Field watches were originally designed for the soldiers who braved the battlefields of World Wars I and II. [R]
Nowadays, you can see yourself wearing a field watch in the middle of your mountain adventure or the daily commute to work.
Despite the different improvements and additional features, field watches maintain the longevity and functionality of the previous models.
Indeed, you cannot go wrong with sporting a field watch.
Citizen Eco-Drive Chandler Field Watch: Best Overall
Citizen is known for producing watches designed for outdoor adventures. The Citizen Eco-Drive Chandler Field watch happens to be one of these timepieces. It is the best overall watch product on the list.
Citizen watches make use of Eco-Drive technology, which does not involve replacing batteries. Instead, it uses a rechargeable power cell that stores energy.
- These military-inspired watches with rugged looks and a comfortable fit are born ready for...
- 3 Hand, Day / Date
- Silver-Tone Stainless Steel
All you need to do is place your watch under artificial lighting or natural sunlight for it to start working. It is water-resistant up to 100 meters. It can withstand light rainfall brought about by the changing weather patterns.
The watch's stainless steel case, nylon strap, and buckle closure are features that give you an easy time wearing the watch.
Also, you can rely on its precise quartz movement, luminous three-hand analog display, and comprehensible dial to give you a convenient time-tracking experience.
Indeed, Citizen gives you everything a field watch can offer.
- Eco-Drive technology
- Rechargeable power cell
- Stainless steel case and nylon strap
- Quartz movement
- Water-resistant of up to 100 meters
- Reasonable Price Tag
- None
Seiko 5 Field Watch: Best Value
Seiko is no stranger to producing luxurious timepieces. If you want a wristwatch that will give you the best value for money, I suggest going for the Seiko 5 Field Watch.
Let me start by raving about its complementary parts. The black dial, stainless steel case, luminescent markers, and luminous hands go well together. Its analog-display is also easy-to-read.
- To the start the watch initially, swing from side to side in a horizontal arc about 30 seconds.
- 37 mm stainless steel case and Hardlex mineral dial window and Precise 21-jewel automatic movement...
The Seiko field watch employs a reliable 21-jewel automatic movement with a 40-hour power reserve. It also has a water resistance of up to 100 meters.
Its lightweight composition of 2.12 ounces and tang buckle make it comfortable to wear anywhere and anytime. The day-date function can help you keep track of the calendar and plan out your schedule ahead of time.
Indeed, Seiko succeeded in incorporating a sleek design and multiple features that can enhance your user experience.
- 21-jewel automatic movement
- 40-hour power reserve
- Easy-to-read dial and analog display
- Water-resistance of 100 meters
- Day-date display
- Very Lightweight
- May become less accurate if not wounded sufficiently
Timex Expedition Scout Watch: Best Budget Pick
The Timex Expedition series holds its own when it comes to manufacturing outdoor watches. These sets of wristwatches are also known to be very affordable. Hence, the Timex
Expedition Scout Watch is my budget option.
- Adjustable green 18 millimeter fabric strap fits up to 7.5-inch wrist circumference
- Black dial with date window at 3 o'clock; Full Arabic numerals
- Silver-tone 36 millimeter brass case with mineral glass crystal
First, I have to discuss its dual analog-display. It has both the 12-hour format and military-inspired 24-hour version, which can benefit those who prefer to follow military time.
You also get accurate timekeeping results thanks to its quartz movement. The watch's Indiglo Backlight Technology helps you view the dial and the current time in the dark.
The brass case and fabric strap are gentle on the skin. These provide top-tier comfort.
The Timex field watch also contains a scratch-resistant mineral glass and a water-resistance level of 100 meters.
Lastly, the timepiece boasts of 10-year battery life. Indeed, you can bring this affordable watch with you as you traverse the world.
- 12-hour and 24-hour format analog display
- Quartz movement
- Indiglo Backlight Technology
- Brass case and fabric strap
- Scratch-resistant mineral glass
- 10-year battery life
- 36mm case diameter may be too small for those with big wrists
Casio Black Out Basic Digital Field Watch
Casio puts a staple in crafting durable watches which have high levels of toughness against extreme conditions and weather patterns. Its Black Out Digital Field watch is another suitable timepiece to consider.
For starters, it contains a highly durable Cordura fabric brand. Stainless steel hole rings and keepers surround your band to make it virtually untearable.
The Casio timepiece can also endure hard falls because of its shock-resistant ability. Its 200-meter water resistance can withstand hard splashes and moderate rainfall.
Casio’s quartz movement guarantees the utmost precision and accuracy. The watch's LCD and electroluminescent backlight with afterglow ensure easy readability, especially in dark corners.
The Casio all-black watch delivers all the benefits and features you need.
- Cordura fabric brand
- Water-resistant of up to 200 meters
- Shock-resistant
- LCD and EL backlight
- The black digital dial may be hard to read under direct sunlight
Hamilton Khaki Field Watch
Hamilton field watches have become popular choices among travelers and tourists. The Hamilton Khaki Field watch does not disappoint. Thus, it is another timepiece that delivers excellent results.
A NATO nylon strap gives your timepiece a rugged design. The sapphire crystal glass can resist scratches. Its 38 mm stainless steel case provides added protection against rust and corrosion.
- Swiss Made
- Mechanical Movement
The field watch’s mechanical hand-wind movement does not require the use of batteries. Its dual-analog display allows you to read time in either a 12-hour or 24-hour format. [R]
Other features such as the black dial, silver luminescent hands, and Arabic numbers are easy-to-read. Your watch also gets a water-resistance of up to 50 meters.
Although Hamilton is known more for the production of dress watches, its watches hold their own when it comes to crafting watches for outdoor adventurers.
- NATO nylon band
- Hand-wind mechanical movement
- Water-resistant (50 meters)
- Easy-to-read dial, watch hands, and Arabic hour markers
- Sapphire crystal can resist scratches
- None
Bertucci A-2T Vintage Watch
The A-2T Vintage watch from Bertucci is a military-inspired timepiece that blends vintage parts and modern improvements.
The Bertucci timepiece demonstrates the manufacturer's attention-to-detail and meticulous craftsmanship.
- Equipped with our legendary U.S. Patented solid titanium Unibody case for extreme durability and...
- Durable screw down crown & case back
- Hardened sapphire or scratch-resistant hardened mineral glass crystal
The movement it applies is quartz, which is known for having reliable timekeeping abilities.
The U.S. patented titanium case provides maximum longevity. Its lightweight composition makes it comfortable to wear on your wrist. The watch dial is enclosed in a hardened mineral glass case that resists scratches from rough edges.
A two-ply Bertucci band surrounds your field watch. The band is very elastic and comfortable. Its high elasticity and 100-meter water-resistance depth prevent it from breaking.
The black dial contains legible Arabic numbers and luminous hands. The vintage military comes with a 12-hour and 24-hour display.
- The U.S. patented titanium case
- Lightweight composition
- Easy-to-read dial
- A hardened mineral glass case
- Two-ply Bertucci band
- Water-resistant (100 meter)
- 40 mm case diameter may be too chunky for some
Marathon WW194003 Military Field Watch
The brand truly lives up to its name by producing high-end watches suitable for marathons. The WW194003 Military Field watch has very enticing features.
The fact that it follows strict military specifications and government guidelines already make it a reliable watch. One example of such rules is the attainment of NATO numbers 6645-00-066-4279 and 6645-01-304-4308.
- COLLOQUIAL NAME: General Purpose Mechanical (GPM)
- MOVEMENT: Mechanical Japanese Dual Wind
- SCALE QUANTITY [RANGE]: 2 [1-12 (13-24)]
The watch operates using a 24-jewel self-winding automatic movement that contains a power reserve of up to 41 hours. [R] Indeed, you get superior timekeeping without needing any batteries.
Its lightweight fiber shell case and anti-reflective sapphire crystal surround your dial for improved durability.
The military field watch contains self-glowing tritium tubes. Therefore, you won't need an external light source for charging. This self-illuminating gas promotes easy readability in poorly lit areas.
- Strict observance of military and government guidelines
- 24-jewel self-winding mechanical movement
- 41-hour power reserve
- Lightweight fiber shell case
- Sapphire crystal can resist scratches
- Self-glowing tritium tubes
- 34 mm case diameter may be too small for those with big wrists
Rolex Explorer Field Watch
In 1953, Rolex founded the Explorer series. To this day, it remains one of Rolex's greatest hits. The Explorer wristwatch has been one of the sponsored watches in every mountain expedition.
The modern variation of the Rolex Explorer Field watch still maintains old-fashioned elements while incorporating advanced modifications.
It makes use of an Oystersteel finish, a high-quality alloy that has excellent durability and rust-resistant abilities.
The watch dial has a Chromalight display that can light up for up to 8 hours, giving it a superior LUME (luminous phosphorescent glowing solution) display.
If you are not content with your Explorer timepiece, Rolex provides a 5-year warranty if you want to repair broken parts or replace the watch itself.
However, you have to note it's the only watch on the list that costs close to 5-figures. If you are willing to spend thousands of dollars on a Rolex watch, then go ahead and buy it.
- Oystersteel finish
- Chromalight display
- Vintage matte dial
- 5-year warranty
- Expensive price tag
Orient Nylon Watch
Orient is another brand you should keep an eye on if you want to go for high-quality midrange field watches.
Its stainless steel case and bezel provide the utmost protection against rust, corrosion, and other forms of external damage.
- Featuring a Black Band, Silver-tone Case, Scratch Resistant Mineral Crystal
A quartz watch movement is applied to give you reliable and precise time derivations. A blue dial, analog display, and legible Arabic numbers provide easy readability of your Orient Nylon watch.
The watch comes in a 60-minute and 12-hour display, with the 3 o'clock marker containing the date display.
Features such as the black nylon band and tang buckle comfortably penetrate your wrist. Its 42 mm case diameter will also easily fit anyone with big wrists.
- Stainless steel case and bezel
- Quartz watch movement
- Easy-to-read dial and analog display
- 60-minute and 12-hour formats
- Low water-resistance level (50 meters only)
Victorinox Swiss Army Quartz Watch
Victorinox manufactures multiple products such as cologne, swiss army knives, and watches. The Swiss Army Quartz watch is one of Victorinox's many high-performing watches.
It's composed of lightweight materials such as a resin case and a nylon band. The buckle closure lets you fasten and unfasten your watch without any hassle.
- Quartz movement
- Plastic case
- Black dial
You also get a water-resistance depth of 330 feet and mineral crystal glass. These allow you to trudge along the extreme outdoors without worrying about scratches and brief splashes.
Its beige dial and band color provide a minimalist feel that lets you connect with nature. The Swiss watch’s luminous hands, comprehensible Arabic numbers, and legible line markers make your Victorinox timepiece readable.
The watch's weight of 1.74 ounces is also not too heavy on the wrist.
- Lightweight composition
- Durable nylon band
- Water-resistant of up to 330 feet
- Minimalist design
- Easy-to-read dial and analog display
- Resin case is not as strong compared to stainless steel
- The stationary bezel cannot rotate
Why Should You Consider Buying Field Watches
Field watches come in handy if you are always on the go. These serve as your companion for extreme activities. You can also wear these timepieces in the comfort of your home.
Here are some factors that should convince you to buy field watches.
Robust Materials
Field watches are for those who want to go on a thrilling adventure. The different manufacturers emphasize the incorporation of durable materials to ensure maximum protection for your timepiece.
Most field watches contain materials such as a stainless steel case and sapphire crystals. These protect your watches from potential damage caused by scratches and rust.
Versatility
Field watches apply simple and stylish designs that boost their versatility. You can wear these military-inspired timepieces virtually anywhere.
You have brands like Casio and Citizen that create field watches for those who want to venture into outdoor endeavors. At the same time, you also have Seiko and Rolex that manufacture field timepieces for business trips and semi-formal events.
Comfortable Straps
Nylon and fabric straps have strong elasticity levels. Both straps can evaporate sweat and are mildew resistant.
These features improve the breathability of field watches. Indeed, field watches will give you maximum comfort as you go along your extreme adventures.
Accurate and Precise Timekeeping
The top-performing field watches provide reliable time derivations. Most timepieces apply either quartz or mechanical movement. Fortunately, both methods yield accurate results.
If you are always on the go, you need to have a field watch that can tell time correctly 24/7.
Affordability
The best part about having a field watch is you get to enjoy the features luxurious watches provide at a more affordable price. Do remember that premium brands such as Timex and Casio manufacture field watches.
Therefore, you still get the best materials and accurate timekeeping. It all boils down to strategic buying that fits the budget. [R]
Conclusion
After going over the best field watches, I hope you can find one that fits your style and satisfies your needs. If you are still on the fence, I recommend reading other reviews and looking at the track record of each watch brand.
For more questions and inquiries, please feel free to contact us.
Links, prices, and images were pulled from the Amazon API. Last updated on 2023-02-05.