Automatic vs. Manual Helium Escape Valves: What’s the Difference and Why It Matters

At Belmont Watches, we get a lot of questions from divers, collectors, and first-time buyers about helium escape valves. What are they? How do they work? Why are some automatic and others manual?

Like a lot of features in the watch world, there is the technical side and then the real-life story behind it. If you have ever wondered what sets automatic and manual helium valves apart, or whether you even need one at all, this post should clear things up.

First...

The 4Cs of Diamonds: Essential Knowledge for San Diego Buyers

When shopping for a diamond, whether it's for an engagement ring, a pendant, or a custom piece, understanding the 4Cs is crucial. At Belmont Watches, we guide clients in San Diego through every step of the diamond selection process, ensuring you know exactly what you're buying and why it matters. The 4Cs Cut, Color, Clarity, and Carat - were developed by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) and are used worldwide to grade and compare diamonds.

1. Cut: The Sparkle Factor

Many people mistakenly believe that the cut refers...

Custom Engagement Rings in San Diego: Why Belmont Is the Hidden Gem

When it comes to popping the question, there’s one thing that should be as unforgettable as the moment itself: the ring. At Belmont Watches, we do more than just timepieces. Our San Diego showroom has quietly become a trusted destination for custom jewelry, especially one-of-a-kind engagement rings that are as unique as your love story.

Why Custom?

A custom engagement ring means more than just choosing a style; it's about creating a personal symbol that reflects your partner’s style, your shared story, and the journey ahead. Whether you...

The Best Dive Watches Under $5,000 in 2025

Whether you're planning to explore the ocean depths or simply appreciate the design and durability of a well-crafted dive watch, there has never been a better time to discover timepieces that offer exceptional quality without stretching your budget. At Belmont Watches, we’ve assisted countless collectors and first-time buyers in finding high-performance dive watches that perfectly balance form and function, all priced under $5,000.

Here are our top picks for the best dive watches under $5,000 this year:

1. Tudor Black Bay Fifty-Eight
   Price: ~$3,950
   Why We Love It: With a vintage-inspired design,...

Three Months with the Nivada Grenchen Chronomaster Broad Arrow – Inter.Bezel: A Vintage Soul with Daily Grit

As a lifelong fan of vintage-inspired chronographs, the Nivada Grenchen Chronomaster Broad Arrow with the Inter.Bezel has been a surprisingly perfect addition to my collection. After wearing it nearly every day for the past three months, I can confidently say that this watch punches well above its weight—not just in terms of design and history, but in sheer wearability and presence on the wrist.

Right out of...