Stopwatch vs. Bottom Timer, Why The Stopwatch Is A Better Way?

I've read arguments and debates on whether to use a stopwatch or bottom timer when timing decompression in technical diving. After over 75 dives experimenting both ways I offer an argument why the stopwatch is a better way.

First, my reason has nothing to do with decompression theory. Since there is no real benefit in accuracy or measurable difference in stops.

The advantage of the stopwatch is that it allows the team to more accurately follow their dive plan. The closer the plan is followed the more clarity is offered in making decisions and determining problems. The faster a problem is identified, the faster it can be fixed.

When preparing a dive plan, limits are placed on distance, bottom time, gas consumption. The ascent and decompression is agreeded upon. All tasks are identified and assigned to the team before jumping into the water.

The Stopwatch allows the team to more closly follow the decompression. If the team determins 25 minutes of decompression is appropriate, that is what should be done.

With the team setting their stopwatches after the gas switch, there are all on the same page. Any deviation from the ascent plan can be identified in less than 30 seconds. Quickly being alerted to the issue allows the team to question if there is an issue? Usualy the person timing deco gets distracted and all continues as normal. If there is a serious issue now it can be worked out. Perhaps there was an change in deco plan or the person is not feeling well.

The real benefit is a better dive. The more black and white the plan, the less time during the dive are you distracted by the shades of gray in predicting what is going to happen next? Once you know everything is planned, any small deviation from the plan will be questioned, you can relax and take comfort in your awareness and of your teammates.

The less you think about the dive, the more your enjoy the dive.