Are digital watches repairable
The Toughest Watches
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At a glance
In our opinion, Marathon GPM is one of the toughest watches in 2024. Designed in Canada, made in Switzerland, with a Japan-made movement (Mechanical Seiko 24 Jewel NH35 self-wind).Marathon watches typically have a specific military, tactical, or professional use in mind, but the GPM (general-purpose mechanical) is a very reliable all-rounder at a fair price.
- Perfect for: Astronauts, but also those looking for the perfect marriage of extreme toughness with timeless luxury.
- Perfect for: All military personnel who want a watch that makes as much sense at home as it does out on the field.
- Perfect for: Travel explorers and adventurers who want a watch that wont quit for a reasonable price.
No time to die
You dont have to be James Bond to want a watch that can survive any mission.
In a product category such as watches where the price tag quite often exceeds hundreds or even hundreds of thousands of dollars, its wise to look for brands and products whose design emphasizes ruggedness, durability, and longevity first.
You can purchase watch models designed for specific activities like military, watch, field, dive, or tactical.
Timepieces are also powerful symbols of quality, craftsmanship, and technical excellence, and you should feel confident passing a watch down through generations as it maintains the same steady timekeeping abilities as it did on day one.
So, to ensure you only spend money on watches that will capably stand up to punishment for years and perhaps generations to come, weve sifted through the toughest watches on the market and found the best of the best.
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Read on for our comprehensive list of the most rugged watches in 2024, complete with user reviews, feature comparison, and a Rugged Ratings score for each entry.
First, lets discuss what it is that makes a watch truly rugged.
What are the toughest watches?
Watch brands utilize many different approaches to ensure strength and resistance to all types of environmental stress.
Tough watches are often designed with specific disciplines, activities, or groups of people in mind such as deep-water diving, piloting an aircraft, or being a Navy SEAL.
For us, a truly tough watch should have one or all of the following Rugged Rating features:
#BIFL
Rugged: 50% weight of total score Watches with all-round toughness and durability
- Composed of durable materials
- Military standards for shock resistance, water resistance, and scratch protection
- Long-lasting battery capacity or solar recharge
Repairable: 20% weight of total score Watches that can be repaired
- Replaceable batteries
- Regular servicing
Upgradable: 15% weight of total score Watches with optional additional features or components
- Different straps or faces
Multipurpose: 15% weight of total score Watches that perform multiple functions beyond timekeeping
- Radio receivers
- GPS tracking
- Atomic timekeeping
- Altitude and longitude measurement
- Biometric sensors
With that being said, lets start taking a look at some of our favorites.
Well list the top 6 watches that truly impressed us with their design, good looks, and features, but most of all their ability to withstand severe punishment.
Weve picked a range of watches that will suit everyones budgetary needs, so you dont have to spend a fortune to get a watch that lasts a lifetime and beyond.
Lets begin with our first price category, low-end tough watches.
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What are the toughest low-budget watches?
You shouldnt have to spend thousands (or even hundreds of thousands) to get a watch that will last. And thanks to brands like G-shock and Garmin populating the niche for a lower budget, rugged first watches, you dont have to.
Watches that are designed to be standard issue for military or tactical use are often lower-budget by design, but that doesnt mean theyre any less tough.
These watches, at least on paper, go toe-for-toe with the big boys like Omega and Breitling when it comes to toughness, but for a fraction of the price.
They may not be as shiny and you probably wouldnt wear them to a high-stakes poker game like James Bond, but they certainly tick the durability box.
G-Shock GD-350-1BER
Weight: 2.64oz (75g) | Case Diameter: 2.08in (53mm) | Screen: Anti-scratching Mineral Glass | Movement: Quartz Japan made | Warranty: 2-years
If you know tough watches, youve probably seen a Casio G Shock watch. Crafted with consideration for resistance to all manner of punishment, they are the watch brand of choice for military and tactical use.
We loved the GD-350-1BER for its marriage of real durability and budget-friendliness.
There are a few design innovations that give all G-shocks their famous toughness. First, their patented Hollow Core Guard Structure design, which secures the interior module of the watch so that its floating, supported by cushioning material that re-disperses shock outwards, protecting the important stuff.
The protruding bezel is the only available impact point when dropped, saving the scratch-resistant watch face from serious damage.
These design features make the GD-350-1BER shock resistant for impacts and drops, as well as vibration-resistant for use in heavy-duty operations, making it perfect for professions such as construction. Finally, this model is water-resistant to 20 bar or 200m in-depth, so you can go crazy with splashing or diving.
As for other features, the GD-350-1BER has LED auto-light illumination that activates when the watch face is tilted towards you, a mute function that silences all button clicks and alarm tones for discreet operations, and a world clock for time-keeping in major cities around the globe.
The one downside of this model is the lack of solar charging.
The battery capacity lasts 5 years before it needs replacing, which is pretty good for a $100 watch, but if you want peace of mind for your battery life, see our next entry!
Takeaway points for Casio G-Shock GD-350-1BER:
- Most budget-friendly
- Impressive water resistance depth
PRICE: Around $100
PERFECT FOR: An affordable watch thats perfect for military or tactical use.
Last update on 2024-02-17 at 08:27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
G-Shock GW-7900-1ER
Weight: 2.50oz (71g) | Case Diameter: 2.04in (52mm) | Screen: Anti-scratching Mineral Glass | Movement: Digital Japan made | Warranty: 2-years
The GW-7900-1ER takes everything the GD-350 has but bumps it up a notch.
Not only is it tougher in a few key areas, but it also at least doubles the number of neat features to pull together a highly specced timepiece that still wont break the bank.
In terms of timekeeping, the GW-7900-1ER is the more precise model, utilizing radio-controlled Multi-Band 6 Atomic time updates which offer exceptional accuracy.
As with the prior entry, this watch is water-resistant to 20 bar or 200m, vibration resistant, and low-temperature resistant down to -14 degrees F.
However, this model levels up the shock resistance significantly, as its tested to withstand 10-meter drops with no issues and sustain hammer blows with significant force. Good to know.
Another key difference between the two G-shock models is in the power. This model uses solar to charge its battery, with a high-capacity solar-charging module for near-constant operation with a minimal impact on the environment.
For the more worldly adventurer types, this model is also fitted with a moon age display that shows the current phase of the moon based on your chosen location, and even a tide graph that displays nearby tide levels.
Takeaway points for Casio G-Shock GW-7900-1ER:
- Great timekeeping for a lower budget watch
- Solar powered
PRICE: Around $130
PERFECT FOR: Travel explorers and adventurers who want a watch that wont quit for a reasonable price.
Casio G-Shock GW-7900-1ER 20 BAR Black Watch with...- Includes stop watch, alarm and countdown
- Protective scratch-resistant hard mineral crystal lens
- Round high-performance and durable resin case with digital display
- Durable and strong resin 25 mm wide bracelet with buckle
- Water resistant up to 200 m
Last update on 2024-02-17 at 08:27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
What are the toughest mid budget watches?
At this price range, you can expect a little more from your durable watch. These tough watches are not only built with heavy-duty use and abuse in mind but often have military standards to support their claims.
Typically made from stronger materials like metals instead of plastics, these watches are not only extremely durable and multifunctional but also easy on the eye too.
You can expect to pay at least a couple of hundred bucks for these watches, but they will hopefully pay you back with a lifetime of use.
Suunto Traverse Alpha Stealth
Weight: 2.65oz (75g) | Case Diameter: 1.97in (50mm) | Screen: Sapphire Crystal | Movement: Digital Finland made | Warranty: 2-years
The name Suunto comes from the Finnish word suunta meaning direction or path, which is appropriate for this Finland-born and made timepiece that prides itself on advanced navigational abilities.
Suunto watches are designed for the true outdoorsman, and this particular model takes that promise to the next level. The Traverse Alpha Stealth is perhaps the ultimate rugged timepiece for fishers, hunters, and outdoor navigators.
Made from a combination of composite, stainless steel case, and Sapphire crystal lens, this watch is tough, and the proof is in the MIL-STD-810G standard it has, as well as the promotional video [1] showing the watch get burned, vibrated, dropped, dipped, struck, and even completely encased in ice. Spoiler alert it survived.
The Traverse Alpha is a combined GPS/GLONASS watch, and with double the navigational systems behind it, you benefit from increased accuracy and reliability of your geographic reading.
Not only that, but it has specific functions for hunting, fishing, and exploring. Shot detection recognizes when you fire your gun and records your latitude and longitude to note areas with plenty of wildlife.
The breadcrumbs feature records your exact route for the day so you can easily navigate home along with the digital compass, and sunrise and sunset alarms let you know when you need to get moving.
All these features will definitely take a toll on the battery performance though, which drops from 14 days in time mode to between 10 and 15 hours with constant GPS usage. Simply recharge the lithium-ion battery though and youre good to go again.
Takeaway points for Suunto Traverse Alpha Stealth:
PRICE: Over $250
PERFECT FOR: This is THE outdoor watch for hunters, fishermen, explorers, and outdoorsmen of all types.
Suunto Traverse Watch- Features a rugged, knurled stainless steel bezel, durable water repellent nylon strap, and a premium...
- Suunto's automatic shot detection technology keeps track of when and where you shoot, mapping the...
- GPS tracks your path, helping you find your way back using the automatic breadcrumb trail,Compatible...
- Location based moon Phase calendar with moon rise and moon set times helps you determine the best...
- Suunto Traverse watches are handmade in Finland and have been tested against military standards (mil...
Last update on 2024-02-17 at 08:27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Marathon GPM
Weight: 1.62oz (46g) | Case Diameter: 1.39in (46mm) | Screen: Sapphire Crystal | Movement: Mechanical Seiko 24 Jewel NH35 self-wind Japan made | Warranty: 2-years
Marathon watches benefit from the engineering excellence of the Japanese in their Dual Winding Movement, and the mechanical watch expertise and craftsmanship of the Swiss with all models being assembled in La Chaux de Fonds, Switzerland.
The Marathon GPM is built to the MIL-PRF-46374G [2] military standard. This means that the watch has been tested and verified for long life, water resistance, corrosion resistance, high altitudes, and legibility in total darkness.
How does it achieve all of these feats?
Its made from a high-impact fiber shell and Composite 316L stainless steel, which does not compromise quality or durability while keeping weight low.
The minute and hour hands contain enclosed Tritium Gas [3], which ensures a constant glow in pitch-black conditions without needing prior exposure to sunlight. The lens is made from a 3mm thick dark-sapphire for scratch resistance, and the enclosure ensures water resistance to 3ATM or 30m.
Finally, the strap is made from one piece of MIL-S-46383B Type II graded nylon, for both comfort and durability during wear.
Its a timepiece thats as suited to field infantry use as it is to day-to-day civilian wear, and its understated black and silver design ensures itll look good in a military uniform or a tuxedo!
Takeaway points for Marathon GPM:
- Multipurpose, can be used in active and civilian contexts
- MIL-PRF-46374G and MIL-S-46383B Type II standards
PRICE: Over $300
PERFECT FOR: All military personnel who want a watch that makes as much sense at home as it does out on the field.
Last update on 2024-02-17 at 08:27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
What are the toughest luxury watches?
In this price category, you wont have to make any exceptions. Youre looking for a watch that will impress for daily wear but will also easily survive your most reckless endeavors.
The toughest luxury watches combine timeless class and elegance in their visual appeal with extraordinary build quality and durability features.
You can expect to pay upwards of a few thousand dollars in this category, and probably consider it your main watch if youre not a collector.
Breitling Aerospace Evo Titanium
Weight: 3.49oz (99g) | Case Diameter: 1.69in (43mm) | Screen: Sapphire Crystal | Movement: Breitling 79 Thermocompensated SuperQuartz Swiss made | Warranty: 2-years
As the name suggests, Breitlings Aerospace timepieces are the watch of choice for pilots and aviators of all kinds.
An analog-digital chronograph timepiece, the Aerospace Evo uses the well-respected Breitling 79 caliber movement, which is at least 10 times more accurate than its standard Quartz counterparts. Its features include 1/100th of a second chronograph, countdown timer, second time zone, alarm, audible time signal (minute repeater), and calendar.
As you might have assumed from the name, this model is composed of Titanium metal, offering extreme durability and impact resistance.
The lens is composed of glare-proof Sapphire for premium scratch protection and maximum legibility, which is further improved in dark conditions with glowing lume applied to the numbers and hands.
Those familiar with this timepiece might tell you that the crown is often thought to be slightly too small for comfortable operation, especially considering that its the primary method for operating the watch, which is definitely something to consider.
You can get the Aerospace Evo with a Titanium strap, or alternatively with the Anthracite strap, which is composed of strong polyamide fabric.
Takeaway points for Breitling Aerospace Evo Titanium:
- Breitling 79 caliber movement for extremely accurate timekeeping
- Glare-proof Sapphire glass
- Luminescent hands
PRICE: Over $4300
PERFECT FOR: Avid aeronautical enthusiasts with a taste for luxury and precision timekeeping.
Editors note: before buying, check this
detailed reviewof the Breilting Aerospace EVO. Also, watch this video review (below), from
aaron_shapiroLast update on 2024-02-17 at 08:27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional
Weight: 5.75oz (163g) | Case Diameter: 1.65in (42mm) | Screen: Hesalite Crystal | Movement: Calibre Omega 3861 Swiss made | Warranty: 5-years
Watch aficionados will know the Speedmaster well. It is a timepiece that has entered the history books as the first watch worn on the moon, being used by astronauts for Apollo XI in 1969, as well as the Apollo XIII mission, during which it served as a crucial instrument for the teams rescue.
To join a space mission, you have to stand up to a wide range of extremely punishing tests. The Speedmaster did just that, beating Rolex and Longines-Wittnauer to become the sole watch of choice for all manned NASA space missions.
The tests put the watch through high and low temperatures, vacuum cycling, extreme humidity, oxygenation, shock, acceleration, vibration, and more. It survived with the best post-test timekeeping accuracy, remaining within 5 seconds per day rate.
The updated version, the Moonwatch Professional, is composed of the same steel and Hesalite crystal [4] (or an option for a Sapphire crystal upgrade). It has water-resistance of up to 5 bar and boasts the Master Chronometer certification, which improves the watchs chronometric performance, magnetic resistance, and power reserve capacity to 50 hours.
Three subdials on the watch offer a Chronograph, Tachymeter, and small seconds measuring.
For a watch with an impressive list of rugged qualifications, it is remarkably beautiful in its aesthetic appeal. The black watch face offers a classically muted appearance that is contrasted by the shining brushed stainless steel.
Case, strap, material, and even gender variations of the Moonwatch offer the same trusted toughness in a way that matches your personal preference.
Takeaway points for Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional:
- The only NASA approved watch for manned space missions
- Master Chronometer certification
- Composed of Steel
PRICE: Over $5,250
PERFECT FOR: Astronauts, but also those looking for the perfect marriage of extreme toughness with timeless luxury.
Editors note: before buying, check this
2021 in-depth reviewof the latest model of Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional. Also, watch this 50 minutes video review (below), from WatchAdvisor.
Omega Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch Apollo 11...- The NAIAD LOCK case back assures the screw-in case back is oriented & aligned with the watch.
- Omega Master Chronometer caliber 3861, beats at 21,600 vph (3Hz), contains 26 jewels & has an...
- METAS Certified Master-Chronometer: The assembled watch, with its COSC certified Chronometer...
- Anti-magnetic: resistant to magnetic fields greater than 15,000 gauss. Features a silicon balance...
Last update on 2024-02-17 at 08:27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Comparison Table
To get a quick-look comparison of the key design specifications on all our toughest watch picks, view the table below.
| Product | Features | RUGGED RATINGS | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
Most Durable | Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional
| Check Latest Price | |
 | Breitling Aerospace Evo Titanium
| Check Latest Price | |
Our Top Pick | Marathon GPM
| Check Latest Price | |
 | Suunto Traverse Alpha Stealth
| Check Latest Price | |
Best Value | G-Shock GW-7900-1ER
| Check Latest Price | |
 | G-Shock GD-350-1BER
| Check Latest Price |
Conclusion
Regardless of your budget or intended use, there is an ultra-durable watch out there for you.
Weve covered the top 6 toughest watches that stole our attention for their combination of impressive build quality, good looks, and additional features.
Given the range of price categories, it would be tough to recommend only one rugged watch for the general reader, but the Marathon GPM strikes us as a timepiece that would work on any person interested in truly durable timekeeping.
Its slim profile and weight are quite unique for a tough watch, but its modest size doesnt make it any less rugged, with more military standard gradings than any other on the list.
For those unconcerned with good looks who will mostly be wearing their rugged watches only in the toughest environments, look no further than the G-Shock GW-7900-1ER. Its exceptionally accurate, tough, and multifunctional, and because its a solar watch, you will never be caught in a compromising situation without charge.
And finally, to those with money to spend on a forever (#BIFL) watch with meaning, timeless elegance, and NASA-approved durability and technical prowess, the Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional should be your watch of choice.
What to check next: The Most Durable Fitness Tracker. In this article, we are only concentrating on focussed fitness and health tracking watches. If they have the nifty features of smartwatches, such as messaging, payment, or pizza ordering, then great! More money saved down the line by getting two products for the price of one.
What do you think? Do you have a different opinion on the Toughest Watches? Be sure to share this article with anyone and everyone in the market for #BIFL durable watches. We regularly post guides similar to this one all about products that aim to last a lifetime, so stay posted if you agree with theBuy It For Life golden ruleas much as we do.
Editor In Chief. Consultant Engineer by trade. Martial artist, and gamer by hobbies. He focuses on very durable and #BIFL gear: Rugged, Repairable, Upgradable, Multipurpose, and therefore long-lasting products that save our planet, your time, and your money. You can find more about him
here.
