The SOCNET watch thread....

[carpe282]

Has anyone out there actually been issued a watch or know anyone that was? If so which one? One of my side hobbies is mil-watches and I have never actually known someone that received one, even when I was in.

[galaxy chief]

My father was issued a watch wile serving with the Army. Nothing fancy about it just a green nylon band with a 24 hour watch on it.

[MARK92A]

Yep, we got them.. I wouldnt say it was "Issued", but they came in when we ordered them. I'll dig it up and give ya the specs. I think it was a navagators watch. They are better than the Non maintainables.

[Whammer]

Maybe Mark92 can direct you better, but I understand some SF mountain teams are issued watches with the built in compass and altimeter. SUUNO(sp?) brand I believe...

di

[fish78]

Try www.broadarrow.net (http://www.broadarrow.net)

[JSOCMarine]

Back in the day Force Recon Marines were issued Rolex Submariners (still wear mine every day). Later on the watches issued were the Seiko Divers Watch, and then years later a sterile, no markings grayish/black divers watch. I don't know what watch, if any, is currently issued.

The SEALS and Frogmen that I worked with also had been issued Rolex watches but I believe that like us some jealous "common air breathing, dirty nasty leg" finance officer skylined the practice among the heavies and the practice was discontinued. S/F

[extremetacticalgear]

Hey Guys,

If you are interested in that Suunto watch, it is called the Vector. Specifications are as follows:

Combination altimeter(up to 9,000M), Barometer and compass
Has all the features of an advanced timepiece
Large easy to read digital display
Easy to operate with gloves on
Waterproof with electroluminescent backlight
Comes in Green, Black and Yellow.
I have them but not up on the site. If you want one let me know. I'll ship out the next day.

[MARK92A]

Im scared to ask, but whats the price on the Vector?

[extremetacticalgear]

Mark92A,

Price is $180.00.

Thanks for asking,

etg

[carpe282]

Thanks for the replys. I am really interested in the general issue type watches,
Stocker and Yale, Marathon,Casio, etc.
I know that some special ops and aviation units will buy watches from the open market or buy sterile versions to fit specific needs. I know that some dive qualifed units will buy Seiko or Rolex and that most any unit can use its funds to order watches.
It is those GP type watches that I am trying to find first hand info on.
Mark92, what did your unit get and who are they going to be issued to?

[emitfitzhume]

A very good friend of mine was a plank owner in Team One. He said he was issued a Rolex Submariner in those days. I believe they had to return them after dives though. Can't remember all the details, much Soju consumption at the time.

[MARK92A]

I'll dig out my watch and let ya know. Like I said, They werent "issued" but being a QM guy, you do get some "fringe benefits"

Your unit can order them also if it has a NSN, isnt on the Control Degree Listing, and find a helpful Supply SGT to order it, and it gets past the Commanders Exception Report you can get one. (Thats for "normal" units, not Spec Ops or other units with huge Class 2 budgets)

However, we do have some (5-10 ea)for a company of 180 plus soldiers (yep 180, no kidding) on the property books, however, they stay locked up in a wall locker in supply, only to see the light of day for 10%'s and Change Of Commmand Inventories. Since it is a Property Book item, you loose it, a Report Of Survey gets done. It is easier to keep them locked up them issue them out and do the ROS when Joe looses his.

[Joe90]

Its a bit late where I am (2:25 AM) so here comes the silly question for this month....

What do you use for watches when you are in the field? Is it down to personal choice or is there a super secret stealth watch thats too OPSEC to talk about?

Just wondering

I'll shut up and go to bed now

Joe90

[Bill P.]

Wear whatever works for you Joe,
myself I like the Casio G-shock for when I'm in the field: water-proof, abuse-proof, useful functions, keeps good time.....good enough!:)

[TGO]

Does anyone have an opinion on the Suunto Vector? It's a bit pricy at $189.00 but I love the idea of having a compass, altimeter, barometer, thermometer, 3 alarms, countdown timer, calendar, and stop watch. Oh, it tells time too. I'm a big fan of having backups of backups of my backups.

Anyone ever use one or hear anything in regards to them?

Thank you kindly.
TGO

[Halo_06]

Originally posted by Bill P.
Wear whatever works for you Joe,
myself I like the Casio G-shock for when I'm in the field: water-proof, abuse-proof, useful functions, keeps good time.....good enough!:)

That's right, go with what works best, personally, for you.

Now mw, I'm a G-Shock fan/user myself. Had mine for almost five years now, cheap too. Just remember to change the waterproof battery band when changing th battery. ;) I learn that the hard way.

Hope this helps...

[jpi]

Originally posted by TGO
Does anyone have an opinion on the Suunto Vector? It's a bit pricy at $189.00 but I love the idea of having a compass, altimeter, barometer, thermometer, 3 alarms, countdown timer, calendar, and stop watch. Oh, it tells time too. I'm a big fan of having backups of backups of my backups.

Anyone ever use one or hear anything in regards to them?

Thank you kindly.
TGO

I have a Suunto X-Lander, it's the same as Vector except it has a leather strap. This is great watch, someone may think it looks silly with the display being so big but I take it as a positive thing.

http://www.suunto.com/pls/suunto/docs/F910654658/X-Lander270pix.jpg

I'm not a soldier so I haven't tested in the field but I'm an aviator and this watch works great in that use.

BTW. You mentioned thermometer and I must say that it's designed stupidly, because if you're wearing the watch it shows something between the outside temperature and your body temp. The manual says that you'll have to take the watch off and wait 15 minutes to get a proper indication.

Another great thing is the logbook. If you turn it on it saves your altitude every minute. Then you can afterwards browse your logbooks and see what you've done. Great especially when skiing...

[MrPotatoHead]

Each operator in a theater is issued a new Rolex Presidential prior to each deployment. Hahahahaahahahhahaa

[hoats]

I am leaving for BCT in August and need to get a watch.

Would anyone suggest just buying one to make it through basic or would it be best to purchase on for the long haul.

Any suggestions?

I have seen the supposide SEAL watches for sale, but is there one that the SF or Ranger guys perfer?
-Where might you go about purchasing one of these, if there is one?

Thanks

Hoats

[MrPotatoHead]

Any tough, cheap watch will do. I'm currently wearing my POS casio G-shock. Nice watches are for dressing up, garrison life to show people how high speed you are, to impress the girlies at the bar, and to "Keep up with the joneses." Now you'll hear all about how an analog watch can be used for navigation, how "This" watch is a superior timepiece, how "That" watch has been used on K2, etc. I don't know about anyone else but I use a friggin compass for navigation and a watch to tell time and have always been able to tell which direction is north. That said, I've always wanted a Rolex Submariner but could never bring myself to spending the $$$. I'd rather have a whole bunch of really nice gear than on single watch. Therefore, a $15.00 to $45.00 cheapie will serve you just fine and you don't care if it gets ripped off your wrist and run over by a Duce and a Half during training, left on some one night stands bedroom floor, or stolen by some POS Barracks Thief.

[murphquake]

I'd go with a Casio G shock. I got mine (2 of them actually as I'm the lose and break things type of guy) from http://www.usawatches.com/ they had (have?) free priority mail shipping for orders over $75, and are very quick, I had mine on wednesday afternoon after ordering monday night (and believe me, the way my mail comes that's a minor miracle!!) The one i got is this one: http://www.usawatches.com/dw6600c1av.html and I've been very pleased with it for the last few months, well worth 40 beans IMHO. Will give a followup report on it in 5 years or so =-D HTH!
-bill

[hoats]

Appreciate all the info.

Hoats

[vrptor]

As far as watches for running, Timex Ironman is a great watch. There are several different models, but most perform great. I'd like to try out the new one with a small gps that attaches on your arm and will tell you how far and what pace you've run. I'm a running geek, so that stuff sounds cool to me.

[XXNavy]

I've had a Swiss Army watch for about ten years, and the only thing that I've done is replace the batteries, and the watchband several times. It takes abuse very well, (underwater, smacking concrete, etc). It's all scuffed up, but still keeps perfect time. I can't remember what I paid for it, it's been so long...

[CTA]

I bought a Casio G-shock when I was over in Bahrain back in 88. Never replaced the battery and it took a licking and kept ticking. Don’t know how many times I replaced the wristband.
Just recently threw it away because the plastic around the face started peeling off, but it was still going strong.
CTA Out

[Sabre07]

My suggestion is any watch that will get your ass to formation on time. Tell your DI you need to "simonize" with his watch.

[Halo_06]

My timepiece is a Casio G-Shock Illuminator. Been using it now close to 8 years, 3rd one. The first 2 would have lasted longer if I remembered to change the waterproof band when I was having the battery replaced...Learned my lesson the hard way. :)

Nice, simple, cheap, goes with anything and best of all, I can beat the shit outta it and it still keeps on ticking. :)

[Chairborne]

anyone have any experience with those big-ass suunto altimeter-barometer etc watches that i keep seeing down at the px?

oh and btw-
when i went to bct, i took exactly what was on the list and nothing more, and i regretted it. you won't be able to get at anything in your personal bag until you graduate, you might wish you had an extra change of clothes or a book or something to keep you busy if you're a holdover. it was a long time before i got to get my stuff from home. just don't go overboard.

[Chris_L]

I own 2 Casio G-Shocks the first one I purchased back in 95, and I have not even replaced the battery yet, it's still accurate and has been to the field with me on countless ops. It's the best I've used and it takes a beating, being dropped, hitting weapons stocks, trees, the muddy Northern Training Area in Okinawa, being submerged in water and mud, you name it. This watch is not very expensive either.

[zeroalpha]

If, Like me, you have a small penis and are not very good in bed, Then you need something to really impress the ladies.

I got me one of these...

http://www.shoplite.com/media/pat-2gp.jpg


Looks really cool and makes all the girls think your really 'high speed' and therefore want to sleep with you. ... until you get them into bed, then they know you've just got a nice watch.

I gotta work on that...

Zero, Can get 'em but cant keep 'em.

Anyway, Heres an url http://www.equipped.com/casio_gps.htm

[jpi]

That GPS watch is great when trying to find your way home from the bar... :D

[murphquake]

HAHAHAHAHAHAH!! it taste a funny in the mouth (let the iron chef humor begin)
-bill

[NWPTrainer]

Originally posted by hoats
I am leaving for BCT in August and need to get a watch.

Would anyone suggest just buying one to make it through basic or would it be best to purchase on for the long haul.

Any suggestions?

I have seen the supposide SEAL watches for sale, but is there one that the SF or Ranger guys perfer?
-Where might you go about purchasing one of these, if there is one?

Thanks

Hoats

Dude,
Your local Wal-Mart/K-Mart/Target/ETC, sells a simple Timex for about $10.00. Since Every watch I ever wore to the woods got lost, broken, or otherwise seriously fucked up, my recommendation is go for the Wally World Timex special. Like PotatoHead said...Your compass is for land Nav, not your watch, and the indiglo digital thing lets you read the time at 0-shit it's fuckin'-dark-thirty, so you can wake your buddies ass up to take watch so you can go to sleep. (Of course, don't do what I did as a private once, and get woken up for about two miniutes before you doze off, and wake up startled, glance at the watch and think "Oh Shit, I fell asleep for a whole hour!" And wake your Tabbed E-4 Team leader up, only to have him bitch you out, cause really your ass only dozed for about 60 seconds.)

Seriously though, just spend the ten bucks....If you get to your Unit later, you can look around at what all the high speed guys are wearing and emulate them. If you really want a good one, here's another story/recommendation.
There was an E-5 in C Co 1/75 in 95 that was a bit of a computer geek, and had a high speed Casio with the barometer/altimeter, etc and shit on it. Went knees in the breeze, and the fucking watch flew off his arm. He wrote Casio and told them the story, so they replaced the $100 watch for free.

[Bill P.]

I've got a Casio G-shock, works great, durable,waterproof, keeps good time, and didn't cost me an arm&leg! Also b/c of what I paid for it, if it ever gets lost, run over, stepped on, or just plain goes to shit..no big deal, I'll just buy a new one, it's not a ROLEX, or OMEGA after all!!
BillP

[Dark Helmet]

Still have my very first G-Shock which I bought in jump school at the PX in 1986. Changed the batteries in it once, about ten years later. It has been around the world with me, surviving everything from the Panamanian jungles where jungle fatigues literally rotted off your body as the cotton decomposed to Ranger school to the oh-so-freindly college fraternity football games to long-distance sailboat races (coutdown timer was especially handy here). Best $59 I ever spent. Still have it somewhere....the plastic wristband is decomposing, but the timepiece works like a champ, still.

There's a lot to be said for a good, tough, cheap watch....many of them already mentioned.

...now that the cashflow is more positive, I wear a stainless Rolex Submariner perpetual with date. Best watch you can buy, IMO; it's rated to 300 meters and looks classy in a suit as well as on the weekends, and doesn't set you back ten grand like some of the jeweled Rolexes, which are gaudy. If you are into high-end watches and have a few grand to spend, I'd look at the Rolexes, Brietling's aviator line, or Omega's Speedmaster line.

That being said, you do not want a high-end watch in the feild. Not tactical, and too much of a chance something could go wrong(!)

[Bill P.]

For the field a Casio G-shock, for the civy world a stainless OMEGA SEAMASTER w/ blue face/bezel; looks great&blends well w/ formal-casual clothing (hey after all 007 can't be wrong! :D

[CTA]

Wish I had the Submariner. Had to settle for a Wenger Grenadier instead. I told my wife with the amount of trinkets and babbles I buy her, she can buy me the Submariner and then I'll consider us even.:D

Cheers!

[NYC-M4]

Casio G shock. I love it! You wont be sorry.

[tryxter]

I had a Seiko diver with mineral crystal that never scratched never cracked and was terrific until stolen. I've had G-shocks since an illuminator now but I like the dual time watch better, set for zulu and local. Get a cheap watch for BCT/AIT if it's stolen you won't care. Get a real watch later.

Went for a look on ebay they have G-Shocks as low as $29 and this one at a buy now price of $60 and it's a pretty good one.
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2635275376&category=31387

[Xdeth]

After using G-Shocks since the 80's I am ready to upgrade. Been looking at the more feature driven watches with altimeters and compass built in, specifically the Sunnto Vector, Casio Pathfinder, and Highgear Axis. I'm most leaning towrds the Highgear for its looks and smaller size and would like to hear any input from owners of these damn devices. Nike has one out that clims zero barometric drift, I can't figure out how any device using pressure sensitivity will not altitude drift with changing weather, how the hell does it know if your moving vertically or not, maybe you tell it somehow?

[Viking]

DON'T DO IT!

I bought an uberhundred dollar Swiss Army radioactive altimeter superwatch before I headed over to the Caucausas, and the damn thing went tits up within a couple months. Called Swiss Army and they were less than helpful. Guess what I have on my wrist right now? Yep...G-Shock (with a suunto wrist compass clipper on the band).

Those altimeters are pretty piss poor. Yeah, they'll give you an idea of where you're at and how much up or down you've done, but the barometric drift will always keep these from being anything other than guesstimates. Like you, I can't see how that can be avoided using pressure to measure. GPS will give you another way to measure, but I haven't heard of any watches using GPS for altitude. IMHO, if you're out and about, you should have a GPS on you anyway, and that will give you far better info than any watch.

I'd get another G-Shock and spend the money on something else.

[SOTB]

HAHAHAHAHAHAHA You're a geer queer and you know it!

Buy the Suunto M9 dude. It has a GPS built in. And its ONLY $700!!!!

[RAT]

Dude,

All the cash you made on that last gig...

Hell any of these will do. :D

http://www.collectionltd.com/chronoswiss.htm

RAT OUT!!!

[JoeShmoe]

Dude,

All the cash you made on that last gig...

Hell any of these will do. :D

http://www.collectionltd.com/chronoswiss.htm

RAT OUT!!!

Looks like they forgot to put the decimal point in the prices.

I certainly would not buy from a company that overlooks that small of a detail.


:D :D :D

[TheBigC]

Go Suunto, avoid the vector. I bought a Observer and it is awesome. My only compliant would be for some of the feature you actually need to carry the Quick Reference Guide in yoiur wallet.

[RAT]

Looks like they forgot to put the decimal point in the prices.

I certainly would not buy from a company that overlooks that small of a detail.


:D :D :D


HAHAHA

Man Dem cheap compaired to these: http://www.patek.com/

The PP's start about 35,000. :D

Xdeth making big money.

You know what ROCKY said... "You wanna have a good time? You gotta have a good watch."

RAT OUT!!!

[SgtUSMC8541]

Sunto. Beat the piss out of the one I have and it still works great. (just don't get any bug juice on it)

[SOTB]

Sunto. Beat the piss out of the one I have and it still works great. (just don't get any bug juice on it)I have a SUUNTO Vector and its been working great since the day I bought it (I got it because I am lazy and didn't want to carry an altimeter with the rest of my paragliding gear). The only thing I would recommend is not getting any sunblock/suntan lotion on it as it will immediately wipe off the painted name/model on the watch body. But then I hate wearing/advertising brandnames anyway, so no big deal here....

[O'DubhGhaill]

Here's a fairly good review (http://www.backpackgeartest.org/reviews/Electronic%20Devices/Watches/Suunto%20Vector%20Wristop%20Computer%20Watch/Owner%20Review%20by%20Benedikt%20Moser/) of the Vector in addition to SOTB's recommendation. Although I myself have no experience with it yet, the Polar AXN500 (average $300) looks like it might also be something you would want to look at..."Dude, how much vert did you log today?"

[Xdeth]

Now I'm definetely leaning towards the Suunto Observer or the Polar, it might come down to which one is in a store nearest to me, the Polar is nice and I already have a transmitter from my other cheapo polar hr monitor. I hear ya Viking, I have the same clip on suunto compass on my watch, problem is it looks too military, same problem with the Vector, looks out of place wearing without a drop holster and randall knife ;) GPS in a watch? Can't imagine the features are that great or usable, and for 700 bucks!

[RAT]

I can't believe you are going to pass on one of those nice swiss watches for that Suunto..That plastic thang. ;D

Next if you lose a nut we might mistake you for SOTB... :D

All kidding aside you can't go wrong with the Suunto.

RAT OUT!!!

[TheBigC]

Oh yea, one more note on the Suunto Observer- it has the scratch proof glass!!

[Trip_Wire]

Sunto. Beat the piss out of the one I have and it still works great. (just don't get any bug juice on it)

Yes, I agree with you on the 'bug juice." It can really fog up the face. I found this out the hard way on a recent dive trip to the Yucatan Pn. The bug and no-seeums were bad. I got some on the face of my Suunto Mosqitoe Dive Computer/Watch. The good thing was had the plastic protective cover on it and that saved the real view port. :cool:

[Xdeth]

I notice none of the models mentioned use Sapphire crystal, that would be a huge benefit.

[SOTB]

....GPS in a watch? Can't imagine the features are that great or usable, and for 700 bucks!You know you want one. Do the right thing and buy it before you see one on my wrist and wind up with a heavier case of Suunto envy (worse than the one you already have now:D)....

[Trip_Wire]

I notice none of the models mentioned use Sapphire crystal, that would be a huge benefit.


Yeah, I agree with you! My Rolex GMT Master II has one and looks just like when my wife gave it to me in 1990.

The Suunto Mosquito has a soft plastic that scratches easily and is affected by different types of chemicals like "bug Juice, etc." :rolleyes:

[Lycurgus]

I need a watch that can hold at least 2 different times (local, zulu) and looks fairly tactical. Also, needs to be divable to at least 100m. Any ideas?

[Frog]

You need to have 2 time zones at 300 ft? Anything with push buttons will flood at that depth.

[Lycurgus]

If I got that deep on the rigs we dive, something is wrong...LOL I was kind of looking for one watch that I could wear thru all the stuff we do. I don't want to have to keep looking at my GPS for zulu time when I need it.

[eltrane]

Rolex GMT would work, it's a dive watch with an additional hour hand.

[Trip_Wire]

I need a watch that can hold at least 2 different times (local, zulu) and looks fairly tactical. Also, needs to be divable to at least 100m. Any ideas?


As someone said the Rolex GMT would do it, but it's a little pricy! I have one, but seldom dive with it. (Hate to loose it.)

I also have a Suunto Mosquito (Watch/Dive computer) that one can set two time zones on. (I Keep one on GMT). The dive computer works well too. One can set it for air or nitrox. Take a look at Suunto's dive watches, the Stinger is another good one too, although more expensive then the Mosquito.

http://www.suuntowatches.com/By_Function/Suunto_Watches_Dive_Computer/index.cat?sNav=0

There is also the Casio watches, I like this one.:

http://www.princetonwatches.com/shop/GW700BDJ-2.asp

Or this one from Citizen:

http://www.princetonwatches.com/shop/JV0030-01E.asp

[0699]

This is the one from Casio that I wear. I used to do the G-Shock, but I couldn't find them anymore with the dual time. I dont know if they last as long as the G-Shock does (my last G-Shock went for almost 10 years) but the one I have right now is over three years old and going strong (with a new battery and band) after a year in Iraq.

http://www.amazon.com/Casio-AMW320D-9EV-Men%2527s-Diver%2527s-Watch/dp/B000066P6R/ref=sr_1_43/103-3906395-3948666?ie=UTF8&s=jewelry&qid=1183832022&sr=1-43

[Inspector Cluseo]

I was at Benning yesterday and stopped by Ranger Joes on my way off base, they had a display model of the ol dual G-Shock snagged it for +/- 89 bucks along with a replacement pair of Revision (which I lost 4 hrs later....:( )

[SFS0AVN]

Rolex GMT would work, it's a dive watch with an additional hour hand.

Rolex GMT, works good, lasts a long time and the batteries never need replacing.

[SF_BHT]

I have the GMT Master II and love it. Been diving with it also. Only been 50+ feet but never had a problem.

Also it looks good!

[SFS0AVN]

I have the GMT Master II and love it. Been diving with it also. Only been 50+ feet but never had a problem.

Also it looks good!

Mine is a Master not the II. I've had it to 100 ft, no problems and yes, it looks good.

[SF_BHT]

Looking Good is an Important factor.

[KCSDMedic]

Most of my team use the G-Shock "Mudman" - in subdued color scheme. Holds multiple times including Zulu. Can not display both local and zulu at the same time, but easy to switch between them. I have dove it to 40+ M, submerged it in mud, sand, and miscellaneous grime and body fluids with no problems. Claims to be diveable to 200M but I havent taken below 40 M. Goes for around $80.

Wont get you as many cool guy points as the Rolex but it works for us poor SWAT types.

[leopardprey]

Rolex Explorer II. Black Face. (they also make a white face version that is nice as well, but I think the Black face is a little easier to read and more "tactical") Have one and have put it through a lot. Dual time zone as you requested and is water proof to 100meters. Very nice watch and will last a lifetime. Worth the money.

[DCH]

Welcome aboard KCSDMedic..

thanks for filling out your profile.

[SFS0AVN]

Rolex also makes the "Submariner", a great dive watch. It comes in different colors and it's expensive like all Rolex watches.

[SF_BHT]

Rolex also makes the "Submariner", a great dive watch. It comes in different colors and it's expensive like all Rolex watches.

Darn we keep coming back to Rolex:cool: Casio and all the others are OK but Rolex is a home run and you do not have to doubt them.:D

[RAT]

Well I have had nothing but prolems with my Rolex Sub... Wore it once cracked the crown. Never worked the same.

I have had a number of Panerai's that I have used and kept better time and a lot more rugged.

Price was not a issuse to me. If price is a issue. Look at TAG or Casio.

G-shock is the best by far.

RO!!!

[KCSDMedic]

Damn, they must be payin you SF boys GOOD if your all wearing Rolex watches :D . I picked the wrong job. I would be concerned about operating with a $2,500 watch on my wrist. While with the AF I wore the Zodiac Dive watch, bitchen watch but not dual time capable....and half the price of Rolex, but the AF payed for that.

[SFS0AVN]

I need a watch that can hold at least 2 different times (local, zulu) and looks fairly tactical. Also, needs to be divable to at least 100m. Any ideas?

Lycurgus, I believe Frog and Rat and Combat tac divers have a handle on this question. They use these watches in what they do. so, you need to pick their brains on watch brand names. I'm surprised not more Combat Tac Divers picked up on this tread.

[KCSDMedic]

For the limited Tac Diving I do....(no where near what the Frogs on the board do)...I am still going with the G-Shock Mudman. In addition to having dual time capability it has several options for timers, reverse times, dual stopwatch, large display easy to see while at depth, decent light with large button so its easy to hit with gloves on, and it has a flash alert when your timer runs out. I've used several brands in the past (never a Rolex) and this is by far my favorite.

[poison]

Hamiltons are highly under-rated. They are owned by Omega, if I'm not mistaken. Regardless, they do very fine work, and use movements on the level of the best in Switzerland. This one has sapphire crystal, 200m waterproof, 21 jewel movement, and is just a really good looking watch with readily apparent quality workmanship. you can get it with a stainless band, too. I have it bookmarked for 'future reference' (ie I want it bad).

$436 is cheap for this.

http://www.bluedial.com/H77615333.htm

http://www.bluedial.com/bluedial/images/items/H77615333.jpg

http://www.bluedial.com/bluedial/images/items/H77615133.jpg

And this:

http://www.bluedial.com/bluedial/images/items/H77665373.jpg

Also peruse this site:

http://www.westcoastime.com/index.html

[rgrdrew]

Partial thread hijack...I've got a Citizen Hyper Aqualand with the computer interface. I haven't been able to get it connected. Anybody else have this watch and/or this problem? The error message I get states something along the lines of not being able to find the watch. Sorry for the hijack.

Now back to your regularly scheduled thread...:D

Drew

[RAT]

Ranger Drew,

I never got mine to work either. I sent it back. I am still pissed about this issue. I was told I had sync issues with my Microsoft soft wear.

I told them I wanted my Aqua Marnier back. Had it for 15yrs along with the G-Shock. Both were awesome....

RO!!!

[rgrdrew]

Ranger Drew,

I never got mine to work either. I sent it back. I am still pissed about this issue. I was told I had sync issues with my Microsoft soft wear.

I told them I wanted my Aqua Marnier back. Had it for 15yrs along with the G-Shock. Both were awesome....

RO!!!

RAT,
Thanks for the info. I like the watch alot so not ready to give up yet. At least now I know it's not me!

Drew

[Ratman]

I have gone through three Rolex's, two subs and one GMT. Wife freaks out when I by a new one. Switched to Omega Seamaster Pro (10 years ago) and is great. I am going to pick up the new Omega GMT, for my Christmas present to my self here very soon...
RLTW,
Ratman

"It's easy to be hard, but hard to be smart"

[Faint]

Interesting thread...
I'm currently looking for at new "work in sandbox" watch. I bought at Suunto X9Mi 5 months ago and it did not last training with the posse. LOL It has a lot of good features such as GPS (that doesn't last that long though).
I have been advised to buy Protrek PRG 1300 3ver. I know a lot guy in the tactical envirorment who loves it...
I also have TAG's but wouldn't wear them to work...

"A watch is the man's only jewlery..." -Someone smart said...

Faint

[dfuzz1613]

Anyone have an opinion or a good/bad experience with the swiss made Traser
watches? I like the tritium dial and is supposed to be as good as the old Stocker- Yale military watches.

[nobbynobbs]

I have had nothing but problems with my Traser watches. Their authorised repair guy over here in the UK asked what i expected for £150 ($300). I said I wanted a watch that did not lose 15 seconds a day and one where the hands were not so loose that when i moved my arm i got a different time.

The cheaper P6500 has got a really cheap movement and often is not even splashproof. All you are paying for is the luminosity of the tritium light source. The hands often fall off and a few years back they moved from the nice rubber strap to a cheapy NATO strap, because it looked more militaristic.

Don't get me wrong, I am sure that some of the more expensive models are really good, but I could get 3 G-Shock watches for the price of one Traser.

In my time with the police, no one in my unit would wear Traser/Luminox on duty because they fall apart with the first knock and they are not very tactical due to their brightness.

Cheers

Nobby

[dfuzz1613]

Thank you for the helpful information. I have had a Luminox in the past that was junk from the day I bought it. God forbid if you got it wet. The only thing I liked was the tritium. That is why I was considering the Traser.

[jmiles]

Check out the G-Shock Frogman. Works like the G-Shock, but holds up to 10 different times that are easy to scroll between. It also has a solar recharge on the battery. The watch says it is good to 200m. It will run around $200 on ebay, definately does not look as good as a Rolex.
jmiles

[SF_BHT]

Check out the G-Shock Frogman. Works like the G-Shock, but holds up to 10 different times that are easy to scroll between. It also has a solar recharge on the battery. The watch says it is good to 200m. It will run around $200 on ebay, definately does not look as good as a Rolex.
jmiles
WHich one of the Frogman? There are so many combos?

[rgrjoe175]

Damn, they must be payin you SF boys GOOD if your all wearing Rolex watches :D

Sorry I am late to the thread. It is not the normal pay, it is the TDY money.

A rolex is required apparel in SF because it is important to look good with your hands in your pockets.. :)

JP

[jmiles]

SF_BHT
The solar triple crown.

[Guy]

SF_BHT
The solar triple crown.Will dazzle you.:o The Rolex is "helluva" easier to figure out.:D

Stay safe.

[Trip_Wire]

Here's a link to a Casio Frogman:

http://www.superchrono.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=199

[SF_BHT]

Sorry I am late to the thread. It is not the normal pay, it is the TDY money.

A rolex is required apparel in SF because it is important to look good with your hands in your pockets.. :)

JP

Your just jealous because we figured out first what those holes in our pants were for.:p

[dfuzz1613]

The Frogman looks like the way to go, especially with all of the info you can store on it. I appreciate all of your help and suggestions.

[crabbadge]

If you want high speed at a low price go to Wal-mart and buy two of the Armitron Men's Digital Sport Watch w/Alarm. Set one on local and one on Zulu. Put the one set on local on your left arm, Left-Local, put the other on your right arm and your ready to hit the water. If you buy on line and avoid the sales tax you can be operational for around $35.00.
If you really want to impress you can go for the Timex Expedition Metal Field Watch. Two of those sleek babys will set you back about $60.00 but well worth the extra money for the looks your gonna get.

[iraqgunz]

Check out the Citizen Eco-Drive Skyhawk. I believe it is 100M and has multiple time zones. Comes in stainless and titanium if I am not mistaken. I think I paid around 300.00 for it.

[Dan90]

I have had a Luminox in the past that was junk from the day I bought it. God forbid if you got it wet.

Yep, I used to have one until I killed it after a week of extremely mild use in saltwater. I still can't figure out why, since it was supposed to be good down to 200m. Looked nice though...:rolleyes:

[Azure]

I got the Casio G-shock too....2 time zones within the click of one button...200m WR....solar powered and atomic(which I assume would be a problem for most). Never had a problem with it.

I'm just trying to figure out if solar is worth it. Battery level is always high because I'm outdoors most of the time, but a few people have said that it needs changing after 10 years.

[dfuzz1613]

I was diving in 20 ft. of water with the Luminox. It promptly fogged up. I sent of to get it fixed under the warranty. They sent me a new one and the second hand fell of that one 3 months later. It did look nice and I really liked the tritium dial but don't ever wash your hands while your wearing it.
The Traser watch looks good too, but others have said that they too are junk. I think the G-shock Frogman or the Citizen Skyhawk is the way to go.

[Dan90]

Exactly. I got out of the water and after about 20 minutes it got really foggy, and then seized 3 days later from the rust. Is Traser somehow affiliated with Luminox? The back panel on my luminox had something like "traser swiss movement by...." on it. Either way, any of the G-Shocks have my vote.

[leopardprey]

Expensive, but well worth it. Check out the New Style Rolex GMT II. List price is $5950. Comes with the new improved cal. 3186 movement with Blue Hair Spring that is anti-magnetic, anti-shock, and resistant to any temperature. Has larger hands and hour markers for better nightime visibility. Has the 24 hour hand as well, so you will have your Dual Time Zone function. This is very parctical for military applications, as you can set the regular hands on local time, and the Green 24hr. hand to Zulu time of if overseas to your Home Time in the USA. THe newer style GMT II also has the Triplock Crown, same as the Submariner. So even though the GMT is still rated to 100meters as the older style with the Twin Lock crown, the Triple Lock crown gives increase water resistant. Will be good for any recreational or military tactical dive/water ops. THe new style also has an improved clasp, which allows has a "Summer Extension", this allows you to easily adjust the bracelet a 1/4 link bigger or smaller to accomodate swellling wrist in the heat or during workouts.

Pricey, yes. But will last a life time. Few TDYs and will be paid for.

[nobbynobbs]

The Swiss company, MB Microtec makes Traser watches; they also used to make Luminox watches. If you compare the Traser P6500 and the Luminox Navy SEALs divers watch you will see that cosmetically there is virtually no difference. The only real difference is that the P6500 has a 1 jewel Ronda movement and the SEAL one has a 5 jewel Ronda movement. Over here (UK) both retail for about £125 / $250.

However I believe that Luminox watches are being now made by another manufacturer - probably due to cost.

Cheers

Nobby

[poison]

You need tough and have a spare $5k?

http://www.koboldwatch.com/products/smg_tactical.htm

http://www.koboldwatch.com/gfx/watch_imgs/KOBOLD%20SMG-1%20Tactical%20watch.jpg



Kobold' SMG-1 Tactical was designed for tactical operators in collaboration with a group of retired U.S. military specialists. Prior to its release, the SMG-1 Tactical was tested extensively in some of the world's hot spots and underwent similarly gruelling pre-production stress tests as the Polar Surveyor Chronograph, Kobold's flagship wrist instrument for explorers. Like the Polar Surveyor Chronograph, the SMG-1 Tactical features an innovative and highly modified movement based on a reliable Swiss-made caliber. The movement, K.793, enables the display of local time, date and a 24 hour-based second time.

The SMG-1 Tactical, with its PVD-coated titanium case, is a watch of outsized proportions. Its large dial that allows the wearer to easily and unmistakably tell time, even at a glance. In order to accomplish this generously proportioned dial layout, the case of the SMG-1 Tactical had to be styled accordingly; it features an oversized, domed sapphire crystal, and a narrow, unidirectional rotating bezel with count-up minute scale. The case measures 44.3 mm in diameter. In order to prevent the crown from getting caught during an exercise, and in an effort to increase wear comfort, the SMG-1 Tactical has its screw-down crown placed at the 8 o'clock position.

The SMG-1 Tactical comes in a wooden collector's box and on a titanium/PVD Soarway bracelet with flip-lock clasp and integrated overall extension. The bracelet, which features individually screw-locked links, is attached to the case by a set of screw-locked bars. Waterproof to a depth of 1,000 feet, shock-resistant, as well as antimagnetic, the SMG-1 Tactical fulfills the requirements of the stringent regulations for professional diver's watches as set forth by the German Industrial Standards Bureau (DIN).

The SMG-1 Tactical, which is limited to only 50 watches, is available for pre-order only. Delivery is expected to commence in late May 2007.

[Trip_Wire]

Expensive, but well worth it. Check out the New Style Rolex GMT II. List price is $5950. Comes with the new improved cal. 3186 movement with Blue Hair Spring that is anti-magnetic, anti-shock, and resistant to any temperature. Has larger hands and hour markers for better nightime visibility. Has the 24 hour hand as well, so you will have your Dual Time Zone function. This is very parctical for military applications, as you can set the regular hands on local time, and the Green 24hr. hand to Zulu time of if overseas to your Home Time in the USA. THe newer style GMT II also has the Triplock Crown, same as the Submariner. So even though the GMT is still rated to 100meters as the older style with the Twin Lock crown, the Triple Lock crown gives increase water resistant. Will be good for any recreational or military tactical dive/water ops. THe new style also has an improved clasp, which allows has a "Summer Extension", this allows you to easily adjust the bracelet a 1/4 link bigger or smaller to accomodate swellling wrist in the heat or during workouts.

Pricey, yes. But will last a life time. Few TDYs and will be paid for.

I have the 1990 (Puchased) and it's been a great watch! Here's the one you mentioned!

http://www.rolex.com/en/collection/extraordinary-watches/gmt-master/panorama/index.jsp

[poison]

Also for a bulletproof diver that will outlast most others, but at a pricepoint some might consider as a 'throwaway', try the TSAR, used by NASA and others:

http://store1.yimg.com/I/westcoastime_1958_3117076

http://westcoastime.stores.yahoo.net/tsarfrommarn1.html

[bomb_defuzer]

I have owned, Casio G-Shocks, Rolex GMT Master, Omega Seamaster, Seiko Dive, Citizen Aqualand Dive, Alba (Seiko Subsidary), Suunto and a few others.

1. Omega Seamaster is awesome, my favorite. Battery model can be had for 1200 USD. Watch will last a lifetime
2. G-Shock is the ultimate ulitarian, my choice for night diving and nasty stuff. They are under $100
3. Seiko Dive is bullet proof and looks good too.
4. Suunto uses batteries fast, lots of utilities though. Upgrade from a Casio.
5. Rolex is overpriced and over rated, mine was in the shop for a broken main spring and it cost $500 for repairs. I just sold it on ebay for 2400 USD.
6. Citizen dive is too technical, historically unreliable and uses batteries quickly also. I wore it once.


Whether you choose to accept it or not, a man's success is measured by the watch on his wrist.

[low country]

I have owned, Casio G-Shocks, Rolex GMT Master, Omega Seamaster, Seiko Dive, Citizen Aqualand Dive, Alba (Seiko Subsidary), Suunto and a few others.

1. Omega Seamaster is awesome, my favorite. Battery model can be had for 1200 USD. Watch will last a lifetime
2. G-Shock is the ultimate ulitarian, my choice for night diving and nasty stuff. They are under $100
3. Seiko Dive is bullet proof and looks good too.
4. Suunto uses batteries fast, lots of utilities though. Upgrade from a Casio.
5. Rolex is overpriced and over rated, mine was in the shop for a broken main spring and it cost $500 for repairs. I just sold it on ebay for 2400 USD.
6. Citizen dive is too technical, historically unreliable and uses batteries quickly also. I wore it once.


Whether you choose to accept it or not, a man's success is measured by the watch on his wrist.

My Suunto has gone through 3 batteris in 18 months. The compass refuses to stay calibrated more than a day or two. I sent it back under warranty in hopes they can figure out the problems. Have had a casio for years now. First G-Shock lasted about 10 years and finally bit the dust as the rubber case dry rotted and fell apart. Am on my second now for about 4 years on the original battery. Like the mudman and Pathfinders as well.

Be safe

[Beef]

I must agree with Leopardprey. He's got all the info down cold. The new Rolex GMT II is the stuff. I was deployed on a BLT in the 70's (my pre-SF, U.S.M.C. days) and bought a Rolex Seadweller at Bucherer's Jewellers across from the Rolex Factory in Geneva. I paid $567 USD for it and still have the reciept. That "Double Red Seadweller" is now worth $20,000-$25,000 and there are people who will pay that. I wore it the rest of my time in the Corps and SF. No problems, had it serviced once. If you buy this new GMT II with the green 24 hour hand and green "GMT II" you can wear it, dive, jump and climb in it and sell it in 10-15 years for more than you paid for it. Like your 401-K on your wrist. The one draw-back: it weighs about a half a pound, much heavier than any other Rolex I've ever worn. Definitely a BIG SHINY WATCH. Semper Fi, Beef

[B 2/75]

Go old school and inexpensive... LOL

[murphy j]

I have a Luminox that seems to be holding up. I have taken to the field and roughed it up on several occasions, but still unsure of it because of what everyone else says about it. My Omega Seamaster is great I wear it all the time. I've never heard of anybody having problems with them. Seems like everyone has a Rolex these days. From what I know, the GMT Master II is probably the way to go if you decide on Rolex. Omega does make a Seamaster GMT. It'll set you back between $1800-$3000, Depending on where you get it. Don't really have any experience with the other brands mentioned, except the Casio G-Shock. Pretty much indestructible. We ran over one with an APC just to see if it would survive. It did. This was back in the early 90's. I don't know what their quality is like now, but everybody seems to like them that have them.

[leopardprey]

I would also recommend the Omega Seamaster GMT. Again a very good watch, can find for just around $2000 (or a little under). Good movement and water resistant to 300 meters. Of course there is just something special about a Rolex.

Yes, the new Rolex GMT II is much heavier than past models, but it also has the heavier new style bracelet and clasp which offsets the watch and balances nice.

[murphy j]

I would also recommend the Omega Seamaster GMT. Again a very good watch, can find for just around $2000 (or a little under). Good movement and water resistant to 300 meters. Of course there is just something special about a Rolex.

Yes, the new Rolex GMT II is much heavier than past models, but it also has the heavier new style bracelet and clasp which offsets the watch and balances nice.
Yes there is something very special about them. I don't have one yet, but someday Murphy J will. Oh yes, he will.:D

[JumpinJunkie]

Whether you choose to accept it or not, a man's success is measured by the watch on his wrist.

By whom? Not in my world.

[leopardprey]

Ever been to Hong Kong, Singapore, or KL???

[murphy j]

I think it really depends on what circles you travel in. For instance; my father in law has a $26,000 Submariner, he's a doctor. My brother in law has a GMT Master II, he's a project manager for a regional property development company and married to the daughter of one of the richest men in Tulsa. They travel in the sort of social circles where that type of adornment is expected. I don't. I do know that as a kid a mans watch was a glimpse at how successful he is. That sort of thing has kinda gone away, but some of us still remember. If the Army has taught me anything; it's that appearances can get you most places.

[Lannister]

Apparently I'm not "Tracking"...

All those bright, gleeming ass, titanium, stainless steel, and gold watches up top are for civilian wear... right...:confused:

[leopardprey]

Well, one of the reasons I always wanted a Rolex, when as a young private in a Ranger Battalion (over 20 years ago), seeing many of the senior NCOs and Officers wearing Rolex watches. Also at that time the 2/75 Ranger Bat. Dive team was issued Tudor (made by Rolex) Dive watches on Nato straps.

Also, later when I got in SF, remember seeing many fellow SF soldiers wearing Rolex. (the old lineage of a SF Soldier having a Rolex watch, a Randall Knife, and Sapphire Ring). Seems many in SF would buy a Rolex with the extra pay they got for being TDY or for re-enlistment bonuses.

I was very blessed in finally being able myself to afford a couple of Rolex watches after several overseas deployments with the US Army and then doing contract security work overseas, over the last several years. Know of many guys doing mobile security work in Iraq with a Rolex Submariner, GMT II or Explorer II on their wrist.

If you ever go to Asia, they are really into watches there and what type of watch you have on your wrist is admired and observed. Good or bad, they judge you from it. Me, I just have Rolex watches cause I like the history, tradition, brainwashed from all those National Geographic Rolex Ads at a young age, and I like a fine peice of swiss made mechanical timekeeping on my wrist in this day of cell phones, internet, blackberries, ipods, etc....

[eltrane]

Not sure if CWC watches have been mentioned, they are issue for UK forces and are pretty tough. I have a couple, and while they have quartz movements, they are almost as cool as my rolex.:)

I just picked up the black PVD dive watch for $405., and I am very happy with it.

http://i77.photobucket.com/albums/j73/6122s/wwatches.jpg

[low country]

Just a quick shout out to SUUNTO. I had an Advizor for about 18 months that went bad. SUUNTO replaced it under warranty and sent me a brand new watch.

[rubicon]

So what was the final verdict? What watch did original poster get and why? Likes/dislikes?
I still vote for the G-Shock but mine doesn't fit original poster requirements-my DW-6600 has no dual time capabilities. Still bombproof though.

Rubicon

[HappyGuy]

I need a watch that can hold at least 2 different times (local, zulu) and looks fairly tactical. Also, needs to be divable to at least 100m. Any ideas?
Sorry, coming into this thread late...

I bought a Seiko automatic divers watch at the commisary 20 years ago and it's never needed repairs. Still keeps good time.

I have this Seiko now...the blue one in the middle...these babies are tanks...you can dive, or do anything else with them and they don't cost an arm and a leg:

http://www.higuchi-inc.com/6R15diver.html

Rolex are fine watches, but do you really want to wear a $6K watch for military training and operations?

If you're willing to part with some more cash, but don't want to break the bank, look into one of these-the movement is as good/or better than Rolex and Omega watches at two or three times the price:

http://www.higuchi-inc.com/sbdx001.html

Go Japanese. The watches are as reliable and well-built as the cars.

[Trip_Wire]

I added another watch to my inventory! I was on a cruise and the ships stores had a good deal on the watch so I bought it!

I like the idea that it requires no batteries, has many travel time zones that can be set, to include GMT. I like the look of the watch as well.

As for the dive mode on it, it can't be set for nitrox diving, which is a negative factor for me; however, I still have the Suunto Mosquito, which IMHO is a better dive computer, but isn't as nice looking.

The only other negative thing that I don't like about it so far is that it's fairly complex to learn how to use all the functions properly. The manual has 100 pages.

Citizen Eco-Drive Aqualand with Dive Log - 20th Anniversary Model:

http://www.princetonwatches.com/shop/JV0030-01E.asp

[SOTB]

Whether you choose to accept it or not, a man's success is measured by the watch on his wrist.BWAHAHAHAHAHAHHAHAHAHA

I just saw this.

Wow....

[MikeC2W]

I like my Submariner and have never had a single problem with it over the last 5 years.

I also like my casio - which I've replaced a couple of times.

Lately I've been looking at Breitling, I dig the Avenger Seawolf (resistant up to 3000M - holy shit), and although I hope to never find myself at that depth the watch is pretty cool and is a bit cheaper than Rolex.


SOTB - concur..... WOW.....

[DDSSDV]

Big watch, little dick...

[Seraph]

G-shock is the best by far.
Agree
Worth their weight in gold.

I still vote for the G-Shock but mine doesn't fit original poster requirements-my DW-6600 has no dual time capabilities. Still bombproof though.
Yep.
My 6600 is perfect. Basic, but completely reliable.

[swamppirate]

Casio G-shock, Breitling Colt, Seiko Divers, Timex Ironman

[poison]

I just picked up my first serious watch. It's an Ocean7, a small but up and coming brand. The owner, Mitch, started a year ago on a watch forum, and demand and response have been huge. He comes up with a concept, but then allows forum members to 'design' the watch and give input. He's a patriotic guy, with one of his new, limited designs being called The American. He already has several watches in Iraq.

His site:

http://ocean7watchco.com/watches/

His forum:

http://forums.watchuseek.com/forumdisplay.php?f=133

My watch, the LM-3:

http://hometown.aol.co.uk/Libritor/Watches/ocean7_lm3_wrist_01a.jpg

http://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h284/Malyel/LM312.jpg

http://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h284/Malyel/LM-3.jpg



I've never seen such a beefy watch. It's a chunk of steel at ~250gr with bracelet, rated to 1000m, Swiss auto movement, one of the best bezels ever made, 4mm thick sapphire crystal, helium release valve, whopping heavy duty bracelet pins, etc. I bought it because I've never had a nice watch, but wanted one which will stand up to my abuse. I chose well. :D

[Kurt V]

My father was issued a watch wile serving with the Army. Nothing fancy about it just a green nylon band with a 24 hour watch on it.

I still have the one I "obtained" back in the '70's. Nylon band, plastic bezel hamilton with the radium hands. Still working after all these years. Who knows what all that radiation has done to me over the years.

[Greenhat]

Big watch, little dick...


John Holmes' watch

http://www.aandewatches.com/rolex_masterpiece_watches01-face.jpg

[eltrane]

Any Clive Cussler/Dirk Pitt fans out there?

[eltrane]

I just picked up my first serious watch. It's an Ocean7, a small but up and coming brand. The owner, Mitch, started a year ago on a watch forum, and demand and response have been huge. He comes up with a concept, but then allows forum members to 'design' the watch and give input. He's a patriotic guy, with one of his new, limited designs being called The American. He already has several watches in Iraq.



That LM7 is an interesting homage to the old Omega Ploprof watch.

http://cgi.ebay.com/Omega-Ploprof-600-Dive-Watch_W0QQitemZ280187077969QQihZ018QQcategoryZ1116 52QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

[GDITheman]

I've been wearing a stainless Submariner everyday for the last 15 years. It looks like shit. Knicks in the crystal, the band has the links worn badly and are now odd shaped, and it's even dented in a few places. I've worn it as a "work" watch in some very demanding environments (hardhat diving, offshore barges, etc.)

I bought it because every commercial diver I worked with had a Sub or Sea Dweller and I knew they didn't buy it to look pretty at the prom. I have had Heuers before they became TAG and even a Ti Breitling, but they were not built as well.

The watch functions everyday and still glows bright. It's just what I need. The only other watch I'd trade this for is a Sea Dweller. I'd never need the helium release valve, but the whole watch is that much better built to handle the rough stuff.

[poison]

Any Clive Cussler/Dirk Pitt fans out there?

I noticed something about that. What's the connection?

I'm not a huge fan of the design, myself, but clearly they are VERY well built and rugged.

[poison]

That LM7 is an interesting homage to the old Omega Ploprof watch.

http://cgi.ebay.com/Omega-Ploprof-600-Dive-Watch_W0QQitemZ280187077969QQihZ018QQcategoryZ1116 52QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

Absolutely!

GDITheman, I love it! Nice to see someone use it the way it was intended.

[eltrane]

I noticed something about that. What's the connection?

I'm not a huge fan of the design, myself, but clearly they are VERY well built and rugged.

It's a Doxa 600T, there were 3000 made to honor Clive Cussler's character, Dirk Pitt. Clive wears the one that he was given as thanks for his work at a dive shop, and the Dirk Pitt character he created wears on in his books. You could say Clive popularized this watch with many of his readers. It's probably the reason that your watch is available with an orange face as well.

[poison]

Cool! Thanks for the explaination.

[Massgrunt]

Know of many guys doing mobile security work in Iraq with a Rolex Submariner, GMT II or Explorer II on their wrist.
Ah, the contractor's special! :D I know of at least five guys with the same exact watch. I met a buddy at Green Beans a while back and started laughing because he was wearing one.

[poison]

Here are pcs of the Ocean7 American.

Case back:

http://www.ocean7watchco.com/webfiles/American1b.JPG

Face:

http://www.ocean7watchco.com/webfiles/American5.jpg

Sample package, not exactly what it will be, but close:

http://www.ocean7watchco.com/webfiles/American.jpg

Pretty cool, $100 of the purchase of all 100 made will go to the Freedom is not Free Organisation, for a total of $10k.

To obtain a specific Serial Number, you are asked to make the following donation to FIF @ http://www.freedomisnotfree.com/

To obtain a Serial number between:
1-10 and #100 a $500 donation to FINF is requested.
11-20 a $200 donation is requested.
For any other Specific SN# then a $100 donation is requested.


You can read more about it here:

http://forums.watchuseek.com/showthread.php?t=84818&highlight=american

[poison]

Here are some specs for the curious:

LM-6 American

Today is a very good day to announce the newest face in the OCEAN7 watch collection – a limited edition tribute to America. Only 100 pieces will be available, each individually numbered in a series that will never be repeated. Every detail on this watch was meticulously planned to fulfill its role in an integrated design concept. From the lightly embossed star pattern on its dark blue dial color matched to the American flag, to the special engraving on the case back, each element of this watch shows a relation to its original design theme. It is discerning in a way that its true purpose is not obvious to the uninitiated.

Here are the specifications, subject to change:
Titanium LM-6 style case
Titanium bracelet
Color matched dark blue leather strap with red stitching and titanium buckle
Fixed bezel
Huge 36mm dial
Flat top, domed sapphire crystal
Dark blue lightly embossed star pattern dial
Special case back engraving
Black wood box lined in black velvet
Sellita SW200 Swiss automatic 26 jewel movement
Each watch will come with a copy of Don’t Tread On Me, by H.W. Crocker, III. Mr. Crocker will personally autograph and number each copy.

CAD drawings will not be published. Photographs of the sample will be available in 60 days, with full production in late fall. The target cost is under $1000.

A minimum $100 donation to the Freedom Is Not Free organization will be made with each sale.

Happy July 4!

Mitch (Ocean7 owner)

[NightLandNav]

Every time I lost or wrecked a PX MILSPEC Timex watch, I went to the PX and bought another one. No worries.

A Rolex, Tag and Suunto...Stolen, wrecked, stolen...I'm still not done cussing.

[bobofthedesert]

I'm pretty sure that a couple of years ago this thread had an entry on it listing a company that did refurbishment of Seiko dive watches, I recall that they were supposed to do fantastic work but that you couldn't expect to get the watch back anytime soon as they were in such demand for their services. Anyone know who that is? I used the search function, all it gave me was the sticky in it's current incarnation.....Thanks in advance.

[SOTB]

A Rolex, Tag and Suunto...Stolen, wrecked, stolen...I'm still not done cussing.Dude, isn't that the truth? I have a yellow SUUNTO that sits in my closet, unused, because the thing has some sort of a short which goes through batteries in a day. Do I throw it away? No. It sits there and reminds my wife of why I cannot be allowed/trusted to have en entire room in the house to keep my "stuff"....

[Spinner]

I'm pretty sure that a couple of years ago this thread had an entry on it listing a company that did refurbishment of Seiko dive watches, I recall that they were supposed to do fantastic work but that you couldn't expect to get the watch back anytime soon as they were in such demand for their services. Anyone know who that is? I used the search function, all it gave me was the sticky in it's current incarnation.....Thanks in advance.

That was another thread, 312Marine posted the results of the work done on his Seiko. He gave the company a thumbs up.

http://www.socnetcentral.com/vb/showpost.php?p=822020&postcount=49

[insane soldier]

I sent my rolex to Jack at IWW. I waited 4 months,they did an excellent job.MY Rolex was completely refurbished and I had the bead blasting done and a relume job. Jack even replaced my gaskets. Very trustworthy .

[eltrane]

If you want to change/upgrade the hands, bezel, face, you can contact MK II watches, www.mkiiwatches.com I own one of their Benrus homage models and it's a very good watch.

[MikeC2W]

I sent my rolex to Jack at IWW. I waited 4 months,they did an excellent job.MY Rolex was completely refurbished and I had the bead blasting done and a relume job. Jack even replaced my gaskets. Very trustworthy .

Who is this Jack dude, what is IWW, where are they locate? How much did it cost you? I've had my rolex for over 6 years and it's due for the same treatment...

Any info is much appreciated.

Mike

[eltrane]

www.internationalwatchworks.com / 1-919-462-1873 / Jack Alexyon

[bobofthedesert]

That was another thread, 312Marine posted the results of the work done on his Seiko. He gave the company a thumbs up.

http://www.socnetcentral.com/vb/showpost.php?p=822020&postcount=49

Many thanks for the info!

[NightLandNav]

Dude, isn't that the truth? I have a yellow SUUNTO that sits in my closet, unused, because the thing has some sort of a short which goes through batteries in a day. Do I throw it away? No. It sits there and reminds my wife of why I cannot be allowed/trusted to have en entire room in the house to keep my "stuff"....

OH! That's it too, grounds for divorce...grounds to kick any GF/roommate to the curb. "That's my fucking room, don't go in there."

"No, you can't keep your Mnt. Bike in here.

...baby, please...with sugar on top... that's as good as it gets with me on this, I need that room, end of discussion."



...sometimes that actually works...if it does? ...god love it if you're still with her...'cause she was the one.

[poison]

Ocean7 finally started production of their limited edition 'American' watch, and it's up on the website for sale. They are only making 100, and Mitch, the owner, will be donating $100 from the sale of each to Freedom is Not Free, which benefits families of fallen soldiers, IIRC. That's a $10k donation!

http://www.ocean7watchco.com/watches/product_info.php?cPath=5&products_id=41

The watch is beautifully spec'd:

Titanium LM-6 style case
Titanium bracelet
Dark blue leather strap with red stitching and steel buckle

Silicone strap with steel buckle

Titanium buckle

Special case back engraving showing the Navy Jack flag

Huge 36mm dial
Domed sapphire crystal
Dark blue lightly etched star pattern dial
Special case back engraving
Black wood box lined in black velvet
Swiss automatic movement
Swiss Made

Each watch will come with a copy of Don’t Tread On Me, by H.W. Crocker, III. Mr. Crocker has personally autographed and numbered each copy.

I posted preliminary pics on the last page here, but there should be some awesome photo's soon. Members of his forum tend to be awesome photographers.


It's selling for $889. I'd buy one if I had the dough. I'm very happy with my Ocean7 LM3, fantastic watch.

[poison]

Here she is!

http://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h284/Malyel/US-11.jpg

http://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h284/Malyel/US-12.jpg

http://forums.watchuseek.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=94688&d=1205950130

http://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h284/Malyel/US-18.jpg


Freakin gorgeous! These pics were taken by one of the first customers to receive the watch. It's selling for $889, and this includes the $100 donation to Freedom is not Free.

Specs:

Case diameter: ~44.5
Bezel ring diameter: 42mm
Case & crown: 48.4mm
lug center to center: 45.7mm
overall lug to lug: 51mm
thickness: 16mm
crystal diameter: ~36.5mm
unsized weight on Ti bracelet: 150gms

Swiss made, auto, domed sapphire, titanium case and bracelet, and awesome customer service. Can't beat that.

[poison]

a couple more:

http://forums.watchuseek.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=94682&d=1205948879

http://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h284/Malyel/US-16.jpg

[poison]

On a Zulu strap:

http://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h284/Malyel/USZU-1.jpg

http://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h284/Malyel/USZU-3.jpg

[The Fat Guy]

Hey Guys,

If you are interested in that Suunto watch, it is called the Vector. Specifications are as follows:


Extreme,

I just bought a Suunto X-Lander, the Military version that is all black. Great service to date. Is it much different than the Vector ?(Other than I paid more than $180.00 for it)

fast eddie sends

[poison]

Here's a link to a war blog from a soldier in Iraq who's an Ocean7 customer, with pics!:

http://forums.watchuseek.com/showthread.php?t=138872

They will be auctioning off a prototype watch for charity.

[Spinner]

Here's a link to a war blog from a soldier in Iraq who's an Ocean7 customer, with pics!:

http://forums.watchuseek.com/showthread.php?t=138872

They will be auctioning off a prototype watch for charity.

I'm holding out for the Ocean 11 watch, with a nice etched portrait of The Chairman on back. :D

[eltrane]

I'm holding out for the Ocean 11 watch, with a nice etched portrait of The Chairman on back. :D

Great movie. Clooney is good, but Sinatra is the Chairman of the Board.

[PatriotnMore]

I'm holding out for the Ocean 11 watch, with a nice etched portrait of The Chairman on back. :D

SEE, humor, exactly why I like this group. Watches are like women, there are many beautiful women, pick the one that suits your needs.;)

[DAVE J]

Has anyone out there actually been issued a watch or know anyone that was? If so which one? One of my side hobbies is mil-watches and I have never actually known someone that received one, even when I was in.

My previous unit issued me a Casio Pathfinder. Later upgraded to a Vector. Love both watches. Just hate the 300pg operators manual....

[psyco6]

Just got Citizen Eco-Drive Aqualand love it.Easy to use and I like the idea of not having to worry about a battery.

[adomenico]

Gents-
I have a TAG- even older than the 2000 series that ive had for 16 years and has been thru sand, salt water, car repairs, and even a divorce and is still going strong.

[Expatmedic]

I have had my Omega Co-Axial for 5 years now. It's the large 41mm case, looks great on large wrists. Weighs just a bit more than a GMT-II, all links and case are billet stainless. A little less than a Rolex, Swiss Chronometer, extra links are about $30. Stainless is very scratch resistant. The crystal is perfect after 5 years. About 2k now. It's perpetual, so no batteries.

[shakyjake64]

Does anyone have an opinion on the Suunto Vector? It's a bit pricy at $189.00 but I love the idea of having a compass, altimeter, barometer, thermometer, 3 alarms, countdown timer, calendar, and stop watch. Oh, it tells time too. I'm a big fan of having backups of backups of my backups.

Anyone ever use one or hear anything in regards to them?

Thank you kindly.
TGO

I haven't gotten the chance to read every post here...but i've had a Vector and a Highgear alterra...the highgear's face didn't scratch like th Vector and the altimeter didn't have to be updated nearly as much....due to it locking when you stayed at a certain altitude so that the changes in weather didn't effect it. Check here for a full review...
http://geargeeksreview.blogspot.com/2008/08/highgear-alterra-watch.html

[7.62 Gunner]

I have 15 watches, from Rolex to Tag Heuer to antique Hamiltons. The one I wear every day is my Traser H3 P6500. I even sleep with it on. Keeps perfect time, extremely light weight, has tritium illumination and wasn't a fortune. The battery lasted about a year and can easily be replaced yourself. Can't beat it.

[Red Flag 1]

Rolex- Submariner.
Sieko- X 4..Dress with diamond; !969 yellow dial; Dive watch; 1988 Chrono.
Citizen- Americas Cup 2002.
Casio- Dig/Analog...black face.
Timex- 2...who cares.
Wife- 39 yrs. Tells me what time it really is.

Next- Any watch that can give me 36-48 hours in a day!!

RF 1

[poison]

TACTICOOL:

http://www.survivalstraps.com/paracordwatchstraps.html

http://www.survivalstraps.com/paracordwatchstraps_files/blocks_image_16_1.jpg

[bravodelta]

I have 15 watches, from Rolex to Tag Heuer to antique Hamiltons. The one I wear every day is my Traser H3 P6500. I even sleep with it on. Keeps perfect time, extremely light weight, has tritium illumination and wasn't a fortune. The battery lasted about a year and can easily be replaced yourself. Can't beat it.

I have the P6508 (Blue instead of green) with a MaraTac zulu band, and I have zero complaints with it. A bit pricey, but the quality is well worth it.

[cryptodan]

I bought myself the Citizen Skyhawk AT a few weeks ago and absolutely love it. This newer version of the Skyhawk also has a lot of welcomed improvements over the older models. Prior to this I almost exclusively wore Seiko watches.

http://i147.photobucket.com/albums/r294/settite/Stuff/MYWATCH.jpg

The basic specs of the watch are atomic timekeeping with radio controlled accuracy, solar powered, world time in 43 cities, 2 alarms, 1/100 second chronograph measures up to 24 hours, 99 minute countdown timer, perpetual calendar, digital display light, water resistant to 200 meters (660 Feet), Greenwich Mean Time display, rotating slide rule bezel, power reserve indicator (180 day power reserve when fully charged - 2.5 year power reserve with power save function).

When you change the primary time zone on the watch it adjusts the watch hands to comply with the change. For each time zone you can enable or disable DST. The self illuminating hands are bright but not too bright and stay visible for a good amount of time.

I wore the watch on the last hunting trip I went on and it did very well. Nothing got scratched.

Overall I would highly recommend this watch to anyone. The price is a little steep for some but in watches you usually pay for what you get. I was able to pick the watch up for ~$450 but the retail is around $650. If you can catch it at a jewelry store during a sale you should be able to get 15-30% off pretty easily.

[bravodelta]

So here's my recent purchase ($55 including shipping courtesy of woot.com)

http://www.amazon.com/National-Geographic-Pharaoh-Stainless-Steel/dp/B00102GWS6

I figure I'd get something that I'd wear if I was dressed to impress without burning a hole in my pocket. The National Geographic logo would make people second guess, but I don't think it's too obvious.

[bubblehead]

Can never go wrong with G-Shock.. I have the Mudman Solar Atomic and love it.

[WCG175]

http://i147.photobucket.com/albums/r294/settite/Stuff/MYWATCH.jpg



I don't know what all that stuff does....but that is one sexy watch!:biggrin:

I admittedly have a watch serious fetish........:smile:

[Balls]

I don't know what all that stuff does....but that is one sexy watch!:biggrin:

I admittedly have a watch serious fetish........:smile:

No shit....it would take an Intel guy to figure all that out :biggrin:

Very, very nice.

[BrittleHair]

I have been looking around for a simple watch that does three things well:

Digital watch/stopwatch/alarm
Diveable (not just water resistant but actually good to dive)
Digital Compass

Surprisingly I have yet to find one.

[Trojancd]

I would also recommend the Omega Seamaster GMT. Again a very good watch, can find for just around $2000 (or a little under). Good movement and water resistant to 300 meters. Of course there is just something special about a Rolex.

Yes, the new Rolex GMT II is much heavier than past models, but it also has the heavier new style bracelet and clasp which offsets the watch and balances nice.

I just bought one of those Omega Seamaster GMT's, upgrade from the regular Seamaster. To me Omega is the best watch out there, its not overpriced, and you don't see Omega replicas as often as you see Rolex's. When I buy a watch that costs a couple thousand dollars, the last thing I want to see is that same watch on some teenagers wrist selling burgers at McDonalds.

There is some understated class that comes with an Omega too, yes I know, big watch small cock syndrome, but with Omega, usually only fellow heurologist can appreciate the watch, unlike a Rolex which is something everyone knows.

There is nothing understated about my Breitling Emergency though, that's a biggin. And I love it, i wear it almost every day at work, I also spend a lot of time climbing mountains, or doing some good back country traveling, so if nothing else, it gives me a special little sense of security when shit goes bad.

Now to complete the hypocracy, the next watch I will buy will be a Rolex Daytona.

[Tuukka]

A buddy brought over a new G-Shock on his leave. Used the old one for over 10+ years and did a ton of different stuff with it on my wrist, still works well but the strap is starting to get a little funky..

If it breaks, I dont have shit ton of money in it..

http://www.hunt101.com/data/500/kello.JPG

[DuckMarshal]

Anyone bought a used Rolex before and if so, what's the best way to go about it? I am aware of all the Chinatown knock-offs. I just don't want to pay 6K for a new submariner.

[B 2/75]

DM,
Get one off eBay, watching carefully from whom your buying. Go for folks who have 5,000+ feedbacks as proof positive of their being a legitimate store. Do some research, and don't buy the 1st thing you see... be patient.

I've gotten two watches on eBay, the 1st being an essentially brand new condition 50 year old 10k gold filled Movado Tempomatic for 210 (sweet)
http://www.fathertimeantiques.com/uploadedImages/W2456_l.jpg

Recently I grabbed a new stainless / leather Skagen chrono for 80 (sweeter still)
http://www.skagen.com/productImage/331XLSL1/full.size.fx

Not alot of need for a gettin' grubby watch these days.....

[CombatWombat]

Anyone have any feedback on Casio Pathfinders vs. Suuntos? My Vector died an ugly and horrible death at the hands of my neighbor's dog and I need a new altimeter watch. I took a look at the GPS watches, but the battery life is too lousy for a deployment timepiece.

Thinking about the PAW1300 or PAW1500 vs. the X-lander. I like the aluminum body/mineral crystal on the Suunto, but the solar recharge of the Casio is pretty nice. Has anyone used both and seen a difference in accuracy? I pretty regularly used my Vector's compass and altimeter to navigate so I need it for more than just looks.

Thanks.

[CA SGT]

I have the Casio ProTrek. Used hard since '05...Solar powered with all the functions. Great watch

[Guinness]

I've been wearing a Casio Sea Pathfinder for almost 2 years now and it was a hand me down. I thought originally that it was a plastic piece of junk(based on it's looks).....but damn, it's lasted.

I gotta say I'm a fan now.

[Trip_Wire]

I bought myself the Citizen Skyhawk AT a few weeks ago and absolutely love it. This newer version of the Skyhawk also has a lot of welcomed improvements over the older models. Prior to this I almost exclusively wore Seiko watches.

http://i147.photobucket.com/albums/r294/settite/Stuff/MYWATCH.jpg

The basic specs of the watch are atomic timekeeping with radio controlled accuracy, solar powered, world time in 43 cities, 2 alarms, 1/100 second chronograph measures up to 24 hours, 99 minute countdown timer, perpetual calendar, digital display light, water resistant to 200 meters (660 Feet), Greenwich Mean Time display, rotating slide rule bezel, power reserve indicator (180 day power reserve when fully charged - 2.5 year power reserve with power save function).

When you change the primary time zone on the watch it adjusts the watch hands to comply with the change. For each time zone you can enable or disable DST. The self illuminating hands are bright but not too bright and stay visible for a good amount of time.

I wore the watch on the last hunting trip I went on and it did very well. Nothing got scratched.

Overall I would highly recommend this watch to anyone. The price is a little steep for some but in watches you usually pay for what you get. I was able to pick the watch up for ~$450 but the retail is around $650. If you can catch it at a jewelry store during a sale you should be able to get 15-30% off pretty easily.

Here's a website with a video on this watch as well as a good price.

http://www.amazon.com/Citizen-Eco-Drive-Skyhawk-Watch-JY0000-53E/dp/B000ZPMYQI/ref=cm_cmu_pg_t

[SF_BHT]

Nice now you got my interest I might have to spend more money this month....:eek:

[Hoepoe]

My latest addition, not a "tactical watch per se, but still nice (i think):
Tag Chronotimer/Aquaracer

[TowGunner]

Wow... how the hell did I miss a Watch "Porn" thread

In the past 20 years I have owned / sold / traded for over 50 watches.

My first super nice watch was given to me by Domino's pizza where I was a Manager in a newly opened store. We set a pile of records and along with my bonus... I got the watch as well. Not a normal watch... but a Domino's Rolex Air King... it was made special for them by Rolex.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v225/caship/Watches/14000dom.jpg

Funny thing is... I quit Domino's about 2 weeks later and went to live in OC... where I proceeded to pawn that thing for beer loot :)

I really wasn't into watches till I went into the Marine Corps.... then I fell in love with my first Dive watch. It has been down hill from there.

The Citizen Promaster..... to the standards of todays watches... it is junk but back then (1994) it was badass.

This watch was one of the most rugged.... well built watches you could find at the time.

I kept this watch till I got married. Since I am not a big ring guy... my wife bought me a "wedding watch" (She bought the ring too but I used it to get married and I think I have worn it a couple times since.... hell I don't even know where it is now)

But she bought me my first real expensive watch..... looking back now it wasn't that much.... but back then we were some poor mo fo's.

It was a Tag Heuer Formula .... you have all seen them..... unfortunate for me.... I was in a jet ski accident while on my honeymoon and my watch ended up lost in the briny deep :(


Since then I have stuck with the citizen watches which have done me well....

Currently I have narrowed my collection down to about 6 watches.....

Citizens Eco-Drive Calibre 9000

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v225/caship/Sale/IMG_7672.jpg

Citizen JR3000-51F Skyhawk Flight (traded this for a Camera lens)

Citizen BJ7005-59E NightHawk Black (Just sold this one)

Citizen JR3080-51L Skyhawk Blue Angels Flight

But my most favorite watch of all is the older style Blue Angels watch..... it is the most comfortable of them all

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v225/caship/Watches/365C281263.jpg

[Nalu]

TG, if your old Citizen was one of these:

http://i42.photobucket.com/albums/e304/ColMiller/Citizen/Aqualand%20Gen%201/Aqualand1.jpg

[Nalu]

Sorry, premature post :tongue:

I was going to say: you'd be surprised how popular they still are!

[RGR.Montcalm]

Although i haven't read every post in this thread, i haven't seen the CASIO pathfinder Watch mentioned.

Bought mine through the PX during OIF 1- $185

Features:

Compass- 1 degree
Thermometer
Barometer- past 24 hour tracking
Altimeter-past 24 hour tracking
Lap Time
Split Time
Total time
Alarm settings
12/24 hour setting
2 time settings
WR ~100M
Illuminates pretty bright and has an optional 'tilt your wrist for illum' setting- turned mine off

I recently had all 4 batteries replaced after letting it sit in my sock drawer for a year and a half. No problems

[eltrane]

Sergeant Major, that's an excellent price for that watch, and it's an excellent watch. What made you decide to put it back into operation?

[RGR.Montcalm]

Sergeant Major, that's an excellent price for that watch, and it's an excellent watch. What made you decide to put it back into operation?

The Pathfinder has proven to be damned near indestructible- the only thing that has failed on it is the watch band retainer ring (for the excess). In typical Ranger fashion awarreness, I used a zip tie to create a new retainer and it is damned near indestructible too.

I got tired of buying new watches every 6-8 months because I cracked the crystal, broke the band (Timex Ironman- I swim a lot and need something that will take that).

I bought a couple of different watches that were more 'civilian' looking after I retired so that I would look more 'professional' than a 'over the hill- former knuckle dragger' with a big black watch with too many features/buttons while I was looking for a job.

Luckily, i have a job where the watch and my personailty/training/demeanor fit in pretty well....;)

[eltrane]

http://www.roguewarriorwatches.com/

Dick Marcinko's watch site.

[MailBuoy]

Dude, isn't that the truth? I have a yellow SUUNTO that sits in my closet, unused, because the thing has some sort of a short which goes through batteries in a day. Do I throw it away? No. It sits there and reminds my wife of why I cannot be allowed/trusted to have en entire room in the house to keep my "stuff"....

I know I am responding to a rather old post but have you considered sending it back to Suunto? I sent an X9I back to have a broken bezel fixed just prior to a deployment. It took them a couple of weeks and they said they were pretty busy, but they fixed the bezel and only ended up charging me like $15 shipping because of the delay. I ended up selling the X9I on Ebay and I took my old, battered, X6 on deployment anyways.

Someone mentioned the Casio Pathfinder. I really like the watch but it is a bit bulky and tended to snag on stuff. My X6 does everything the Pathfinder does and comes in a much sleeker package. I used to have an X6HR (X6 with heartrate) but sold it to a friend. His Pathfinder bit the dust on deployment and he started using the X6HR and ended up loving it. And the additional features of being able to dim the display, lock the light off, and the fact that it is NODs-readible even at it's dimmest setting are major pluses.

[MikeC2W]

Just purchased this one here:

[eltrane]

Those Hamiltons are great watches, pretty cool design as well.

[MikeC2W]

Those Hamiltons are great watches, pretty cool design as well.

This is my first, I can't wait to get it. I've been looking for a long time, for a secondary watch that I don't feel soo bad banging on. I was going to get a Breitling but didn't really feel like spending that kind of money at this point. Then I came across the Hamilton, I definitely dig the design and it's a rubber band to boot. Exactly what I was looking for, hopefully it can take a beating.

[SOTB]

I know I am responding to a rather old post but have you considered sending it back to Suunto?I have, but I haven't followed up on it seriously enough. I keep telling myself I need to get it done -- if for no other reason that I really like that watch....

[low country]

I have, but I haven't followed up on it seriously enough. I keep telling myself I need to get it done -- if for no other reason that I really like that watch....

I had an Advizor that did the same thing. I sent it in, under warranty, and they sent me a new one. They stated it had water damage. The new one, several years latter, lost the bezel and the rotating ring was shot. I sent it back and all was repaired for aboout 75 bucks ie bezel, ring, strap and battery. They paid for shipping both ways. I went to the Suunto web site and did the repair request on line. Pretty painless.

[rubicon]

So for my 40th. birthday the family pulls together and gets me a new watch. I am now the proud owner of a Seiko "Tuna". I will post a pic of this beast in the next few days. Here is a pic of one from the net http://blog.sagafan.jp/usr/hpii00991505/%E3%83%80%E3%82%A4%E3%83%90%E3%83%BC.JPG

also can google sbbn017

still love my good old g-shock though.