The top 5 diver's watches from 2024!

This article focuses on diver's watches as part of a project that takes a broad look at the attractive new models released in 2024 (as of April) by genre. As it is a popular genre, each company's approach clearly reflects their individuality and current stance. Let's take a look at some of the new diver's watches that are worth noting.

The Rolex Oyster Perpetual Deepsea is an ultra-high performance diver's watch in 18K yellow gold.

　The Oyster Perpetual Rolex Deepsea is a collection of diver's watches for deep-sea diving that was released in 2008. For a long time, only Oystersteel models were available in the regular lineup, but in 2022 the Oyster Perpetual Rolex Deepsea Challenge was released, made from RLX titanium and boasting an extremely high water resistance of 11,000m, expanding the lineup.

　The newly announced Oyster Perpetual Rolex Deepsea is an 18K yellow gold model that is water-resistant to 3900m, just like the Oystersteel model. The blue lacquer dial, which stands out against the gold tones, is combined with a blue Cerachrom bezel insert and a blue ceramic pressure ring to create a vibrant and glamorous finish. The 18K yellow gold bracelet differs from previous models in that the inner links are polished, adding an extra touch of elegance. The buckle, which is equipped with a Glidelock extension system that allows the bracelet length to be adjusted, is also made of 18K yellow gold.

　Although I remain skeptical as to why anyone would choose this gold model for a model designed for extreme environments, this model reflects the extremely high popularity of Rolex, and it is a good choice for experiencing Rolex's technical expertise, which is achieved by using 18K yellow gold to achieve high water resistance and finishing the bracelet to a high level using the same material.

Seiko's Prospex Mechanical Divers 1965 Heritage inherits the design of the 1965 model.

　The new "Prospex Mechanical Divers 1965 Heritage" has been announced, inheriting the design of the 1965 model, which was the origin of Seiko's modern-day diver's watches and the first Japanese-made diver's watch. While the previous model, the Ref. SBDC101, which adopted a similar design, was water resistant to 200m for air diving and had a power reserve of approximately 70 hours, this model is water resistant to 300m, the highest specs for a Seiko air diving diver's watch, and has a power reserve of approximately 72 hours.

　In addition to performance improvements, the design has also been revised. The date display has been relocated to the 4:30 position, creating a symmetrical design and improving visibility. The bezel insert is made of aluminum, adding a classic feel, while the laser-engraved diving scale is painted to create a detailed finish and prevent the paint from peeling.

　The case is slightly more compact than the Ref. SBDC101, measuring 40mm in diameter and 13mm thick, enhancing its bold look. The newly developed bracelet is made up of flexible, short-pitch links and a compact buckle, and combined with the smaller case size, it improves the wearing comfort.

　The dial is available in two colors: black, which is the basic color for Seiko diver's watches, and vibrant blue. There is also a charcoal gray model to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Seiko brand.

　The fact that not only has the performance been improved but also that it has been made more compact is a good indication of Seiko's stance in recent years.

Zenith's Defy A3648 is a reproduction of the historic 1969 600m waterproof model

　Zenith has announced a reissue of its historic diver's watch, the Defy A3648, which was released in 1969 and was water resistant to 600m (1969 feet), a remarkable feat at the time. Zenith has been working on reissuing historic models in recent years, but this is their first reissue of a diver's watch.

　The stainless steel case, which is water resistant to 600m like the original, is 37mm in diameter and follows the angular form that was the signature of the original Defy. The design without lugs and with the bracelet attachment point on the back of the case is a design seen from the late 60s to the 70s and is carried over to this model. The crown at 4 o'clock is also an icon of this model.

　The distinctive 14-sided stainless steel bezel remains true to the original, but the Plexiglas insert has been replaced with sapphire crystal, giving it a modern and elegant look. The insert and dial feature a contrasting orange and black design, and the arrow-shaped minute hand that highlights the minute display adds a pop of color to this high-performance model.

　This model also features a transparent case back, allowing you to view the movement, Cal. Elite 670. The bracelet is a five-link stainless steel bracelet with a folding buckle, and the design is similar to that of the Gay Flair bracelet used in the original model.

Introducing the titanium G-SHOCK "MR-G Frogman"

　Casio G-SHOCK, synonymous with tough tool watches, has a lineup of diver's watches called the Frogman, which conforms to ISO standards. This year, the company announced the release of the titanium MR-G Frogman, a higher-end model of the Frogman.

　The case and bracelet are made of titanium, and although it is a large watch measuring 56mm in height, 49.7mm in width, and 18.6mm in thickness, it weighs just 170g. The design follows the iconic Frogman design, with its asymmetrical silhouette that protrudes at 9 o'clock and the claw-like exterior detailing that seems to grasp the case, giving it a unique character that fans will recognize as a Frogman at a glance.

　In addition to features equivalent to recent high-performance G-SHOCK models, such as Tough Solar, automatic time adjustment via radio wave reception, smartphone connectivity, and world time, it also has functions required for diving, such as dive time measurement, surface interval display, and tide graph.

　In addition to the screw-back design that ensures high water resistance, subtle improvements have also been made, such as press-fitting sapphire crystal into the center of the case back to improve radio wave reception sensitivity.

　Among G-SHOCK models, the Frogman was the first to adopt titanium, so many fans will be happy about the release of this model given the historical background.

The long-awaited (slightly) compact model of the Fifty Fathoms is here!

　The 42mm Fifty Fathoms Automatic has been added as a regular model. Previously, the regular model had a 45mm case diameter, and the 42mm model was limited to the unique Fifty Fathoms 70th Anniversary Act 1, released in 2023. This latest release expands the options available, and is expected to further increase the popularity of the collection.

　The Fifty Fathoms is not only considered the ancestor of modern diver's watches, but also a collection that pioneered recent trends in diver's watches, with its high exterior quality and luxurious details. The newly announced 42mm diameter model is available in two case materials: titanium and 18K yellow gold, with a blue or black dial, for a lineup of four models. All models are 14.3mm thick and water resistant to 300m. The movement is the automatic Cal. 1315, which offers an impeccable power reserve of approximately 120 hours.

　The overall design and proportions follow the 45mm diameter model, which will be a boon for those who have been put off by its size. In addition to the titanium model, a bracelet is available, as well as fabric straps, NATO-type straps, and a "Tropic" inspired by the original 1953 model.

　Although it is more compact than the previous model, this model still has a size of 42mm. I'm curious about how it will feel when I wear it.