Analog vs. Digital Watches

[drifter136]

With being new, I will most likely be using dive tables and a watch for awhile. Do you all prefer a digital watch or an analog watch with rotating bezel and why?

I like the idea of an analog for a more classy look when not diving, but I like the idea of a digital for the countdown timer with beeping alarm.

Lastly, could you recommend a good watch for under $100? I know the Timex Helix is often recommended for the depth gauge, but I may not get lucky enough to "win" the auctions for one, so I would like suggestions on currently available pieces.

[BSea]

My watch is a dive watch, but I rarely look at it when diving. Computers have spoiled me. I've got to admit my watch is a hold over from when I didn't use a computer. If I had to buy today, and I wanted a watch that just was for diving, I'd get a digital, but if it was for everyday, then I'd stay with analog.

[BouzoukiJoe]

I like the analog with rotating bezel. I tried using a digital watch. Hard to press the button to start the timer using thick gloves. IMO, analog is easier to set and to read.

[drifter136]

Thank you for the reasonings so far and quick replies to the thread.

I also realized by starting this thread, it got me to post 10. Woot!

[kyfriedchipper]

Me like the Casio Seapathfinder - a little on the large size - but its a great watch, depth gauge, compass, and solar powered!

[timgpp]

i like my digital. because it is easier to see the numbers when dark, and because mine has a fancy temperature feature on it. when on land it tends to read a little high, but under water it is pretty good. it is a timex reef gear

[MSilvia]

I use a digital OMS bottom timer. It's similar to a dive computer, but it doesn't calculate a dive profile for you... it just gives you depth, dive time, and temperature.

[2thdivr]

Use a Seiko orange monster to back-up my computer (used in gauge mode)

[drifter136]

I've been thinking about a Casio G-shock if I go digital, but can't decide on a model. I've seen some that not only beep, but also vibrate with the countdown timer, which I think would be a nice feature. Although, I should be paying attention to my bottom time enough on my own without needing all those attention grabbing extras, but just figured, better safe than sorry.

[CaribbeanDiver]

when I go without a computer I use a ScubaPro/Uwatec Bottom Timer. It displays current depth, max depth, temperature and Bottom Time. Keeps a history of 10 dives and sells for around $180-200.