Military Watches
From LoveToKnow Watches
Military watches are loved for their durability, accuracy and style. A watch that can perform functions necessary to run a clandestine attack, time a missile launch or alert foot soldiers as to how far away their enemy is does have a certain appeal that other watches do not. The finest military watches give a level of technical sophistication that an ordinary or jewelry watch cannot.
Military Watchmakers
From precision timers, alarms, day and month options and features such as steel casing for durability, military watches are utilitarian and perfect for athletes, hunters, pilots and outdoorsmen. The most famous and well-loved military watchmakers have been the Swiss, but other makers, including those based in Germany and France also have much to offer.
Swiss Army
Probably the most well-known military watchmaker in the world, Swiss Army has brought some of the finest timepieces to collectors around the world. The only watch ever to have its mark of authenticity given by a government, the Swiss Army is uniquely crafted to bear the seal of its country and a promise of the utmost quality.
What sets Swiss Army apart from other military watches is their “price-to-quality.” Though they are widely known as some of the most durable and precise time instruments, Swiss Army watches are also some of the most affordable in their class. The price range for Swiss Army watches is between $100 and $400.
Vixa
An impressive history that begins with the Second World War, Vixa is often revered as the quintessential chronograph military watch. Vixa has maintained its high level of “one-off” craftsmanship while simultaneously moving into the modern era and beyond with the most modern chronographic features to date.
Always purchase a Vixa through a certified dealer, and always ensure that the warranty is at least two years long. These, sadly, are notoriously knocked-off as they also have quite a reputation among vintage military watch collectors.
Stowa
Since 1927 Stowa has been creating seafaring, deep sea and military watches. These are serious timepieces that can handle anything. Coupling the best of both Swiss and German engineering, a Stowa watch can handle depths of beyond 3,300 feet. The date window is located at the numeral six for ease of use, and the watch face is comprised of sapphire glass for extreme durability. The Stowa casing is made of German brushed steel. This is a true military grade watch.
Vintage Military Watches
For those who enjoy a timepiece with a bit of history, there are plenty of options available online and at local surplus stores and jewelers. Some brands from World War eras, Vietnam and even older include:
- Tauchmeister
- Cyma
- Omega
- Precista
- CWC
- [[Category: Seiko_Watches | Seiko]
An excellent online merchant of these and other brands of vintage watches is the Antique Watch Company, UK.
Also consider purchasing replica watches from different eras that offer an authentic feel and modern precision. An excellent resource for these is eBay.
The Make and Model for You
Determine whether you want a serious watch for practical purposes, such as outdoors activity, or if you like the look of a military or utility watch and plan to use it more as an accessory than a tool. You do not want to spend money for extensive features you will not use. Something with five dials and six faces fit for a Navy Seal may not be what you are looking for. If you are looking for a watch with all these capabilities, research the brands and find the one that offers you all the features you require. Watchuseek.com is a great online resource where you can find the opinions and reviews of numerous military and sporting watches.
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