Looking for a depth gauge...

[MBanks]

Hi,

I can't afford a proper freediving computer/watch, however I would really like to get a depth gauge just so that I can tell how deep I'm going. I never really go that deep at all, no further that 16m so far, however it would be nice to know how far I'm going.

Does anyone have any suggestions on how I could get one? I was thinking of trying to find someone with an old old dive computer that they don't use anymore, or with important scuba functions that don't work anymore but the depth gauge is still good.

Or are there any other methods/products that would do the trick?

Any help would be grately appreciated, and if anyone is selling one on the cheap also it'd be great to hear from you!
Thanks,
Martin.

 

[trux]

You can find diverse watches with a gauge on eBay for around $50, sometimes cheaper. Some of the cheaper diving computers can be found for around $100 (check http://apnea.cz/somputers.html for some ideas). You can get a cheap mechanical gauge at every diving store for around $50, or a capillary gauge for less than $20 (for example this one: Profondimètre capillaire Divers Instrument sous marin). Or you can make a capillary depth gauge yourself too.

However, the easiest, the simplest, and the fastest way to measure your depth, is using an inflatable buoy (you get one for some $10, but if you want to save it, you take a plastic canister or some inflatable toy), and mark the the depth on the line (for example you make a mark or a knot each meter) - in this way you can easily see your depth.

Still, if you are diving alone (which I am afraid of), you better stay away from measuring your depth - having a way to measure your depth will stimulate you to setting new pesronal records, and that can easily lead to a fatal accident.

 

[MBanks]

Hey Trux,

Thanks for your reply and suggestions. I think I'll probably try and source out a capillary or mechanical gauge as it'll be easier for me to travel with.

I don't dive alone, I always either have my wife with me or another buddy, along with being very uncompetitive, even with myself I think I should be safe, thanks for your concern though