The Islander Sands Point series has quickly become a fan-favorite among value-focused dive watch collectors. Designed in homage to the classic SKX007 silhouette but rebuilt with modern materials, upgraded specs, and fresh aesthetics, the Sands Point lineup checks a lot of boxes: sapphire crystals, 200 meters of water resistance, solid lume, and no-nonsense Seiko NH movements. And for those craving something lighter on the wrist, the titanium-cased versions have been a standout success.

Now, Islander has added two more bold designs to their titanium Sands Point range: the ISL-259 Whale’s Tail Grey and the ISL-260 Pink Shell. Both models continue the series’ commitment to wearable tool watch proportions and great everyday performance—while offering two striking new dials that couldn’t be more different in character.

New to Islander? Get $25 off your first order.

ISL-259: Whale’s Tail Grey

The ISL-259 combines rugged functionality with a subtly artistic dial. The matte grey colorway is elevated by a unique textured motif Islander describes as a “whale’s tail” pattern. It’s abstract yet organic, calling to mind the choppy surface of the ocean or the sweep of a tail beneath the waves. This visual texture, paired with a sandblasted titanium case and bezel, gives the watch an understated, almost tactical look—while still being visually interesting up close.

The dimensions remain the same as other Sands Point titanium divers: a 43mm case diameter, 14mm thickness, and a very manageable 47mm lug-to-lug. But thanks to the titanium construction, the whole package weighs in at just over 100 grams—significantly lighter than a comparable steel diver.

Powering the ISL-259 is the ever-reliable Seiko NH38 movement, a no-date version of the familiar NH35. With automatic winding, hacking, and hand-winding capabilities, the NH38 is a proven workhorse that avoids the dreaded ghost date position. The 200-meter water resistance, screw-down crown, and flat sapphire crystal with inner anti-reflective coating round out the key dive-ready features.

A cyan-tipped seconds hand adds a splash of color against the grey dial and ties the whole aesthetic together. It’s modern, clean, and subtle—exactly the kind of thoughtful design touch Islander fans have come to expect.

The ISL-259 comes fitted with a high-quality FKM rubber strap, which attaches to a titanium deployant clasp offering six micro-adjustment positions. Like other Sands Point models, the strap requires trimming to size, which may be a minor inconvenience but ultimately offers a clean, tailored fit.

ISL-260: Pink Shell

If the Whale’s Tail is subdued and moody, the ISL-260 is anything but. With its radiant, mother-of-pearl-inspired dial, the Pink Shell model is bold, fun, and refreshingly unorthodox. It’s a vibrant take on the dive watch format—one that plays with color and texture in a way few tool watches dare to.

The pink dial has a soft, iridescent finish that changes slightly in the light. It features a layered shell pattern that adds visual depth and shimmer. Paired with black-outlined hands and markers filled with C3 Super-LumiNova, it ensures strong legibility while keeping the aesthetic distinct. A color-matched two-tone sapphire bezel insert (pink and white) ties the whole piece together in playful harmony.

Despite its vibrant personality, the Pink Shell retains all the serious specs that make the Sands Point line so compelling. The titanium case and bezel are fully sandblasted, giving the watch a matte, modern finish that nicely offsets the glossy dial. The dimensions remain unchanged: 43mm case, 14mm thick, 47mm lug-to-lug, and 200m water resistance. Like its sibling, the ISL-260 is powered by the NH38 movement and includes the same trimmed-to-fit FKM strap and titanium clasp.

This watch might not be for everyone—but for those who appreciate unique dial colors or want something bold for summer, the ISL-260 delivers in spades. It’s a refreshing reminder that dive watches can have personality and flair while still being capable and robust.

Shared Strengths Across the Series

What ties these two models together is their commitment to tool-watch performance in a lightweight, wear-all-day package. The titanium construction makes them far more comfortable than steel alternatives, especially for those with smaller wrists or those who wear their watch all day, every day.

Both models are SKX-compatible, meaning bezels, crystals, and straps can be easily swapped for modding or personalization. They feature screw-down crowns, full BGW9 or C3 lume, and robust construction. The 120-click unidirectional bezel has a solid, satisfying action, and the choice of no date keeps the dials clean and symmetrical.

Another key upgrade is the clasp. The deployant design with micro-adjustment holes is a noticeable improvement over standard pin buckles. It’s well-made, secure, and pairs well with the molded rubber strap—which, once trimmed, feels purpose-built and integrated.

Finally, the value here remains unbeatable. At under $400 USD, you’re getting titanium, sapphire, 200m WR, a reliable automatic movement, and a distinctive design. That’s rare even among microbrands, let alone from a seller with the customer service reputation of Long Island Watch.

Final Thoughts

The new Whale’s Tail and Pink Shell versions of the Islander Sands Point Titanium Diver push the line in two opposite directions—one toward rugged minimalism, the other toward colorful expression. And yet both still feel distinctly like Islander watches: thoughtfully spec’d, built to perform, and priced with enthusiasts in mind.

If you’re after something subtle and utilitarian, the Whale’s Tail Grey may be the perfect summer tool watch. If you want to make a splash with something eye-catching yet functional, the Pink Shell offers standout style without compromising on quality. Either way, these are some of the best titanium dive watches under $500—and proof that Islander is still leading the value-packed microbrand game in 2025.

Want one of these for yourself? Click here to get $25 off your first order at Long Island Watch.

Islander Sands Point Titanium Specs:

• Titanium case (43mm x 14mm x 47mm)
• NH38 automatic movement (no date)
• 200m WR, flat sapphire crystal
• Whale tail textured dial, cyan seconds hand tip
• FKM strap with titanium deployant clasp