I served in the United States Marine Corps for 22 years. I went to the field to train and to do real world Marine things. Afghanistan, Iraq, Philippines, Sri Lanka…I wore Timex Ironmans. When I wasn’t in the field, I wore my TAGs. Watches my wife gifted me every time I was promoted. All of the watches have a story. My wife purchased all of my TAGs at the Marine Corps Exchange
Just out of curiosity... did you chose them and she paid for them? It would drive me mad if my wife would buy watches for me, because it is totally subjective and even a function of time, whether you will like and wear a watch.
@@watchpickle2k she selected them without my input. Thankfully, my old lady has always had great taste and knows what I like. I’ll be honest, I was so busy back then with work, I rarely thought about what to wear as far as civilian attire and accessories. When I wasn’t in USMC attire (dress, utilities, or physical training attire), I was in khaki trousers, sensible shoes, polo or button down shirts, and not concerned at all about trendy fashion. I did once want a Rolex Submariner, but never could afford it with two little kids, and a wife, to take care of. Today, I can afford a Rolex, but now love my Omegas, TAGs, Seikos, and Casios. Maybe one day my wife will gift me a Rolex
@@crux314 Not sure of your location, except that the "fish and chips" reference implies UK. Here is the US there are routine fast food burgers that might be classified as inexpensive junk, but we have many good restaurants that serve burgers that would make you rethink your desire for seafood.
I just got into watches recently and my first purchase was a Citizen 37mm Garrison Chandler. Eco Drive movement for no fuss operation/maintenance, legible Arabic numerals on a stark, black dial, basic lume, day-date feature, an arrow in place of the 12 and 100M WR on the stock canvas strap. Works for me. Simple and effective.
Fantastic watch. I bought one while my Rolex datejust was being serviced ( £650). The Citizen is now my most reliable and bulletproof watch, superior to my Rolex in every way.
1. Thank you. Your description is spot on. 2. My daily beater watch is a 40 year old Wenger military field watch. 3. Someone mention the Timex Ironman. I have 4 used ones. I have one remaining new one to gift. I give new Ironman watches as beater watches to high school and college graduates.
I work in healthcare at a correctional facility. The correctional officers require a watch as part of their uniforms. 19/100 use an apple or android smart watch. 80/100 west G Shocks. The G shock is in my estimation the true, toughest modern day field watch. 1 officer wears an Omega seamaster professional. I’ve started to wear my G shocks there. It’s nice to blend in well.
G-Shock is a lot of go-to picks. I was in the Army. I used an Armitron digital. It was more useful due to it's easy to read and use stop watch function.
I love listening to your analysis of different watch topics. I picked up a Bulova Hack about 9 months ago and it has become my daily driver. Its about half the price of a Khaki and the most accurate mechanical I own.
I have been thinking about classifying watches into different categories and wearing watches on different occasions. This video made me realize that for me, its all about what emotions does a watch evoke when you put it on you hand. I am a lot into hiking, spending time in nature or at least parks, outdoor exercise of any kind, walking whenever I can. When I put on a field watch, it just evokes in me memories about hiking and nature and spending cool time with my parents in nature, generally very nice memories. Also, when I go exercise or do something in casual clothes in general, it just feels right to put on a field watch. When I dress more smartly for office, It just feels right to have a dressy watch on wrist. I dont wear divers for the most part except when I actually go swimming. Not sure why It works like that for me, its all about feeling 'right' and evoking the right emotion at the right time.
I have been in the US Infantry for the netter part of 9 years, and I have been absolutely thrilled to pick up a Rolex Explorer. I have had a deployment with this watch along with numberous training events where it gets thrashed left and right for the last two years. Using this watch as a tool watch, as it is originally intended, is what makes this piece so awesome. All the cool functions that come from a G-shock are cool and all, but we never use any of it in the real world; no need for the world time, no need for the stop watch function etc. We typically carry a GPS anyways that has all those functions. So why not train in style? The 100m water resistance gives me a lot of faith when working in harsh weather conditions and even during swim events. Even though it is a "luxury brand", i still think Rolex still has their head in the game for making some absolute beaters of a watch. When people say this watch can fit any situation, ill tell you what; it absolutely does.
I wore a Rolex Explorer for 30 months in Vietnam. Of course, the watch was priced at about $250.00 at the PX in 1966. The item is still in the family and still running.
@@antonomaseapophasis5142 you are correct! That watch was a month’s pay for an Army sergeant. A sergeant in a combat zone is now making around $6,000. I’m guessing that’s about the retail price of an OP. Unfortunately the exchange system no longer carries Rolex. By the way, ground sirloin was about 3 pounds for a dollar.
@@Tourist1967 Be aware that the Sub without date, Air King, explorer, and OP all use the same movement. So unless you are in love with the face or you plan on doing some extreme diving, they are all essentially the same timepiece.
If we’re talking value for money and real tool watches Sinn is a fantastic brand. Cases made with amagnetic German submarine steel. Great choice. The Ranger is a great watch too.
I have a bronze Hamilton Khaki for the reason you mentioned- simplicity. I can wear and forget. It is light weight with an olive NATO strap, so I can wear it in the garden, at the side of a rugby pitch or working on the car. I do have a Bremont Broadsword as well. It is on a stainless steel bracelet, Bremont did not have an attractive strap when I bought it. A nice clear face but much heavier- heading towards a dress watch. Very rugged, it is the one I tend to wear when I am travelling, it covers all the bases for a business trip in Asia.
I would just add one thing to Mike's thorough analysis/perspective of what makes a true "tool field watch" that Mike did not overtly state. A person who is buying a true field watch for its simplicity to read the time also wants to buy it as a "beater watch". Meaning I am going to use it at the gym, at a construction site (or other manual labor job), sweat in it, swim in it, biking with it, go rock climbing with it, even go to the office with it, or all of the above! The point being is that I want a watch that can be scratched or I can get dirty without worrying about babying it. The most important features are is it steel or titanium, and inexpensive to the point where I do not worry about scratching it. I guess a person who only wants to buy a field watch for its life style vibe would buy a Patek Philippe 5226 in white gold, but not someone who is going to beat the heck out of it in the field!
I've had a Bertucci A-2T Classic since 2019. Best $110 I've ever spent. My job is outdoors. I've put this watch through snow and ice traversal, river rescue, tech SAR, backpacking, everyday bumps and knocks. It has held up and never let me down. Love it
Bertucci is such an underrated brand for what it offers in the affordable range. I wear my Ventara 11069 (white dial) whenever I venture into the muck.
I love my Ranger. I enjoy having well made things that don't scream "luxury." As with many products, restraint in design often leads to a more fulfilling ownership experience. Don't get me wrong, there are times I like my watches a little more fancy, but sometimes, a quality understated tool is what I want. Thanks for the video.
@TheMutchlerchad; I like understated, even "functional" appearance, but, where possible, some kind of "internal elegance"... the "field watch" genre (although i admit to having a day/date) is useful, readable, no battery to charge or replace, robust enough to wear wherever, whenever..and, for me, "luxury" is not something that i consider very much...if it looks like a "field watch", and is wonderfully well-made, and fits in the mould of "those who know, know, those who don't know, don't concern me.." maybe it's like the "de-badged" high-end Mercedes, or the not-so-obvious RS-6 "station wagon"?
I totally agree but Went with the 2017 omega railmaster. Only the clasp is Better on the Tudor to my eyes but it still is a great piece…and affordable. The fact the railmaster is discontinued also means you won t see it everywhere
citizen eco-drive field watch $100 15 years ago and still going, has gone through hell, oil sand, salt water, mud, 30+ meter dives on weekly basis. Light, small, simple, cheap, durable for sure and always on time with zero adjustments or maintenance. A set it once and forget it type.
Mike- your discussions are prescient, intelligent, and unbiased. I have been yearning for a field watch and have considered precisely what you discuss here. I would add that the best field watches are more than simply the design and construction. The best examples have a back story and an air of authenticity. Personally, I like the Ranger, the Hamilton 38 Murph, and the IWC Mk XV.
I've taken a dive into the watch world and at the end the only one which I ended up using on a daily basis is a 70€ Lorus Lumibrite with a day/date function. Convinience is what makes it stand out for me, even if it lacks all of Casio's functions. It does it's job quicker than a phone.
I bought a CWC black dive watch in '96, through many adventures up mountains & down rivers it's been the perfect field watch, never let me down and is now beat up AF. Still keeps 2sec between battery changes, awesome bit of kit.
If we are going to imagine anyone actually uses each watch for it's original purpose this makes me feel I've saved a bunch of cash by sticking with the kaki feild for my choice of feild watch. I love its simple design.
That was very good and got me thinking about my relationship with my Hamilton Khaki Field Automatic 42 on bracelet, which ive always loved. Busier then the mechanical, it also starts to push that boundary (slightly) but remains firmly toolish because...i only paid $500. And that's another essence of the field watch, it's important not to pay too much.
I've been owning a Tudor Ranger for almost one year now. It's the best daily I ever had. The watch is absolutely perfect for what it is, nothing has to be changed. In its own mystical way, it is simply gorgeous ❤
My favorite tool watch is my 38 Hamilton Khaki Field Automatic. I bought one in 2012 and never wore it and in 2018 my son told me he wanted a new watch and when I asked him what he wanted guess what he said LOL. So I gave it to him, it was still NIB and he has worn it since and loves it. I got the urge for another one a couple of months ago and the price had doubled from 2012. I still think it is worth what I paid for it, it is just a great watch that looks awesome and is accurate.
PP 5226 is GORGEOUS! I love that watch. I love plain faced watches, mainly with numerals at 12, 3, 6, and 9. (sometimes more like in the 5226). My daily wear tool (?) watch is a Timex Hodinkee Waterbury Limited Edition. I love the pebbled face of the dial and the simple legible dial layout.
I have a Hamilton khaki field mechanical. I got it because it was simple, easy to read and didn't require batteries. When I told my wife that I had to wind it every day she asked, "What's the point?" That was the point.
Just purchased a Christopher Ward C65 Sandhurst field watch and love everything about it. I also have a Hamilton titanium khaki field, and alternate between the two.
I’ve watched dozens of watch videos in the last few weeks. This one is my favorite so far. I appreciate the informative, simple burger style presentation.
Reminds me of the KISS saying... Keep it simple stupid... You get the basics right and then they will be superb. I probably like the Draken Aoraki most. Its well made... Its tough... It has a faraday cage in it... It a great field watch! Have a great one Mike!
My favorite field beater travel watch is the Hamilton H70455523. Within the last ten years I have worn it on five different continents. On a nato it still wears fairly slim. I actually use the date complication when I travel compared to home where I prefer time only watches
Great video and topic. There’s something so refreshing and charming about the utilitarian spirit and unpretentious yet efficacious design of a field watch. I think you’re right in saying that sometimes less is indeed more. Simple uncomplicated three-handers can deliver a lot of enjoyment. I own ta Serica 4512, a modern no non-sense field watch, which is perhaps just a tad more sophisticated than your average hammy. And in fact the Murph 38 was Serica‘s main contender and lost also for a question of budget. But when it comes to field watches I have to mention the CWC G10 and W10. Especially their quartz variants deliver great value for watches that have historically been issued to the British army. I‘d love to add a W10 to my collection at some point!
Excellent video. You've just given me another reason to love my 124270 Explorer even more. It really is about as luxurious as a field watch should be without compromising its role as a tool.
You nailed it. I think you could have even thrown the Longines Spirit into the conversation. Regarding the G-Shock...things with batteries like to act up in very cold weather and very hot weather, so I might argue that a mechanical watch is better suited to temperatures more on the extreme side.
I found my mechanicals were somewhat bothered by the difference between -15°C in the German winter and +35°C during the S.E. Asian hot season. Much more than my gshocks and eco-drives.
I use the Citizen Ecodrive Garrison as a field watch. (Its a pilot watch) no battery no problems. That and another one I got as gifts and have been through rugged treatment and look and function great. Low end goodness!!
Many, many watches perform perfectly for their design principle. Keeping time. I bought a simple Citizen Eco Drive when I first knew about them more than 20 years ago and it still works perfectly. I've change the bands twice. It is like the perfect marriage and I have no reason to change.
Every day I throw my polished titanium GS on my wrist and forget about it (whatever I am doing) until I need to know the time. It still looks the same as the day I bought it. No-one notices it because at a distance it looks like an everyday steel watch from the 70s. I never worry about its power level - it has never stopped. That is my idea of a tool watch.
After the dive watch, I"d say the field watch is the most popular style out there. That's why there are tons of affordable options in addition to the models you show in your video. One of the better-known budget field watch it the Timex Expedition. They made a gazillion of them in different styles and one can see them quite often on the wrist of any given stranger on the street.
One of the things I always loved about Steinhart Watches was the “field watch” vibe. I own the GMT which I’m sure was created for people who cant or wont afford a Rolex Explorer II. It is my weekend watch! My beater. The one I never worry about. All painted markers. 300M of water resistance. Completely brushed. All for less than $600 USD. I know a lot of people hate the brand because they knockoff other designs. But I love the only Steinhart I own…because its truly go anywhere do anything for the weekend beater. And with that said…it’s the weekend. See ya.
I have their take on the original Exp II too - and love it. If Rolex would reissue it and sell it to us mortals, I’d buy theirs and give the Steinhart to a young personas his gateway watch (still on the list for the 226570 polar - the downside of living in a metropolis).
I have and wear three different Hamilton automatics, one for dress, one sailing (Navy Pioneer), one all the rest of the time, the KhakiField model. They have been very reliable and get noticed, especially the Limited Edition Jazzmaster (2018). As an outdoors person I value the reliability. These replaced two Tissot quartz watches which fogged up because the kid that replaced the battery last time wrecked the gasket, I was out sailing and it just quit. These automatic field watches don’t have the issue of battery failure and humidity leaks. No battery to fail at -30C. Shockproof, easy to read at a glance, second sweep hand, smooth metal bracelet that stays closed. Not fancy, but they work in my real world.
Great channel, arguably the most informed and seemingly least influenced out there, I congratulate you. However you have missed the Seiko SARB017. Arguably the purest and most functional field / alrounder of them all! Love the content 👌
For the past 10 years, my daily watch has been the Seiko SNK805. What I like the most about it, apart from the size and legibility, is the position of the crown at 4 o'clock. It is never in the way. Tragically, Seiko has stopped producing the clock, so I will have to find a couple of late production ones still out there somewhere.
I don't remember when I got it but I've been using an SNK805 for years. Threw a dark brown leather strap on it and it's a damn nice watch for being "budget"(use to be, they're twice what I paid for now). I love simple watches.
Ironically, if I was to climb Everest and had to take an automatic watch (and not a Garmin/G-Shock), I’d want to take my Submariner Date. The diving bezel would be useful to time ascent/descent times, rest breaks, and it’s tough as nails. The Submariner to me is a true Explorer’s watch. A true Aqua-Terra, surf and turf explorer’s watch.
After a lifetime of disposable timex's(and a really nice Seiko) my tool watch for the last 3 deployments was a GMT II- worked great, did everything I needed and took a lot of punishment-so, in my eyes, the best field watch I've owned.
I am still obsessed with my Vaer A5 automatic, and am very glad I went for the steel bracelet. Got as a christmas gift for myself last year and still wear it every day.
This has got to be the best explanation for what a watch is all about, especially a field watch. It's a tool, pure and simple. I love my field watches. None are super expensive, but incredibly useful for what they do, simply telling the time. Excellent video and presentation.
My one and only "Field Watch" is the, as you noted in the video, the disqualified "Murph 38". I love it because it's "cleaner" than the base Khaki, but because of the beautiful brushed case, I won't let it become a beater - I love the clean brushing - which defeats the whole purpose! 😂
I still use my Orvis field watch on occasion. It's over 40 years old and I love wearing it, as it was a gift from my brother. I've burned through a few straps though.
So good to hear someone digging into this topic and articulating so many of my thoughts. Really, it's only out of respect to the heritage that we still view field watches, like the Hamilton, no matter how stripped down, as tools. We simply have cheaper, better technology to do the tasks required; spending $700 on an instrument to tell us the time is a luxury no matter how you look at it. Watches are so fascinating because they're not just about what they do in a mechanical sense, but what they say to the world about the wearer. Values, whether they be utilitarian, nostalgia, stealth wealth, or other subtle and NON-subtle signaling are all at work.
Very nice video, as always, but I do have a bone to pick with it. You can't really talk about field watches loke Hamilton without acknowledging the many Seikos and Citizens. The Alpinist immediately comes to mind, but Seiko has been making field watches of different kinds all throughout its history. The Seiko 5 Sports SRPs, SARGs, HAQ Brightz, there are and have been tons of them. These have served as reliable workhorse beaters for many, many watch wearers through the years.
I work in supply chain and my field/tool watch I wear is a Vostok on a nato strap. I've beat the crap out of it and it still works just like the day I bought it.
got a citizen ‘Ray Mears’ titanium field watch. It’s fantastic. 300m, solid titanium block, solar powered eco drive, Kevlar strap. All for £300. Love it.
I was ten years old when our local jeweller delivered my father’s Rolex 5500 Air King with white Arabic dial for which he paid 55 guineas. That was sixty years ago and dad is long gone, but I wear his Rolex with pride. It’s simple, a field watch by current parlance, but perfect in every way. I guess the measure of a great watch is that it is timeless.
Per my personal experience, there is no such thing as a "luxury hammer". It is a toll. If well built, you use it "in the field' It can never be a "show off" item. Same goes with watches. Ironman's or G-Shock's are the field watches. Having said that I found out that a whole Halo team was using Rolex Submariners (painted in black) since there are resistant to electro-magnetic explosions. Still, I don't think there is any real field watch in this video ( but only retro field style watches). They are like our SUVs; lost their connection with the off-road, instead became glorified SWs.
Staight-forward, informative, friendly, cordial... that's what a TH-cam presenter should be. And also a tool watch. Wry smile. Thank you very much - excellent!
The best tool/field watch would be defined by the words “practical”, “durable”, “versatile”and “reliable”. Having at least 100M water resistance, a screw down crown, automatic and hand winding (but the ultimate would be solar quartz), excellent lume and low light legibility, good color contrasts between the hands and the indices/dial, and having something like hardened steel is a nice touch. And often overlooked, the ability to adjust the strap and easily take it on and swap out with other straps is a huge plus.
I've been owning a Tudor Ranger for almost one year now. It's the best daily I ever had. The watch is absolutely perfect for what it is, nothing has to be changed. In its own mystical way, it is simply gorgeous ❤
Nice take on the tool watch world. As an owner of a 5226g I appreciate the brand's option of a tool like watch. I think Patek successfully bridged that tool luxury divide. And that dial.....
People for some reason are not comfortable admitting that they are wearing jewelry and are trying to pass off their often multi thousand $ purchase as a tool. Other than personal preference in terms of style calling anything in this price range a tool with a straight face is just silly
Wearing a Rolex explorer instead of a 50$ gschok im the “ field “ is wearing jewellery 😊 there is a better cheaper tool if you are interested in the tool part
@@INSANEFAMETrue, but I can get a G shock for just $100, and can abuse it, and I mean put it through hell, till its battery dies. The same cannot be said for an explorer.
I bought the Ranger and I've had no regrets. Frigging amazing. I love how boring the watch is, contrary to all the shade its been getting from the community
Nomenclature is all very interesting, but what's the purpose of a field watch - who uses the watch, and why? When I served in the 90s, I wore a Casio. If I had to wear a watch today in the field (camping, yomping) it would be a Marathon GSAR - visibility at night is GOAT. No other watch I own can match it, even watches x3 the price.
Marathon GSAR uses tritium tubes so it just glows. It doesn’t require light to be charged like lune. It’ll glow for about 25years. Then you’d be left with 1/4 of tritium. So it would need to go back to Marathon for new tubes.
I agree ; It’s very difficult to adorn the field watch without making it a whole separate beast. That’s also why I thoroughly respect companies that manage to somehow break the mold in subtle ways, making a different beast, while still keeping something that is believably, a Hamilton-style field watch.
I forgot to add: 1. thank you. You are accurate on describing the field watch. 2. Sunday, I had dinner with 4 family members. 3 wore Rolex watches. Those three I had gifted new Victorinox field watches over the years. one had a factory overhaul of her Rolex in Paris last year -$700, So, having a field watch as a beater watch can be a good move.
Unpretentious! Yes, sir. The Formex Field counts as its own interpretation of the field watch, I think. And the nearest the Explorer ever got to the summit of Everest was the AD’s window in Kathmandu…😚
You have a gift. Such a great cadence and delivery of the information. You could be reading the recipe from your grandmothers cookbook and it would be mesmerizing. Thank you for sharing watch info for us !
the g-shock is the modern day field watch lol the g-shock is the modern day dive watch the g-shock is the modern day sport watch. the g-shock is the past day smart watch. basically the g-shock is for everything, but it's bleedingly ugly IMO.
This was perfect. And i love that you touched specifically on pilot watches as field watches, and on IWC as being in a weird place with their pilot watches stuck between tool and luxury (which is actually what I like most about them). Your detailed analysis on the explorer- which can be applied to lots of models of course- was so refined. You have such a subjective way of seeing normally objective and emotional things with these watches. Just awesome. 👏
Really very, very good. Great debate. I love Field Watches because of their simplicity and durability. I'll have my burger from the van outside the nightclub as you say.
When I finally set out to buy a field (tool) watch my first look was to the Rolex Explorer (39mm). I liked the heritage, reputation, and look. But in reality I liked the look of the Explorer 1016 much better. To me it had "the look". But the 1016's are getting pretty old and very expensive for a decent one. Fast forward a couple years and the newest Tudor Ranger arrives on scene. It's well built, has a modern/rugged movement, a great size for my 7 1/2" wrist, and had that Explorer 1016 look. I don't think I could be any happier about this purchase. I use it golfing, hiking, bike riding, and all sorts of work inside and outside my house. It did take me awhile to fully appreciate this Tudor and now I have a hard time giving my other watches time on my wrist.
The Hamilton Khaki mechanical field watch has been my choice due its simplicity and durability. This watch earns its keep with my work in the forensic field as well as it pays homage to the original Hamilton worn by my father serving in the ETO during WWII. That watch had a very special story behind it.
Hi! I would toss my Omega Railmaster with its charcoal dial in the ring. IMHO the Railmaster is an understated luxury tool watch. The 3, 6, 9 and 12 non applied numerals and the cross hair give it its field watch vibes. The case and bracelet is all brushed and the crown has got a decent size. Best wishes, Claus
The function I find most important in a field watch is luminosity that lasts all night, I was an infantry scout and spent many nights on patrol. The cheap Timex field watches I wore at the time barely made it to first light. My favorite working watch was a gift from my mother-in-law, a Tissot PR100 Titanium. It's luminous marks are easily read on the longest nights without the preparation of holding the dial to a flashlight. I wear it every day, but it excels as my camping watch.
I enjoyed your presentation very much. Just wanted to throw in that I ordered my first field watch this February. I was persuaded by the Mad Hacker to support his launch of his very own Field Watch. Listen to his sales / specifications speech and you may understand why I was hooked. Plus it’s wind up. Cheers R
Amazing how you can talk for a quarter of an hour about this topic, with excellent and well thought through arguments. Well, my personal best field watch is a Norqain Neverest (Zermatt special edition). OK, by your definitions it is not a field watch as it has a rotating bezel and a "glacier" looking dial, but it certainly looks, feels and wears like a true field watch.
Thanks - I just ignore my family and nerd on watches in stead 😂😂 As for Norqain, I have to dive into them at some point. I'm seeing more and more of them and have stopped at the counter often, but never taken one out of the case... On the to do 😃
Thank you - a work of clarity. But as asked, for me a Hamilton Khaki. I would take down a mine, cross a desert or climb a mountain. Strikingly plain and handsome too.
My field watch is a Wolbrook Outrider Professional. It has two features that could detract from its toolworthiness: a beads-of-rice stainless steel bracelet, which will be swapped out with a NATO strap later on; and, a rich, blue, sunburst dial. Otherwise this watch checks all the boxes that identify it as a field watch. Great video - please keep them coming!
I have a Victorinox Officer that I bought 15 years ago and love it. It’s unpretentious, simple but not dumb, elegant, resistant and it tells the time. It’s not an expensive watch, but is looks great.
I bought a plain brown bag watch for actually being in the field. A tool watch is a watch that gets scratched and doesn't become a bummer. It tells a story. I have a Seiko Field Sport Automatic w/ the NATO strap. Personally , I want the date and time on the watch. For when you're in the field for long days. My next field watch will be the Hamilton Khaki, even though it doesn't have the date. The Hamilton keeps with the plan.
I love my Sinn 104 but I also love my Seiko 5 sport. The Sinn has a touch of luxury (stainless), day and date are essential for me. And the bezel is a handy timer without adding chrono weight and bulk. Funny, I mostly wear the Seiko 5.
New subscriber here. This video is only 9 days old and already has nearly 500 replies. It is rare to find such an articulate and thoughtful discussion. My taste in field/tool/pilot watches are at a lower level than even the Hamilton. They are made by Casio, Orient and Seiko. Except for my Bulova military model with its 262khz movement, I can lose, damage, or break any of them without being heartbroken.
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I served in the United States Marine Corps for 22 years. I went to the field to train and to do real world Marine things. Afghanistan, Iraq, Philippines, Sri Lanka…I wore Timex Ironmans. When I wasn’t in the field, I wore my TAGs. Watches my wife gifted me every time I was promoted. All of the watches have a story. My wife purchased all of my TAGs at the Marine Corps Exchange
Just out of curiosity... did you chose them and she paid for them? It would drive me mad if my wife would buy watches for me, because it is totally subjective and even a function of time, whether you will like and wear a watch.
Thanks for sharing. My guess is those watches have a lot of memories attached to them 😃
@@watchpickle2k she selected them without my input. Thankfully, my old lady has always had great taste and knows what I like. I’ll be honest, I was so busy back then with work, I rarely thought about what to wear as far as civilian attire and accessories. When I wasn’t in USMC attire (dress, utilities, or physical training attire), I was in khaki trousers, sensible shoes, polo or button down shirts, and not concerned at all about trendy fashion. I did once want a Rolex Submariner, but never could afford it with two little kids, and a wife, to take care of. Today, I can afford a Rolex, but now love my Omegas, TAGs, Seikos, and Casios. Maybe one day my wife will gift me a Rolex
Maybe she bought her lovers Rolexes? *badum tsss*
@@yarly3180 Good old Jody! He gets around with that mullet and smooth talk. Running around with Submariners, greasy hair, STDs, and Crocs
The burger analogy is by far the best thing I’ve heard in a long time. Ill carry this analogy to more aspects of my life
when did he say it
Who doesn't like a burger... ?😃😂
@@wifine1951 13:30
Perhaps "fish and chips" would be more likely. No body wants his/ her watch to be inexpensive junk.
@@crux314 Not sure of your location, except that the "fish and chips" reference implies UK. Here is the US there are routine fast food burgers that might be classified as inexpensive junk, but we have many good restaurants that serve burgers that would make you rethink your desire for seafood.
Thanks for being you. Too many flamboyant youtubers. Your style of communication is truly appreciated.
Am I not flamboyant ? 😂😂😂💔
I just got into watches recently and my first purchase was a Citizen 37mm Garrison Chandler. Eco Drive movement for no fuss operation/maintenance, legible Arabic numerals on a stark, black dial, basic lume, day-date feature, an arrow in place of the 12 and 100M WR on the stock canvas strap. Works for me. Simple and effective.
That’s a sharp watch. Like the white face version
Fantastic watch. I bought one while my Rolex datejust was being serviced ( £650). The Citizen is now my most reliable and bulletproof watch, superior to my Rolex in every way.
1. Thank you. Your description is spot on.
2. My daily beater watch is a 40 year old Wenger military field watch.
3. Someone mention the Timex Ironman. I have 4 used ones. I have one remaining new one to gift. I give new Ironman watches as beater watches to high school and college graduates.
I work in healthcare at a correctional facility. The correctional officers require a watch as part of their uniforms. 19/100 use an apple or android smart watch. 80/100 west G Shocks. The G shock is in my estimation the true, toughest modern day field watch. 1 officer wears an Omega seamaster professional. I’ve started to wear my G shocks there. It’s nice to blend in well.
Great testimony. I can understand this.
G-Shock is a lot of go-to picks. I was in the Army. I used an Armitron digital. It was more useful due to it's easy to read and use stop watch function.
On the spot in todays watch world. The question I have is that we sometimes seek some kind of differentiation but at the same time simplicity .
G-shock for the win 😀😀
how are you allowed to wear a watch at healthcare?
Rocking a Hamilton Bronze Khaki here, a gift from my son. I adore it. Upon my demise, the watch enters his collection.
There will be no demise - but you will merely fade away into the past
I am currently thinking about buying it. Are you happy with it?
I love listening to your analysis of different watch topics. I picked up a Bulova Hack about 9 months ago and it has become my daily driver. Its about half the price of a Khaki and the most accurate mechanical I own.
I have been thinking about classifying watches into different categories and wearing watches on different occasions. This video made me realize that for me, its all about what emotions does a watch evoke when you put it on you hand. I am a lot into hiking, spending time in nature or at least parks, outdoor exercise of any kind, walking whenever I can. When I put on a field watch, it just evokes in me memories about hiking and nature and spending cool time with my parents in nature, generally very nice memories. Also, when I go exercise or do something in casual clothes in general, it just feels right to put on a field watch. When I dress more smartly for office, It just feels right to have a dressy watch on wrist. I dont wear divers for the most part except when I actually go swimming. Not sure why It works like that for me, its all about feeling 'right' and evoking the right emotion at the right time.
what model(s) dressy watch do u recommend ?
I simply enjoy your eloquent explanations. I find it like great book material. Have a great time.
Appreciated kind sir 😃😃
Sinn makes some great field - tool watches. 556 and the 856!
I have been in the US Infantry for the netter part of 9 years, and I have been absolutely thrilled to pick up a Rolex Explorer. I have had a deployment with this watch along with numberous training events where it gets thrashed left and right for the last two years.
Using this watch as a tool watch, as it is originally intended, is what makes this piece so awesome.
All the cool functions that come from a G-shock are cool and all, but we never use any of it in the real world; no need for the world time, no need for the stop watch function etc. We typically carry a GPS anyways that has all those functions. So why not train in style?
The 100m water resistance gives me a lot of faith when working in harsh weather conditions and even during swim events.
Even though it is a "luxury brand", i still think Rolex still has their head in the game for making some absolute beaters of a watch. When people say this watch can fit any situation, ill tell you what; it absolutely does.
And there's always one whose alarm goes off, or it beeps or lights up like a Christmas tree at night...
It's refreshing to see a focus on functionality and simplicity over luxury in the watch world.
I wore a Rolex Explorer for 30 months in Vietnam. Of course, the watch was priced at about $250.00 at the PX in 1966. The item is still in the family and still running.
Gallon of gas $0.20?
@@antonomaseapophasis5142 you are correct! That watch was a month’s pay for an Army sergeant. A sergeant in a combat zone is now making around $6,000. I’m guessing that’s about the retail price of an OP. Unfortunately the exchange system no longer carries Rolex. By the way, ground sirloin was about 3 pounds for a dollar.
@@bobgaston1 I was just looking at Explorers...either that or the strangely unloved Milgauss
@@Tourist1967 Be aware that the Sub without date, Air King, explorer, and OP all use the same movement. So unless you are in love with the face or you plan on doing some extreme diving, they are all essentially the same timepiece.
I love the 1016 above all others. Wish I had held out for one back when they were affordable.
I had my heart set on a Ranger, then I saw the Sinn 556 A and went with that. A lot less money and a really good quality watch.
How's the .223 model?
If we’re talking value for money and real tool watches Sinn is a fantastic brand. Cases made with amagnetic German submarine steel. Great choice. The Ranger is a great watch too.
All i want is a Ranger in 36mm
not sure but the 300 blk is not as loud as the 556.@@dre32pitt
I have a bronze Hamilton Khaki for the reason you mentioned- simplicity. I can wear and forget. It is light weight with an olive NATO strap, so I can wear it in the garden, at the side of a rugby pitch or working on the car.
I do have a Bremont Broadsword as well. It is on a stainless steel bracelet, Bremont did not have an attractive strap when I bought it. A nice clear face but much heavier- heading towards a dress watch. Very rugged, it is the one I tend to wear when I am travelling, it covers all the bases for a business trip in Asia.
I would just add one thing to Mike's thorough analysis/perspective of what makes a true "tool field watch" that Mike did not overtly state. A person who is buying a true field watch for its simplicity to read the time also wants to buy it as a "beater watch". Meaning I am going to use it at the gym, at a construction site (or other manual labor job), sweat in it, swim in it, biking with it, go rock climbing with it, even go to the office with it, or all of the above! The point being is that I want a watch that can be scratched or I can get dirty without worrying about babying it. The most important features are is it steel or titanium, and inexpensive to the point where I do not worry about scratching it. I guess a person who only wants to buy a field watch for its life style vibe would buy a Patek Philippe 5226 in white gold, but not someone who is going to beat the heck out of it in the field!
GADA watch
@@theshadow1812 GADA means/stands for?
@@dannysimenauer5745 Go Anywhere Do Anything
@@dannysimenauer5745it means "go anywhere, do anything"
@@Iseu47 thanks!
I've had a Bertucci A-2T Classic since 2019. Best $110 I've ever spent. My job is outdoors. I've put this watch through snow and ice traversal, river rescue, tech SAR, backpacking, everyday bumps and knocks. It has held up and never let me down. Love it
Bertucci is such an underrated brand for what it offers in the affordable range. I wear my Ventara 11069 (white dial) whenever I venture into the muck.
I love my Ranger. I enjoy having well made things that don't scream "luxury." As with many products, restraint in design often leads to a more fulfilling ownership experience. Don't get me wrong, there are times I like my watches a little more fancy, but sometimes, a quality understated tool is what I want. Thanks for the video.
I love my RANGER aswell, superb piece 👍
@TheMutchlerchad;
I like understated, even "functional" appearance, but, where possible, some kind of "internal elegance"... the "field watch" genre (although i admit to having a day/date) is useful, readable, no battery to charge or replace, robust enough to wear wherever, whenever..and, for me, "luxury" is not something that i consider very much...if it looks like a "field watch", and is wonderfully well-made, and fits in the mould of "those who know, know, those who don't know, don't concern me.." maybe it's like the "de-badged" high-end Mercedes, or the not-so-obvious RS-6 "station wagon"?
I love mine as well. The micro adjustment on the bracelet just works so well, and I find myself adjusting it at least a couple of times in the day.
I totally agree but Went with the 2017 omega railmaster. Only the clasp is Better on the Tudor to my eyes but it still is a great piece…and affordable. The fact the railmaster is discontinued also means you won t see it everywhere
Well said 🎯
citizen eco-drive field watch $100 15 years ago and still going, has gone through hell, oil sand, salt water, mud, 30+ meter dives on weekly basis. Light, small, simple, cheap, durable for sure and always on time with zero adjustments or maintenance. A set it once and forget it type.
But is it readable in the dark? That watch has very poor lume
@@Ferien7
Mine is pretty good in the dark, maybe you bought a different model
@@miopera40 mine is the 36mm black dial version with a red seconds hand. Not the same one?
@@Ferien7
probably the same, I haven't had issues at night with it but to be fair most of the beating it takes is on day time.
Mike- your discussions are prescient, intelligent, and unbiased. I have been yearning for a field watch and have considered precisely what you discuss here. I would add that the best field watches are more than simply the design and construction. The best examples have a back story and an air of authenticity. Personally, I like the Ranger, the Hamilton 38 Murph, and the IWC Mk XV.
I try, and am happy you enjoy my approach 😃😃 IWC for me.... 😃😃
I've taken a dive into the watch world and at the end the only one which I ended up using on a daily basis is a 70€ Lorus Lumibrite with a day/date function.
Convinience is what makes it stand out for me, even if it lacks all of Casio's functions. It does it's job quicker than a phone.
...me too, Lumibrite does the job!!!! 😁😁😂😂
Big fan of my two Hamiltons. They just feel perfect on my wrist. Large numerals are most appreciated.
I bought a CWC black dive watch in '96, through many adventures up mountains & down rivers it's been the perfect field watch, never let me down and is now beat up AF. Still keeps 2sec between battery changes, awesome bit of kit.
Well, I've got an Eterna Bumper produced in 1942. That watch has actually been 'in the field', which makesvit a true field watch
If we are going to imagine anyone actually uses each watch for it's original purpose this makes me feel I've saved a bunch of cash by sticking with the kaki feild for my choice of feild watch. I love its simple design.
I have 2 nice dressy divers with 20 ATM. I have only used them as office watches.
That was very good and got me thinking about my relationship with my Hamilton Khaki Field Automatic 42 on bracelet, which ive always loved. Busier then the mechanical, it also starts to push that boundary (slightly) but remains firmly toolish because...i only paid $500. And that's another essence of the field watch, it's important not to pay too much.
Right on! 😃
I have always loved the Field watches, easy to read.
My newest watch - The Tudor Ranger. Love it.
Yeah tried one on at my local shop, and it’s way nicer than I thought. Awesome watch
I've been owning a Tudor Ranger for almost one year now. It's the best daily I ever had. The watch is absolutely perfect for what it is, nothing has to be changed. In its own mystical way, it is simply gorgeous ❤
Love the butt plug hour hand. Perfect for exploring new ground and charting unseen depths.
Not tool watch or field watch..
I'm hoping to purchase one in near future 👍
My favorite tool watch is my 38 Hamilton Khaki Field Automatic. I bought one in 2012 and never wore it and in 2018 my son told me he wanted a new watch and when I asked him what he wanted guess what he said LOL. So I gave it to him, it was still NIB and he has worn it since and loves it. I got the urge for another one a couple of months ago and the price had doubled from 2012. I still think it is worth what I paid for it, it is just a great watch that looks awesome and is accurate.
PP 5226 is GORGEOUS! I love that watch. I love plain faced watches, mainly with numerals at 12, 3, 6, and 9. (sometimes more like in the 5226). My daily wear tool (?) watch is a Timex Hodinkee Waterbury Limited Edition. I love the pebbled face of the dial and the simple legible dial layout.
CWC G10. Field watch perfection to me. I can't get over how pure it feels.
I have a Hamilton khaki field mechanical. I got it because it was simple, easy to read and didn't require batteries. When I told my wife that I had to wind it every day she asked, "What's the point?" That was the point.
Fantastic video, you couldn't use best words to explain why fild watches are definitely my favorite ones. Thank you for your work 👌
You are very welcome, and thanks for taking the time to say so 😃😃
Just purchased a Christopher Ward C65 Sandhurst field watch and love everything about it. I also have a Hamilton titanium khaki field, and alternate between the two.
How does it compare to the Hamilton?
I’ve watched dozens of watch videos in the last few weeks. This one is my favorite so far. I appreciate the informative, simple burger style presentation.
Happy to hear it. Hope you stick around 😀
Reminds me of the KISS saying... Keep it simple stupid... You get the basics right and then they will be superb. I probably like the Draken Aoraki most. Its well made... Its tough... It has a faraday cage in it... It a great field watch! Have a great one Mike!
My favorite field beater travel watch is the Hamilton H70455523. Within the last ten years I have worn it on five different continents. On a nato it still wears fairly slim. I actually use the date complication when I travel compared to home where I prefer time only watches
Great video and topic. There’s something so refreshing and charming about the utilitarian spirit and unpretentious yet efficacious design of a field watch. I think you’re right in saying that sometimes less is indeed more. Simple uncomplicated three-handers can deliver a lot of enjoyment. I own ta Serica 4512, a modern no non-sense field watch, which is perhaps just a tad more sophisticated than your average hammy. And in fact the Murph 38 was Serica‘s main contender and lost also for a question of budget.
But when it comes to field watches I have to mention the CWC G10 and W10. Especially their quartz variants deliver great value for watches that have historically been issued to the British army. I‘d love to add a W10 to my collection at some point!
Excellent video. You've just given me another reason to love my 124270 Explorer even more.
It really is about as luxurious as a field watch should be without compromising its role as a tool.
it is labelled as a tool watch but let's be honest, it is luxury.
A tool watch is a Gshock
@@ninjesus4079 it is priced as luxury but it is just a good quality field watch
@@yusufbest4475no, a g shock is far more accurate, durable, and reliable. Mechanical movements are delicate and fragile
You nailed it. I think you could have even thrown the Longines Spirit into the conversation. Regarding the G-Shock...things with batteries like to act up in very cold weather and very hot weather, so I might argue that a mechanical watch is better suited to temperatures more on the extreme side.
I found my mechanicals were somewhat bothered by the difference between -15°C in the German winter and +35°C during the S.E. Asian hot season. Much more than my gshocks and eco-drives.
I use the Citizen Ecodrive Garrison as a field watch. (Its a pilot watch) no battery no problems. That and another one I got as gifts and have been through rugged treatment and look and function great. Low end goodness!!
Great point of view . Down to earth , intelligent perspective . Very much enjoyed .Thank you .
Thank you kindly! 😃
Many, many watches perform perfectly for their design principle. Keeping time. I bought a simple Citizen Eco Drive when I first knew about them more than 20 years ago and it still works perfectly. I've change the bands twice. It is like the perfect marriage and I have no reason to change.
Every day I throw my polished titanium GS on my wrist and forget about it (whatever I am doing) until I need to know the time.
It still looks the same as the day I bought it.
No-one notices it because at a distance it looks like an everyday steel watch from the 70s.
I never worry about its power level - it has never stopped.
That is my idea of a tool watch.
After the dive watch, I"d say the field watch is the most popular style out there. That's why there are tons of affordable options in addition to the models you show in your video. One of the better-known budget field watch it the Timex Expedition. They made a gazillion of them in different styles and one can see them quite often on the wrist of any given stranger on the street.
One of the things I always loved about Steinhart Watches was the “field watch” vibe. I own the GMT which I’m sure was created for people who cant or wont afford a Rolex Explorer II. It is my weekend watch! My beater. The one I never worry about. All painted markers. 300M of water resistance. Completely brushed. All for less than $600 USD. I know a lot of people hate the brand because they knockoff other designs. But I love the only Steinhart I own…because its truly go anywhere do anything for the weekend beater. And with that said…it’s the weekend. See ya.
I have their take on the original Exp II too - and love it. If Rolex would reissue it and sell it to us mortals, I’d buy theirs and give the Steinhart to a young personas his gateway watch (still on the list for the 226570 polar - the downside of living in a metropolis).
I have and wear three different Hamilton automatics, one for dress, one sailing (Navy Pioneer), one all the rest of the time, the KhakiField model. They have been very reliable and get noticed, especially the Limited Edition Jazzmaster (2018). As an outdoors person I value the reliability. These replaced two Tissot quartz watches which fogged up because the kid that replaced the battery last time wrecked the gasket, I was out sailing and it just quit. These automatic field watches don’t have the issue of battery failure and humidity leaks. No battery to fail at -30C. Shockproof, easy to read at a glance, second sweep hand, smooth metal bracelet that stays closed. Not fancy, but they work in my real world.
Great channel, arguably the most informed and seemingly least influenced out there, I congratulate you. However you have missed the Seiko SARB017. Arguably the purest and most functional field / alrounder of them all! Love the content 👌
For the past 10 years, my daily watch has been the Seiko SNK805. What I like the most about it, apart from the size and legibility, is the position of the crown at 4 o'clock. It is never in the way. Tragically, Seiko has stopped producing the clock, so I will have to find a couple of late production ones still out there somewhere.
I don't remember when I got it but I've been using an SNK805 for years.
Threw a dark brown leather strap on it and it's a damn nice watch for being "budget"(use to be, they're twice what I paid for now).
I love simple watches.
Now I am wearing the srpg35, I found it can jump from field to formal casual changing to black leather strap .
your intro was describing invicta. " only chronograph with a meteorite face" shopNBC goid days
Ironically, if I was to climb Everest and had to take an automatic watch (and not a Garmin/G-Shock), I’d want to take my Submariner Date.
The diving bezel would be useful to time ascent/descent times, rest breaks, and it’s tough as nails.
The Submariner to me is a true Explorer’s watch. A true Aqua-Terra, surf and turf explorer’s watch.
After a lifetime of disposable timex's(and a really nice Seiko) my tool watch for the last 3 deployments was a GMT II- worked great, did everything I needed and took a lot of punishment-so, in my eyes, the best field watch I've owned.
My field watch is a Vaer. I love it.
Yes! Their watches are great.
I am still obsessed with my Vaer A5 automatic, and am very glad I went for the steel bracelet. Got as a christmas gift for myself last year and still wear it every day.
This has got to be the best explanation for what a watch is all about, especially a field watch. It's a tool, pure and simple. I love my field watches. None are super expensive, but incredibly useful for what they do, simply telling the time. Excellent video and presentation.
Thanks - Glad you found it worth your time 😀
Extremely well thought through and articulate video. A real discovery, reminds me a bit of Watchfinder some years ago.
That's high praise - Thanks a ton 😃😃
My one and only "Field Watch" is the, as you noted in the video, the disqualified "Murph 38". I love it because it's "cleaner" than the base Khaki, but because of the beautiful brushed case, I won't let it become a beater - I love the clean brushing - which defeats the whole purpose! 😂
Nothing beats my $50 Timex Expedition. They “take a licking and keep on ticking” 😬
Seems there is no love for the Timex Expedition here lol. I loved mine and it took a beating but never failed and kept great time.
@@dmacarthur5356 snobs
I still use my Orvis field watch on occasion. It's over 40 years old and I love wearing it, as it was a gift from my brother. I've burned through a few straps though.
Mike just talked me into wanting a field watch
lol 😂
I love this ad about Oris rebuilding a watch. Beautiful. I watch it almost every time. Beautiful music too.
Seamaster Railmaster ✅
So good to hear someone digging into this topic and articulating so many of my thoughts. Really, it's only out of respect to the heritage that we still view field watches, like the Hamilton, no matter how stripped down, as tools. We simply have cheaper, better technology to do the tasks required; spending $700 on an instrument to tell us the time is a luxury no matter how you look at it. Watches are so fascinating because they're not just about what they do in a mechanical sense, but what they say to the world about the wearer. Values, whether they be utilitarian, nostalgia, stealth wealth, or other subtle and NON-subtle signaling are all at work.
Very nice video, as always, but I do have a bone to pick with it. You can't really talk about field watches loke Hamilton without acknowledging the many Seikos and Citizens. The Alpinist immediately comes to mind, but Seiko has been making field watches of different kinds all throughout its history. The Seiko 5 Sports SRPs, SARGs, HAQ Brightz, there are and have been tons of them. These have served as reliable workhorse beaters for many, many watch wearers through the years.
I work in supply chain and my field/tool watch I wear is a Vostok on a nato strap. I've beat the crap out of it and it still works just like the day I bought it.
got a citizen ‘Ray Mears’ titanium field watch. It’s fantastic. 300m, solid titanium block, solar powered eco drive, Kevlar strap. All for £300. Love it.
I was ten years old when our local jeweller delivered my father’s Rolex 5500 Air King with white Arabic dial for which he paid 55 guineas. That was sixty years ago and dad is long gone, but I wear his Rolex with pride. It’s simple, a field watch by current parlance, but perfect in every way. I guess the measure of a great watch is that it is timeless.
Per my personal experience, there is no such thing as a "luxury hammer". It is a toll. If well built, you use it "in the field' It can never be a "show off" item. Same goes with watches. Ironman's or G-Shock's are the field watches. Having said that I found out that a whole Halo team was using Rolex Submariners (painted in black) since there are resistant to electro-magnetic explosions. Still, I don't think there is any real field watch in this video ( but only retro field style watches). They are like our SUVs; lost their connection with the off-road, instead became glorified SWs.
Staight-forward, informative, friendly, cordial... that's what a TH-cam presenter should be. And also a tool watch. Wry smile. Thank you very much - excellent!
Cheers - Thanks 😀
The best tool/field watch would be defined by the words “practical”, “durable”, “versatile”and “reliable”.
Having at least 100M water resistance, a screw down crown, automatic and hand winding (but the ultimate would be solar quartz), excellent lume and low light legibility, good color contrasts between the hands and the indices/dial, and having something like hardened steel is a nice touch.
And often overlooked, the ability to adjust the strap and easily take it on and swap out with other straps is a huge plus.
Sinn 556 a -rs. I think technically a pilot, but fits as a field watch and is consistently on my list as ‘the next watch I’ll buy’
I've been owning a Tudor Ranger for almost one year now. It's the best daily I ever had. The watch is absolutely perfect for what it is, nothing has to be changed. In its own mystical way, it is simply gorgeous ❤
Nice take on the tool watch world. As an owner of a 5226g I appreciate the brand's option of a tool like watch. I think Patek successfully bridged that tool luxury divide. And that dial.....
That dial. Exactly 😃
People for some reason are not comfortable admitting that they are wearing jewelry and are trying to pass off their often multi thousand $ purchase as a tool. Other than personal preference in terms of style calling anything in this price range a tool with a straight face is just silly
The purpose of jewelry is to sparkle and attract attention. Unlike jewelry, a tool watch is meant to endure. Very different concepts.
Wearing a Rolex explorer instead of a 50$ gschok im the “ field “ is wearing jewellery 😊 there is a better cheaper tool if you are interested in the tool part
@@emreisiklar It depends. An explorer will outlast you. A gshock won't even outlast its own battery 😊
Most folks I know are fully aware that a watch is a functional piece of jewelry. Especially anything over $100.
@@INSANEFAMETrue, but I can get a G shock for just $100, and can abuse it, and I mean put it through hell, till its battery dies. The same cannot be said for an explorer.
I bought the Ranger and I've had no regrets. Frigging amazing. I love how boring the watch is, contrary to all the shade its been getting from the community
Nomenclature is all very interesting, but what's the purpose of a field watch - who uses the watch, and why?
When I served in the 90s, I wore a Casio. If I had to wear a watch today in the field (camping, yomping) it would be a Marathon GSAR - visibility at night is GOAT. No other watch I own can match it, even watches x3 the price.
3 Thrushes, That is a nice feature when you are camping out in nature. Does the Marathon GSAR last most of the night?
Marathon GSAR uses tritium tubes so it just glows. It doesn’t require light to be charged like lune. It’ll glow for about 25years. Then you’d be left with 1/4 of tritium. So it would need to go back to Marathon for new tubes.
I agree ; It’s very difficult to adorn the field watch without making it a whole separate beast.
That’s also why I thoroughly respect companies that manage to somehow break the mold in subtle ways, making a different beast, while still keeping something that is believably, a Hamilton-style field watch.
I have the Hamilton Khaki 42 with green nato strap. Love it!
I forgot to add:
1. thank you. You are accurate on describing the field watch.
2. Sunday, I had dinner with 4 family members. 3 wore Rolex watches. Those three I had gifted new Victorinox field watches over the years. one had a factory overhaul of her Rolex in Paris last year -$700, So, having a field watch as a beater watch can be a good move.
Unpretentious! Yes, sir. The Formex Field counts as its own interpretation of the field watch, I think.
And the nearest the Explorer ever got to the summit of Everest was the AD’s window in Kathmandu…😚
Lol - Kathmandu AD. true 😂😂
You have a gift. Such a great cadence and delivery of the information. You could be reading the recipe from your grandmothers cookbook and it would be mesmerizing.
Thank you for sharing watch info for us !
Cheers - Thanks for the praise 😀
the g-shock is the modern day field watch lol
the g-shock is the modern day dive watch
the g-shock is the modern day sport watch.
the g-shock is the past day smart watch.
basically the g-shock is for everything, but it's bleedingly ugly IMO.
Some of them are.... 😂😂
This was perfect. And i love that you touched specifically on pilot watches as field watches, and on IWC as being in a weird place with their pilot watches stuck between tool and luxury (which is actually what I like most about them).
Your detailed analysis on the explorer- which can be applied to lots of models of course- was so refined. You have such a subjective way of seeing normally objective and emotional things with these watches. Just awesome. 👏
Glad you like my approach 😊
timex expedition scout
Really very, very good. Great debate. I love Field Watches because of their simplicity and durability. I'll have my burger from the van outside the nightclub as you say.
Bingo 😊
My go to field watch is the Tudor BB36 gloss black dial. It’s simple, sporty, and the perfect size.
When I finally set out to buy a field (tool) watch my first look was to the Rolex Explorer (39mm). I liked the heritage, reputation, and look. But in reality I liked the look of the Explorer 1016 much better. To me it had "the look". But the 1016's are getting pretty old and very expensive for a decent one. Fast forward a couple years and the newest Tudor Ranger arrives on scene. It's well built, has a modern/rugged movement, a great size for my 7 1/2" wrist, and had that Explorer 1016 look. I don't think I could be any happier about this purchase. I use it golfing, hiking, bike riding, and all sorts of work inside and outside my house. It did take me awhile to fully appreciate this Tudor and now I have a hard time giving my other watches time on my wrist.
The Hamilton Khaki mechanical field watch has been my choice due its simplicity and durability. This watch earns its keep with my work in the forensic field as well as it pays homage to the original Hamilton worn by my father serving in the ETO during WWII. That watch had a very special story behind it.
Hi!
I would toss my Omega Railmaster with its charcoal dial in the ring. IMHO the Railmaster is an understated luxury tool watch. The 3, 6, 9 and 12 non applied numerals and the cross hair give it its field watch vibes. The case and bracelet is all brushed and the crown has got a decent size.
Best wishes,
Claus
The function I find most important in a field watch is luminosity that lasts all night, I was an infantry scout and spent many nights on patrol. The cheap Timex field watches I wore at the time barely made it to first light. My favorite working watch was a gift from my mother-in-law, a Tissot PR100 Titanium. It's luminous marks are easily read on the longest nights without the preparation of holding the dial to a flashlight. I wear it every day, but it excels as my camping watch.
I enjoyed your presentation very much. Just wanted to throw in that I ordered my first field watch this February. I was persuaded by the Mad Hacker to support his launch of his very own Field Watch. Listen to his sales / specifications speech and you may understand why I was hooked. Plus it’s wind up. Cheers R
Amazing how you can talk for a quarter of an hour about this topic, with excellent and well thought through arguments. Well, my personal best field watch is a Norqain Neverest (Zermatt special edition). OK, by your definitions it is not a field watch as it has a rotating bezel and a "glacier" looking dial, but it certainly looks, feels and wears like a true field watch.
Thanks - I just ignore my family and nerd on watches in stead 😂😂
As for Norqain, I have to dive into them at some point. I'm seeing more and more of them and have stopped at the counter often, but never taken one out of the case... On the to do 😃
@@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch Great, thanks for the reply. I would love to have your enlighted view of the Norquain brand.
First time to this channel and I learned more about watches in this video than any other video I have watched so far.
Glad you found it worth your time 😃
Thank you - a work of clarity. But as asked, for me a Hamilton Khaki. I would take down a mine, cross a desert or climb a mountain. Strikingly plain and handsome too.
Mechanical or automatic version?
Excellent 👍 I wear Hamilton khaki field mechanical as my daily wear. Love it!!
Thank you! Cheers! 😊
My field watch is a Wolbrook Outrider Professional. It has two features that could detract from its toolworthiness: a beads-of-rice stainless steel bracelet, which will be swapped out with a NATO strap later on; and, a rich, blue, sunburst dial. Otherwise this watch checks all the boxes that identify it as a field watch. Great video - please keep them coming!
I have a Victorinox Officer that I bought 15 years ago and love it. It’s unpretentious, simple but not dumb, elegant, resistant and it tells the time. It’s not an expensive watch, but is looks great.
I bought a plain brown bag watch for actually being in the field. A tool watch is a watch that gets scratched and doesn't become a bummer. It tells a story. I have a Seiko Field Sport Automatic w/ the NATO strap. Personally , I want the date and time on the watch. For when you're in the field for long days. My next field watch will be the Hamilton Khaki, even though it doesn't have the date. The Hamilton keeps with the plan.
Hamilton offers the khaki automatic line, which includes a date feature. They are much dressier than the khaki field mechanical versions, however
@@Ferien7 Thanks
I love my Sinn 104 but I also love my Seiko 5 sport. The Sinn has a touch of luxury (stainless), day and date are essential for me. And the bezel is a handy timer without adding chrono weight and bulk. Funny, I mostly wear the Seiko 5.
New subscriber here. This video is only 9 days old and already has nearly 500 replies. It is rare to find such an articulate and thoughtful discussion. My taste in field/tool/pilot watches are at a lower level than even the Hamilton. They are made by Casio, Orient and Seiko. Except for my Bulova military model with its 262khz movement, I can lose, damage, or break any of them without being heartbroken.
Thanks for subbing - appreciated. 😃
Excellent presentation! I echo your thoughts! And, my choice was the 124270. It's the simplicity and understated elegance that drew me to it.
glad you enjoyed it 😃