The MWC "Depthmaster" Military Diver range represents the pinnacle of MWC’s heavy-duty watch lineup. Engineered for extreme conditions, these timepieces are designed with 100ATM water resistance, making them suitable for mixed-gas diving at significant depths. Their robust construction includes a sapphire crystal, a non-scratch ceramic bezel for enhanced grip in extreme cold, and a wider 24mm strap, compared to the 20mm straps found on most military dive watches. These features make the Depthmaster ideal for professional divers operating in challenging environments.
Key Features
Helium Escape Valve
All MWC 100ATM models are equipped with a helium escape valve, an essential feature for saturation divers who work in pressurized environments. Helium molecules, due to their small size, can penetrate the watch case even when seals are functioning properly. Over time, helium accumulates and creates internal pressure during decompression, potentially causing catastrophic damage by blowing out the crystal or crown.
The helium escape valve automatically releases trapped helium during decompression while maintaining a one-way seal to prevent external intrusion. This safety feature is critical for ensuring the watch’s durability and the diver’s safety.
Why Helium Matters
Helium is commonly used in deep-sea mixed-gas diving as it avoids the adverse effects of nitrogen, such as nitrogen narcosis. Divers living in pressurized habitats breathe an oxygen/helium mix, and during decompression, the helium must be safely expelled from the watch to avoid damage.
While recreational divers may not need a helium escape valve, this feature ensures the 100ATM range is ready for professional use under any conditions.
Design and Build
This model features a 12/24-hour military-pattern dial and a black PVD stainless steel case. The non-reflective matte black PVD finish is frequently specified in military contracts for special forces and covert operations. Unlike painted finishes, the PVD process chemically bonds the coating to the steel at a molecular level, ensuring superior durability and resistance to wear.
Even under heavy usage, this finish remains intact unless the case sustains significant damage, such as gouging or severe abrasion.
Movement
The Ronda 715li quartz movement powers this watch, providing a 10-year battery life and a hacking function for precise synchronization.
Dimensions and 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 (including crown): 47mm
Width (excluding 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 provides exceptional durability and clarity, making it resistant to scratches and shattering. This is ideal for military personnel, law enforcement, and outdoor enthusiasts. While sapphire increases the cost of a watch, its advantages far outweigh those of hardened mineral crystals:
Strength and Durability: Sapphire crystals are heat-treated to remove internal stresses, enhancing their resilience.
Scratch Resistance: Ideal for harsh conditions.
Clarity: Enhanced by two layers of anti-reflective coating.
Over 70% of MWC customers, including military and security professionals, choose sapphire for its unmatched performance.
The MWC Depthmaster combines military-grade durability, advanced features, and professional-grade reliability, making it the perfect choice for demanding conditions.
