Looking for a tactical watch? Something that looks cool and has withstood hard military use?
I shamelessly admit that I’ve done that Google search…and bought a couple of them throughout the years.
Though I didn’t wear mine into battle, they’ve spent long days and nights with me on backpacking trips, range shoots, and keyboard warrior-ing.
Here are my picks of the best tactical watches, across a couple of different budgets. Plus, some honorable mentions.
By the end, I hope you’ll know which one to get for boot camp, real missions, or for the office.
THE QUICK LIST
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Best Budget Watch
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Best Analog Watch
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Editor’s Pick Under $200
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Best Looking Budget Pick
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Best Overall Tactical Watch
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Best Mid-Tier Watch
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Best Luxury Tactical Watch
Table of Contents
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Tactical Watches Comparison Chart
| Display Type | Dial Window Material | Case Material | Case Diameter | Water Resistant | Price | |
| Casio G-Shock | Digital | Mineral | Resin | 46.4mm | 200M | $52 |
| 5.11 Tactical Pathfinder | Analog | Mineral | Stainless Steel | N/A | 100M | $100 |
| Suunto Core | Digital | Mineral | Composite | 49.1 mm | 30M | $199 |
| 5.11 Tactical Field Watch | Analog | Mineral | Stainless Steel | 44mm | 100M | $180 |
| Garmin Instinct 2X | Digital | Power Glass | Fiber-Reinforced Polymer | 50mm | 100M | $499 |
| Garmin Instinct 2S | Digital | Corning Gorilla Glass | Fiber-Reinforced Polymer | 32mm | 100M | $349 |
| Marathon TSAR | Analog | Sapphire Crystal | 316L Surgical-Quality Stainless Steel | 41mm | 300M | $1,080 |
| Panerai Luminor | Analog | Sapphire Crystal | Polished Steel | 44mm | 100M | $9,100 |
| Rolex Submariner | Analog | Sapphire Crystal | Oystersteel | 41mm | 300M | $9,295 |
How We Tested the Best Tactical Watches
To come up with this list, we gathered a handful of tactical watches from various companies and some we even own to assess their capabilities.
Earning a spot on the list meant that all watches had to meet a few criteria:
- Work well in tactical (range, training, etc.) or CQB style environments
- Have controls that are easy to use and manipulate
- Watch face must be durable and easy to read
- Features must stand out from competition
Every watch has been worn and tested by one of staff members here at Pew Pew Tactical. All watches have been worn for a few weeks, if not more, and have been tested while doing various activities like exercising and shooting at the range.
We also included watches at every price point so there’s truly something for everyone here regardless of your wallet.
Best Tactical Watches Under $200
1. Casio G-Shock – Best Budget Watch
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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Pros
- Affordable
- Shock resistant
- 2+ years battery life
Cons
- Metal clasp looks cheap
- Can be hard to see at times
Specs & Features
- Display Type: Digital
- Dial Window Material: Mineral
- Case Material: Resin
- Case Diameter: 46.4 mm
- Case Thickness: 14mm
- Water Resistant: Yes, 200 M
- Movement: Quartz
- Special Features: Alarm, electro-luminescent backlight, auto calendar, countdown timer
No surprise here…the Casio G-Shock is the watch that is mentioned the most.
It has everything you need…can survive almost anything…and costs less than $50.
However, it’s the one I wear the least.
But that is my bad…I went with the coolest-looking black-on-black. And you CANNOT see any useful info unless the room is brightly lit and you’re at the right angle.
I found myself having to use the illumination button to see it every time.
Besides that…it rocks:
- Shock resistant
- 200 meters water resistant
- Great backlight
- Stopwatch, alarm, and tons of other features
- Battery life of 2+ years
My only nit-picky thing is that the metal clasp is too shiny in that “cheap” kind of way. But there are always replacement bands if it bothers you too much.
If you’re looking for a functional watch that has everything you need…but might be a little common…the G-Shock is the way to go. Plus, the price is so good you won’t feel too bad if you lose or manage to break it.
My advice is not to get the black-on-black..if I could choose again, I’d go with the matte black (screen) on black.
2. 5.11 Pathfinder – Best Analog Watch
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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Pros
- Very simple
- Functional
- Durable
Cons
- Can be difficult to see in the dark
Specs & Features
- Display Type: Analog
- Dial Window Material: Mineral Crystal
- Case Material: Stainless Steel with matte Ion Plated finish
- Case Diameter: N/A
- Case Thickness: N/A
- Water Resistant: Yes,100 M
- Special Features: Scratch/chip resistant, luminous markers
The Pathfinder is, at its core, simple. And in the best ways possible.
This is a no-nonsense watch that delivers exactly what you need in a good timepiece and nothing else. From the 22mm NATO band to the watch face, its goal is to be utilitarian and functional.
Luminous markers make it fairly easy to see and read in the dark, but deep, inky blackness kind of dark makes it a challenge to read.
A stainless steel body, Japanese movement, and mineral crystal display all lend to this being a pretty robust unit that can take a fair amount of abuse and still look and work great.
Plus, it’s rated for 100 meters/330 feet of water. More than enough for the average user.
3. Suunto Core – Editor’s Pick Under $200
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Pros
- Lots of extra features
- Great for hikes or climbing
- Looks great
Cons
- Compass sucks up the battery life
- Strap started to break after 3 years
Specs & Features
- Display Type: Digital
- Dial Window Material: Mineral Crystal
- Case Material: Composite
- Case Diameter: 49.1 mm
- Case Thickness: 14.5 mm
- Water Resistant: Yes, 30 M
- Special Features: Altimeter, barometer, compass, temperature, storm alarm, depth meter, user-replaceable battery
The Suunto Core comes up a lot, too, and is my top choice that I’ve been wearing for 3+ years.
It looks super cool, especially in the “military” black-on-black model. And no, it’s not like my G-Shock…you can actually read everything still.
It also comes with an altimeter, barometer, compass, and thermometer.
Which works pretty well…but the compass tends to eat a lot of juice.
It helped a lot during my longer hikes, and it’s what I wore to train and summit Mt. Whitney (the tallest peak in the continental U.S.).
I also love how it has the “lockout” feature, so you stay on whatever mode/screen you like. Plus, it has a rolling trend for barometric pressure, so you can spot some inclement weather heading your way.
One negative I mentioned was that the compass sucks up a lot of battery. I found with a hike or two a month and using the compass sparingly…I still had to swap out batteries every year.
Not terrible…but I would have expected more.
Another negative is that the strap has started to break after 3 years. It’s been through a lot, and I did spray it with some 95% DEET while in the Amazon that scuffed it up pretty good.
So it’s not THAT big of a deal…especially since there are a lot of replacement options, too.
Otherwise, it’s my favorite pick.
What’s your take on the Suunto Core? Rate it below!
4. 5.11 Tactical Field Watch 2.0 – Best Looking Budget Tactical Watch
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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Pros
- Date window is handy
- Brighter dial face
- Clean looking watch face
Cons
- Band looks a little too casual
Specs & Features
- Display Type: Analog
- Dial Window Material: Mineral Crystal
- Case Material: Stainless Steel with matte Ion Plated finish
- Case Diameter: 44mm
- Case Thickness: N/A
- Water Resistant: Yes, 100 M
- Special Features: Scratch/chip resistant, luminous hour/min/sec hands, date window, unidirectional ratcheting dive bezel
One of our editors has been testing the Field Watch 2.0 for a while now, and it quickly became his go-to EDC watch.
Why? Because it’s basically the Pathfinder but plused up in almost every way.
The case is slightly larger at 44mm, so the Field Watch retains the stainless steel body and Japanese movement, and even the 22mm NATO band. But it also adds a date window, ratcheting unidirectional dive bezel, and an easier-to-read, brighter dial face.
Everything about it makes it just a little better than the Pathfinder. This really helps make the Field Watch a great EDC choice for when you need a good watch without a lot of frills, but don’t want to blow rent money on a time teller.
Another nice thing about both the Pathfinder and the Field Watch is that 5.11 really kept their branding down to a minimum.
If you replace the band with something a little more classy, both watches could easily pass as something much higher-end and be perfectly at home with a suit and tie.
Best Tactical Watches $200-$1,500
5. Garmin Instinct Solar 2X Tactical – Best Overall Tactical Watch
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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Pros
- Loads of tactical specific features
- GPS
- Pairs with smartphone
Cons
- No touch screen
- Pricey
Specs & Features
- Display Type: Digital
- Dial Window Material: Power Glass
- Case Material: Fiber-Reinforced Polymer
- Case Diameter: 50 mm
- Case Thickness: 26mm
- Water Resistant: Yes, 100 M
- Special Features: Solar, GPS, barometric altimeter, compass, built-in sports app, dedicated tactical features
This watch is likely the most technologically advanced on the list.
While it isn’t as fancy and doesn’t have the pedigree of some of the luxury watches, it has more features than any of them.
At its base, the Instinct is a GPS watch, meaning it connects with satellite networks to give you your location in real-time. You can see it represented on a map and use it to navigate to waypoints or find your way home.
The outer edge of the face is lined with photovoltaic film, which soaks in solar rays to power the watch. The Instinct is also a smartwatch, meaning total synch up with your phone for notifications and other options.
There are a ton of features that allow users to track their health and exercise, and the Instinct gives you live readings of your heart rate and pulse oximetry.
The watch faces are changeable and can be customized with the use of different widgets to give you data like weather and sunrise/sunset.
Tactical features abound in this watch, such as Jumpmaster Mode, Stealth Mode, Kill Switch, and more. Shooters can even access the Applied Ballistics suite to access the calculator, though there is an unlock fee.
One of my favorite features is the light, and I use it frequently because I always have my watch on. It’s bright enough to get you around in dark scenarios.
The Instinct is extremely tough and holds up well, but the screen is only black and white and doesn’t feature the colors of the Fenix series. Battery life has lasted around 30 days, depending on sunlight.
6. Garmin Instinct 2s – Best Women’s Tactical Watch
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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Pros
- Smaller design for petite wearers
- Long battery life
- Solar charging
Cons
- Watch band frequently pops out of loops
Specs & Features
- Display Type: Digital
- Dial Window Material: Corning Gorilla Glass
- Case Material: Fiber-Reinforced Polymer
- Case Diameter: 32 mm
- Case Thickness: 13.3 mm
- Water Resistant: Yes, 100 M
- Special Features: Solar, scratch resistant, 3-axis compass, barometric altimeter, GPS, health/sleep monitoring, built-in sports apps
Now, one for the ladies…or anyone else looking for a slimmer tactical style watch.
Building on the Instinct model, the Instinct 2s offers a similar vibe as the 2X but with a smaller build. Like the 2X it offers a durable, rugged design that can handle shoots at the range, classes, and even competition stages that might have you rolling around in the dirt or moving from area to area.
Not to mention, while you’re doing all this training, the watch is logging your steps, heart rate, and even flights of stairs if you’re doing that sort of thing.
GPS means that if you’re out on a hike, your family can stay on top of our location while the long battery life supplies up to 21 days for the non-solar version and 51 for the solar option. Solar will cost you more, though, at $399 vs. $299 for the standard.
The buttons are pretty easy to use, but admittedly, take some time to get used to if you’re coming from something like an Apple Watch. That said, I’ve been wearing one for a couple of weeks, and it’s been useful to track my health stats, sleep, and movement — on top of doing the things most watches these days do, like handing off texts and the like.
My only gripes are the color limitations for the solar version and the watch band. First, the colors. If you want solar, you’re stuck with either black or an off-gray color. If you can live without solar, then you have a few more options.
Next…the watch band. While it has proven itself durable (and I do like the many notches to use to tighten), it kind of has a mind of its own and likes to shimmy out from the free loop (a fancy way to say those loops on the band that keep the band in place). Having the band sticking out like a sore thumb is kind of annoying. Not a deal breaker, though, as you just have to tuck it back where it belongs.
Overall, the Instinct 2s is perfect if you want a GPS-capable, rugged watch that doesn’t take up too much space on your arm.
7. Marathon TSAR – Best Mid-Tier Watch
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Pros
- Built for diving
- Bright and easy to see
- Has a classy look
Cons
- 36mm is on the smaller side
Specs & Features
- Display Type: Analog
- Dial Window Material: Sapphire Crystal
- Case Material: 316L Surgical-Quality Stainless Steel
- Case Diameter: 41 mm
- Case Thickness: N/A
- Water Resistant: Yes, 300 M
- Special Features: Scratch resistant, dial can be read under direct sunlight, self illuminated 24/7 tritium gas tubes
My latest addition and current non-electronic favorite for everyday wear goes to the Marathon TSAR 41mm.
Mil-spec and built for diving…the TSAR stands for “Tritium Search And Rescue,” it straddles the perfect line of a little military but is still appropriate for a dress shirt.
There are a couple of different sizes, and for me (and most), the 41mm is perfect. There’s a 36mm version, but it’s definitely on the smaller side.
The tritium vials are bright, and the 12 o’clock marker is an extra bright Maraglo.
So far no scratches on its sapphire glass…but I’ll update with more range trips!
Or, to check out the other versions (size, movement, no government markings, etc)…click here.
Best Tactical Watches $1,500+
9. Panerai Luminor – Best Luxury Tactical Watch
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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Pros
- Simple, clean design
- Luxury status symbol
- Clear backing
Cons
- Expensive
Specs & Features
- Display Type: Analog
- Dial Window Material: Sapphire Crystal
- Case Material: Polished Steel
- Case Diameter: 44 mm
- Case Thickness: N/A
- Water Resistant: Yes, 100 M
- Special Features:Â Clear backing
My favorite luxury tactical watch is the Panerai Luminor.
Born from Italian frogmen way back when…
It’s still popular in watch circles but isn’t overtly recognizable unless you’re in the know with its famous crown guard and lever device.
It’s chunky but not TOO big, even for my average wrists.
It’s what I wear when day shooting becomes night drinking on the town.
Plus…it has a clear back, so you can look at the gorgeous movement.
If you’ve got the coin…you can’t go wrong with Panerai.
But my luxury watch days are over…now that I’m into firearms (RIP wallet also). Because these watches can’t shoot bullets!
9. Rolex Submariner Date – Best High-End Analog Tactical Watch
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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Pros
- Durable and robust build
- Holds value
- Classic look
Cons
- Very expensive
Specs & Features
- Display Type: Analog
- Dial Window Material: Sapphire Crystal
- Case Material: Oystersteel
- Case Diameter: 41 mm
- Case Thickness: N/A
- Water Resistant: Yes, 300 M
- Special Features: High-performance Paraflex shock absorbers
Ok…let’s ball it up a little bit with the Rolex Submariner Date.
Rolex might be the most recognizable luxury watch brand out there…but it has its military roots when it was issued to the British Ministry of Defense (Milsub), U.S. Airforce (Turn-O-Graph), and more.
It’s robust, submersible to 300m, non-electronic, and holds value.
Plus, it looks classy with a suit or out in the field.
One of my favorites for something that will turn heads AND do its job as a timepiece.
Honorable Mentions
There are a lot of other great tactical watches out there. Here are some popular affordable ones that I’ve seen and handled…but don’t currently own.
But I want to pick up some time!
10. Luminox 3051 EVO Navy SEAL
Okay…it has Navy SEAL in the name, but the Luminox 3051 EVO ($284) it isn’t some gimmick.
It’s super visible during the day and has colored dials that really glow in the dark for low-light situations. Plus, 200m water resistance.
11. Marathon Navigator
Mil-spec and really popular before and now. The Marathon Navigator ($420) was designed for pilots and paratroopers.
Comes with a date function, tritium gas illumination tubes, and water resistance up to 200 feet.
Why You Should Trust Pew Pew Tactical
Leading the research and reviewing of this article is Pew Pew Tactical Founder and CEO Eric Hung. Eric is an NRA-certified pistol instructor and a USPSA/3-Gun/NRL22 competitor. On top of that, he has written and researched over 250 articles and reviews on guns and gear. Not to mention, he’s a big watch guy — most of the guns listed here Eric has tested and personally owned at one time or another.
Editing and adding to this article is PPT Content Producer Sean Curtis. Sean has been shooting since childhood but began to delve into guns during his law enforcement career. He spent over two decades in law enforcement, where he became a POST-certified handgun instructor and NLEFIA Red Dot Instructor and received CLEFIA Advanced Firearms Instructor Training and AR-15 armorer training. He has since attended a variety of training, including Tactical Performance Center Handgun Mastery & Carbine Mastery, and earned USCCA rifle instructor certification. Aside from training and prior to joining the Pew Pew Tactical team full-time, Sean wrote for several gun publications evaluating and testing guns and gear and has written hundreds of articles. Being on the range doesn’t exclude him for needing to tell time, so Sean has experience testing watches while working on gun reviews. For this article, Sean evaluated and tested the Garmin Instinct 2X.
Editor-in-Chief Jacki Billings runs our experienced team of reviewers. She is a member of the Society of Professional Journalists, ACES: Society for Editing, and the Professional Outdoor Media Association. Jacki has a bachelor’s degree in journalism and has worked as a media professional for close to 20 years, specializing in gun media for almost 10 years. She uses her professional journalism and editing experience to set testing protocols and editorial standards for Pew Pew Tactical. For this article, Jacki added the Garmin Instinct 2S after extensive testing.
Final Thoughts
Whether you need a budget watch to get you through range days or you want something that easily transitions from daytime to nighttime, we think you’ll be happy with any of the above watches.
How did I do? Any other ones I should check out and add to Honorable Mentions? If you’re looking at other EDC gear…check out our other hands-on articles: Best EDC Flashlights and Best EDC Knives.
59 Leave a Reply
I have the Suunto Core watch, and I agree with the band issue: mine has been replaced a few times, but that's not my biggest complaint. It doesn't keep accurate time. It runs fast (every few weeks, it is faster than every other clock/watch I own, to include the one on my phone. Is it a fluke, or has anyone else had this problem?
I solved the Casio band "issue" a few years ago. I replaced the band on most of my G Shocks with a paracord band. (usa survival paracord world is where mine came from) cost is about $20 and they are significantly more comfortable than stock.
Gucci watches? Any discussion of tactical watches without mention of the Vostok Amphibia isn't worth the Internet ink.
In the picture at the top of the article with the 5 watches, what is that watch on the far right?
The 5.11 watches are my favorite of the ones you have listed - I don't have to work to get the time when I look at them.
I'm not sure why anyone would want the Rolex or Panerai at the price they are charging unless (1) you are a millionaire or (2) you are in Special Ops.
Desperate for content? Maybe. Lol BTW, no offence intended.
Surprised that the Casio F91-W didn't make the cut here, solid functional watch for under $25. Would also recommend any Sangin Instruments watches, all are in the $500-$1,500 range. Solid brand and great guys behind it, unfortunately it can be tougher to get your hands on one but is definitely worth the wait.
My personal favorite after a lot of searching is a Luminox Men's Navy Seal Pacific Diver. Its a more conventional diver design, with Luminox's tritium markings. Readable in total darkness and doesn't require a light to charge the luminescence. Bonus, SS case & band doesn't look "tactical". $518 right now on Amazon.
Nice article, but it must be said that the Rolex Submariner is a quantum leap ahead of all the others. So beautiful, solid as a rock, and super accurate. I bought a Submariner in in 2017 and now I can get double what I paid for it. Only Rolex can do that. If you can afford it, don’t think twice!
I've been down this rabbit hole over 45 years. I don't look at brands, I look at critical features and that has quickly narrowed the field to watches that actually qualify not promote your social status. Thats the price for a good tactical watch - save the pretty toys for banquets, they aren't worth the inflated price.
Water resistance is critical, having a watch get lost because you took it off to take a shower is brain dead stupid, and I have done it. Get a good WR200 or Dive 200m and there is no reason - save one - to ever remove it when you are away from your "green zone." And she might not care anyway. A WR resistance is still a Marketing department game, not a ISO tested rating, and a watch that can't won't live long in the field. Suunto Cores are WR30 watches with two large battery ports which get quickly trashed - and then leak leaving you to dig for your backup that you were smart enough to bring, right?
Second, a watch's priority is to tell time, under a lot of adverse conditions - beyond that it's like a set of multipliers, they can do a lot but few things very well. Your choice if digital or analog, I've used both - the key there is that there are no digital self winders, are there? You will use quartz.
Time to discuss that, here's the ugly truth - no self winding auto watch will keep time to 30 seconds a year - I have half a dozen quartz that will, Citizens, Casio, etc. If you have to regularly pull the stem to correct - I have an Orange Monster that runs 2 minutes fast a week, factory spec - thats 52 stem pulls minimum a year, which wears the screw threads, the o ring seals, and the gear train getting it right. Over and over.
I have a "Recon" quartz Milsub "replica" and it's about 20 seconds fast since I got it in March. The perpetual calender Citizen Eco Drive runs 1.5 second fast and I don't even have to mess with Feb 29 - perpetual calendar means exactly that. It's analog, the digitals do the same.
Auto wind watches are now the pampered pet horse of the watch industry, not a working or tactical watch, despite the premiums they pay to mention them. Avoid that recommendation.
Next is dial lighting, with analog you either get the lumibrite type markings which are now tier 1 on most good brands, on digitals it's either back lit or a bright LED which lights the entire dial. Your choice. Having them work on demand, not glow constantly may be important for some, for many hunters etc not so much.
Now - features beyond telling time? Be very careful - if you have a compass feature and it's constant on, it eats a battery every 30 hours or less - Suunto's are notorious for using ten or more in a 7 day period, and each change is more wear and tear on that battery hatch. With a demand button and some careful use, the Protreks/Casios might go a year. Temp features are notorious for reading your wrist temp, not the environment, and the baro feature is tricky - you have to zero for your altitude and the weather service is zeroed for sea level - even in Denver. It's five inches off - go in knowing you have to translate it and it's still relative. Hikers with baro watches note they can get accurate changes in altitude but not read the checkpoint height number for number.
There is also the two is one and one is none factor that all military is familiar with - you don't rely on one piece of gear. I might wear a compass watch hunting, I take a compass anyway. If I need a baro reading, there are good pocket climber models available - and both those items work on the natural laws, not button cells - they are reliable. I've had a Silva Ranger for 35 years and it's still accurate - even after I correct for declination every ten years or so. Who knew?
What is the most popular tactical or field watch out there? First, they cost a days pay - that has been the standard for over 100 years. Less isn't quality and more is jewelry. It's dust resistant to ISO/DOD standards, water resistant to minimum 200 meters, and drop resistant - not because it needs to be off the wrist, but banging around tracked vehicles, or just the work truck, stuff happens. Of them all Casio does the best job, and that is why its the most purchases and used brand in DOD. That is the standard - it may not be what someone prefers, but its like the M16 - it gets the job done. Don't pick anything lesser and it will last.
As a poster noted below, Omega Seamaster 300M in sapphire with automatic movement. Planet Ocean chrono if you need it with the 9300 movement. Built like a tank, was mil-spec for the Brits for many years.
Omega all the way. I've had a Seamaster Pro since 1997, and it runs perfect. Loses one second a month. 300 meters rated, and has a helium release valve if you are in a diving bell.
Jesus didn't even include the Garmin ones.
So many suggestions of "tactical" considerations without solar recharging, sapphire crystal or at least overlay, and how about throwing in atomic timekeeping and a compass?
There are only 3 mentions worthy of being called "Tactical" and the other overpriced "Presitge" models do nothing except impress the owner, maybe someone else, and put a major dent in your pocketbook...monies that could be used to buy more practical "tactical" gear. I rarely wear my limited edition "pilot styled" Breitling for $9K, but instead wear my iPhone 12 everyday with my edited black styled face. So practicality and functionality win!
My Recommendation: G-Shock GW-6900.
The SEALs switched from Rolex to G-Shock in the early to mid-1990s. The first model they adopted was the G-Shock DW-6600. It is no longer in production, but it had been an official issue in some (maybe many) units.
Casio updated the DW-6600 to create the G-Shock DW-6900. They also created a solar, atomic version of the DW-6900. It is the GW-6900. Since it's solar, you don't have to change a battery--well, not for at least 20 years. Since it's atomic, it always has the correct time.
So the Casio G-Shock GW-6900 is the solar, atomic update to the original G-Shock model adopted by the SEALs.
I followed your recommendation and am happy with my purchase so far. LOL at Eric for writing about watches that cost several months’ wages. Gimme a break.
PRAETORIAN Phalanx Phantom
I'm a BIG fan of the MTM collection, didn't see that mentioned in the comments yet. I've been beating up my MTM Warrior for years. Simple, no electronics or gadgets and I've only replaced the battery once in the since I've owned it (10 years).
I've had a Garmin Tactix Delta for about 8 months now, and I love it. Definitely a pricy watch, but this thing is a tank and has survived getting bashed into things repeatedly. And I've broken 3 Casio G-shocks in the span of two years. It's also the only "smart" (no touch screen) watch I've had that I genuinely enjoy.
Do you try an Iwatch? I thinking to buy one of those and looking for someone to have one
Luminox is a great watch but you missed the boat on G Shocks as they have doazens of cool watches in the $150 range
Omega Seamster Diver 300 M. My wife dropped mine off of our boat into a lake where the boat was docked. I searched all weekend for the damned thing and never found it. Over a year later fourth of July 2020 my 10 year old nephew found it and returned it to me. It was still working. I'll never own any other time piece brand. Still can hardly believe that we found it let alone it still functioned.
Breitling Blackbird is my go-to for high-end tactical watch.
Look into Citizen Eco-Drive and Garmin watches. You will not be disappointed. I own several.
Any mud master (Casio)
Love the watch review, but I agree with the guy who said you really only reviewed 3 watches. The almost 10k ones really aren’t worth mentioning to us average joes. Personally, I think any tactical watch should at least be all metal, be water proof to 200 meters AND never need a battery. After having a 400.00 self winder that failed after 14 months and didn’t keep time very well, I’ve switched to a citizen eco drive diver.
Seiko 5
I'm surprised there isn't any mention of the Garmin Fenix 5 series. I've had one going on four years and it's truly outstanding. Includes altimeter, barometer, compass, thermometer, step/motion tracking. There is a dedicated app store where you can download things to customize your watch (applies to most Garmin devices) like different watchfaces, a ballistic calculator, star map, a toothbrush timer or a calculator. You can also get data fields like track logs, varying types of coordinates (like MGRS), VO2 levels, heart rate graphs and plenty of others. Excellent piece of gear that I have beat the living crap out of over the last few years and it's still going just as strong as it ever was. Not even a single scratch on the sapphire crystal. Not one.
I use a Casio F-91 W when competing at USPSA and IDPA matches. Can't beat it for the price ($10.00) and a 7 years battery life!
I would add Hamilton in the dressy category with such a rich history of mil spec watch making.
You need to do a better job with your research. Example, read the Amazon reviews for the Suunto.
You always have great reviews, so please understand this criticism comes with respect. It would have been nice to have actual practical options on the list other than the Panerai and Rolex. Sure they are good watches, but this is not going to help the general public, so in reality you only reviewed 3 watches. I should expect a review on top 5 tactical private jets next.
My wife offered to buy me a new watch for my upcoming week long hunting trip in the PNW High Cascades hunt area. She said I don't want you to get lost out there, since I'm not all that familiar with where my hunting buddies are planning on taking me.. Told her I have my GPS/Compass app on my smart phone and she said you need a good hiking/hunting watch too as a back-up. You know...the "two is one, one is none" rule.. I finally broke down and said OK I will research it. So, after reading this article I did some additional research and have zero'd in on a "Suunto Traverse Alpha". Has some great GPS features and get this...even has a "shot detector" where it logs a marker where you were when you made that terrific shot and killed that trophy deer/elk (thinking positive). So I'm ready to pull the trigger on that one and place an order.
looks like you have covered most of the ones or some variation generally worn by operators. Not sure about those high end ones but overall great article
Luminox for the win. For the price they are pretty hard to beat. Mine has been rock solid.
I can't believe Eric does not (did not?) wear Tissot T-Touch watches. And nobody mentioned them in the comments? Especially T-Touch Expert Titanium, and the new one T-Touch Expert Solar II.
No offense, but watch simply has to be Swiss Made. Sometimes Italy or France are ok. But totally not cool as "Swiss made" LOL
Ever since I knew about them from Mr. & Mrs. Smith I kind of wanted one...
My favorite EDC tactical watch is the Maratac SR-35. Water resistant to 10 atm so 100m. It has a 4:00 crown position. This helps keep the crown from digging into your wrist. It is automatic so no battery to worry about.
Although not a tactical watch, one thing I love about my Apple Watch is how I can be alerted to and read text messages from my wrist without having to put down and secure my gun during target practice. Since I need to be found at all times (and the practice range is very loud and I'm wearing ear protection so won't notice a ringing phone) it gives me a lot of peace of mind.
True...good point! Also jealous you still have service at your range.
Even though it is not manufactured any longer (that i can find) the 5.11 Tactical H.R.T. watch is a TRUE tactical watch with built in Ballistic Calculator.
Wow didn't know those existed!
I like the Rolex GMTII with the submariner band. Double clasp and expands for wetsuit (as if) use.
Uh, just so you know, the Rolex being automatic has been known to be damaged with heavy pistol shooting, so it does not qualify. And how in the heck do you leave out the greatest tactical time telling piece in the world in the Sinn UX. Oil filled case, hi torque/accuracy quartz, 5000m WP. Submarine steel case and tegimented bezel. It's the most bomb proof tactical watch on the market and you don't even mention it.
I’ve had mine for 40 years and had one problem, a cracked mainspring bracket that was covered under warranty. I don’t think that disqualifies it. And I’ve shot everything from BPS to .357 magnum to AK47 full auto....Hmmm, have to try the Barret...
Meh, tactical Rolex? First time I've ever heard that. When I'm wearing a Rolex for Tac-ops, the S has already HTF, and I've "rolled" my local pawn shop! I go with the basic Timex Ironman. All I expect out of my watch is time, alarm, light, chrono and durability, of course. The large digits are also a plus for these old eyes. For the price, I feel no guilt when I ruff it up. Worst case, I just go to "Wally-World and grab a new one. That being said, the only problem I've ever had is with the band, and that's always been due to user abuse! In my opinion, Timex Ironman is the best budget tactical watch for the average Joe.
I got an old timex. got it back when more people had pagers than cell phones. face is all scratched up. straps broke off several times and i just dont bother anymore. put it in my pocket. i have replaced the battery a bunch and its still waterproof for jumping in the pool/creek. same seal inside too. i have abused it so much its amazing it still works. i take it hog hunting at night to use the light on it if i need to see something up close but not give away my location. people tell me to get a new watch but i got one that works and i dont need one, as of right now. but, that g shock seems like a good one to look into if i ever need another. All the letters wore off long ago so i cant tell you what model it is. .
Maybe different people have different understanding of 'tactical'... I don't really think some watches, especially the luxury ones in this article will withstand extensive shock and vibration from a firing gun holding in hands, or collision and impacts incurred while the wearer is moving in a tactical situation. I believe these watches are overall good for daily use and normal wear, but in my opinion, such rolex or suunto, or even luminox are luxury/sport/outdoor/fashion watches that root from(but no longer being) military purposes/have military or tactical features/better than common watches but can't really be 'hard military used', typically, luminox watches, I regard them as over priced 'military style swatches'...
In fact there are some watches that had been battle-tested in recent military conflicts and, recognised by modern western military forces. Marathon and some base g-shock trims like dw-6900 and dw-5600 have nato stock numbers or NSN, so if you need a real robust tactical/military watch they are the results, despite they don't hold many other functions like altitude or temperature.
Just my words.
Since you threw a Rolex into the line up, I'll throw in Breitling amongst the higher end offerings that look good at a night on the town or at the range.. I've had their titanium Aerospace since 1993 and have worn it everyday exposing it to scuba diving, rock climbing, flying, hunting, you name it... and it's still going strong!
Breitling has an amazing array of models to lust over. If I were to buy again and had the $$$ I would look at their Military model and a few others...they even have one with an emergency ELT transmitter in it.
They also now have models with rechargeable batteries. Take a look at their official Breitling website it's really fun to drool over their models and doesn't cost a penny to look and wish!
I do love Breitling too! I'll have to check out their newer models with the rechargeable batteries.
I’m with you on the Rolex Submariner. I also like the GMT Master II
Great choice, Kirk...I love the dual colored bezels on them.
AKA PepsiCola bezel. Latest one I saw in HK for 395K Euro...white gold or something.
I've got the Casio G Shock Mudman in Brown (read FDE) and I love it. It set me back $300 and I had to order it from Australia but it was worth the coin. It's tough as nails, Solar powered but not atomic. It has a thermometer and a compass which for me was all I needed as far as a features go. I've been looking for another tough watch but something maybe capable of being synced up with my phone.
Nice rec! I'll have to check out all these solar G-Shocks.
Enjoyed reading your recommended tactical watches. Nice to know I already own 3 of them.. don’t like subjecting the Rolex and Panerai to heavy duty shiock however.. would like to recommend another Casio G Shock, the Multi band 6 with atomic time keeping and solar powered
Nice, Dr. Mike! And I'll have to check out the multi band 6 if I get another G-Shock.
I'm on my third Casio G-Shock, but I'm talking about over a 35-year +/- time frame. One caveat, with ANY battery powered watch, is that if you take it underwater (I do) there are VERY few jewelers that will change the battery and guarantee watertightness. Because of this, ditch the battery for a solar-powered one, you will never have to open the case. Just a word of advice from someone who's been there.
Great tip!