As a diver you should invest on a good equipment. Since diving is an equipment intensive activity, the idea of having a reliable equipment will add the enjoyment (and ofcourse safety) of the dive.  One piece of equipment that is important but usually forgotten is diving watch. Some people change the function of time keeping by using dive computers or bottom timer. But it is highly recommended to use diving watch  together with your dive computer. Talking about the redundancy principle. 

Most diving computers didnt show actual time underwater, and to activate the time the user need to press a button. Not practical, you need device that is always ready whenever you need it. So by wearing dive computer and dive watch you can get all the necessary information. 

Before get in to the water, turn your watch bezel until the long needle (minute) pointing to zero ( 0 ), you start counting your bottom time. As you descent concentrate on equalising and maintain your reference. As you arrive on your planned depth, check your watch to see how long it takes from surface to your destination. As you travel along the bottom look at your depth gauge/ computer, pressure gauge and your watch. Besides give information regarding your bottom time, you also will find out the present time. To make sure you dont miss any important time schedule (meals time, check out time - when you stay on the resort, boat travel time, high tide - low tide, etc).

When the bottom time is up, then you need to start concentrate on your dive computer/ depth gauge and your watch. To keep your ascent rate within the limits you desired (highly recommended that you are not ascending faster than 18 meters/ minute or if I may suggest 10 meters/ minute - remember slower is always better). Every seconds count, if you are at 18 meters, approximately you need at least 3 seconds for every meter (again its better if you try to do it slower, for example 5 seconds for every meter.)

Imagine get more control on your dive with only adding one piece of equipment : diving watch. When it comes to choose analog or digital, I go for the analog. Used less battery energy (some good watches doesn't require one, works by hand movement/ vibration). Just make sure the size suites your wrist and easy to read the display. Numbers and colors should be clear enough, since you want to be able  to read it from deeper water (under narcosis influence). It doesn't have to be an expensive watch, but if you have the budget, then you should go for it.  Contact your Instructor or Dive Center, they might be able to help choose one for you. Or simply contact us, we will help you find the right watch.