dont go cheap , i surf in a Rolex and its the only watch i need it will last the rest of my life , you buy cheap things its just gonna break down an need to be replaced, you can get a decent used rolex for 2500 bucks
I am in the market for a watch also, and its for when ia m surfing. Two kids and a bunch of stuff to do on a daily basis getting out of the water in time to be a a family function is unfortuantely a necessity. The tide function is also what I am looking for. I saw a review with the Nixon Lodown and the timer and wave counter thing looks great for long sessions where you can time sets.
Anyway personally I will be going for whatever tide watch fits my skinny wrist best under $150. The Vestal Brig is also a decent looking tide watch but havent seen it up close so.............