Skin diving refers to short dives using only basic equipment like snorkel gear. Watches for this kind of activity naturally need to be reasonably water-resistant, but not to the extent of the more well-known, chunky dive watches that are rated to withstand hundreds of meters of water pressure (though some skin diver watches are rated to “professional diving” depths). This allows them to often be thinner and generally more wearable in out-of-water situations as well.
There isn’t a strict definition of a “skin diver” watch per se, but many that are branded as such share some physical traits, not least because during the height of their popularity a handful of case makers (Erwin Piquerez S.A. (EPSA) and Squale are well-known) were supplying the majority of brands. They tend to feature long, angular lugs, thin rotating bezels, and a generally flat profile. Take a look at the watches below and you’ll get the idea. While these were made for swimming and light diving decades ago, it is advisable that they are enjoyed on land today.
The brands represented here each have a venerable name and an American connection, but many enthusiasts might not expect something from them like these sporty dive watches.
Waltham Skin Diver
What We Like: Originally from Massachusetts, Waltham was one of the most well known American watch companies for over 100 years, but by the time they were making watches like this Skin Diver they had already moved to Switzerland. While the brand probably first conjures images of pocket watches for many people, Waltham also made a range of wristwatches over its history, including some like these, sometimes sold to military personnel. With a 36mm case and manually wound Waltham-signed movement, it offers a very approachable and sporty window into a historic brand.
From the Seller: Case is unpolished and in appealing vintage condition. Movement has just been serviced and works fine.
