Last Updated on March 6, 2023 by Afsar
Field watches have a military background, but they are now commonly used in our everyday lives. Although they may not have the same fancy features as other watches, field watches are designed to be simple yet tough, able to withstand rugged outdoor activities such as hiking, rain, mud, and snow. They prioritize durability, simplicity, and readability, which are important for accurate timekeeping. Due to their adherence to military standards, field watches typically share similar features such as Arabic numerals, lume hands, a stainless steel case, and a leather or fabric strap. Some also include a date window. Despite their similarities, manufacturers are still finding ways to distinguish their products. Field watches can be easily paired with various outfits, whether it be a denim shirt or chinos, and they blend well with their surroundings, making them an appealing choice for many. The primary reason for purchasing a field watch is its clear display of time. In this article, you will discover over fifteen different field watches, so choose wisely to find the best one for your needs.
Contents
Timex Men’s Expedition Metal Field Watch
The Timex Men’s Expedition Metal Field Watch is a popular choice for those in search of a reliable and durable field watch. With its sturdy construction, water-resistant design, and easy-to-read dial, this watch is a great option for outdoor enthusiasts and everyday wear. However, like any watch, there are both pros and cons to consider before making a purchase. In this review, we’ll explore the features and benefits of the Timex Men’s Expedition Metal Field Watch, as well as some potential drawbacks to keep in mind.
Pros:
- Durable construction: The watch features a brass case and mineral glass lens, making it sturdy and resistant to wear and tear.
- Water-resistant: The watch is water-resistant up to 50 meters, making it suitable for swimming and snorkeling.
- Easy-to-read dial: The large numerals and markers on the dial make it easy to read, even in low-light conditions.
- Comfortable fit: The adjustable leather strap is comfortable to wear, and the watch is lightweight, making it suitable for all-day wear.
- Affordable price: The watch offers great value for its price, making it accessible for a wide range of buyers.
Cons:
- Loud ticking: Some reviewers have noted that the ticking of the watch can be loud and noticeable, which may be a distraction for some users.
- Lacks additional features: The watch does not come with any additional features such as a compass or stopwatch, which may be a drawback for some users who require more functionality.
- Limited style options: The watch is only available in a few color options, which may not appeal to all buyers.
Citizen Watches Men’s BM8180-03E
It is difficult to come across timepieces like Citizen Watches Men’s BM8180-03E in the watch market. This impressive field watch is manufactured in the United States, and its appearance is both rugged and refined, making it suitable for pairing with almost any attire. Its military-inspired design is apparent at first glance, and the stainless steel construction includes a circular black dial with a date display. The Japanese-quartz movement can be charged using both natural and indoor light. A green woven strap with patterned stitching and a buckle clasp adds to its appeal as a field watch. Furthermore, it can withstand water pressure up to 330 feet, making it suitable for snorkeling but not diving.
Pros:
- Eco-Drive technology: The watch is powered by light, which means you don’t have to worry about replacing the battery.
- Durable construction: The watch features a stainless steel case and a scratch-resistant mineral crystal, making it durable and long-lasting.
- Military-inspired design: The watch has a classic and stylish design that is inspired by military timepieces, making it suitable for a range of occasions and outfits.
- Water-resistant: The watch is water-resistant up to 100 meters, which makes it suitable for swimming, snorkeling, and other water-based activities.
- Comfortable fit: The canvas strap is comfortable to wear and adjusts easily to fit most wrist sizes.
Cons:
- Small date window: The date window on the watch is quite small, which may make it difficult to read for some users.
- Strap quality: Some people have posted online that the canvas strap may not be as durable as other materials and may need to be replaced after a while.
Hamilton Men’s H70455733 Khaki Field Watch
Hamilton Watch Company, situated in Bienne, Switzerland, is an esteemed Swiss watch manufacturer renowned for its diversified watch collection catering to a broad spectrum of preferences. This impeccably designed round watch boasts a logoed black dial flaunting luminous hands, exquisite Arabic numeral hour markers, and a date window precisely positioned at the 3 o’clock mark. The robust 38mm stainless steel case showcases a sapphire dial window and an 11mm thickness. The black leather bracelet with contrasting stitching offers a visually appealing look. It features a Swiss self-winding automatic movement for reliable and accurate timekeeping. While the cost of this khaki field watch may seem substantial, its premium design and exceptional quality make it an excellent investment. You can don this watch with a pair of jeans and a shirt or a formal suit, making it an ideal everyday watch.
Pros:
- Durable construction: The watch features a stainless steel case, scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, and a water-resistant design, making it durable and long-lasting.
- Military-inspired design: The watch has a classic and stylish design that is inspired by military timepieces, making it suitable for a range of occasions and outfits.
- Automatic movement: The watch features automatic movement, which means it does not require a battery and is self-winding.
- Easy-to-read dial: The large numerals and markers on the dial make it easy to read, even in low-light conditions.
- Comfortable fit: The leather strap is comfortable to wear and adjusts easily to fit most wrist sizes.
Cons:
- High price: The watch is relatively expensive compared to other field watches, which may be a drawback for some buyers.
Casio Men’s Solar Powered Stainless Steel Quartz Cloth Strap
Casio is a well-known Japanese electronics company that was founded in 1946. The company is famous for its innovative and high-quality products, including watches, calculators, and electronic keyboards. The Casio Stainless Steel Quartz Watch is a reliable and stylish choice for those in need of a durable, everyday timepiece. While it may not have all of the bells and whistles of more advanced watches, its simple design and dependable performance make it an excellent value for its price point. This amazing Casio field watch is available at a meager price, and you just need to check the pros and cons to see if this is a good fit for you.
Solar-powered field watch
Lasts six months when fully charged
Pros:
- Solar-powered field watch that lasts six months when fully charged
- The watch boasts a sleek, stylish design that is versatile and suitable for a wide range of occasions.
- Made with durable materials, including a stainless steel case and band, this watch is built to last.
- The quartz movement provides reliable and accurate timekeeping, making it ideal for everyday wear.
- With a water resistance rating of up to 100 meters, this watch is suitable for swimming and snorkeling.
- The built-in date display adds an extra layer of functionality to the watch.
Cons:
- Some users may find the watch face to be a bit on the small side, making it difficult to read in certain lighting conditions.
Szanto Men SZ1214 Military Field Analog Display
Szanto’s military field watch features all the necessary features and cuts back on all the BS. It has a vintage-inspired classic military field watch design featuring a reliable Miyota Japan Quartz 2 Eye Chronograph movement. The diameter of the watch is 46 mm and uses 316L Stainless Steel case with IP Black Plating. You will find two sub-dials and a date window at 3’o clock. It also boasts push crown, hardened crystal, superior luminous on the dial & hands. 22mm one-piece nato style hand-finished leather strap adds a modern touch to the watch. It is water-resistant up to 100 meters.
Nautica N83 Men Crissy Field Watch
Nautica’s N83 is a stunning field watch that is available in five different colors. Personally, I love the version which comes with silver, blue, and red color. It has touches of white, orange, and circular geometric pattern, which makes it elegant. I know this sounds funny, but the colors actually make me happy. Silver-ton 43mm brass cases, luminous hands, and snap-down crown are used in this watch. Adjustable 20mm stainless steel bracelet has up to 8-inch circumference. Like most other field watches, this one is also water-resistant up to 50m. So, it can be used for recreational swimming but not for diving or snorkeling. What’s more, the price of this field watch is very reasonable.
Filson Unisex Field Watch 41mm
This field watch from Filson is made for both men and women. Made right here in the USA, this unisex field watch is made using a stainless steel case and a 22mm leather strap with buckle closure; which will handle rough and unforgiving conditions for years on end. It is inspired by the classic timepieces issued to the U.S. military servicemen. As a result, it blends the classic look with the ruggedness of the belt. The round face with the scratchproof sapphire crystal has an anti-reflective coating. It has a three-hand analog display with a precision quartz movement. The price of this product might be off-putting for some people, but I personally think the price is justified.
Nixon Corporan SS A359
Nixon Corporan SS A359 field watch comes with a different type of color: Matter copper/Gunmetal. It features a 48mm watch face with a 24mm stainless steel band. So, if you are tired of using leather straps, and want to step up your game, you should definitely give it a try. It boasts Miyota Japanese quartz 3 hand, hardened mineral crystal, triple gasket crown with enamel fill, stainless steel screw down with spring pin lugs. Primarily targeted for the younger generation, it can surely be worn by men of any age.
Bertucci M-1S Women Field Watch
Bertucci M-1S is a field watch for women which comes in many different colors. It is equipped with the legendary U.S. patented solid stainless steel unibody which can tackle extreme situations. The durability and comfort of this watch are incredible. From white to black, it has a wide range of colors available to choose. The durable screw-down crown and case back are the same in all the variations. Few of the variations, come with tan leather option. It features scratch-resistant hardened mineral glass crystal, all-metal japan made quartz movement, and a date window on the four o’ clock. It is water-resistant to 330 feet, which makes it suitable for both snorkeling and swimming but not diving. In a nutshell, this is the best field watch for women available on the market.
Freestyle Men’s FS84993 Ranger Field Case Watch
Around 30 years ago, Freestyle brand was created, thanks to a couple of surfers looking for a watch to be able to withstand the harsh saltwater. Freestyle’s FS84993 ranger is a cute field watch for men. It features a basic 45-mm stainless steel case with mineral dial window. The Japanese quartz movement is used with the analog display. It comes with outer minute track with the easy-to-read dial, Arabic numeral markers, and a date window at 3 o.clock. It has a nylon strap band, and water resistance of 100m.
Luminox Atacama Field Day Mens Watch 1925
Luminox is a famous name when it comes to watchmakers. This gorgeous field watch comes with a black PVD stainless steel case and a brown leather strap. Black carbon fiber dial, luminous hand and Arabic numeral hour markers make it simply stunning. You will find the date display at 3 o’clock, and the day of the week at 9 o’clock. Scratch-resistant sapphire crystal ensures the beauty of the dial. It uses a Swiss-made quartz movement. It is water-resistant to 200 meters.
Rolex Explorer Oystersteel Black Dial
According to Forbes, Rolex made its place in the top hundred most recognized brands in the world. I know, the name of Rolex resonates with luxury, but hear me out. If you have the budget, Rolex Explorer is the best field watch available on the market. This masterpiece uses Oystersteel, which belongs to the 904L steel family. It is widely used in the high-technology sectors like aerospace and chemical industries. This material is extremely resistant and offers exceptional finish when polished. Explorer comes with the famous Black DIal of the Rolex watch. 3, 6 and 9 numerals of the watch are filled with a luminescent material which emits a long-lasting blue glow. The oyster bracelet comes with Oysterlock folding claps to prevent the accidental opening and the Easylink comfort extensions link.
Timex Men Camper Watch
If you are looking for a cheap field watch, the Camper watch from Timex should be in your wish list. This lightweight field watch comes with a white dial. You will find Arabic numeral indices with a 24-hour inner ring and a date window at 3 o’clock. It has hardy black resin case, durable nylon strap, Indiglo night-light, Hook-and-loop closure, water-resistant to 100m, three hand-display, and more. If you are looking for a low-key watch that you can use while doing some hard work, this is the best field watch on the market for you.
Weiss 38MM Standard Issue Field Watch
Unlike most of the field watches listed in this article, this one is a little bit expensive. Weiss’s field watches are famous for their meticulous details and superior craftsmanship. Traditional Swiss watchmaking and a genuine passion for watchmaking ensure incredible performance with a stunning look. It uses the Caliber 1005 mechanical movement with 7001 base, which is finished and assembled in Los Angeles. Four 316L stainless steel hex screws secure the sapphire crystal and 316L stainless steel exhibition caseback. Machined naval brass finished white comes with high-visibility black numerals. Buy from Weiss
What factors to consider to land the best field watch?
Beside the ruggedness, there are some other factors that come into play when making a purchase decision of field watch. Without further ado, let’s check some of the important factors to buy the best field watch:
Power Source
There are three types of movement that are widely used in watches: Quartz, Mechanical, and Automatic. For sure, Quartz is the most popular movement that can be seen on the watches. You can easily identify the quartz movement by looking at the second hand. A quartz watch will have individual ticks for second hand. A battery powers quartz watches. It will send the electric current via the quartz crystal to create continuous vibration which keeps the watch running. The second most popular movement is the mechanical movement which is loved by collectors. The mechanic movement gains power by manually turning the crown to wind the mainspring. It will slowly unwind until the energy runs out. The third most popular one is the automatic movement. It relies on the energy from your motion. It includes a metal weight or pendulum which slowly swing back and forth with the help of the movement of your wrist.
Water Resistance
Most of the field watches available on the market comes with 100-meter water-resistance. They are okay for swimming, splashes, rain, and snow. But they are certainly not suitable for dives or scuba. If you are looking for a watch that will tackle extreme abuse, you should look at the tactical watches.
Size and weight
Unlike tactical watches, field watches are smaller and weighs less. Sure, you can find many field watches that are bigger and weighs more, but most of the time, they are generally smaller than their counterparts. You need to find a field watch which is not big or weighs heavy. Taller and bigger guys may oppose, and they have every right to do so. You just need to bear it in your mind that a heavy watch might be a burden to your wrist.
Legibility
Most of the field watches are made to do one simple thing: to make it easier to get an accurate time. To do so, manufacturers use luminescent in the hands and numbers of their field watches. Usually, the hands and numbers would soak up the solar energy during the day, and release it at night. Also, some of the smart manufacturers would backlight the face of the watch to make it visible even in the darkest environment.
Analog or Digital Face Type
Most field watches on the market comes with analog-style, but some of the military field watches will feature both the analog and digital style. That being said, it is easy to read both the style and having the digital format may be easy for some people.
Strap
It would be a shame if we do not talk about the strap of the watch. Just like the watch itself, the strap plays a great role in determining the worth of the watch. Generally, field watches use straps made of leather, rubber, nylon mesh, stainless steel, and canvas. If you are looking for a lightweight watch, I wouldn’t recommend a field watch with steel strap. Under no way, the strap of the watch should cause irritation as you would wearing it for a long time.
Durability
Generally, field watches are designed to withhold tough condition, but they are not nearly as strong as the tactical watches. However, field watches are supposed to be stronger than regular watches. A lot of the cheap field watches on the market would come with weak design, and you need to keep an eye on them. If you are going to put your field watch on a test, try looking for a watch that uses titanium or PC case. Also, you can check the field watches that are made of high-quality stainless steel (e.g., oystersteel by Rolex) or aircraft-grade aluminum. Please bear in mind that high-quality material will surely increase the price of the field watch.
Price
A field watch should not cost a lot. There are few exceptions, but most of the field watches are priced very reasonably. Some of the manufacturers even made it easier for us to flaunt a cheap field watch which basically costs like an expensive meal.
Extra features
As mentioned repeatedly, a field watch is all about telling the time accurately. Most of them will provide the day and date of the month, but they barely come with extra features like GPS or barometer that can be found on a tactical watch.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a field watch?
Field watches are wristwatches that were originally designed for military use, particularly by soldiers in the field. They were first developed during World War I when soldiers needed a watch that was reliable, durable, and easy to read in a variety of conditions. Field watches typically have a simple and functional design, with large, clear numerals and markings that can be read quickly and easily. They are often made with rugged materials such as stainless steel, titanium, or high-strength polymers and may feature scratch-resistant crystals and water-resistant cases to withstand the rigors of outdoor use.
Do I need a field watch?
If you find yourself working in a slightly dangerous working station, you should consider buying a field watch. Unlike luxury watches, field watches are priced very reasonably and offers accurate time with sturdiness. Field watches are fairly popular among welders, football players, sailors, law-enforcement-officers, etc.
Can a field watch be an everyday watch?
Yes, a field watch can definitely be worn as an everyday watch. In fact, many people choose to wear field watches as their everyday watch due to their simple and functional design, durability, and versatility. Field watches can be dressed up or down, and can be worn in a variety of settings, whether you’re at work, running errands, or going on outdoor adventures.
One of the advantages of wearing a field watch as your everyday watch is that it is designed to be durable and reliable, so you don’t have to worry about it breaking or malfunctioning. Field watches are often built with tough materials and are designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, which means they can handle the wear and tear of daily wear.
Additionally, field watches often have a classic and timeless design that never goes out of style, making them a great investment for those who want a watch that will last for years to come. Whether you’re a fan of the military-inspired look, or you simply appreciate the functional design and durability of field watches, they can make an excellent choice for an everyday watch.
Do I need a field watch?
Whether or not you need a field watch depends on your lifestyle and activities. If you spend a lot of time outdoors or engage in activities such as hiking, camping, or hunting, a field watch can be a useful tool. Field watches are designed to be durable and reliable, with features such as water resistance and legibility that are important for outdoor activities. Additionally, if you appreciate the classic and functional design of field watches, they can make a great everyday watch that can be dressed up or down. They are versatile and can be worn in a variety of settings.
However, if you don’t engage in outdoor activities and prefer a more formal or dressy look, a field watch may not be necessary. It’s ultimately a personal preference and depends on your lifestyle and style preferences. Ultimately, if you do decide to invest in a field watch, make sure to choose one that fits your specific needs and preferences. Look for a watch that is durable, reliable, and functional, with features that are tailored to your outdoor activities.
Are Field Watches Expensive?
Field watches can vary in price depending on the brand, materials, and features. Some field watches can be relatively affordable, from around $50 to $100, while others can be more expensive, ranging from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars. Luxury field watches, with premium materials and advanced features, can be particularly pricey. However, there are also many high-quality, durable field watches available at reasonable prices that can provide excellent value for money. Ultimately, the cost of a field watch will depend on the specific model and brand you choose, as well as your budget and preferences.
Final Verdict
Field watches have a long way, and they are offering the same service with better hardware. You can choose the movement of your choice, a better strap that suits your style, and pay less. A lot of the field watches available on the market are very stylish and fits a lot of different types of people’s choice. I have tried to share some of the best field watches of the market, and hope that they help you find a suitable watch for you.
