How about a model for under $40 that is accurate, works in the swimming pool and is durable. I have had this model for at least a year and although it doesn't have many bells and whistles, it will provide you with:
1) Your heart rate and the current amount of time that has elapsed in your workout real time
2) When you are done, it gives you the average heart rate you had for the entire workout and the max heart rate you hit for the entire workout
On the downside, it only stores this data for one workout. When you start the monitor for the next workout, all of the data from the previous workout is gone. To me, this doesn't matter.
I like the unit because it works well in the pool as well as outside the pool and the price/value ratio is outstanding. Here it is:
http://www.amazon.com/Polar-Heart-Rate- ... merReviewsWhen this thing dies, I'm going to purchase another one!