Timex has taken its popular Deepwater Meridian dive watch and given it a significant upgrade, pushing it closer to 'grail' status among watch enthusiasts. The new Timex Deepwater Meridian 300 HEV is a substantial evolution of the original, with two major changes that enhance its performance and capability. These modifications include the addition of a helium escape valve and a switch to titanium case material, both of which are substantial upgrades. The helium escape valve, a classic feature of serious divers, allows built-up helium to be released during decompression, preventing damage to the watch. This valve is a clear indicator of the watch's increased capability and hints at its potential for deep-sea diving. The titanium case is lighter and stronger than the stainless steel used in previous models, boosting the watch's performance and allowing it to reach depths of up to 300 meters, an extra 100 meters beyond the original. However, these upgrades come at a cost. The new Timex Deepwater Meridian 300 HEV is priced at $999, a significant increase from the original $399. This price hike might be too steep for some, even though the watch has the capability to justify the cost. Despite the price increase, Timex has not completely rewritten the Deepwater Meridian formula, which is a good thing. The rest of the watch remains largely unchanged, retaining its convenience and reliability. The Miyota automatic movement, dial and bezel styling, antireflective-coated sapphire crystal, Super-Luminova lume treatment, quick-release synthetic rubber strap, and screw-down crown are all retained, ensuring that the watch retains its original appeal. However, the exhibition caseback has been replaced with a screw-down option, which is a small price to pay for the significant increase in performance. In my opinion, the Timex Deepwater Meridian 300 HEV is a substantial upgrade that enhances the watch's performance and capability. The addition of the helium escape valve and the switch to titanium case material are significant improvements that make the watch more suitable for serious divers. However, the price hike might be a barrier for some, even though the watch has the capability to justify the cost. Personally, I think that the Timex Deepwater Meridian 300 HEV is a must-have for serious divers who are looking for a reliable and capable dive watch. What makes this particularly fascinating is the balance between performance and price. The watch retains its original appeal while offering significant upgrades that enhance its capability and performance. In my opinion, this is a watch that every serious diver should consider.
