Best Military Watches in 2024
At the moment of current events in the world, military watches become even more important. The military industry has been supplied by the watch industry since a century ago. A reliable watch is an important factor in today's time, and we want you to be in step with that moment.
We have created a comprehensive guide consisting of 12 chapters, in which we will describe in detail everything from analog to smartwatch. The classification is based on the model specifications and not on the branches of the army.
Since we are talking about military watches, it automatically implies that the watch is durable and that is without compromise. We will try as much as the sections allow, so that the models that are found are adequate but also affordable in terms of price.
Best Everyday Watch: Quick Menu
1. Best Durable
2. Best Tactical
3. Best Budget
4. Best Smartwatch
5. Best Analog
6. Best Solar-Powered
7. Best GPS
8. Best Everyday
9. Best Dive
10. Best Women's
11. Best Field
12. Best Compass
So it's time to get started with the guide. First we will look at a brief overview of the products that will be included in the list and then for each description with all the relevant data
QUICK LIST OF PRODUCTS
BEST DURABLE
BEST SMART
★★★★
A stylish Suunto smartwatch with all the battlefield requirements
BEST WITH GPS
BEST WOMEN'S
BEST TACTICAL
BEST ANALOG
BEST EVERYDAY
BEST FIELD
BEST BUDGET
BEST SOLAR-POWERED
BEST DIVE
BEST WITH COMPASS
Best Military Watch in 2024
It's time to move on to a more detailed description of each individual product from these 12 categories. All of them, as we talked about in the introduction, have the characteristic of good durability, some are smart, some are digital or analog, so that everyone can find something to their taste.
BEST DURABLE MILITARY WATCH
Shape - Round
Case diameter - 55.4 mm
Case Thickness - 19.3 mm
Band Material - Resin
Band width - 22 mm
Special features - Super illuminator LED backlight
Movement - Quartz
1. G-Shock Mudmaster GG-B100 ★★★★★
Perhaps best overall would be a better description of this product. Absolutely durable model with a design that is required for military purposes
PROS | +Mud Resistance +Advanced Sensor Technology +Bluetooth Connectivity |
CONS | -Size and Weight -Complexity |
SIMILAR MODELS | View At Amazon (Tactical) |
View At Amazon (Triple Sensor) | |
View At Amazon (Quad Sensor) |
Short review
As we have already made an introduction in the Quick menu section, this model can also be considered as the best overall. The reason for this is that it is absolutely adapted to military conditions. Its case, in addition to being made of resin, has a carbon core guard structure that provides additional reinforcement from external influences, so it can be reduced to the description of the manufacturer, such as mud-resistant structure. Since it is a representative of the G-Shock collection, it is immediately clear that shock and vibration resistance are its hallmarks, and water resistance is also up to par. As you noticed in the "Best Deals" section, we selected watches that have a triple or quad sensor. This model has quad sensor capabilities, which means it has a compass for navigation, an altimeter and barometer for altitude and atmospheric pressure readings, and a thermometer for environmental awareness.
MAKE A PURCHASE IF:
✅ You Operate in Challenging Environments - Not all people here are military oriented. There are people who also work in very difficult working conditions. This model is exactly for such people, who work in difficult conditions and need a reliable model that is resistant to external influences.
✅ You Value Advanced Features - Its quad sensor is an absolutely essential factor in this decision. Because it sets it apart from the classics but does not include it in the smart ones
DON'T MAKE A PURCHASE IF:
❌ You’re not into oversized watches - If you don't like bulky watches or have a small wrist, this model is not for you. In the specifications section, it is clear that this watch is more than bulky
BEST TACTICAL MILITARY WATCH
Lens material - Power Sapphire
Case diameter - 35.56 mm
Display resolution - 280 x 280 pixels
Connectivity- Bluetooth, ANT+, Wi-Fi
Ballistics solver - Yes
Night vision mode - Yes
2. Garmin tactix Delta Solar ★★★★★
An expensive solution with all the modern features that make it the perfect watch in this field
PROS | +Solar Charging Capabilities +Military Standard Durability +Advanced Ballistics Features |
CONS | -High Price Point -Limited Features |
SIMILAR MODELS | View At Amazon (Classic) |
View At Amazon (Tactix 7) | |
View At Amazon (Tactix Pro) |
Short review
This model is not an ordinary military model that is made purely to fill the market, but a serious smartwatch that is made according to the MIL-STD-810 standard. His endurance performance doesn't need much to be said, so we'll focus on what he's capable of. What is important for people in the field is that the watch has the possibility of solar charging, which is more and more common today in ordinary analog watches. This feature is very important because we are all aware that the battery in smartwatches is of a variable category, and that it cannot last for years without being recharged, as is the case with classic ones. Regarding the ballistic support, we will say that this is precisely the main reason for the price difference between this model and the regular model
MAKE A PURCHASE IF:
✅ You're in the Military or Law Enforcement - For the mentioned jobs, this model can be extremely helpful, especially all its advanced functions regarding ballistics and night vision..
✅ You're an Outdoor Enthusiast - For this type of people, this watch is extremely helpful as it is not only durable but also provides smart features that can help in such an environment.
DON'T MAKE A PURCHASE IF:
❌ You Prefer Simplicity - However, for some users, all these advanced features may be too complicated. On the other hand, they consume a lot of battery, so they do more harm than good
BEST BUDGET MILITARY WATCH
Display Type - Digital
Case material - Resin
Case diameter - 45 millimeters
Case Thickness - 15 millimeters
Band Material - Resin
Band width - 26 millimeters
Movement - Quartz
Water resistant depth -660 Feet
3. Casio G-Shock DW5600E-1V ★★★★
For people who don't want to spend too much money on expensive models and on the other hand are looking for a reliable watch, this model is the solution
PROS | +Affordability +Time-Tested Reliability +Simple, Functional Design |
CONS | -Basic Features -Lack of Tactical Features |
SIMILAR MODELS | View At Amazon (White) |
View At Amazon (Classic) | |
View At Amazon (Solar) |
Short review
The model we present to you is somewhat universal, as it can be included in any list. The reason for that is, first of all, its affordable price. It is almost impossible to find such a cheap and high-quality model. Another thing is its functionality, which is not behind some more advanced ones, but again these are some basic functions compared to other digital and especially smartwatches. It is a member of the G-Shock collection and features, as we said with the Mudmaster, are extremely shock-resistant. So for some outdoor activities, this model won't have any problems. In addition, its water resistance is excellent, so it doesn't matter if it's raining or you're crossing a river, swimming, this watch is even suitable for diving. What makes it different from other models from that famous collection is the design. Usually, the models of the G-Shock collection are much more robust, but this one still seems much more comfortable compared to the entire series
MAKE A PURCHASE IF:
✅ You Appreciate Rugged Simplicity - If your requirements are not such that you need GPS or heart rate monitoring and other advanced features that smartwatches have, this model is for you
✅ You Engage in Varied Environments - As we said in the short description, without problems and without risk of damage this model is capable of working in different conditions
DON'T MAKE A PURCHASE IF:
❌ You Have a Heavy-Duty Military Role - However, if you are a professional and your watch is a source of real information, you will not find this model useful, precisely because of the lack of advanced functions.
❌ You Require a Lightweight Watch - Although it's much better proportioned than the entire collection, it's still a bulky watch for people with small wrists
BEST MILITARY SMARTWATCH
Battery Life In Time Mode - 14 days
Lens - Sapphire crystal
Strap Material - Nylon Textile
Battery Life In Gps (Best/Good/Ok) - 10/15/100 hours
Water Resistance - 100m
4. Suunto Traverse Alpha ★★★★
With all the features that are needed for this guide, we have decided on this model as a representative of smartwatches
PROS | +GPS and GLONASS Navigation +Versatile Feature Set +Customization and Alerts |
CONS | -Smartphone Dependency -Battery Life with GPS |
SIMILAR MODELS | View At Amazon (Black) |
View At Amazon (Stealth) | |
View At Amazon (Casual) |
Short review
The model we have chosen as a representative of smartwatches complies with the strictest MIL-STD-810G standards. This means that the watch is very resistant and durable, even in the most difficult conditions. We decided on this model because it is somewhere, so we can say in the middle. It is not as expensive as Garmin's tactix model, and on the other hand, it is not from the cheap category under 100 dollars either. It is affordable for people looking for a reliable model that can perform in harsh environments. It has a wide range of functions, such as GPS and GLONASS, which we also mentioned in our reasons for buying. It is a feature that allows an individual to know their precise positioning and plan a precise route even in the most remote locations. In addition to that function, it also has a breadcrumb trail, automatic shot detection, and a digital compass.
MAKE A PURCHASE IF:
✅ You Appreciate Outdoor Specialization - This model has not only military programs, there are also separate programs for some hobbies like hunting and fishing
✅ You Operate At Night - The red backlight is just the thing for people who operate at night
DON'T MAKE A PURCHASE IF:
❌ You Prefer Budget-Friendly Options - Although much cheaper than our tactical watch option, this model may still be too expensive for some people, who may be looking for a simpler and cheaper solution
❌ You Are Concerned About Battery Drain - Prolonged use of GPS can drain the battery quickly, which can be a major drawback if you don't have access to a charger nearby
BEST ANALOG MILITARY WATCH
Band Material - Nylon
Bezel function - Stationary
Case diameter - 40 millimeters
Case Thickness - 13.5 millimeters
Clasp - Buckle
Band width - 22.2 millimeters
Movement - Swiss Quartz
Water resistant depth - 200m
5. Bertucci A-2T ★★★★
Classic analog watches have served soldiers for many decades and are still a popular choice today
PROS | +Comfort +Legibility +Battery Life |
CONS | -Limited Functions |
SIMILAR MODELS | View At Amazon (Green) |
View At Amazon (Vintage) | |
View At Amazon (Ballista) |
Short review
Analog watches are still a reliable choice for military purposes today. There are too many reasons for such a thing and we will go with the simplest one. They do not depend on external power sources, they have a solid design, without the risk that some element inside will be damaged, due to which the watch will not function. As for the Bertucci model, it has long been a top choice for its solid design and simple look. Its case is made of titanium, the diameter of which is 40mm while the thickness is 1.5mm. So, not so robust, but not small, they would rather say medium. And that's how it is when you wear it, you hardly feel it on your hand. As for the dial, it is extremely easy to read data from it, both at night and during the day. All in all, a reliable watch in every segment and a true representative of analog watches.
MAKE A PURCHASE IF:
✅ You seek simplicity and reliability- You will hardly find a better model on the market if you are looking for these qualities
✅ You appreciate understated style -If you take a closer look at this model, you will realize that simplicity is its essence. Without any extra features, just the features it needs, this watch is one of its kind
DON'T MAKE A PURCHASE IF:
❌ You need a multifunctional watch - However, if you are a professional or some of the health functions that smartwatches read are important to you, such as a heart rate monitor, this model is not the solution for you.
BEST SOLAR-POWERED MILITARY WATCH
Dial window material type - Crystal
Clasp - Buckle
Case material - Stainless Steel
Case diameter - 43.5 millimeters
Case Thickness - 12.9 millimeters
Band width - 22 millimeters
Bezel function - Stationary
6. Citizen Promaster CA0727-12E ★★★★★
A real military analog watch with a classic design, ready for all working conditions
PROS | +Eco-Drive Technology +Style +Smart Notifications |
CONS | -Maintenance |
SIMILAR MODELS | View At Amazon (Ivory) |
View At Amazon (Navy) | |
View At Amazon (Orchid) |
Short review
The next model that we will describe, we can really consider adequate as far as the choice for this category is concerned. All models here are of very solid construction, but this one, as far as the Citizen company is concerned, is additionally reinforced compared to some of their other series. This strengthening is reflected in the proprietary surface-hardening treatment, which gives it even greater durability. The monocoque case is also very resistant and suitable for missions where water is a serious factor. The belt is of the camouflage type (CORDURA®), so it goes perfectly with the uniform, and is also very comfortable. Of course, this Eco-Drive series, which we have already written about, has the trademark that it is powered by natural as well as artificial light. This is a short description and the model meets all the criteria to be on this guide.
MAKE A PURCHASE IF:
✅ You're an Aquatic Enthusiast - As we have already talked about the ability of this model and its reinforcements for extremely difficult conditions, water is the least of the problems.
✅ Eco-Conscious Functionality Appeals to You -For fans of this kind of watch functionality, this model comes as the right choice
DON'T MAKE A PURCHASE IF:
❌ You Prefer a More Formal Look - However, if you plan to use this model every day on some more formal occasions, perhaps the construction and appearance of the watch itself will not be suitable for wearing on all occasions.
❌ You Are on a Tight Budget - For some users, the price of this model may be too high
BEST MILITARY GPS WATCH
Screen Size - 1.27 Inches
Color - Moss Green
Special Features - Time Display, GPS, Elevation Tracker
Target Audience - Unisex
Compatible Devices - Smartphone
Shape - Round
7. Garmin Instinct Solar Tactical ★★★★☆
For users for whom GPS plays a big role, this model is an adequate solution
PROS | +Military-Grade Durability +Tactical Features +Long Battery Life |
CONS | -High Price Point |
SIMILAR MODELS | View At Amazon (Crossover) |
View At Amazon (Graphite) | |
View At Amazon (Classic) |
Short review
Considering that it meets the strict American standard 810G, which requires the model to be resistant to heat, shock and water, it is clear that this model of the company is serious in the market. We included it here primarily because of its tactical features, specifically GPS mode, but it should also be mentioned that it also has compatibility with night vision, stealth mode, dual-position format, waypoint projection, and a jumpmaster mode. It is also possible to access (GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo) navigation systems, so you can always know your location even in the most inaccessible terrains. Another thing about the GPS is that it has two modes: Standard and military format. The battery has performed extremely well even with frequent use of the GPS mode, and its ability to charge on solar energy has a big merit in such a thing.
MAKE A PURCHASE IF:
✅ Solar Power Is a Priority - If you don't have power sources nearby and charging may be a problem for you, this model has an extremely good solar charging system that further extends battery life.
✅ Health and Fitness Matter to You -There is usually little talk about this when military watches are in question, but this model has an extremely accurate reading of these parameters
DON'T MAKE A PURCHASE IF:
❌ You Seek a Traditional Smartwatch - Too many military and tactical applications, may be too complicated if you wanted a smartwatch to function outside of these conditions
BEST EVERYDAY MILITARY WATCH
Case material - Brass
Crystal - Sapphire
Case diameter - 40 millimeters
Case Thickness - 11 millimeters
Band Material - Nylon
Movement - Quartz
Water resistant depth - 50m
8. Timex Expedition Scout ★★★★
One of Timex's best analog watches, beautiful design, suitable for
everyday wear
PROS | +Affordability +Easy to Read |
CONS | -Lack of Tactical Aesthetics |
SIMILAR MODELS | View At Amazon (All Black) |
View At Amazon (Gray) | |
View At Amazon (Green) |
Short review
If you are a fan of the old classic design, this model is for you. Real analog watch, with a very nice military design, durable case, which is suitable not only for military but also for everyday purposes. This is one of the most popular models as far as analog watches are concerned, and the reasons for that are quality and an affordable price. Every other version of it is also close in price, so everyone can choose the right model for themselves. Its case is made of brass, and on it is a dial that is simple in construction and easy to read. The entire construction of the case is designed so that the watch is light to wear. As for the strap of this model, it is made of nylon in green color, although we repeat, there are a lot of variations in that regard. Our only objection to this model is that it is not suitable for some major water activities, so we do not recommend swimming with it and some major drowning in water
MAKE A PURCHASE IF:
✅ You appreciate simplicity - Even some digital models can be extremely complicated to use, what can we say about smartwatches. This model has an advantage for that reason, because its purpose is in accordance with its name, which is to be a watch
✅ Brand trust is important -With a long tradition as a watch manufacturer, this is a brand that has been operating for many years without losing the trust of its users.
DON'T MAKE A PURCHASE IF:
❌ You require advanced features - If certain functions like GPS are important to you, this model will not be the right choice. Check out our smart or tactical watches section there
❌ You need a professional dive watch -As we talked about, the model is not suitable for these purposes
BEST DIVE MILITARY WATCH
Dial window material - Mineral
Dial color - Blue
Case diameter - 42 mm
Case Thickness - 13.6 mm
Water resistance - 30 bar (300 metres / 1000 feet)
Calibre - Omega 8800
Power reserve - 55 hours
9. Omega Seamaster ★★★★★
Compared to the previous model, the exact opposite. A true diving and
luxury model
PROS | +Water Resistance +Luminous Display +Heritage and Trust |
CONS | -Price Point |
SIMILAR MODELS | View At Amazon (Black dial) |
View At Amazon (Orange Edition) | |
View At Amazon (Grey) |
Short review
Omega's Seamaster collection is widely known for its exceptionally high quality watches that can be considered as some of the best diving watches in the field. Its case is made of stainless steel, the diameter of which is 42 mm, while the thickness is 13.6 mm. We can say that it's somewhere in the middle, it's not too bulky but it's not that light either. The dial is blue and has rhodium-plated skeleton hands and dot hour markers, while the minute markers are around the outer rim. Although it is a very high-quality model and we say luxurious, its damage requires an expensive repair. We included this model, because it was really impossible not to add it to the list, but we say that it might be one of the few complaints. The bracelet is also like the case made of stainless steel, so the whole design makes a perfect match.
MAKE A PURCHASE IF:
✅ You're a Professional Diver or Naval Personnel - IWe say the watch is reliable and of high quality, you will never have any problems using it for these purposes
✅ You Prefer a Watch with Heritage - Decades of successful business recommend this company as adequate for this type of choice
DON'T MAKE A PURCHASE IF:
❌ You're On a Tight Budget - Since it is a military use, any repair can be very expensive, so this model is not recommended if you are exposed to harsh conditions
❌ You Need Additional Tactical Features - You won't find all the advanced features that smartwatches have here. This is a classic analog watch
BEST WOMEN'S MILITARY WATCH
Dial window material - Mineral
Clasp - Buckle
Case diameter - 26 mm
Case material -Brass
Band Material - Leather
Bezel function - Stationary
Movement - Quartz
10. Timex Expedition Field Mini ★★★★
In the sea of women's military watches, we think this one is the
most feminine and the right model for ladies
PROS | +Versatility and Design +Illumination Technology +Price Point |
CONS | -Water Resistance Depth -Simplistic Functionality |
SIMILAR MODELS | View At Amazon (Brown) |
View At Amazon (Brown/black) | |
View At Amazon (Scout) |
Short review
By design, the Timex model is nicely designed for ladies, with a much smaller build, so it's very light on the hand, including the case. It is not a true military watch in essence, as unlike some of the other models on this list, it would not meet rigorous standards such as MIL-STD-810G. Another thing is its water resistance, which does not allow it to do any major water activities. It is resistant only to splashing and short immersion in water, but not for diving. As for its case, it is made of brass, with a diameter of 26mm and a thickness of 8mm. Extremely light model. The dial has a very simple design, in green color, with hands and Arabic numerals as hour markers. As for the bands, they are made of leather with a width of 12mm in a military design.
MAKE A PURCHASE IF:
✅ You Need a Watch with Good Visibility - In addition to the design itself, as we have already said, of very simple construction, it is very readable and its Indiglo light-up system helps you to be informed in a timely manner even in night conditions.
✅ You Have a Smaller Wrist or Prefer Compact Watches - For all ladies who prefer this type of watch, this model is the right one
DON'T MAKE A PURCHASE IF:
❌ You Need Advanced Tactical Features - It's a classic, analog model, so if you're looking for features like this, you'll have to look at our other sections in this guide.
BEST FIELD MILITARY WATCH
Case size - 42mm
Thickness - 11.6mm
Caliber - H-30
Crystal -Sapphire
Case material -Stainless steel
Movement - Automatic
Strap type - Textile
11. Hamilton Khaki Field ★★★★★
A very solid and reliable watch, suitable for absolutely all working conditions, the right choice of field watches
PROS | +Swiss Craftsmanship +Classic Military Aesthetic +Durability |
CONS | -Price Point |
SIMILAR MODELS | View At Amazon (Mechanical) |
View At Amazon (Murph) | |
View At Amazon (King) |
Short review
Hamilton's heritage is what speaks to the quality and business of the company itself. Considering that during the Second World War, the soldiers of the U.S. military equipped with watches from this company, it is clear that this is a serious company. The very model of this design stands out as a real military one. Solid construction whose case is made of stainless steel, its dial is green with hands and Arabic numerals as hour markers. A reliable automatic mechanism ensures that the model is accurate, and the construction itself is resistant to all external conditions, thus preserving this excellent mechanism. This model also has a calendar on the dial in day-date format. The straps are in a military design, as with the model we described previously, made of textile with a width of 20mm. As for water resistance, this model has no problems with all terrain conditions
MAKE A PURCHASE IF:
✅ You Appreciate Classic Military Style - The decision was extremely easy when considering the field section. From design to quality, this model excels at every turn
✅ You Desire Swiss Quality -
A more common question with analog watches, but this information is extremely important. The famous Swiss style, which is still known in the world of watches as extremely high quality
DON'T MAKE A PURCHASE IF:
❌ You're on a Tight Budget - Each combination that we have listed is very expensive for some users. If you are looking for a cheaper model, browse our other sections
BEST MILITARY WATCH WITH COMPASS
Display Type - Analog-Digital
Dial window material type - Mineral
Case diameter - 45 mm
Case Thickness - 13 mm
Special features -Shock resistant
Band width - 23mm
Water resistant depth - 330 Feet
12. Casio 'PRO TREK' ★★★★☆
Although this is a common feature in smartwatches, we were looking for an analog-digital model with this feature
PROS | +Solar Power Technology +Robust Tactical Features +Low-Temperature Resistance |
CONS | -Complex Functionality |
SIMILAR MODELS | View At Amazon (PRW-3510Y-8CR) |
View At Amazon (PRG-270-1 ) | |
View At Amazon (PRW-6600Y-1A9CR) |
Short review
We end the guide with the model of the Casio company, with whom we opened this guide and their model PRG-650Y-1CR. Analog-digital display, it has triple sensor technology, which can be considered a trademark of this series. The triple sensor consists of a compass that should provide the individual with information on where he is headed, a barometer whose task is to monitor atmospheric pressure and a thermometer that monitors the ambient temperature. All these functions are very important for people who are in the field in unpredictable conditions. The solar drive also further enhances the performance of this watch, so it can be considered a real vital accessory. The construction itself is the same as most of the models of this company, so there is no worry about damaging the watch, which could make it not work later.
MAKE A PURCHASE IF:
✅ You Appreciate Multiple Features - This is essentially the main advantage of this model over some of the others in this guide, as it has more features than some of the other non-smartwatch models
✅ You Need a Tough Watch -For this criterion, the right choice
DON'T MAKE A PURCHASE IF:
❌ You Want a Simplistic Watch - The construction of the watch itself and the functions may be too complicated for some users. This model is intended more for people who are looking for just such qualities of a watch
❌ You Need a Professional Dive Watch - Although it is waterproof, it is not suitable for some serious water activities such as diving
FAQS
Q1: How do I choose the best watch for military deployment?
A1:The criteria for choosing a watch for this purpose are simple. You need a reliable and durable watch. Now it depends on you what conditions you are exposed to, whether you need some additional things like waterproofing, GPS or some smart tactical features
Q2: What are the most durable military watches on the market today?
Our guide offers only such manufacturers. From Casio as a representative of analog digital models to Garmin as a representative of smartwatches.
Q3: What is the best watch to have in the military for specialized operations?
Here we would recommend only smart watches, because they have modern systems that additionally help in operations