Dive watches have many different uses so can be weared in many occasions. The main one is timekeeping, but they're also used to determine surface intervals between dive sites. They are waterproof and have unidirectional bezels, which is helpful when you're underwater. Below are some tips to get the most out of your diving timepiece. Read on to learn more! *What is a dive watch? *What are its main features?
A diver's watch has many functions. A diver uses it to measure the time between dives and to keep track of surface intervals. The watch is usually waterproof and galvanic resistant. Divers choose a watch with a thick case and domed crystal for legibility under water. Divers' watches can be made from acrylic glass, hardened glass, or synthetic sapphire. The latter is the least shatterproof option but offers higher resistance. The strap is often made of durable nylon fabric or rubber to prevent damage from scratches and wear.
Generally, divers use a dive watch to keep track of time between dives, surface intervals between dive sites, and travel time between dive sites. Some divers also use additional instrumentation. Most dive watches have a rotating bezel that the diver aligns with the minute hand and the time of their dives. They also have a timer feature, so that they can keep track of the total time of the dive and the time between dives.
Dive watches are very useful for keeping track of time, not only because of the legibility of the dial, but because of the bulky case and rotating bezel. In addition to their practical use for keeping time, dive watches also benefit cross-time zone travellers as they allow them to tell exactly when it is getting dark or early in the morning. These timepieces have thick globs of lume that make them very legible.
Dive watches are primarily used for keeping track of time while underwater. Some recreational diving tables limit the duration of time a diver can spend at different depths. For this reason, dive watches with an orange lume are useful time-keeping aids. Depending on the purpose of the dive watch, some divers wear them for backup purposes. Another use for dive watches is as backups for wrist-worn dive computers. This means divers should also carry backup equipment such as a depth gauge, pressure gauge, dive tables, and other electronic devices.
While most Diving watches are water-resistant, there are some precautions you should take to ensure your watch is still reliable under the rigors of underwater activity. One of the most important things to check is whether the water resistance has not been compromised by condensation underneath the crystal. If you suspect condensation, it is recommended to take it to a watch repair professional. Otherwise, you may risk ruining the beauty of your DIVING watch.
Generally, a watch with a 5 bar water resistance rating is water-resistant for up to a few hours. But you shouldn't go swimming with it, and don't shower with it. While these watches are waterproof, they're not ideal for water-using activities like scuba diving or skin diving. Depending on their design, some are designed for different types of water pressure, and can be used for many other water sports. These watches are also stylish, durable and affordable.
In addition to the fact that it is easier to read the time underwater, Diving watches often have unidirectional bezels. Divers typically use this feature to monitor their oxygen levels. Without the ability to read the bezel, they may stay underwater for too long, running out of air. However, when used correctly, unidirectional bezels are a lifesaver. They make it easy for a diver to accurately calculate decompression stops.
One type of bezel is the telemeter. These bezels measure distance and speed. Military watches often feature this type of bezel, which can be turned either clockwise or counter-clockwise to calculate the distance to an opposing position. Some even display an additional time zone. A bidirectional bezel, on the other hand, can only be turned one way. In this way, divers can accurately estimate their remaining air and decompression time without causing potential danger.
Diving watches contain helium release valves to ensure the watch can remain fully functional even when submerged. These valves are positioned within the watch's case and are operated automatically. These valves prevent helium from building up inside the watch and cause the crystal to pop out. This would destroy the watch and possibly harm the diver. Moreover, they protect the movement of the watch from the high pressure in water.
When a diver decompresses when returning to the surface, air still remains in the case of the watch. However, as the helium molecules are smaller than those of hydrogen, they can pass through the seals on the watch and get inside the case. The air inside the habitat contains helium, and the watch will be damaged if the helium molecules are allowed to get in. Dive watches must be large enough to withstand this external pressure.