TESTCENTRE
Garmin Descent ’ s evolution continues
Descent MK3i 51mm
COMPANY : GARMIN PRICE : £ 1599.99 / £ 2049.99 WITH T2 TRANSMITTER WEB : WWW . GARMIN . COM
First impressions
Much of today ’ s technology is updated with new versions on an ongoing basis , although it ’ s often a case of style over substance ; minor tweaks rather than great advances . Despite this , many devices , whether tablets , laptops or watches , still manage to fuel a flurry of frantic purchases from consumers who simply must have the latest release .
Garmin , on the other hand , have followed a measured approach since entering into the dive computer market a few years ago . Each release of their Descent wristwatch-style computer has seen several major improvements along the way , culminating in the company ’ s newest model , the Descent Mk3i .
Cosmetically , it ’ s similar to its predecessor , with the redesigned bezel now featuring indices as the only real giveaway . Flip it over and there ’ s also an upgraded titanium rear cover . ‘ If it ain ’ t broke , then don ’ t fix it ’ comes to mind , as the comfortable quick-release silicone strap and clip-on charging system remain unchanged .
There are two notable upgrades : the device is now depth-rated to 200 metres , making it even more appealing to technical divers , while the 51mm version of the watch has a cleverlyconcealed twin LED torch built into the top edge of the case .
While not intended as a primary source of light ( as such it would impact
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Compass in operation
Dive Mode , showing gas supply for two divers on battery life under prolonged use ) it ’ s certainly no gimmick and is actually a very useful feature both in and out of the water .
It ’ s just as handy checking out kit or having a peek into a crevice or piece of wreckage as it is for finding your car keys in the dark . It also has a strobe mode , a great safety feature for an emergency situation .
Display
The Mk3i now has an AMOLED screen with better definition and a longer battery duration , despite the case size losing a millimetre across and 0.5mm in height . It ’ s a tad heavier ( 105.6g with silicone band ) but it ’ s not the slightest bit noticeable and the internal battery provides up to 25 days in smartwatch mode , 66 hours in dive mode or 40 hours in dive mode with air integration . Just like the previous Descent models , the Mk3i has a convenient ‘ tap ’ facility , which allows easy switching between screens in dive mode . While Garmin ’ s button-access menu system could be perceived as a little involved if you ’ re not familiar with it , the device now benefits from – drumroll please – a brand spanking new touchscreen . This makes the process of inputting your dive mode , gasses , conservatism and alarms , an absolute doddle . If you find , as I did , during topside use that your coat sleeve accidentally swipes the screen , then it can also be quickly switched off , then reactivated when required . There are several other interesting display features , notably the red shift or night vision modes . Designed to reduce glare in low light conditions , I found the latter looks great in general use . Once in dive mode , there ’ s an onscreen reminder to calibrate the tilt axis compass before embarking on your dive . If you wear your Garmin 24 / 7 there ’ s also a