Watchdives WD1960S V2 Review: A Field‑Sport Quartz That Punches Above Its Price

There’s a sweet spot in watch collecting: where clean design, rugged specs, and daily wearability meet price tags that don’t hurt. The Watchdives WD1960S V2 lives in that spot. This field-style homage captures the spirit of a Tudor Ranger but brings it down to earth, without losing its cool.

If you’re new to the world of homage watches, here’s a quick breakdown. Homage watches respectfully emulate the design language of iconic timepieces, often bringing legendary styles to those of us who either can’t or don’t want to spend thousands. They capture the essence of a classic. For many collectors, homage watches are a gateway into horology or a way to enjoy a beloved aesthetic without financial guilt.

So, if you’re into affordable microbrands and homage watches that punch above their weight, Watchdives should be on your radar.

This is not a sponsored or paid review, just a genuine hands-on take on a watch that really surprised me for the price.

A Taste of the Tudor Ranger Without the Price Tag

When you first see the WD1960S V2, the finishing makes a strong impression, especially for a watch in this price range. The case, dial, and hands feel well executed: The case has crisp, well-defined edges where they should be, clean dial printing (or applied indices in certain variants), and a very pleasing overall aesthetic. In many ways it rivals what you see in brands like San Martin.

On the wrist, it’s an easy companion. The watch is very comfortable, light (being quartz helps), and doesn’t pull hairs, something that’s appreciated in bracelets, especially in budget watches. What truly impresses, though, is how well the rest of the watch is specced out to support everyday use. The case diameter is 36.5mm, a compact and versatile size that’s friendly to most wrist sizes, with a lug-to-lug length of 44.4mm and a thickness of just 10.6mm including the domed glass. All this adds up to a watch that doesn’t overstay its welcome on your wrist during long days.

Standout details include:

• The bubble sapphire crystal (in sapphire version) which gives a “pop” in how light interacts with the dial. It also has AR coating, which helps reduce glare.
• Good lume: Swiss BGW9 (for applied variants) or C3 / BGW9 depending on variant, which is decent for night visibility.
• Solid bracelet with female end links, 316L stainless steel, with a clasp that has micro‑adjustments. The bracelet is good, though not flawless (more on that later).

Movement & Specs

This one is very simple: inside the WD1960S V2 ticks the Seiko VH31, a quartz movement that stands out from your standard battery-powered fare. Unlike typical quartz movements that tick once per second, the VH31 ticks four times per second, giving the seconds hand a much smoother, almost mechanical-like sweep. It’s a clever middle ground for those who want the accuracy and reliability of quartz, but still crave some of that mechanical magic. Plus, it means you won’t have to reset it every few days or worry about power reserves.

Compared to alternatives (especially from micro‑brands or AliExpress offerings), the WD1960S V2 stands out. Some watches may offer automatic movements, but then they often compromise elsewhere (heavier, thicker, poorer finishing, etc.). If you want that “daily wear” look and performance without the premium, this gives exceptional value.

Pricing, Availability & Where to Get One

The pricing for the WD1960S V2 puts it in an interesting niche. The sapphire/AR crystal version is listed around $119. Even versions with lesser crystals or different dials are more affordable. Given what you get, it’s tough to beat.

Note: As of today, the WD1960S V2 is currently sold out, but it’s expected to be restocked soon, definitely one to keep on your radar.

Prices correct at time of publishing.

Verdict

✅ What works particularly well:

• The quality for the price is excellent. With the sapphire crystal version especially, the finishing, look, and feel are high for what you pay.
• Comfortable size and design; the watch doesn’t overpromise dive spec but delivers solid field/sport/daily wear capability.
• Movement: the VH31 sweep adds a sense of smoothness and “higher‑end feel” compared to regular quartz ticks.

❌ What doesn’t quite reach perfection:

• The clasp is the one place where reminders of its modest price show. It works, but it doesn’t feel premium. If you are someone who handles the clasp a lot (taking on/off, adjusting often), you’ll notice.
• Water resistance is fine for daily wear but don’t push it—100 m won’t substitute for a true dive watch.
• Lack of half-links on the bracelet, which limits fine adjustment and may make it harder to get that perfect fit.

Who this is for? Someone who wants a stylish, reliable daily watch (or GADA watch) that can go from casual to a bit dressy without looking out of place. And definitely anyone who likes the Tudor Ranger aesthetic but doesn’t want to pay Tudor prices.