I love being in the water. Swimming, paddle boarding, surfing — you name it. So waterproof watches have always been on my radar. In fact, I’ve spent hours researching and testing some of the best options on the market.
In this article, I’ve pulled my research together to list what I think are five of the best waterproof watches for under £500*. But before we dive in (pun intended), let’s define what we mean when we say ‘waterproof’.
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How are we defining a ‘waterproof’ watch?
No watch is 100% waterproof. It's all about the resistance they can withstand underwater. Some watches can last up to 50 metres, while others can reach up to 500. It’s dependent on the model you’re using, but there’s no watch that can completely withstand the pressure of the deepest depths of the ocean. So when we say ‘waterproof’, we’re referring to watches that can be submerged in water and still function. You can find out more about waterproof watches in this article from Sara.
We should also talk about how we measure water resistance. Atmosphere ratings (ATM) measures the amount of pressure a watch can withstand when it’s motionless underwater. Every 10m of depth equals one atmosphere of pressure, so a smartwatch with a 5 ATM rating is water resistant to up to 50 metres in depth. This means that the watch can withstand the pressure of around 50 metres, but you wouldn’t be able to go diving for long periods at this depth.
Now, let’s take a look at my top five waterproof watches, starting with number five.
5. Seiko Prospex SNE589
- Water resistance: 200 metres
- Movement type: Solar
- Diameter: 42.8mm
- Price: £470
Seiko is known for its top-quality timepieces, and the Prospex SNE589 is no exception. The durable yet stophisticated diving watch offers a 42.8mm polished and brushed stainless steel case, a matte black dial, and scratch-resistant sapphire crystal — ideal for epic adventures. The red second hand coupled with luminous hands and markers make it easy to read even while exploring the depths of the ocean.
The screw-down crown keeps water and dirt at bay, prolonging the life of the watch and ensuring you can use it safely on all your escapades. Plus, its positioning at 4:00 makes it more comfortable to wear. The coin-edge bezel also makes it easy to grip and adjust however you need.
Using the V157 solar movement with a 10-month power reserve, this watch will keep you company for a long time.
4. Elliot Brown Canford: 202-004
- Water resistance: 200 metres
- Movement type: Automatic
- Diameter: 44mm
- Price: £395
Elliot Brown Canford 202-012-R01 - Credit WatchGecko
When it comes to being in the water, the Canford: 202-004 series is a top contender. Its robust stainless steel case, triple-sealed crown, and case back ensure remarkable water-tightness (up to 200 metres) and protection against the elements. Plus, its anti-reflective sapphire crystal enhances legibility and protects the watch against scratches, making it an ideal timepiece for any adventure.
It’s also worth noting the combination of durability and style with this watch. It has a gunmetal grey case, a 5-jewel ronda 715 quartz movement, and a satin black dial with white graphics and pale green luminous detailing.
In other words, it looks stylish and authentic, but it’s also practical for outdoor use — an ideal combination for watch enthusiasts who are passionate about getting outside.
Elliot Brown Canford 202-012-R01 - Credit WatchGecko
3. Tissot Seastar 1000
- Water resistance: 300 metres
- Movement type: Swiss Quartz
- Diameter: 36mm
- Price: £390
The Tissot Seastar 1000 is a stylish yet robust dive watch. It offers a simple but reliable quartz movement that is hassle-free, accurate, and equipped with an end of life (EOL) indicator (so you won’t unexpectedly find yourself with an inactive watch). The model also has a unidirectional bezel, so you can time dives while using this watch underwater. The
One of the great things about this watch is its unisex sizing. It’s on the smaller side than most waterproof watches with a 36mm diameter and lug-to-lug measurement of 41mm, making it comfortable for smaller wrists, but still substantial. It also has an easy change system that’s simple to operate, making it easy to add replacement watch straps to the face. All in all, this is a great waterproof watch for the price.
2. NTH DevilRay
- Water resistance: 500 metres
- Movement type: Automatic
- Diameter: 43mm
- Price: £495
NTH DevilRay - Credit WatchGecko
The NTH DevilRay is a highly capable waterproof watch that meets the demands of underwater enthusiasts. The watch's robust construction — including a screw-down crown and a sturdy case — provides exceptional water-tightness. Of all the watches in this list, the NTH DevilRay has the highest water resistance rating at a whopping 500 metres.
This model is WatchGecko’s second collaboration with NTH. The retro-style timepiece features a classic sword handset (a firm favourite among vintage dive watches) with a flattened dial. The markers, however, are chunky with raised polished sides to add some height. The bold orange minute-hand also pops out against the silver dial, making it easy to read in a single glance — perfect for underwater activities.
1. Geckota Ocean-Scout
- Water resistance: 200 metres
- Movement type: Automatic
- Diameter: 38.5mm
- Price: £499
Geckota Ocean-Scout - Credit WatchGecko
The Geckota Ocean-Scout dive watch is a striking and capable waterproof timepiece designed for aquatic enthusiasts. With a water resistance rating of 200 metres (20 ATM), a 60-minute diving bezel, and a casing built from 316L marine-grade stainless steel, it excels in various water activities. From rafting and kayaking to snorkelling and diving, this watch hits the nail on the head.
Paired with a comfortable slate blue nylon strap, the Ocean-Scout also balances style and function. The vibrant royal blue glow (created using the BGW9 SuperLuminova) looks great on the hands and dial, but also offers excellent visibility. It ensures readability even in the dull conditions of the water.
Let us know what you think
So there you have it — my top five waterproof watches for under £500. Hopefully this has given you some insight into what makes a good waterproof watch, and how to measure the waterproof limits of each individual timepiece.
Although these are my top five, I’m aware there are lots of other models out there that could make the list. Are there any watches you’d add to this list? Add a comment below to let us know what you think.
