Since 1946, Cressi has been producing innovative equipment for snorkeling, scuba diving, spearfishing, and swimming. The latest addition to their award-winning line of underwater and freediving computers is the Cressi Donatello Wrist Computer and the accompanying Console.
In this review, we’ll break down the major features and advantages to purchasing this top-of-the-line scuba computer.
Useful Features of the Cressi Donatello Wrist Computer
Marketed as a premier underwater and freediving computer, the Cressi Donatello can be used for other water-based activities and can be worn as a regular watch on dry land. The computer’s dive functions can also be deactivated if you decide to snorkel or swim.
The wristband is equipped with a stainless steel buckle and is mainly constructed from durable and lightweight thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) rubber.
User-Friendly Interface
The Cressi Donatello Wrist Computer lets you see vital information even in extreme daylight conditions. Moreover, the wrist computer features extra-large numbers. These large-sized numbers help water sports enthusiasts recognize the computer’s details even in underwater settings.
The device features a widescreen display and a straightforward menu that allows users to navigate the system hassle-free. Lastly, the one-touch button contributes to the wrist computer’s easy-to-use interface.
Air/Nitrox Configuration
The Cressi Donatello accommodates diving with regular air, as well as diving with oxygen-enriched air. You can set up the partial pressure of oxygen (PPO2) from 1.2 to 1.6 to ensure safety for all diving conditions.
Cressi’s freediving computer also shows the CNS toxicity level of oxygen. This feature is most beneficial for technical divers who stay for extended periods underwater. It is worth noting that an increase in depth also contributes to CNS toxicity. Hence, a clear indicator of the oxygen toxicity level helps to keep technical divers safe underwater.
This scuba computer boasts a configuration system for altitude diving. It is complemented by the safety stop indicators, which alerts scuba divers of three to five-minute stops before their final ascent to the surface. Lastly, this freediving computer notifies you of a possible violation in maximum depth, ascent speed, and PPO2. These safety features make the Cressi Donatello Wrist Computer an all-around gear for watersports enthusiasts.
Freediving Mode
Another noteworthy feature of the Cressi Donatello is its freediving mode, which displays essential elements, such as depth and temperature.
You can also record up to 50 dives on this computer. This process is a great way to monitor your underwater adventures.
Customizable Design
The Cressi Donatello is available in three different colors. These color combinations are black and blue (), black and silver (), and black and red (). Feel free to choose from among the said colors for a more personalized experience.
Key Features of the Cressi Donatello:
- Cressi-Wienke RGBM Algorithm
- High-Contrast Backlit Power Display
- Extra Large Numbers & Easy Access Menu
- Depth Rating of 150m
- Air/Nitrox Configuration of PPO2 1.2-1.6
- Free Diving Mode
- Gauge Mode
- Adjustable Altitude of up to 3,700m
- Deactivation of Dive Functions
- Bluetooth Connectivity for PC, Mac & Smartphone
Now that we’ve gone over the basic features of the Cressi Donatello, it’s time to introduce another great product: the Cressi Donatello Console.
Useful Features of the Cressi Donatello Console
The Cressi Donatello Console is available in two-gauge () and three-gauge () options. It’s a more conventional type of dive gear than the wrist computer. However, its conventional nature doesn’t make it second-rate.
Here are the top features of the Cressi Donatello Console:
Two-Gauge and Three-Gauge Console
The two-gauge option reads the air pressure and depth, while the three-gauge console comes with an additional compass. Both of them come with a high-contrast display that you can use to monitor important aspects of your dive. Similar to the wrist computer, the console also has large-sized numbers for an easy read.
Three Zones of Pressure Gauge
The area from zero to 600 psi has a red highlight, while the zone from 600 to 3,000 psi is green-colored. Lastly, if you use the gauge at a greater depth of 3,000 to 5,000 psi, then that part has a blue highlight. These colored sections of the Console help divers keep track of the numbers quickly.
This kit also comes with a 7/16-inch high-pressure hose. The hose attaches to the first stage of your scuba regulator. If there’s a sudden increase in pressure, the front glass lens serves as a pressure relief valve. This part allows the excess air pressure to escape, thereby avoiding decompression sickness.
Cressi Compass
The three-gauge console includes a Cressi Compass that is beneficial for every dive. Scratch-resistant polycarbonate material is the main component of the provided compass. Moreover, it comes with a ratcheted bezel that you can rotate easily, even if you’re wearing gloves.
The compass has an illuminated dial to further assist in your navigation. It has a mixture of black and bright backgrounds to ensure the accurate reading of the compass, even in dim-light situations.
Key Features of the Cressi Donatello Console:
- Facilitates Safe Computer Assisted Diving with or without Navigation
- Highly Durable (Impact, Shock & Scratch Resistant)
- Tri-Colored Pressure Gauge
- 5,000psi Gauge Scale
- Available with Cressi Compass
- 7/16″ High-Pressure Hose
- Console Boot
There are various advantages to using both wrist computers and consoles. If you want gear that you can quickly wear wherever you go, then the wrist computer is the right choice. However, if you require another tool, such as a compass, then the console might be the safer choice.
