timepiece that won't weigh you down. Most underwater watches come with a stainless steel, rubber, silicone, or leather strap - all lightweight and hypoallergenic. 

But watch out - they're not all created equal. Some might be too bulky, or too stiff, or just plain uncomfortable. 

So, don't settle for anything less than the perfect fit. And if you get it wrong? Well, that's gonna be one less fish in the sea. So, don't take chances - get the perfect watch for your dive.

Superior Timekeeping

Underwater timepieces are the perfect choice for any man. Nobody wants to be on a dive and have their timepiece lag and delay. That's why wetsuit watches are built with precise quartz or automatic movements to keep you on track. 

They look great too! With a variety of styles, sizes, and functions, there's a submersible watch for every man. And no matter how deep you go, your timepiece will stay accurate and uniform. 

But there are some drawbacks. Diving timepieces are bulky and a bit heavy. And they can be pricey if you're looking for something with all the bells and whistles. But if you want accuracy and reliability even underwater, you can't go wrong with a diver's timepiece.

Are Scuba Watches Under $500 as Good as the Expensive Timepieces?

No one can deny that scuba timepieces with a hefty price tag have an advantage in terms of superior material quality and craftsmanship. But, let's be real, you're paying for a name - and that's no joke!

These watches are often over-the-top, with features that are just not practical. On top of that, the price tag can be a major turn-off. It's no surprise that many people opt for more affordable alternatives.

Diving watches under 500? Yeah, I know what you're thinking: "Cheap watches won't cut it." WRONG! These cheap timepieces will last you longer than you'd expect!

They may not have the most advanced features, but they can still keep up with higher-priced models. I mean, they all have the same, if not better, water resistance, dial displays, and chronograph functions. Plus, many of them use the same movement!

But, don't expect perfection. Sure, you'll get great value for your money, but there are still some downsides. Sure, the materials may not be top-notch, but you can still make do. 

But the bottomline? Even if the cheap watch doesn't have the bells and whistles, you'll still be getting a good watch at an unbeatable price. Go for it!

Wrap up

So, we've rounded up the top-performing marine watches under $500, so you can have the perfect timepiece without blowing your budget. 

These watches are great for deep-sea exploration, but also stylish enough to make a statement. They boast features like water resistance, luminous hands, and a durable design. Plus, they come in a range of designs to fit your style. 

But, of course, no watch is perfect. Some of the watches can be a bit bulky, and the straps might not be the most comfortable. But, overall, these marine timepieces offer excellent features and a great price. 

So, if you're looking for a reliable, stylish watch that won't break the bank, these nautical watches are the way to go! You won't be disappointed.