I can’t recommend a watch…I too have been trying to find the right GPS watch for my needs (swimming, cycling, running) for a long time. But, the website DC Rainmaker (https://www.dcrainmaker.com) is an independent, longtime, trusted reviewer of fitness, technology devices. You might find what you’re looking for there. — Dan
If you want bells and whistles there are many good choices, But if you want simple I use an Ironman. I find it easy to do intervals with, it is rugged and long lasting.
I have used the Timex Ironman for over 30 years, they now range in price from $30 to over $100. Just got a new one from Amazon in one day, paid $40 and it is perfect if you want a true waterproof watch that will give you spilt times.
I am looking for the best swim watch thst can upload workouts and time intervals etc. and also do open water. I only swim. I do not run. I do t have a coach so thé watch is my coach of sorts. Thanks
I use the Apple Watch, recently upgraded to the 11. The Swim.com app connects to your USMS account and allows you to upload USMS posted workouts to the watch, find workouts that match your pool time and distance. Tracks heart rate, calories and a ton of other bells and wistles. The ability to dunk your hand in the water and get the water temp is both stupid and cool.
My routine is go on the phone to swim.com select a workout, modify that workout (Kick sets have to be set to drill mode instead of kick mode because the watch cant track kicks as your arm does not move. I upload that to the watch and write the actual workout on a diving slate. The slate tells me what I am doing the watch vibrates to tell me when I should do it plus total distance time on that part of the set etc...
