Dive watches have a timeless appeal, blending rugged functionality with a sense of adventure. In recent years, vintage-inspired dive watches have surged in popularity, reviving the bold designs of the 1950s, ’60s, and ’70s while incorporating modern technology. These timepieces capture the nostalgia of an era when dive watches were essential tools for underwater explorers, yet they remain practical for today’s enthusiasts—whether you’re a diver, a collector, or simply someone who appreciates retro style. In this article, we’ll explore seven standout vintage-inspired dive watches that combine classic aesthetics with contemporary performance. Among them is the Aquastar Benthos Heritage II, a nod to a legendary dive watch from the past, alongside other iconic models from brands like Tudor, Seiko, and more. Let’s dive in.
Why Vintage-Inspired Dive Watches?
The mid-20th century was a golden age for dive watches. Brands like Rolex, Omega, and Blancpain introduced models that became synonymous with underwater exploration. These watches weren’t just tools—they were symbols of a daring, adventurous spirit. Today’s vintage-inspired dive watches pay homage to that era, featuring elements like domed crystals, aged lume, and rotating bezels, all while boasting modern upgrades like improved water resistance and reliable automatic movements. Whether you’re drawn to their history or their rugged charm, these watches offer something for everyone.
To compile this list, we’ve considered design authenticity, build quality, water resistance, and brand heritage. The result is a selection of seven watches that stand out in the crowded world of dive watches, ranging from affordable gems to premium pieces.
1.Seiko Prospex 1965 Re-Creation
Seiko has a legendary reputation in the dive watch world, and the Prospex 1965 Re-Creation is a faithful tribute to its first dive watch from—you guessed it—1965. With a 37.5mm case, this watch feels authentically vintage, powered by the Seiko Caliber 4R36 automatic movement. It offers 100 meters of water resistance, making it suitable for casual water activities.
The design is understated yet striking: a clean black dial, luminous markers, and a unidirectional bezel that screams mid-century simplicity. At around $500, it’s the most affordable option on this list, proving that you don’t need to spend a fortune to own a piece of dive watch history. For Seiko fans or anyone new to collecting, this is a no-brainer.
2. Aquastar Benthos Heritage II
First up is the Aquastar Benthos Heritage II, a modern reimagining of the Benthos 500, a cult classic from the 1970s. Aquastar has a storied history in dive watchmaking, and this model stays true to its roots while delivering contemporary performance. The 40mm case is crafted from 904L stainless steel—a material known for its corrosion resistance—and houses a reliable Sellita SW200-1 automatic movement. With 300 meters of water resistance, it’s more than capable of handling serious dives.
The design is pure vintage: a glossy black dial with SuperLuminova-filled markers, a unidirectional ceramic bezel, and a domed sapphire crystal that evokes the acrylic lenses of old. Limited to just 500 pieces, it’s a collector’s dream, priced at $1,090 during pre-order (with an MSRP of $1,390). The Benthos Heritage II is perfect for anyone who wants a piece of dive watch history with modern reliability.
3. Tudor Black Bay
Tudor’s Black Bay line is a love letter to the brand’s Submariner models from the 1950s and ’60s. With its 41mm stainless steel case, in-house Caliber MT5602 automatic movement, and 200 meters of water resistance, the Black Bay is a benchmark in the vintage-inspired dive watch category. Its signature “snowflake” hands—first introduced in the ’60s for better legibility—set it apart, while the domed crystal and matte black dial add a retro touch.
Tudor, often seen as Rolex’s more accessible sibling, brings exceptional craftsmanship to the table. Priced around $3,500, the Black Bay isn’t cheap, but its blend of heritage and performance justifies the investment. It’s a versatile watch that looks as good with a wetsuit as it does with a suit jacket.
4. Oris Divers Sixty-Five
The Oris Divers Sixty-Five celebrates the brand’s first dive watch from 1965, offering a compact and stylish option for retro enthusiasts. Available in 38mm or 40mm case sizes, it’s powered by the Oris Caliber 733 automatic movement and offers 100 meters of water resistance—ideal for swimming or snorkeling rather than deep diving. The domed sapphire crystal and colorful dial options (think bronze, blue, or green) give it a playful yet sophisticated vibe.
Priced starting at $1,500, the Divers Sixty-Five is a gateway into Swiss watchmaking with a vintage twist. Its smaller size makes it wearable for a wide range of wrist sizes, and the aged lume on the markers adds a touch of authenticity. It’s a fantastic choice for those who prioritize style over extreme functionality.
5. Zodiac Super Sea Wolf
Zodiac’s Super Sea Wolf has been a dive watch icon since the 1960s, and its modern iteration keeps the spirit alive. The 40mm stainless steel case houses an STP 1-11 automatic movement, and with 200 meters of water resistance, it’s built for real underwater action. What sets it apart is its bold design—think vibrant dial colors like orange, blue, or green, paired with a distinctive bezel.
Priced around $1,000, the Super Sea Wolf offers customization options with various strap and bezel combinations. It’s a watch that doesn’t shy away from standing out, making it ideal for those who want a retro-inspired piece with personality. Zodiac’s heritage and attention to detail shine through in every aspect of this timepiece.
6. Longines Legend Diver
The Longines Legend Diver takes inspiration from the brand’s dive watches of the 1960s, blending elegance with rugged utility. Its 42mm case is powered by the Longines Caliber L888.4 automatic movement and boasts an impressive 300 meters of water resistance. The black dial, paired with a unidirectional bezel and a sapphire crystal, feels both classic and refined.
Longines adds a modern twist with a comfortable silicone strap option, though leather and metal bracelets are also available. Priced around $2,500, it’s a premium choice that balances vintage charm with everyday wearability. For those who want a dive watch that doubles as a dress piece, the Legend Diver is hard to beat.
7. Baltic Aquascaphe
Rounding out the list is the Baltic Aquascaphe, a standout from the French microbrand Baltic. With a 39mm case, Sellita SW200-1 automatic movement, and 200 meters of water resistance, it punches well above its weight. The design is a blend of brushed and polished finishes, with a unidirectional bezel and a variety of dial colors to choose from.
At around $800, the Aquascaphe offers incredible value, earning a cult following among collectors. Its vintage-inspired look—complete with a domed crystal and aged lume—feels authentic, while the modern construction ensures durability. It’s proof that smaller brands can compete with the big names in the dive watch game.
What Makes These Watches Special?
Each of these seven watches brings something unique to the table. The Aquastar Benthos Heritage II offers a rare piece of dive watch history in a limited-edition package. The Tudor Black Bay delivers premium craftsmanship with a nod to its Submariner roots. The Oris Divers Sixty-Five and Seiko Prospex 1965 Re-Creation appeal to those who love compact, affordable options with authentic retro vibes. The Zodiac Super Sea Wolf stands out with its bold colors, while the Longines Legend Diver adds a touch of elegance. Finally, the Baltic Aquascaphe proves that microbrands can hold their own with innovative design and value.
Beyond aesthetics, these watches are built to perform. Water resistance ranges from 100 meters (good for swimming) to 300 meters (suitable for diving), and all feature automatic movements from trusted manufacturers like Sellita, Seiko, and in-house calibers from Tudor and Longines. Materials like stainless steel, sapphire crystals, and ceramic bezels ensure durability, while SuperLuminova keeps them legible in low-light conditions
Price and Accessibility
One surprising aspect of this list is the range of price points. The Seiko Prospex 1965 Re-Creation, at $500, is an entry-level gem, while the Tudor Black Bay, at $3,500, sits at the higher end. In between, you’ve got options like the Baltic Aquascaphe ($800), Zodiac Super Sea Wolf ($1,000), Oris Divers Sixty-Five ($1,500), Aquastar Benthos Heritage II ($1,390), and Longines Legend Diver ($2,500). This variety means there’s a vintage-inspired dive watch for nearly every budget.
Table: Details of the Best Vintage-Inspired Dive Watches
| Watch | Case Size (mm) | Movement | Water Resistance (meters) | Key Features |
| Aquastar Benthos Heritage II | 40 | Sellita SW200-1 (Automatic) | 300 | Glossy black dial, ceramic bezel, limited to 500 pieces |
| Tudor Black Bay | 41 | Caliber MT5602 (Automatic, In-House) | 200 | Snowflake hands, domed crystal, matte black dial |
| Oris Divers Sixty-Five | 38 or 40 | Oris Caliber 733 (Automatic) | 100 | Colorful dial options, domed sapphire crystal |
| Seiko Prospex 1965 Re-Creation | 37.5 | Seiko Caliber 4R36 (Automatic) | 100 | Simple mid-century design, luminous markers |
| Zodiac Super Sea Wolf | 40 | STP 1-11 (Automatic) | 200 | Vibrant color options, distinctive bezel |
| Longines Legend Diver | 42 | Longines Caliber L888.4 (Automatic) | 300 | Elegant design, silicone strap option |
| Baltic Aquascaphe | 39 | Sellita SW200-1 (Automatic) | 200 | Unique brushed/polished finish, color variants |
Notes:
- Case Size: Measured in millimeters (mm), indicating the diameter of the watch case.
- Movement: The mechanism powering the watch, all of which are automatic (self-winding).
- Water Resistance: Measured in meters, showing the depth the watch can withstand.
- Key Features: Highlights that make each watch stand out in terms of design or functionality.
Final Thoughts
Vintage-inspired dive watches are more than just timepieces—they’re a connection to the past, blending the rugged charm of mid-century design with the reliability of modern engineering. Whether you’re drawn to the limited-edition allure of the Aquastar Benthos Heritage II, the heritage heft of the Tudor Black Bay, or the budget-friendly brilliance of the Seiko Prospex 1965 Re-Creation, there’s something here for everyone. These seven watches represent the best of retro style and dive-ready performance, making them worthy additions to any collection. So, which one will you strap on for your next adventure?