A time-only, non-date Rolex Submariner in steel will cost you, today, £5,450. You don’t need me to tell you that this is a sizeable amount of money—enough to start wondering if it’s worth getting several cheaper watches instead. Is it possible to get a varied, three-watch collection of high-quality watches for the budget? Well, we’ve certainly had a go; here it is, a three-watch collection for less than the price of an entry level Submariner.

The International Organisation for Standards, under ISO 6425, states that a recognised dive watch should meet the following requirements: a unidirectional bezel with five minute markers; clearly distinguished minute markings on the dial; readability at 25cm in total darkness; shock, chemical and magnetic resistance; an operational indicator; oh—and of course, a 100-metre depth rating. This covers the bare minimum to qualify—but what if watchmakers went above and beyond?

For someone looking for a sporty watch in steel, chances are they will probably pick up a Rolex Submariner, perhaps a Panerai Luminor if they’ve got a hankering for something a bit more exotic. But what if you don’t want to contribute to this sea of Submariners, want something less common than the lagoon of Luminors. If you’re one of those people, then take note, because here are three watches you’ve probably never even heard of.

Given that the mechanical watch industry was almost rendered extinct by the onslaught of quartz technology at the end of the 20th century, it’s understandable that the rise of the smartwatch is posing a bit of a concern. Can the ancient and outdated mechanical wristwatch survive another round with modern innovation?