Dive Watches: On Time in the Board Room or Beneath the Waves

Originally created for use in the 1930s by military divers needing to keep track of how long they’d been submerged, dive watches have since become one of the most popular watch styles because of their adventurous looks and rugged reliability.

Courtesy of Breitling, Nove, Doxa, Rolex, Ulyssee Nardin

Courtesy of Rolex

The Iconic Dive Watch Rolex Submariner Date $10,600

Introduced in 1953 and worn by James Bond in four movies, including “Dr. No” and “Thunderball,” the distinctive unidirectional elapsed time bezel and bracelet make this perhaps the most recognizable and imitated dive watch. It is available in stainless steel, two-tone stainless steel and gold, as well as yellow gold, and white gold.

Courtesy of Breitling

Reporting for Duty Breitling Superocean Outerknown 44 $4,150

A partnership with pro surfer Kelly Slater’s Outerknown brand created this brawny timepiece. Intended for use in extreme conditions, it’s secured in place by a strap made from recycled fishing nets, with the dark green dial accented by large, easily read, highly luminous hour marks.

Courtesy of Doxa

Dirk Pitt’s Watch

Doxa Sub 600T $1,450

Fans of Clive Cussler novels will recognize this as the timepiece worn by Dirk Pitt. Based on the original 600T, it can be customized by a steel or black bezel insert, a stainless steel or rubber bracelet, and enough other options to allow 24 variations.

Courtesy of Ulyssee Nardin

Clearly Innovative Ulysse Nardin Diver X $24,300

Equipped with standard dive watch features of a uni-directional bezel, high-vis hands, rubber strap, and extreme watertightness, this model stands out by means of a transparent dial providing a view of the movement in action.

Courtesy of Nove

A Reimagined Dive Watch Nove Atlantean $690

This offering is loaded with impressive features such as a mesmerizing dial inspired by the ocean’s depths and a proprietary locking outer bezel system. A transparent rear case allows a view of the self-winding mechanism.