The MWC "Depthmaster" Military Diver is the latest heavy-duty model in MWC's lineup. Designed for extreme conditions, this watch is built to be exceptionally robust, featuring a sapphire crystal and 100ATM water resistance, making it suitable for mixed-gas diving at significant depths.
It is equipped with a 24mm strap (wider than the typical 20mm straps on most military dive watches) and a non-scratch ceramic bezel designed for easy handling in extreme cold. These features make the Depthmaster ideal for professional divers operating in challenging environments.
Key Features
Helium Escape Valve
All MWC 100ATM models are fitted with a helium escape valve. This is crucial for saturation divers who spend extended periods in pressurized environments. While the watch's seals effectively block water, helium molecules, being extremely small, can penetrate and accumulate inside the case. During decompression, this trapped helium can create internal pressure that risks damaging the watch by blowing out the crystal or crown.
The helium escape valve solves this issue by automatically releasing helium during decompression while maintaining a one-way seal to prevent external intrusion. This feature is vital for ensuring the watch remains operational under extreme conditions.
Why Helium Matters
Helium is used in deep-sea mixed-gas diving because it avoids the negative effects of nitrogen, such as nitrogen narcosis. Divers often live in pressurized habitats with an oxygen/helium mix, and as they decompress, the helium must be safely expelled to prevent damage to the watch—and potential injury to the wearer.
Although many recreational divers won't require a helium valve, the Depthmaster includes this feature to ensure it meets the demands of professional use.
Design and Build
This variant features a 12-hour European military-pattern dial and a black PVD stainless steel case. The matte black, non-reflective PVD coating is commonly specified for military contracts, special forces, anti-terrorist units, and covert operations. Unlike painted finishes, the PVD process chemically alters the steel's surface at a molecular level, ensuring durability even during heavy use.
Movement
The Depthmaster is powered by a Ronda 715li quartz movement, featuring a hacking function for precise synchronization and an impressive 10-year battery life.
Technical Specifications
Movement: Ronda 715li quartz with hacking function
Battery Life: 10 years
Water Resistance: 100ATM / 3,280ft / 1,000m
Crown: Screw-down
Helium Escape Valve: Yes
Case Dimensions:
Width (incl. crown): 47mm
Width (excl. crown): 44mm
Thickness: 18mm
Lug-to-lug: 48mm
Crystal: Sapphire with anti-reflective coating
Diameter: 31mm
Bezel: Unidirectional with ceramic insert
Case Material: 316L PVD stainless steel
Strap: 24mm NATO webbing
Weight: 132g
Illumination: Luminova on markers, hands, and bezel
Sapphire Crystal Benefits
The sapphire crystal used in this watch is scratch- and shatter-resistant, making it ideal for military personnel, law enforcement, and outdoor enthusiasts. While sapphire adds to the watch's cost, its durability makes it a superior choice compared to standard mineral crystals.
Sapphire crystals are heat-treated to remove internal stresses, ensuring strength and durability. Additionally, the crystal is coated with two layers of anti-reflective treatment for enhanced clarity. These qualities make it a preferred material for professional-grade watches.
The MWC Depthmaster offers unparalleled durability, cutting-edge materials, and professional-grade features, making it a perfect choice for those who demand the highest standards in a dive watch.
This is the watch used by Adventure filmmaker Tom Smith, which can be seen in some of the images see
