Dive watches for women is a very niche subject, now throw in automatic and we’re getting into real watch enthusiast territory. Most women that I know, including my wife seem to be more attracted towards minimalist and classy looking watches. Most of them being time only and very simple to read, and also being easy to pair with multiple outfits. There’s plenty of choice in this area, even when it comes to automatic offerings.
Some women on the other hand might admire iconic dive watches like the Rolex Submariner, but feel that they’re a little too large for comfortable wear. That’s where I come in, as I’ve created this ultimate list of the best automatic dive watches for women. I will be using my hands-on experience and watch knowledge to pick out what I think are some of the best choice on the market in 2024.
Longines Legend Diver 36mm
The Legend Diver has long been one of my favourite dive watches of all time, especially when looking around its relatively affordable price point. Not only is this a great watch for men, but the 36mm version with the mother-of-pearl dial stands out as my top pick for a women’s dive watch. There’s really nothing else quite like it on the market for ladies that want that really cool compression diver style, and the dial is absolutely gorgeous and feminine.
Short background on this watch model:
- A reinvention of Longines’ classic 1960s diver watches.
- Maintains vintage aesthetics with modern watchmaking technology.
- The 36mm model is a newer addition, tailored for a sleeker and more feminine look.
Important specs:
- Case Diameter: 36mm, ideal for smaller wrists.
- Dial: Mother-of-pearl, offering elegance and uniqueness.
- Movement: Reliable automatic movement, Caliber L592.
- Water Resistance: Capable for diving, meeting the standard 300 meters requirement.
- Crystal: Durable sapphire crystal, resistant to scratches and wear.
- Strap Options: Variety in strap choices, including elegant and sporty styles, to suit different tastes and occasions.
For more visit the official Longines website here.
Nomos Ahoi 36.3mm
Now he’s a really unique offering from a German watchmaker. This is not a traditional dive watch but rather a bauhaus version from Nomos. It does not have a timing bezel as usually found on traditional dive watches, but this watch has a lot more to offer, especially to a lady who’s getting into the intricacies of the watch world. This could also be a very interesting option if you’re looking for a dive watch that can also look like a classy watch for daily wear, office wear, or even smart casual wear. There’s a few dial colors to choose from in the Ahoi line as well, but what really stands out on this watch is its in-house made movement and general high quality craftsmanship.
Short background on this watch model:
- It reflects the brand’s commitment to Bauhaus aesthetics, emphasizing simplicity and functionality.
- Designed as a versatile watch, it suits various lifestyles and occasions.
Important specs:
- Case Size: 36.3mm, catering to a range of wrist sizes with a modern look.
- Dial Options: Several choices, including some vibrant and subtle tones, catering to different style preferences.
- Movement: In-house built NOMOS Caliber DUW 3001.
- Water Resistance: 200 meter rating suitable for recreational diving, maintaining robust performance.
- Crystal: Sapphire glass, offering excellent durability and scratch resistance.
- Unique Feature: Bauhaus design, standing out in the world of dive watches with its minimalist and functional aesthetics.
For more visit the official Nomos website here.
Breitling Superocean 36mm
Next up we have the Breitling Superocean, which is leaning on the sportier end of the spectrum. If you really like the classic dive watch style that men usually wear, this is an excellent option that is basically just a sized down version available in bright fun colors. The dial is extremely legible on this one, as a dive watch should be for quick timing under water. The absence of a date window also makes it more utilitarian and lends it a cleaner symmetrical appearance. It’s a great watch, and you’re getting the backing of a fantastic brand as well.
Short background on this watch model:
- The Superocean series by Breitling is known for its robustness and reliability in the world of dive watches.
- Initially designed for professional divers, the Superocean has evolved to become popular among a wider audience for its style and functionality.
- The 36mm version is a more recent iteration, providing a perfect blend of Breitling’s classic dive watch design in a size more suitable for smaller wrists.
Important specs:
- Case Diameter: 36mm, making it an ideal size for those who prefer a more compact dive watch.
- Dial: Highly legible, designed for clarity and ease of reading under water.
- Movement: Equipped with a reliable automatic movement, Caliber Breitling 17.
- Water Resistance: High water resistance level rated for 300 meters, suitable for professional diving.
- Crystal: Utilizes a sturdy sapphire crystal, offering excellent resistance to scratches.
- Design: Sporty yet elegant, with a variety of color options to suit different tastes.
For more visit the official Breitling website here.
Tudor Black Bay 36 (BB36)
The Black Bay 36 is great option for a lady looking for a dive watch that can do it all. It’s not really a specialized diver but it’s sporting the water resistance rating you need. This watch is leaning more towards the style of the Rolex Oyster Perpetual. It’s designed with all the needed specs but it plays double duty as a do everything watch. Tudor is a sister company to Rolex who share some watchmaking factories, and having handled a few I can say they’re built nearly to the same quality standards. This is in my opinion one of the safer choices on our list. One of it’s standout features it of course the in house automatic movement caliber Omega 2500 with 48 hours of power reserve.
Short background on this watch model:
- Tudor’s Black Bay line is a modern interpretation of the brand’s classic dive watches.
- The BB36 offers a subtle nod to Tudor’s heritage while incorporating contemporary design elements.
Important specs:
- Case Diameter: 36mm, ideal for versatility and a range of wrist sizes.
- Movement: In-house automatic movement, Caliber MT5400, known for its reliability and efficiency.
- Power Reserve: 48 hours, ensuring consistent performance over a couple of days.
- Water Resistance: 100 meter rating suitable for various water activities.
- Crystal: High-quality sapphire crystal, providing excellent scratch resistance.
- Design: Inspired by Rolex Oyster Perpetual, it offers a classic yet versatile look suitable for multiple occasions.
For more visit the official Tudor website here.
Omega Seamaster 36mm
This list would not be complete without throwing in an Omega, and if we’re going the Omega route it’s going to have to be the Seamaster. While not marketed as a ladies watch, it’s very small wearing a with its 36.25mm case size. In my opinion this watch leans on the masculine end of the spectrum, although there are some women who can really pull off this style quite well. Looks aside, this is a true dive watch sporting all the needed specs and features required for diving. It’s also very well finish and has some incredible watchmaking prowess from Omega.
Short background on this watch model:
- The Seamaster is one of Omega’s most iconic lines, known for its robustness and reliability.
- It has a rich history, with a legacy stretching back to 1948.
- The 36mm version is a more recent adaptation, offering the classic Seamaster experience in a more compact form.
Important specs:
- Case Size: 36.25mm, an ideal size for those preferring a smaller, more understated watch.
- Movement: Powered by Omega’s advanced automatic Caliber 2500, ensuring precision and durability.
- Water Resistance: Fully equipped for diving, with a substantial water resistance rating of 300 meters.
- Crystal: Features a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, essential for both clarity and durability.
- Design: Classic yet versatile, suitable for various occasions beyond just diving.
- Additional Feature: Renowned for its exceptional finish and craftsmanship, typical of Omega’s high standards.
For more visit the official Omega website here.
Oris Aquis 36mm
Last on our list we’re going to feature the Aquis in 36mm, similarly to the Seamaster it’s not a watch marketed to women – but for women with the confidence to pull it off it can look amazing. Iris offered a large amount of dial color option in the 36mm version, the most feminine being the pink dial of course. The dial is really interesting as it’s not just a solid bold color, but rather a colored mother of pearl, again offering another aspect for ladies. The watch is sporting the automatic Oris 733 movement that incorporates a date window. If you like some of our options mentioned above but you prefer a date complication than this could be a great choice for you.
Short background on this watch model:
- The Oris Aquis is a well-known line within the brand, recognized for its robustness and versatile design.
- It has gained popularity for balancing professional diving specifications with an aesthetically pleasing look.
- The 36mm model is geared to those preferring a smaller, more refined version of this classic dive watch.
Important specs:
- Case Size: 36mm, catering to those who prefer a more delicate and subtle wrist presence.
- Dial: Colored mother-of-pearl options, providing a unique and attractive look.
- Movement: Features the Oris 733 automatic movement, known for its reliability and functionality.
- Water Resistance: Suitable for diving with a 300 meter rating, adhering to the rigorous standards expected in a dive watch.
- Crystal: Comes with a sapphire crystal, ensuring both durability and clarity.
- Unique Feature: The range of dial colors, especially the feminine pink, offers versatility in style.
For more visit the official Oris website here.
Conclusion
Dive watches for women with automatic movements are indeed a rare find, but they do exist with some exceptional choices available. The models we’ve recommended in this list are, in my opinion, the best choices available right now. For those just beginning their search, these watches are a perfect starting point, each exemplifying the best in contemporary design, functionality, and automatic movement technology.
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