Top 6 Best Dive Watches Under $500 (Reviews) – 2023

Do you want a quality, budget-friendly dive watch that is very reliable with a good design? Initially, you might say yes, then suddenly stop in disbelief because they usually come with a high price tag.

Don’t worry! In this article, we’ll be discussing great examples of the best dive watches under $500! These budget-friendly timepieces enjoy quality design and functionality and look too good to miss.

Best Automatic Dive Watches under $500

Seiko SKX007

The Seiko SKX007 is a popular choice for dive watches under $500. It is primarily because of its versatile and matching look, which can fit almost any style.

It features the LumiBrite technology, a safe illumination innovation that gathers light and can glow for long periods in darkness.

It also has the famous 7s26 movement, launched in the 90s, bringing Seiko’s technology to greater accuracy.

Specifications

Seiko SKX007	Features
Crystal	Hardlex
Movement	Japanese Automatic 7S26 (21j)
Band Material	Rubber Strap or Stainless Steel Jubilee Bracelet
Case Diameter	40mm (Stainless Steel)
Case Thickness	13mm
Bezel	Uni-directional
Water Resistance	200m (660ft)

Pros

• Versatility in design makes it fitting for most outfits and personal style
• Hardlex crystal is tougher than normal mineral crystals
• High accuracy with 7S26 automatic caliber
• LumiBrite technology makes the lume bright and long-lasting
• ISO 6425 certified

Cons

• Some users dislike the crown that is placed at 4 o’clock
• Seiko jubilee bracelet is just so-so, not top quality

Is it for you?

It is a perfect choice if you want an all-fitting design on a dive watch with a moderate-sized case diameter. The black and silver color tone of the Seiko SKX007 fits most outfits ranging from everyday use to semi-formal occasions where you want a simple yet fitting timepiece to don.

It has the basic features of a timepiece and is well-equipped for recreational diving, proven by its ISO6425 certification. Its materials are also of excellent quality, considering its price, making it very popular among many fans of dive watches.

Notable improvements are its movement and lume. The 7s26 movement makes the timepiece a great find with its highly accurate time-tested movement (it runs off for about 10 seconds per day, more than acceptable for an entry-level automatic watch).

Its LumiBrite technology takes watch lume to the next level by providing safe, bright, long-lasting illumination and efficient light collection.

Orient Ray II

Orient’s Ray II is also a popular diving watch, boasting an elegant-looking design that has been a popular choice for years.

This timepiece improves from its predecessor, all while maintaining its budget-friendliness. Notably, it has a simpler design, removing the 2 o’clock pusher, a better lume, and the F6922 movement.

There are two variations for the dial of the Orient Ray II, both of which are popular. The first is the black matte dial, and the second is the blue radiant dial. These two colors offer variation for those who prefer one dial over another. The band is stainless steel or rubber for both types.

Specifications

Orient Ray II	Features
Crystal	Mineral
Movement	Orient F6922 22j caliber
Band Material	Stainless Steel
Case Diameter	40mm (Stainless Steel)
Case Thickness	13mm
Bezel	Uni-directional
Water Resistance	200m (660ft)

Pros

• A solid finish
• Suitable to any other watch band you may prefer
• Push button at 2 o’clock has been removed
• New F6922 movement ensures more accurate time

Cons

• The painted bezel may accumulate scratches through use
• The stainless steel bracelet is not very impressive
• The lume is not so good, better than the version I, but still weak

Is it for you?

If your style is flexible, changes occasionally, and needs a versatile yet elegant-looking timepiece, then the Ray II is a great choice.

It is an improved version of its predecessor that improves on its new movement & simpler design.

The timepiece is also flexible to any band you like, whether it’s a triple-row metal bracelet, a Nato/Zulu strap, or a traditional leather strap with a buckle.

As a budget-friendly offering from Orient, it is an excellent choice for an affordable dive watch. You could choose the design on the dial, either matte black or radiant blue.

The design can go with any style, and the functions are sufficient that even if it isn’t ISO-certified, users have no complaints when diving.

Hamilton Khaki Navy Scuba

Interestingly, the Hamilton Khaki Navy Scuba is a Submariner homage that also maintains many unique traits from Hamilton, such an impressive combination!

Note that this timepiece is a waterproof diver-style watch, not an actual diver’s watch, which is a very different classification.

Specifications

Hamilton Khaki Navy Scuba	Features
Crystal	Sapphire Crystal
Movement	ETA 2834 (25j)
Band Material	Stainless Steel
Case Diameter	41mm (Stainless Steel)
Case Thickness	14mm
Bezel	Uni-directional
Resistance	100m (330ft)

Pros

• It fits most styles ranging from casual to formal
• Sapphire crystal is one of the toughest and most sturdy materials
• Can function and retain its look for a long time
• Swiss made ETA Automatic movement provides excellent accuracy

Cons

• 100m resistance makes it unsuitable for scuba diving, just snorkelling and light water sports
• Dial design may seem full and crowded for some users
• The lume lacks brightness

Is it for you?

If you opt for a diver-style timepiece for its looks, the Hamilton Khaki Navy Scuba is a good choice. It is a “desk-diver” watch, designed to look like one but unsuitable for actual diving. However, the design is in and of itself a great reason to buy this timepiece.

The silver color tone and the black dial can go with a lot of style preferences. It is a good Submariner homage, besides being a functional watch. Users who choose this usually go for its look and design.

Best Quartz Dive Watches under $500

Seiko SSC017 Prospex

Seiko SSC017 Prospex is a dive watch that boasts a remarkable timepiece with a solar charging feature. Its design fits most styles, so you won’t have difficulty pairing this up with whatever you’d wear for the day.

The V175 movement offers chronograph functions that are basic but sufficient with up to 60 minutes of measurement. Its accuracy and performance are something you can look forward to.

The SSC017 Prospex features solar charging that lets you store power for your timepiece.

It also features the LumiBrite technology, allowing the watch to maximize light storage and illumination during night use. This charge equates to 5 hours of brightness from a 10-minute light exposure.

Specifications

Seiko SSC017 Prospex	Features
Crystal	Hardlex
Movement	V175 Solar Powered Quartz Caliber Movement
Band Material	Stainless Steel
Case Diameter	44mm (Stainless Steel)
Case Thickness	14mm
Bezel	Uni-directional
Water Resistance	200m (660ft)

Pros

• A dressy timepiece that fits any look and style you want
• Hardlex crystal is a tougher material compared to usual mineral crystals
• Chronograph for recording time
• LumiBrite technology efficiently utilizes light to its functions
• ISO certified

Cons

• The buttons may initially be hard to push
• The metal bracelet is small and thin in proportion to its case

Is it for you?

The Seiko SSC017 Prospex is a beautiful solar-powered quartz dive watch that offers more than essential functions.

Its LumiBrite technology makes the timepiece a great companion in the dark, as this feature also aims to help prolong the life and convenience of the watch for any use.

The dressy look of the timepiece makes it easy to pair up with almost any personal style you want, and its performance as a dive watch is not compromised.

It goes with many outfits, given its simple design with silver and black color tones. The touch of blue on its bezel makes it different from the usual neutral tones and adds character to the timepiece. The look and features truly make this an affordable treasure.

Citizen Eco-Drive Promaster

Citizen’s Eco-Drive series is very famous in North America and worldwide. It brings the technology and innovation that have made its series a popular wristwatch choice.

The Eco-Drive Promaster is solar-powered and does not need replacement batteries to keep moving. This technology is a perfect fit as it makes the dive watch an excellent choice for outdoor adventures and can be recharged with every trip. It can even stay up for six months in total darkness after a full charge.

An Eco-Drive watch can convert any light into power, no matter how dim, so you don’t have to worry about the power source!

Specifications

Citizen Eco-Drive Promaster	Features
Crystal	Mineral
Movement	Citizen Eco Drive Solar Powered Quartz
Band Material	Molded Polyurethane
Case Diameter	43mm (Stainless Steel)
Case Thickness	12mm
Bezel	Uni-directional
Water Resistance	200m (660ft)

Pros

• Fits with informal styles with its sporty look without the bulkiness
• Eco-Drive feature that maximizes light conversion to power
• Super Luminova technology is non-toxic and bright, long lasting, perfect for diving
• Option for charming dark blue or matte black dial
• ISO certified

Cons

• Band may be uncomfortable for users because of stiffness
• The crown at 4 o’clock may be off and not preferred by some users

Is it for you?

If you opt for a sporty or informal look for your style preference and would like a strong lume, then this is a great dive watch for you.

The Citizen Eco-Drive Promaster is a precise timepiece focusing on its Eco-Drive technology that efficiently utilizes light.

The timepiece’s look is more fitting for people who have an active lifestyle and is best used for casual events or your everyday routine. The blue and silver tones evoke a fun and informal feeling for the usual watch user.

Citizen EcoZilla BJ8050-08E

As far as dive watches go, the Citizen EcoZilla is a beast in this list as it boasts a large size with a higher water resistance rating while still under $500.

This timepiece has a unique “armored” look and feel, making it a suitable companion for your great outdoor adventures.

A notable feature is the crown placed on the left rather than the usual right, which is meant to provide more protection.

As part of Citizen’s Eco-Drive series, the EcoZilla can take up light from any source and convert it to power. The watch’s lume is also powerful and can light up brightly after much exposure to light.

Specifications

Citizen EcoZilla BJ8050-08E	Features
Crystal	Mineral
Movement	Citizen Eco Drive Solar Powered Quartz
Band Material	Reinforced Urethane
Case Diameter	48mm (Stainless Steel)
Case Thickness	19mm
Bezel	Uni-directional
Water Resistance	300m (990ft)

Pros

• A beast in this list and has a large size fit for people who like large watches
• Has a bold look that increases its rugged and manliness for users who opt for the style
• Eco-Drive feature that maximizes light conversion to power
• Super Luminova technology provides a bright lume that is non-toxic
• ISO certified
• Very high water resistance at 300m

Cons

• Not for everyone as it is a large dive watch
• Some users feel that the dial is too small compared to the large bezel and case
• May be too thick and heavy for some

Is it for you?

The Citizen EcoZilla exudes ruggedness, a fantastic dive watch that fits people who love large timepieces and those who love to dive.

As it is called, EcoZilla is a wordplay from Godzilla, referring to the timepiece as a monster of boldness and largeness. It fits prominent people, those with an active lifestyle, and people who travel a lot. Its 300m water resistance makes it capable of withstanding pressure from dives.

It is very rugged-looking and fits its practical use for diving. Its black and silver color tones and large size make it more fitting for specific people. This offering from Citizen proves that functionality can come from simplicity through innovative technologies.

Verdict

Trusted brands such as Seiko, Hamilton, Citizen, and Orient are the usual places for guaranteed great-quality watches. The prices are affordable, and the features are varied. Their style compatibilities depend on whether you are active or would use them at formal or informal events.

In this article, we’ve listed the best dive watches under $500. There are some automatic dive watches and some quartz timepieces. Each timepiece has its specialties where they excel and certain limitations where it can fall.

As with any timepiece, it depends on your preferences which you’d rather have and not have, or whether it fits your daily routine ultimately.

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