Our 13 Favorite Military and Operator Watches of 2024 (Tested & Reviewed)

I recently went on an Amazon shopping spree to find the V2 of the ultimate military and special-ops type watch.

I dropped a boatload of cash on 30+ different models, and after 143 hours of work, competition shooting, cross-fit, snowboarding, yard-work, and more everyday "tests", not all survived.

Some of those watches were complete garbage so I tossed those and come up with a list of 15 watches that won't disappoint.

Now, I know some of you might not have the funds right now to splurge on a high-quality tactical watch, but trust me, it's worth the wait. You want a watch that will last, and buying once is better and cheaper than buying twice.

These watches I picked aren't just for Marines or Army guys, but anybody who wants battle proven toughness and looks.

I didn't serve myself, but a few of my family and their friends are active military, so I let them review and wear these watches as well for this guide.

I've been around the block when it comes to outdoor gear and the survival aspects, so I'm hoping this military watch guide will be more authentic than all the other "men's gear" sites out there who are written by GQ types.

Watches at the top of their class

• Garmin Instinct Solar — Top Choice
• Luminox Evo Navy Seal — Officially licensed by US NAVY
• Breitling Super Avenger II — Finest Luxury Military Wristwatch
• Timex T49612 Expedition Trail
• Casio G-Shock GA100-1A1
• Garmin Fenix 5X Plus
• Casio G-Shock Rangeman
• Timex T49905 Expedition
• Marathon Military Navigator
• Luminox Recon Nav
• Suunto Core
• Hamilton Khaki Field
• SureFire 2211

1. Garmin Instinct Solar

The Garmin Instinct is military-grade, with water resistance up to 330 feet and it can withstand shock and heat.

Besides its strength, this one has a premium look and elegant design.

You don’t need to worry about getting lost somewhere since this military-grade smartwatch has GLONASS, GPA, and Galileo, which works with the global satellite systems used by armed forces.

It’s perfect for camping, trekking or hiking as it has TracBack (used to trace back your steps), barometric altimeter and 3-axis compass.

Say no more to stress when in battle, or an office fight! This amazing gadget will help you monitor your stress levels and heart rate.

That's something you won't usually get from other watches.

This version comes with solar technology and an extended battery life that will last you a 54 days or more!

There’s no need to search for a charging port and carry a charger wherever you go.

This is certainly one of the best tactical smart watches available, if not THE greatest.

Read my full Garmin Instinct review here.

NanaDC Badass Rating: 5/5

• The Garmin instinct solar comes with an upgraded heart rate monitor that measures oxygen saturation, making it more accurate and reliable than previous models. I can trust the readings on this watch.
• The Garmin instinct solar's power manager allows me to customize its power usage to preserve battery life during long activities. I can turn off certain features to save power, and the watch still functions perfectly.

NanaDC Sauve Rating: 3/5

• The lightweight design of the Garmin instinct solar is perfect for long wear periods. Its plastic construction doesn't add unnecessary weight, making it comfortable to wear throughout the day.

2. Luminox Evo Navy Seal

This one is made of polyurethane case and matching durable polyurethane band which includes a buckle clasp, which makes this one of the more unique watches used by troops.

With an analog-quartz movement, unidirectional bezel, and a durable mineral dial window, the US Navy SEALS and the US Air Force Pilots highly recommend this tactical watch.

The Luminox Evo Navy Seal analog also holds off circumstances where there is low to zero light source.

This prominent feature makes every dark mission manageable with this on your wrist. On its pitch black dial are white contrasting markings. Moreover, you can see a handy calendar at it's three o’clock.

The unidirectional textured bezel features highly visible minute indexes for easy readability. It is also water resistant up to a depth of 660 feet.

NanaDC Badass Rating: 5/5

• The lightweight carbon casing and scratch-resistant mineral crystal glass ensure durability and robustness for daily wear.
• I have tested the watch's 200-meter water resistance by wearing it in the shower without any issues.

NanaDC Suave Rating: 3/5

• I am impressed by how the Tritium and numericals are recessed deep underneath the upper glass, which prevents side visibility and adds to its tactical advantage.
• The dark blueish Tritium illumination on the numericals and second hand, and greenish illumination on the hour/minute arms, create a unique and eye-catching visual effect.

3. Breitling Super Avenger II Military

The Super Avenger Military is one of the most water resistant watches. Out of all the military style watches on this list, it is the most reliable timepiece that functions up to 1,000 feet underwater.

Found on its display are luminous markers and a well-defined stainless steel crown for easy usage. A stainless steel body makes it highly durable.

Sold on a limited edition, this timepiece has a 48-mm anti-reflective case on a dial that features a 24-hour military time display.

Furthermore, its strap is made of synthetic fabric which military units commonly used for special operations. The heightened bezel rotates in one direction making it one of the most perfect watches for diving. You really can’t argue why this is considered one of the premier choices with automatic movement.

NanaDC Badass Rating: 5/5

• The twin trigger deploying clasp adds an extra layer of security, requiring both triggers to be depressed before opening, giving peace of mind to those who value protection.
• The sheer size of the watch makes it a monstrosity that requires a hard case testing setting during water tests, showcasing its toughness and luxury features that you would expect from a high-end timepiece.

NanaDC Suave Rating: 3/5

• The bezel of the watch is a sophisticated and nuanced portion that stands out from the rest of the case, adding an extra layer of elegance and sophistication to its overall design.
• This watch features a classical color palette, highlighting white metal with a black dial and strap, and a few shots of red that make it an eye-catching timepiece that will surely draw compliments.

4. Timex T49612 Expedition Trail

Start your next adventure with Timex T49612 Expedition Trail Series. It is certain that this is considered as one of the most excellent choices because of its genius features.

This is one of the leading choices designed to sit on your wrist comfortably. A durable nylon strap and a lightweight bezel and resin case hold it in place and make it sturdy. Furthermore, these watches have a heavy-duty buckle for tight fastening.

Thanks to the watch’s quartz movement, its digital display readout will always be accurate. Its water resistance is up to 200 meters or 550 feet, while its shock resistance is in compliance with the ISO standards for military personnel watches.

At a low price, the Expedition runs with 16 compass points. Featuring Timex’s classic Indiglo night-light, you can use these military and tactical watches without having to search for a light source.

NanaDC Badass Rating: 5/5

• The Timex Expedition is a great watch for outdoor enthusiasts, with its 200 meters water resistance and nightlight. I have already opened it and found it to be a perfect companion for my adventures.

NanaDC Sauve Rating: 3/5

• Compared to other watches, the Timex Expedition has a smaller dial, but it still has a stylish and unique look. I think it's perfect for casual wear or for a day out. I have received compliments on it already.

5. Casio G-Shock GA100-1A1

Casio’s G-Shock GA100-1A1 is a fighter with its water resistance of 200 meters and strong magnetic resistance. Although it has an all-black appearance, its LED light feature with afterglow will make sure it is not a problem.

Equipped with auto-calendar that is pre-programmed until the year 2099, you will surely not miss a date—literally.

Proving its excellency, the G-Shock GA100-1A1 analog tactical watch boasts its 1/1000-second stopwatch function with speed indicator. The 1/1000 second stopwatch has multiple measuring modes that include lap time, elapsed time, and split time.

Along with this feature are the 29 time zones and world time swapping function.

NanaDC Badass Rating: 5/5

• Casio's straps are a great mix of strength and comfort, unlike the cheap rubber ones from other manufacturers. I wear them while swimming, playing squash, and bashing them against objects, and they hold up incredibly well.

NanaDC Sauve Rating: 2/5

• Casio G-Shocks are fantastic watches for everyday wear, with a tactical military look that appeals to me.
• This watch fits really well and is very comfortable due to its lightweight and the way it stays in position. It has a large diameter and look proportionate on my wrist.

6. Garmin Fenix 5X Plus

When it comes to mind-blowing features, nothing beats the Garmin Fenix 5X Plus Smartwatch.

And it's getting better and better with every upgrade.

Although we are incredibly impressed with its predecessors, this one has some goodies that make it more exciting than any previous models of the Fenix products.

While a bit chunky on how it looks, this beast comes with a sapphire crystal and band that fits snugly to your wrist. The wristwatch is surprisingly comfortable, which is crucial to allow free movement while engaging in physical activity.

The Garmin Fenix 5X Plus Sapphire is considered the king of GPS watches as it’s packed with features like a pulse oximeter (oxygen saturation), an altimeter, and comes with pre-loaded topographical maps.

The storm alarm is one of the highlights of this watch, as it detects drops in barometric pressure.

NanaDC Badass Rating: 5/5

• Experience up to 20 days of battery life in smartwatch mode and 13 hours in GPS mode with music, allowing you to stay connected and entertained on the go. Stay fit and focused with the Fenix 5X Plus series, which features a durable and robust design that can withstand any activity or environment.

NanaDC Sauve Rating: 3/5

• Designed for athletes and outdoor adventurers, the Fenix 5X Plus is the ultimate multi-sport GPS watch. The watch is also lightweight, making it comfortable to wear for extended periods of time.

7. Casio G-Shock Rangeman

In addition to the G-Shock watch series, the Rangeman is loaded with a ton of features that make it one of the top operator timepieces when it comes to extreme outdoor activities.

The Rangeman is one of the rugged ones that can withstand even the toughest environmental conditions. This one can also keep track of different readings such as altitude, barometric pressure, temperature, and directions.

The design of this Casio keeps its functionality at your fingertips and make it as user-friendly as possible.

I can definitely say that this watch, although a tactical watch, offers utter comfort.

NanaDC Badass Rating: 5/5

• With its thick but well-balanced resin shell, stainless steel case back and button pushers, and durable double-locking strap, the Rangeman GW 9400 is designed to withstand the toughest conditions and offer unparalleled durability.
• Featuring a water resistance of up to 20 bar, the Rangeman GW 9400 is perfect for water sports enthusiasts, allowing them to dive up to 200 meters below the surface without fear of damaging the watch.

NanaDC Sauve Rating: 0/5

• The circular display of the range man provides a visual representation of the sunrise and sunset, as well as my current time, which is a unique and helpful feature.
• While the range man may be too large for some people's wrists, I find it to be incredibly wearable and comfortable, which is important for me during extended outdoor activities.

8. Timex T49905 Expedition

Your next addition to your military timepiece collection could be this one.

Despite its rugged style, Timex Expedition Field Chronograph Watch promises excellent experience since it was created to survive the most difficult hiking trails while matching your corporate wardrobe.

By the way, I wrote a separate round-up about the excellent survival watches.

• We love this thing. Straight up cool, and a limited addition to boot. The thermo-compensated 'SuperQuartz' is accurate to within seconds per year. You don't need to be a fighter pilot on a strike squadron or an astronaut to appreciate this.

NanaDC Badass Rating: 5/5

• When you hit the reset button, the computer takes over and resets everything back to zero. It's a nifty feature that adds to the watch's functionality and makes it easy to use.
• The watch's mineral glass and high-quality leather strap make it sturdy. The PVD-coated pin and buckle system also add to its durability. You can even swap out the strap for a NATO strap or other leather straps when it starts to wear and tear.

NanaDC Sauve Rating: 4/5

• The watch's loomed hands and in glow feature make it easy to read in low-light conditions, adding to its practicality and style.
• The high-quality leather strap with cool hardware and PVD-coated pin and buckle system adds to the watch's aesthetics.
• The sub-dials, date window, and fluorescent orange-tipped second hand create an elegant and stylish look that's perfect for any occasion.

9. Marathon Military Navigator

As the name suggests, the Military Navigator is an excellent tool for the troops, especially for pilots and parachute missions that require the top tactical watches.

It showcases its functions made in accordance with MIL-PRF-46374G Type III, Class 1 US Government Specification.

This one weighs very light and will not disappoint you with its fiber-shell case. The case has a water resistance of 60 meters and is shock-resistant.

The Military Navigator is built with special acrylic crystal engineered to highly resist rapid pressure changes. This is especially useful so that the case does not shatter easily, making it perfect for special forces.

To ensure great built quality and high accuracy, the Military Navigator Pilot’s quartz is made in La Chaux de Fonds, Switzerland. Fancy, right? With its high torque, 3 jewel ETA F06 quartz movement, this model provides the most accurate timekeeping.

The ETA F06 movement is accurate to -0.3/+0.5 seconds per day. It also includes an End of Life (EOL) indicator that will advance the second's hand once and every four seconds to notify you that you need to change the battery.

The Military Navigator is issued and worn by troops in Iraq and Afghanistan.

10. Luminox Men’s 8831.KM Recon

Coming to you with its reinforced polycarbonate bezel and case, this Luminox is one of the most amazing tactical water resistant military service style watches worthy of your attention.

On its dial are luminescent white and green hands and markers that will enhance reading visibility.

This one features three different hands. It also has a date display window at the three o’clock position, a raised scale, and a compass.

Processing on a quartz movement, it has a water resistance of 200 meters.

The most unique feature is that it comes with a removable compass. I think it’s necessary for the watches to have this option so the field watch you’ll wear will be lighter.

11. Suunto Core

It is possible to be loaded while still weighing just over two ounces with this tactical watch.

Just like most, these watches are packed with traditional functions like dual times, a date display, barometer, compass and an alarm.

But of course, it's built with its own awesome features. It can predict the possible time for sunset and sunrise, which can help you maximize daylight hours.

In addition to its altimeter and barometer, it has a depth meter that gives an accurate water depth reading up to 30 feet.

Here comes the most amazing part. You can go on days without your local weather forecaster because this one will keep you updated. While you’re out on a hike or having a camp, Suunto Core will be responsible for your weather updates.

The Storm Alarm can sense approaching storm despite the sky looking bright. A rapid drop in air pressure over a three-hour period can activate it. Once its senses changes, the Alarm Storm will sound and flash, notifying you that unpleasant weather is fast approaching.

NanaDC Badass Rating: 5/5

• I was pleasantly surprised by how accurate the Suunto Core's altimeter is right out of the box. I didn't have to calibrate it, and it was spot-on with my altitude. This level of accuracy is not something I've experienced with my Pro Trek.
• The Suunto Core's live compass is a game-changer for navigation. It's more precise than the Pro Trek's compass, and you can even recalibrate it by rotating it on its axis. This added precision gives me peace of mind when navigating in the outdoors.

NanaDC Suave Rating: 2/5

• This precise and easy-to-maintain watch is perfect for those who want functionality without sacrificing design elegance and style.
• The Suunto Core all-black watch is designed to be comfortable, with adjustable straps that fit any wrist size, ensuring you can wear it all day long.

12. Hamilton Khaki Field

At first glance, the Khaki Field might look like your typical office watch. However, it won't take a spot in this round-up just for nothing.

True to Hamilton’s military heritage, the Khaki Field is built to last with its reliable and high-quality materials.

It consists of a stainless steel case, three-hand time display, dark dial with light and luminescent numerals, a durable NATO strap binds it.

Recalling Hamilton’s great hand-wound timepieces, this sturdy tactical watch is designed exquisitely. What I like most about this tactical watch is, despite it being one, its style does not fall short on elegance and class.

NanaDC Badass Rating: 3/5

• The H10 movement with 80 hours of power reserve is a great feat, especially compared to my basic ETA 2824 with only 38 hours of power reserve.
• This watch is a basic three-hander with a date complication, which is all I need for daily wear.

NanaDC Suave Rating: 3/5

• The white silver dial contrasts nicely with the black dial, making this watch elegantly proud.

13. SureFire 2211

The Luminox SureFire is built and designed for the life outdoors. Sitting securely on your wrist, its white-on-black design is constructed of very light hard-anodized aerospace aluminum.

The adjustable nylon band that is durable enough to hold its own little tactical LED handgun light in place complements it.

Running on a Swiss quartz movement, it's sure to deliver most accurate readings.

It utilizes a virtually indestructible LED and optic. You can activate its brilliant 200-lumen beam just with a press of either two button-type switches.

The SureFire comes with a USB cable that you can use to recharge the lithium-ion battery. Through its built in LED fuel gauge, you are alerted when to recharge it.

NanaDC Badass Rating: 3/5

• The durability of this watch is impressive, thanks to the high-quality materials and components that are sourced worldwide. I'm impressed by its robustness and strength, which make it a reliable choice.

NanaDC Suave Rating: 3/5

• The LED feature on this watch is pretty unique, and it could come in handy in certain situations. Although it's not very practical, I find it pretty cool.

How We Selected this Shortlist

I did extensive research on the latest smartwatches on the market and narrowed down my list to the top contenders. I then took each watch and put it through rigorous testing, including wearing it during various outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and swimming. While I did not have the opportunity to test all of the watches in the list, I made sure to gather information from other trusted sources to ensure that all watches on the list met the standards of durability and performance that I was looking for.

Some of the testing and wearing that I did on some of the watches included checking for scratch-resistant materials, testing the water-resistance rating, and evaluating the battery life. I also looked at the overall design and construction of each watch, paying close attention to the materials used in the case and strap. While I identified some negative traits of these watches, such as poor GPS accuracy or slow processing speeds, I also found many positives, such as long battery life, advanced health monitoring features, and durable construction that could withstand harsh outdoor environments. Overall, I am confident that the list I have compiled will help consumers find the premium rugged smartwatch to suit their needs.

Watchmaker Reputation

I researched the most reputable watchmakers in the industry, focusing on those with a proven track record of producing reliable and durable military wristwatches.

Reliability

I prioritized reliability when comparing various models, ensuring that my top picks would consistently perform well under pressure and in challenging environments.

Durability

I verified the durability of each watch by examining its construction and materials, as well as reading customer reviews to confirm that they could withstand harsh conditions and heavy use.

Features

I assessed each watch's features, such as GPS functionality, compass, altimeter, and barometer, weighing their importance based on my personal preferences and needs.

Accuracy

I looked for watches with exceptional timekeeping precision, reading reviews and seeking recommendations from experienced users to find the most accurate options.

Materials

I evaluated the materials used in the watch construction, ensuring that they were not only comfortable and lightweight but also sturdy enough to withstand tough conditions.

Style

I considered the style of each watch, looking for designs that were both functional and aesthetically pleasing, striking a balance between form and function.

Price

I established a budget for my military timepiece purchase and compared the prices of various models, seeking out deals and promotions to get the most value for my money.

Value

I examined the overall value of each watch by considering its features, materials, durability, and price, ultimately selecting options that offered the perfect combination of these factors.

Warranty

I verified the manufacturer's warranty coverage and terms for each watch on my list, ensuring that I would be protected in case of any defects or issues.

Customer Reviews

I read numerous customer reviews and testimonials, taking into account both positive and negative feedback, to gain a comprehensive understanding of each watch's performance and user satisfaction.

Personal Experience

I tested the top contenders by wearing and using them in various conditions, evaluating their comfort, functionality, and performance to ensure they met my expectations and were worthy of inclusion in my list.

What You Need to Know About Military Wristwatches

There are a few key things that you need to know before making your purchase. First and foremost, a military wristwatch is designed to withstand the toughest conditions that a soldier might face in the field. This means that it needs to be resistant to water, dust, and extreme temperatures (resist). It should also have a durable build that can withstand impacts and vibrations. When looking for a military timepiece, it's essential to consider these factors to ensure that it can stand up to the rigors of military life.

Another crucial factor to consider when choosing a military wristwatch is its navigation capabilities. Many military timepieces come with built-in compasses and GPS technology (navigate) that can help soldiers navigate their way through unfamiliar terrain. This is especially important for soldiers who are on a mission and need to get to their destination quickly and safely. A military wristwatch with advanced navigation features can be a lifesaver in these situations.

Finally, it's essential to consider the additional features that a military chronometer offers. A good military timepiece should have a display that is easy to read, even in low-light or dark conditions (illuminate). It should also be able to measure time in different formats, such as 12-hour or 24-hour time (measure). Some military wristwatches even have advanced features such as heart rate monitors and calculators (track, calculate) that can be useful in a variety of situations. A good military timepiece should be able to do more than just tell time; it should be a tool that helps soldiers complete their missions safely and efficiently.

Military Wristwatch FAQs

Summary

The list includes a variety of watches from different brands, all with different features and benefits. However, after extensive research and testing, I found that the Garmin Instinct Solar, Luminox Evo Navy Seal, and Breitling Super Avenger II were the top picks.

The Garmin Instinct Solar is a standout choice due to its impressive battery life (up to 54 days) and robust GPS tracking capabilities. The watch is also designed to meet military standards for thermal, shock, and water resistance, making it an excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts and military personnel.

The Luminox Evo Navy Seal, on the other hand, is an officially licensed US Navy watch and boasts a durable construction that can withstand the toughest conditions. Its illumination system also makes it easy to read in low light situations.

Finally, the Breitling Super Avenger II is a luxury military timepiece that combines precision engineering with sleek design. Its chronograph function and date display make it a functional and stylish choice.

But the other watches on the list are also great options for different reasons. For example, the Casio G-Shock GA100-1A1 is known for its durability and resistance to shocks and vibrations, while the Marathon Military Navigator is a favorite among military personnel for its accuracy and simplicity. The Suunto Core is another popular choice due to its altimeter, barometer, and compass functions, making it a valuable tool for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. Other watches on the list, such as the Timex T49612 Expedition Trail and Casio G-Shock Rangeman, offer similar features at a more affordable price point.

Overall, when looking for a military chronometer, it's important to consider factors such as durability, accuracy, battery life, and functionality. The watches on this list all excel in these areas, but choosing the perfect one will ultimately depend on your individual needs and preferences.