Best Tactical Watch Reviews
Contents
If you want to buy the best tactical watches, then you should carefully look at the features and benefits you can get from one of them.
Do not look for a just a stylish accessory that shows accurate time, because if you are going to use the timepiece in a life and death situation, then you need more than just accuracy.
Even if you are only into camping, hiking, or any other activities away from the civilization, you need a trustworthy timepiece, which can be as useful as a compass or a sturdy pair of shoes.
On this page, you will find some of the top-rated watches, buying guide, and some common queries by watch buyers.
Best Tactical Watches 2021 Reviews
1. Casio Men’s GG-1000-1A3CR Mudmaster Tactical Watch
- Power source. Battery
- Water resistant up to. 660 feet
- 3.20 Ounces
Casio is determined to rule any list that has starts with best, rugged or military. And that is obvious, because their timepieces are made that way and GG-1000-1A3CR Mudmaster is another jewel in their crown.
Essential features. Build to withstand almost anything; the Mudmaster is resistive to shock and scratch. Due to mineral glass and super bright LED light, it gives you a comfortable time show. Also, the sturdy timepiece is dust resistant, so you will not face any trouble while reading the time.
Other attractions. Apart from being water resistant up to 660 feet, it also has the chronometer and compass. Built-in thermometer and five built-in alarms are the other attractive features. The G shock watch also has a low battery indicator, so that you never run out of charge.
2. G-Shock Mens GG-1000-1A5CR Tactical Watch
- Power source. Battery
- Water resistant up to. to 660 feet/200 meters
- 3.20 Ounces
GG-1000-1A5CR is another blockbuster timepiece from the hitmakers, Casio. Since they launched the G-Shock, they kept improving the watches from the series, and here we present you one of the best – 1000-1A5CR.
Essential features. Casio manufactures the best tactical watches, and 1000-1A5CR falls in the same range. Due to a sturdy built utilizing resin, stainless steel, and scratch resistant mineral glass, the clock is resistant to water up to 660 feet or 200 meters.
Other attractions. Long battery life is one of the essential parts of a tactical watch. It’s the department where 1A5CR excels and gives you less trouble of replacing the batteries. It includes a thermometer, stopwatch, and compass. A bright backlit gives you a comfortable time reading in low lights so that you make your next plan without any delay.
3. Garmin Tactix Bravo
- Power source. Battery
- Water resistant up to. to 330 feet/100 meters
- 3.2 ounces
An aggressive looking tactical watch from Garmin surpasses most of the other models in terms of being “tactical.” Due to a wide range of useful features, it has earned respect in terms of military uses.
Essential features. The watch features an EXO antenna that works in sync with GPS and Global Navigation Satellite System (GLONASS). So, it shows you where on this Earth are you standing right now? Practically speaking, no one else apart from Garmin can offer such feature in an under $500 watch. Apart from that, it is water resistant up to 100 meters.
Other attractions. The watch has a battery backup of 20 hours while the GPS is active. However, if you switch off the GPS, the watch can be keen for up to 50 hours.
4. Suunto Traverse Alpha
- Power source. Battery
- Water resistant up to. 100 m/330 feet
- 2.82 ounces/80 gram
For fitness and work out freaks, running is a significant part of life. Apart from a workout and jogging through trails, such individuals also enjoy camping, hiking, hunting, fishing, and other outdoor activities. If you are one of them, then you have a legendary creature from the Finnish watch manufacturers, Suunto.
Essential features. The Traverse Alpha from Suunto has all the required elements for your favorite pastime. All its internet components are protected inside a durable and damage free resistant case. Due to the built-in flashlight, the watch gives you precise time readings in low lights. It’s all black design with a copper inspired bezel and buckle gives the watch a low profile design that will never scare any creature in the wildlife.
Other attractions. The Traverse has a GPS and GLONASS connectivity that tracks your patch and tells you the current position in a jiffy. Works better than bread crumbs after all.
5. SureFire 2211 WristLight Series
- Power source. Rechargeable Lithium-Ion battery
- Water resistant up to. It is water resistant, but SureFire has not mentioned the depth anywhere.
- 5 ounces
A small gem from Surefire is one of the first watches with a tactical light fitted. This single feature separates 2211 from other tactical watches and justifies its comparatively hefty price tag. Whether you are a police officer, forest ranger, plumber or climber, you will like the 2211 WristLight.
Essential features. Crafted with aircraft grade aluminum, the 2211 has a bezel that illuminates. Once the night settles in, the watch will help you extricate from various confusing ways and terrains. Its 300 lumen light has been tested to work under different conditions, even if you do not tie the watch on your hand.
Other attractions. The watch has a battery level indicator and a USB charging cable. With the light turned on 300 lumens, the battery backup is 1.5 hours. At 60 lumens, you will get 7 hours while at the lowest 15 lumens, the timepiece will work for up to 13 hours.
6. MARATHON WW194006 GSAR Swiss Made Military Issue Diver’s Automatic Watch
- Power source. Battery
- Water resistant depth. 300 Meters/984 feet
- 4.1 ounces
There are watches that you take on some adventure while there are watches that make you feel everything like an adventure. Marathon WW194006 GSAR belongs to the second category.
Essential features. Marathon watches are specially made for military usage so you can expect the same durability and reliability from WW194006 as well. The watch comes with a 42 mm case and black bezel having white minute markings. The only problem is its oversized crown, that may hurt your wrist sometimes.
Other attractions. The robust WW194006 follows ETA 2824-A2, a Swiss movement with a power reserve of 42 hours. ETA is well-known movements that can be more or less one to two seconds from the actual time. The bezel is also unidirectional, which makes it perfect for diving as well.
7. Marathon WW194013 Military Watch
- Power source. Battery
- Water resistant depth. 200 feet
- 3.2 ounces
Simple looking WW194013 has a durable built, which is comparatively light and easy to read. Its sleek asymmetrical design will change the idea of those who believe that a tactical watch has to be round, oversized and bulky.
Essential features. Resin made case and bezel are strong enough to withstand anything while the nylon band gives you a comfortable grip. Overall, it is a dependable time kit, but the price tag is a bit on the expensive side.
Other attractions. The WW194013 has every feature that you can expect from Swiss engineers; Accuracy, reliability, straightforward style, and efficiency. The tritium gas tubes used at inner dial markings and hands are luminous, so the watch will not let you down even at dark. Furthermore, the impact resistant glass promises to show error in free time in any condition.
8. Casio Men’s Pathfinder Triple Sensor Multi-Function Sport Watch
- Power source. Solar battery
- Water resistant depth. 330 feet
- 8 ounces
Built like a rock, Pathfinder is made to withstand worst conditions, whether it is humanmade or natural. With water resistivity up to 100 meters and sturdy buckle clasp, the solid watch stays with you even in raging waters.
Essential features. Black resin made solar powered watch will accompany in deep waters as well as high terrains. Due to the digital compass, it can help to escape any “getting lost” feel. It has the thermometer, altimeter, and barometer, which adds value to the name “Pathfinder.” So whether you are a mountaineer, ice climber, mountain biker, camping enthusiast, or rock climbers, you can have the full value of your investment.
Other attractions. Its solar battery has been tested to run for 13 years. So, you never have to think about removing this comfortable timepiece from your wrist.
9. SUUNTO Core All Black Military Mens Outdoor Sports Watch
- Power source. Battery
- Water resistant depth. 100 feet
- 2.26 ounces
Suunto is one of the experienced military watchmakers, and their Core watch is another example of their perfection. How can they accommodate all the features in such a compact timepiece? Surprising!
Essential features. Well, this smartwatch has an altimeter to show you the elevation, barometer to know the temperature, and a compass to direct you in the right way more like a kit, not merely a timepiece.
Other attractions. The core watch tracks the sun and weather for you. It shows you if there will be any rain or storm ahead. It can also warn you for a sudden drop in air pressure and approaching storms. It has preset sunset and sunrise time for over 400 locations so that you can plan your outings accordingly.
10. SMAEL Men’s Sports Analog Quartz
- Power source. Battery
- Water resistant depth. 165 Feet
- Amazon shipping weight. 2.72 ounces
Embracing a bulkier appearance, the sports watch from Smael is a steal at this price. With a comfortable band, unique metallic hands, and water resistivity up to 165 feet, the clock gives you more than its worth.
Essential features. Nothing less than a testimonial to Smael engineers, the sports watch can sit respectfully besides G-Shocks, and no one will be able to tell the enormous price difference.
Features. Bright backlight, 24 hours digital and 12-hour analog time display, basic compass, date and day display, as well as an alarm are the Other attractions that add to its value. It’s surprising to see how the makers have included all the features of an expensive tactical watch in such an affordable timepiece.
11. Timex Men’s Expedition Field Chronograph Watch
- Power source. Battery
- Water resistant depth. 330 feet/100 meters
- 4 ounces
We are surprised at the incredible quality of the Timex Expedition watch. While it cannot compete in terms of appearance with the heavy looking G-Shocks, the watch has the features to justify its price.
Essential features. Meeting all the expectations you can have with a big brand like Timex, Expedition thrives as a fierce and sturdy tactical watch that you can also wear to the business presentations. Its soft leather strap feels far from a steel band, however, adds to your manliness and style. Earth inspired case and strap compliment its features that can help you execute time-sensitive operations.
Other attractions. The watch is water resistant up to 330 feet that also as per ISO standards. Even after looking at the price of Timex Expedition and knowing its features, you are welcome to purchase a costly tactical watch from this list, but do you want to?
12. Timex Men’s Expedition Classic Digital
- Power source. Battery
- Water resistant depth. 330 feet/100 meter
- 3.20 Ounces
Timex is famous for manufacturing high-quality, durable watches. 100-meter water resistant Men’s expedition is another bold addition in its tactical watches, which also has 100-hour countdown ability and comes with a variety of alarm settings.
Essential features. The big bright face makes time reading very easy. The Indiglo night-light shines bright through any darkness to show you the right time. Due to a compact nature, the watch will not indulge in every tree branch you cross, and its soft leather strap maintains a firm grip – always. While the belt is a mixed result of leather and nylon, it still has a real leather feel.
Other attractions. One of the best tactical watches that is available just over $30.
13. Casio Men’s G-SHOCK – The GA 100-1A1 Military Series Watch
- Power source. Battery
- Water resistant depth. 660 feet
- 2.08 Ounces
Casio manufactures some of the best tactical watches for military use, and GA 100-1A1 is one of the same series. For this G-Shock mode, the makers have included an all-black look that will look good and more empowered on military or police personnel.
Essential features. It is a G-Shock, however, does not have a bulky built. Still, it is comparatively more prominent than other tactical watches. Heavily shock resistant, the GA 100 comes with a stopwatch that can measure even 1/1000th of a second and also includes a speed indicator. To assist you in dark conditions, the watch has an automatic LED lighting scheme.
Other attractions. The watch has a digital calendar targeted till 22nd century. At this price tag, you are getting all the features that you can expect from a tactical watch.
14. SUUNTO X-Lander Wrist-Top Computer Watch with Altimeter, Barometer, Compass, and Chronograph
- Power source. Battery
- Water resistant depth. 100 feet
- Amazon shipping weight. 5.6 ounces
If you want a time utility in a super sturdy case, then the X-Lander is the only choice you can make. It has pretty much everything – altimeter, barometer, and compass. All initially invented by Suunto in wristwatches to make it tactical.
Essential features. Scratch free mineral glass, aluminum case, carbon fiber back combines to give you a tough, yet lightweight timepiece. Another advanced feature of the watch is its “Stinger” buttons derived from Suunto diving computer line. These buttons are made to operate under water. So you can use all the functions up to 100 feet.
Other attractions. All black design is another part of the watch giving you a Special Ops feel who is under covert operation in the anti-terrorism department. That came out too dramatic, but still, the black design will be loved by the forces.
15. Luminox 3089 Navy Seal Tactical Chronograph 44Mm
- Power source. Battery
- Water resistant depth. 660 feet/200 meters
- 2.22 ounces/63 grams
3089 comes from a successful series of Navy Seal. It has a professional appearance, so is the deployment of orange color on the bezel, hands, and markings on the inner dial. Illumination is also in orange mirroring the Navy Seal style.
Essential features. Carbon-reinforced polymer made back, 44mm case, and unidirectional bezel, all are strong like a shield and remains scratch free forever. Its glass made of mineral crystal is also scratch resistant and sturdy to withstand daily wear and tear.
Other attractions. Its Silicon made strap has a Luminox seal, which means it is waterproof and durable. Sturdily built, push in the crown, and built-in gasket makes the 3089 water resistant up to 200 meters. Overall, a dependable watch for marine officers and water enthusiasts.
16. LAD-WEATHER Altimeter
- Power source. Battery
- Water resistant depth. 100 feet/30 Meters
- 2.08 Ounces
Impressive appearance and useful features is a lethal combination to have, that is where Lad Weather watch wins the game. Available in three different colors, none of the tactical watches can have a trendy design like the watch from Lad Leather.
Essential features. With features like the weather forecast, barometer, chronograph, altimeter, and thermometer, the watch can be a great companion for hikers or nature enthusiasts. Calendar and several alarm settings add to its value.
Other attractions. Its altimeter has an added feature; it shows you the current height from the sea level. Additionally, it also keeps track of previous heights in a linear graph. Same goes with the barometer; it helps you to sense a storm by keeping track of air pressure.
17. SMAEL Men’s Sports Military Watch Multifunctional
- Power source. Battery
- Water resistant depth. 165 Feet
- 2.56 Ounces
Featuring dual quartz movement; analog and digital showing 12 and 24-hour format respectively, the Military Watch from Smael has a large 50 mm case, which makes it just more “tactical.”
Essential features. Due to the dual quartz movement, you can select two time zones to follow, which can be useful in the border and marine areas. Talking about aquatic activities, the watch is resistant to water for 165 feet. So, you can wear it while swimming. Do not use it under the shower.
Other attractions. A comfortable resin band with camouflage design gives it more of a military appearance. Anyone who loves the stylish color mix can undoubtedly opt for the watch, even if you are not deployed on any tactical post.
18. Casio Men’s Pathfinder Triple Sensor
- Power source. Solar powered battery
- Water resistant depth. 660 feet
- 2.40 Ounces
If we are talking about tactical watches, we cannot forget the G9300-1. One of the sturdiest watches available; it can handle everything you or the mother nature throws at him, including water, dust, or scratches. Whether you are at 660 feet deep underwater of climbing Mount Fuji, you will never be out of time or measurements.
Essential features. G-Shock is a series that has the most robust watches, and Mudman makes no exception. If you love the depths of ocean or altitude of mountains, it is an exquisite timepiece for you.
Other attractions. The watch is solar powered, so you will never have to worry about replacing or charging the battery. Black and white look with red used in some parts, gives it a stylish appearance, especially if you wear it with your military uniform.
19. 5.11 Tactical Men’s Field Water-Resistant Military Watch
- Power source. Battery
- Water resistant depth. 330 feet
- Amazon shipping weight. 7.2 ounces
5.11 is known for its durable, rugged, and quality products. The military watch belongs to the same section and gives you the total worth of its price.
Essential features. The watch has a simple style with large markings on its grey inner dial. There are orange colored date windows at four o’ clock marking. Its unidirectional bezel has minute markings after every five minutes, and there are military markings just below the scratch resistant mineral glass.
Other attractions. Even if you wear the watch daily for all the activities, including horse-riding, swimming, running or spending evenings with your beautiful girlfriend, you will not notice a single scratch on the body. The watch features a Nato-style band, which is not only smooth but only feels comfortable.
20. Hamilton Men’s HML-H70455533 Military Watch
- Power source. Automatic
- Water resistant depth. 330 feet/100 meters
- 5.28 Ounces
Hard to believe that it’s a tactical watch, right? Well, that’s what most of us will think, however, once you will start using the HML-H70455533, you will believe in it as we do.
Essential features. The Khaki watch from Hamilton defies all the manufacturing rules of a tactical watch, but no doubt it is highly tactical. Beneath the sober-looking exterior, there are durable components, luminous hands, scratch resistant sapphire crystal, and water resistivity up to 330 feet.
Other attractions. Even the highest priced tactical watches do not offer automatic movement, but Hamilton does and gives you a battery-less watch in the face of HML-H70455533. The red hint on its second’s hand looks mesmerizing while black inner dial and smartly placed date windows at four o’ clock add to the style.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
What is a Tactical Watch?
Timepieces manufactured to meet the unique needs of armed forces are sold as tactical watches. Also, such watches are well suited for extreme sport and nature enthusiasts.
In other words, a watch that can perform complicated tasks such as temperature measurement or warn you about air pressure drop is a tactical watch. Apart from the ability to perform specific tasks, the clock should also be sturdy as in scratch, dust, shock, and water resistant. The third important feature is the visibility and precision; no matter what conditions are you into, it should you the precise and accurate data.
What Can a Tactical Watch Do?
Depending upon the model, a tactical watch can perform several specific tasks. As we were discussing the temperature and air pressure measurement, several other functions are standard on tactical watches.
- Shows you the height from sea level
- Measure the temperature
- Shows you the directions
- Shows the current location and helps in finding the right way
Who Wears a Tactical Watch?
Armed forces like military and police need tested and efficient products that can take the hit with them and still show the right results. Their operations can take place at any place, any terrain, any climate, and conditions, so they need a safe bet that can meet their demands even in the most unearthly situation. This is the reason why they use tactical watches due to their robust nature and ability to produce moment changing results. Apart from them, firefighters, camping enthusiasts, and any other individual who spent time in less ideal conditions can wear a tactical watch.
Tactical Watch: Features to Look for (Buying Guide)
Here are some of the feature that you should check while buying a tactical watch.
Strong design. If a tactical watch is not sturdy enough to take all the beatings, then all the other features will appear null. So, choose a tactical watch made of carbon fiber or aircraft grade aluminum that can be with you for many years to come. Also, look for a sapphire made crystal or mineral glass that is scratch, shock, and impact resistant.
Water resistivity. Army personnel, Police officers, forest rangers, fire workers are some of the individuals who need a watch that should not complain even after getting wet. So, choose a water-resistant watch wherein the depth should depend upon your usage and conditions. All the watches we discussed in this list are waterproof for at least 100 feet, so you can make the selection accordingly.
Backlight or luminous hands and marks. Using both your hands to read the time or to check any other data from your timepiece can be difficult takes long in crunch moments. Look for a self-illuminating watch that can show you the time and everything else, even in the dark.
Analog and digital quartz. If the watch has a backlit, then any of the two-time movements will work. However, if you need the military time zone, then look for a watch that has dual quartz movements; one for each analog and digital showing 12 and 24-hour format respectively.
Power source. Nothing can be wrong then a dying watch in a harsh surrounding. So, it is essential to choose a clock with the right power source. Lithium-ion batteries are the most preferred power source for tactical watches. However, they also need to be replaced or recharged after a particular interval. If your jobs require you to be out in the wild for indefinite periods, then you should opt for a solar driven or automatic watch.
Weight and dimensions. As we saw, tactical watches can be pretty heavy and sometimes very big as well. However, not all of them are built the same. If you want a clock to sit comfortably on your wrist for extended hours, you should look for a low weight timepiece. We have discussed the some of the compact watches that can be an asset, not burden while you work or hike.
Established manufacturers. You will find many watches on Amazon from a variety of makers. But, you should always invest in known manufactures who are expert in producing tactical watches. Casio, Suunto, Timex are some of the oldest brands that are experienced in including critical features in a well-made watch.
Other attractions. Tactical watches are available with some useful tools like altimeter, barometer, compass, GPS, etc. So, choosing all or any one of them is based on your personal preferences and field requirements.
How to Maintain Your Tactical Watch?
Tactical watches are tough, looks stylish and work as the way you want. However, to look and perform in the same way, you need to care about the timepieces properly.
- Do not dip the clock into water. Most of us think that being waterproof means you can use water to clean the watch. However, that depends upon the manufacturer and model. Always follow the cleaning instructions given with the clock. Never submerge it into water.
- Regular cleaning. We sweat, whether we wear a watch or not, we sweat. If you are wearing a watch, there are chances that grime is building in its tight crevices that you will notice after a few days when it will be difficult to clean. Use a toothpick or used toothbrush to wipe out the dirt and grime. Even if you do it once in a week, the watch will be clean and hygienic to use.
- Certified repair center. Whenever your watch needs a repair, always submit the clock in an accredited customer service center. They know what they are doing, and they will repair the watch with proper care.
Water Resistance Explained
The water resistance level is mentioned for all the entries in this list. You will find it on every label, brochure, website, or add. But what does that mean? Like if the watch description says, water resistant for 330 feet, is that mean that you can reach the ocean depth of 330 feet? Most of us will think the same. However, the truth is a little different. Let us discuss the real thing behind the water resistant depth.
Water resistant depth up to 100 feet.
If your watch says it is water resistant up to 100 feet, means it can be safe from sudden rain, shower, and unwanted water submersions. If you drop you are lighter and use your hand to grab it inside H2O, the watch will work just fine. Do not expect anything more from a 100 feet water resistant timepiece.
Up to 200 feet
The watch can withstand the factors mentioned above like rain; accidental water submerges, etc. Do not wear the watch while water surfing. However, if you fall into the pool accidentally, the timepiece will come out fine, just like you.
Up to 330 feet
Your watch is eligible for all the water sports, excluding deep or scuba diving. Reach the deepest end of the swimming pool, and the watch will be all right. Apart from being waterproof at such levels, the clock will also be able to take all the daily wear and tear.
Up to 660 feet
Do not deep dive with this one. Still, going a hundred feet underwater cannot cause any damage. For deep diving, the watch need not be only waterproof; it also needs a sapphire crystal that can take the water pressure and buttons that should also work inside the ocean. But, here we are not talking about diving watch; a tactical watch with a water resistivity of up to 660 feet and above can tackle every situation with you.
Tactical Sensors
Helps you detecting environmental changes, especially hurricane as well as sandstorms, tactical sensors work best when you have to send your location to someone. Such sensors are used by the Marine forces; the smartest and most logical people on the earth. Your life is not challenging or adventurous then theirs, so you can use the tactical sensors while hiking and rock climbing.
If you want to use the tactical sensors included in your watch, follow the included manual. All the sensors are not made to function in the same way so their settings will be different.
Bottom Line
For the important ones who are busy in life-saving occupations, a tactical watch is a well-engineered information kit. It becomes useful where they want accurate information so that an operation or task can be completed successfully, efficiently and without taking much casualties or damage. Apart from Army and Police personnel, hiking and nature enthusiasts can also take the benefits of a tactical watch.
As we have discussed the best tactical watches and the key features that you should check, we hope that you can make the right purchase. Keep checking the website for more reviews and more information about watches.
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