The Best Chronographs for Divers

"A dedicated waterproof chronograph, however, adds yet another layer of utility to the horological equation: While a rotating elapsed-time bezel can track, say, bottom time or decompression stops, a chronograph can track yet another event, such as a surface interval (i.e. the amount of time one must spend topside before embarking on a subsequent dive). If one could combine these features in a single timepiece, one has a supremely useful watch."

"There are issues with this premise, of course: Traditionally, most chronographs use "pump"-style pushers whose gaskets can be compromised if used under water. But as watchmaking technology has advanced, companies have found ways to ensure water resistance even with this pusher type. (This sometimes involves the use of multiple gaskets.) Screw-down pushers, however - which are seen on many diving and other chronographs - are often a sign that one shouldn't engage them underwater, as the screw-down action prevents the user from actuating them."

"But wait, you say - why have a waterproof chronograph with pushers that aren't meant to be used under water? Many of these watches are effectively designed (and sometimes marketed) as "two watches in one" - a dive watch while under water, and a chronograph topside. This remains just as true today: Imagine being able to dive to 40m and then time a race at the track, all in the same day, using the same watch?"

Classic dive-watch designs from the 1950s remain timeless, but adding a waterproof chronograph increases functionality by allowing simultaneous elapsed-time and event timing. A rotating bezel covers bottom time and decompression stops, while a chronograph can measure additional events like surface intervals between dives. Traditional pump-style pushers risk gasket compromise underwater, though modern engineering (multiple gaskets) can mitigate this. Screw-down pushers are common but often signal that underwater actuation is discouraged. Many dive chronographs are effectively two-in-one tools: fully functional underwater as a dive watch and practical topside as a chronograph. Modern digital dive computers have largely superseded these analog use cases.

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