November 2007

Photography by Joseph Byrd

Mares Nemo Excel Dive Computer

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| Mares Nemo Excel Dive Computer|
When the original Nemo wristwatch dive computer appeared two years ago, it was roundly described as "elegant." This year's Nemo Excel is also elegant, but edgier. Gone is the soft-shouldered casing, the smooth buttons and Euro-style strap. The new Nemo Excel is all about angles and edges, brushed stainless and black-matte. The four control buttons are larger and stippled for an improved tactile effect, and the trim ring is etched with bold button prompts. The scratch-resistant mineral glass display face is inset rather than flush, and the screen graphics are a bit more aggressive. All combine to make the Excel a smart-looking timepiece for topside work and a capable data-cruncher for diving.

When it comes to performance, the Excel offers pretty much the same tools as its predecessor. It's good to go for single-gas air diving or nitrox mixes up to 50 percent, it can also be converted to a straight bottom-timer and it features a special free-diving mode. Four big control buttons and screen prompts make navigating through the options a cinch, even when wearing gloves. The display is uncluttered, and data digits are meatier than they use to be. The pre-shaped wrist strap has also been upgraded, and while our test model didn't include one, the Excel also comes with a strap extension for use with dry suits. The computer gets its juice from a 3-volt lithium battery that Mares says will give you about 170 dives, give or take. However, when it comes time for a battery change, you'll need to take it to an authorized Mares service center.

Bottom line: While the original Nemo was a nice wrist computer, we like the looks, button action and bolder digits of the Nemo Excel even more. The Mares-Wienke RGBM algorithm is consistently one of the most conservative we've tested, a bonus for divers who like to rein in their at-depth risks, plus it offers the option of programming in even more of a safety cushion through the use of four altitude and three "personal correction" settings. Price: $600. Contact: www.mares.com.
Scubapro MK25/G250V Regulator

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| Scubapro MK25/G250V Regulator|
The MK25/G250V is an old-style breather with new-style performance. Scubapro's flagship MK25 first stage is a thoroughly modern balanced piston design with a chrome-plated brass body. It comes with T.I.S. (Thermal Insulating System) and a finned anti-freeze cap for cold-water use, plus it features an external intermediate pressure adjustment. The G250V is a newly released version of Scubapro's classic second stage (the "V" stands for "vintage"). This big, pneumatically balanced bruiser offers two user adjustments: a Venturi Initiated Vacuum Assist (VIVA) that controls surface free-flows and a breathing resistance knob. It's a smooth, dry breather in all positions with a powerful center-case button purge. To match the G250V's super size, the VIVA switch is extra-large, making it easy to find and grab, even when wearing gloves. The MK25/G250V comes from the factory nitrox-ready to 40 percent and with a limited lifetime warranty. Price: $626. Contact: www.scubapro.com.
Dive-Alert Plus Surface/Subsurface Signaling Device

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| Dive-Alert Plus Surface/Subsurface Signaling Device|
The Dive-Alert has long been considered the alpha dog in the field of audible surface signaling devices. Now there's the dual-function Dive-Alert Plus that you can use on the surface and underwater. When switched to the "Air" position, a push of the button on this compact pneumatic noise-maker unleashes a piercing screech that can be heard a mile away (a company claim supported by recent Scuba Lab field tests). Switched to "H20," you get a sharp subsurface percussion blast guaranteed to get your dive buddy's attention. The unit ties into your BC's power inflator low-pressure hose via a quick-connect fitting. No equipment modification is required. It's available in three models to fit standard power inflators as well as virtually any alternate inflator reg system. Price: $80. Contact: www.divealert.com and local dive retailers.
Akona AKB156 Progression Roller Bag

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| Akona AKB156 Progression Roller Bag|
Rather than providing myriad pockets and pouches, the new Progression dive bag, measuring 30 inches tall by 17 inches wide by 13 inches deep, is designed with three big unencumbered stowage compartments: a jumbo-sized main box and two roomy lid compartments. Fins stow in the main box in mesh blade sleeves supported by Velcro retainer straps. The balance of your big gear stays in place via internal compression straps. The lid compartments are the same size and shape and are designed to fit Akona's Pro Reg Bag, one of which comes zipped in the lower compartment. The Progression is made of 600 denier poly/natural fiber blend with a polyurethane interior coating. It rolls on a pair of all-terrain wheels, and the pull handle offers two locking tow positions. There are a couple contoured rubberized lift handles, and the skid rails on back keep the bag off wet boat decks. The Pro Reg Bag is well-padded and shaped with rounded corners to make easy business of coiling a reg. Bonus: There are four Velcro loops to hold hoses in place so the reg won't slide around in the bag. It comes with a carry handle, a shoulder strap and a padded console sleeve. Price: $240. Contact: www.akona.com.
OTB Heavy-Duty Dive Boots

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| OTB Heavy-Duty Dive Boots|
The company that designs OTB (Over The Beach) Boots for the U.S. Navy SEALs is now making some of its models available for civilian dry suit divers. The Abyss is a traditional lace-up maritime boot. The SAR (Search and Rescue) is a tactical boot that looks more like a traditional dry suit boot. It fits in a fin foot pocket a little better than the Abyss, but is harder to get on and off due to its side lacing system. Surprisingly comfortable and light, both models are well-suited for the rigors of dry suit diving, and come in either military green or black. Price: $114.95. Contact: www.otbboots.com.