Hands down the Suunto SK-8 is the best compass any diver can own. Period.
Product Tested Suunto SK-8 Compass
Product Description High tilt compass with wrist strap or bungee mount.
Features include: -Tilt potential of +/- 30° -Phosphorescent (glow in the dark) face -Large side-reading window -Northern or Southern hemispheres zones available -Durable rubber wrist boot -Easily straps on with or without gloves -Easy click turn bezel -Reasonably priced
Cost $105 US
The Review
The SK-8 (and it’s predecessor the SK-7 ) is a long time favorite of serious divers. This compass sets the standard for dive compasses. The SK-8 features an exceptional tilt potential of +/- 30 degrees, which is 2-3 times larger than a typical diving compass. Easy-to-read numerals on a glow in the dark compass face, and a large side-reading window make this great for all dives. The bezel has large ridges that are easy to grip with or without gloves, and ratchets at every fifth degree. The bezel also resists silt, sand, and dirt fouling, thus allowing smooth turning in all conditions.
Order this in bungee, strap, or console mount format.
Pros
Relatively inexpensive.
Easy to read face
Very forgiving in regards to holding it level.
Built tough. Very durable.
Glow in the dark face.
Available on Amazon and from pretty much all dive suppliers.
Cons
The bezel can crack and break if badly mistreated. This is, however, easily replaceable.
Would recommend this compass?
Absolutely YES!
Conclusion
We absolutely love the Suunto compasses. We’ve been diving ours for over 10 years and do not have a single complaint.