Best Survival Watches (Under $100 & $200 & $300+)

Having a timepiece that does its job in extreme environments is about making sure you have a watch that is made right so that it works when you need it. If your looking for a survival watch chances are that you will be needing it to perform under variable weather conditions and rough circumstances.

When looking for the best survival watches we scoured the internet, spent dozens of hours researching, spoke with a few guys who know who are watch fiends and also we had some experience with a few of them ourselves. We put together this list to represent what we find is a diverse collection of watches with different features and different environments – all of them reliable.

19 Best Survival Watches You Can Find

Prior to spending money on a survival watch, it might be good to do a little research to see what makes up a good survival watch – just so that you can avoid needlessly wasting your money on a piece of junk.

We put together this guide so that you end up with something that works. Here is a list of some of the best survival watches we have found on the market for under 200 bucks.


1. Casio Men’s Pro Trek PRW2500R Solar Watch

Best Overall Watch Choice

Price: $$

Dimensions: 3” L x 3” W x 4” H

Weight: 4oz

Material: Aluminum, Titanium, Steel, Mineral, Quartz

Pros: Functional for any outing, Durable, Solar-powered, Affordable

Cons: Not much

N/A

Description: This watch is on our list as it’s got some handy dandy features. The Casio Men’s Pro Trek PRW2500T Tough Solar Digital Sport Watch is a rugged watch with fully instrumented measurements that cover everything from temperature and altitude to a tide graph. This watch also has five daily alarms, automatic self-calibration, low-temperature resistance of -10 Celsius (14 Fahrenheit), a countdown timer, multiple display lighting modes and up to 200 meters of water resistance.

The battery is quick and easy to charge as it has a solar rechargeable battery that lasts up to 5 months on a full charge. The watch automatically recharges so you won’t have to worry of it quitting on you when you need it. Casio is one of the most famous brands out there and have been making watches from Tokyo, Japan since the 1940s producing all sorts of electrical gear.

Casio Men’s Pro Trek PRW2500R Solar Watch
Casio Men’s Pro Trek PRW2500R Solar Watch

This watch was made for extreme athletes and outdoor junkies in mind who need precision, performance and rugged environments. With five different dials, you have preloaded worldwide time zones. It comes with a Pro Trek triple sensor which includes an altimeter, barometer and thermometer, with the air pressure sensor updates pressure values every 10 minutes.

The digital CPU automatically switches measurement units from hPa to ftHg, and back again at regular intervals while displaying current values of atmospheric pressure. And the altimeter works from below sea level at -2300ft to the top of Everest. This thing does pretty much everything you can think of for a watch and then some. It’s just a touch over our original price limit of 200, but this thing is so good we couldn’t help it.



2. Casio Men’s G-Shock G300-3AV

Best Watch Under 100

Price: $

Dimensions: 4.1 x 3.7 x 2.4 inches

Weight: 2.08oz

Material: Resin, Plastic, Steel

Pros: Not bulky, Affordable, Shock resistant

Cons: Its a bit small (some say) but we like smaller watches

N/A

Description: Give it up for the tough guy. The Casio Men’s G-Shock G300-3AV Shock Resistant Black is packed with everything you need, but doesn’t overcomplicate things. Sometimes too many functions can be a bit overwhelming, and this one feels just right.

The G-shock, as the name implies has shock-resistant tech as well as a 200 m depth water resistance, which means you can get it wet without a problem.

Casio Men’s G-Shock G300-3AV
Casio Men’s G-Shock G300-3AV

This watch features a 46 mm resin case with a mineral dial window that protects against shock from bumps and drops. Some of the other features are a super-strong EL backlight, 29 time zones, 4 alarms, and a countdown timer.

This is a simple watch but it comes with a simple price. This guy is good for any outdoor running around though it doesn’t have all the functionality as the PROTREK, but it’s 1/5 the price.



3. Casio Men’s G-shock GW6900-1 Solar Watch

Best Solar Rechargeable Watch

Price: $$

Dimensions: 53.2 x 50.0 x 17.7mm

Weight: 63 grams

Material: Steel/Silicone/Quartz

Pros: Great backlight, Water-resistant, Not expensive

Cons: Not many color options

N/A

Description: Casio is trusted by so many which is why we bring you another product from their G-shock series. This features a solar-powered battery and it can even use light from a fluorescent lamp as a viable source of energy.

This watch is built with shock-resistant material and is water-resistant (to a degree). More notable features are the EL backlight, stainless steel case, and a treated dial window.

Casio Men’s G-shock GW6900-1 Solar Watch
Casio Men’s G-shock GW6900-1 Solar Watch

You do not have to worry about the battery dying on you as the battery is even rechargeable in dim light. This watch also has the signature EL backlight so you can even see when it’s super dark. These watches are often used by military personnel because of their durability, so if it can survive basic training, then we are pretty sure it can take whatever you throw at it.

It’s a bit smaller than the other G-shocks which we like. In terms of functionality, it’s in the middle between a super minimal Casio watch and a I have a full on science experiment on my arm type of watch. What stood out for this one, was its ratings, nearly 5 stars across the board.



4. Suunto Core All-Black Military Watch

Best Watch For Wilderness

Price: $$

Dimensions: 1.93 x 1.93 x 0.57

Weight: 2.06 Ounces

Material: Aluminum, Mineral Crystal, Elastomer, Composite

Pros: Tons of functionality extras, Can handle lots of abuse

Cons: It is a little bulky

N/A

Description: The Suunto Core has some pretty impressive features if that’s what you’re looking for. Suunto has been at it since 1936, making watches from their factories in Scandanavia. We have tried to keep this list under 200 just so that it makes things more affordable, which this watch is. But if you have a look at some other Suunto watches on the market there, they are super fancy. But they are pricey, so, I won’t say any more. Moving on.

Suunto Core All-Black Military Watch
Suunto Core All-Black Military Watch

It has a barometer, altimeter, compass, and even has a weather trend, sunrise and sunset times, and a weather alert if a storm is headed your way. The storm alert and weather tracking system is kind of a new thing that we think is pretty nifty especially if you are going to be running around in the mountains, this will inform you ahead of time about incoming storms so that you can get to a safe place in time before it strikes.

Since we are suckers for minimal-looking pieces of gear, we are going to sing this beauty its due praises. The storm feature is what we fall for here as we are always in the mountains and reckon a good storm watcher would be handy in a jam.



5. Casio Men’s G-Shock G9000-1 Watch

Best Budget Option

Price: $

Dimensions:46 mm case 8.5 in-band length

Weight:1.98 Ounces

Material: Plastic

Pros: Lightweight, Backlight, Water and mud resistant

Cons: Lacks the same build as more premium versions

N/A

Description: The Casio G-Shock™ comes from another of Casios popular G-SHOCK models. The watch is a trimmed-down version of the more expensive and geared up higher range versions, so you are going to be a bit disappointed if you expect this too comes with all the extra bells and whistles. But at this price point, it still comes with a few extras.

Casio Men’s G-Shock G9000-1 Watch
Casio Men’s G-Shock G9000-1 Watch

The G9000-1 can handle low-temperature resistance to -4 degrees F and also has access to 29 time zones together with Casios afterglow backlight. It also features a countdown timer as well your standard alarms.

We like the price point and for what it offers you can’t go wrong. Sure you could spend 3x and get our #1 pick but then you would have to spend just that much more. If you are looking for a cheaper alternative that will survive the strain you are gonna put on it then you got it.



6. Casio Women’s BG169R-7A ‘Baby-G’ Sport Watch

Best Survival Watch For Women

Price: $$

Dimensions: 42.6 mm case diameter and 15.4 mm thickness

Weight: 3.1 Ounces

Material: Mineral, Resin, Plastic

Pros: Great price point, Pocket-friendly, Quality build

Cons: Some women may not like the build

N/A

Description: The Casio Women’s BG169R-7A is a rugged outdoor watch that is a bit more dainty than some of the others that we have mentioned. That isn’t to say it’s not for men, unless you like white watches with the words “Baby G” etched on your watch, which isn’t exactly empowering.

Casio Women’s BG169R-7A ‘Baby-G’ Sport Watch
Casio Women’s BG169R-7A ‘Baby-G’ Sport Watch

So you are probably asking why it’s on our list?…and the reason is well, because it’s under 200, is made from Casio, has a crystal dial window, is both water and shock-resistant and also comes with an alarm, stopwatch, and 12/24 hour time formats.

You may think this all sounds pretty basic, and it is in some respects it’s true, but it’s still a great offer if you are a woman, are looking for something that can survive being thrown around and are a Baby G.



7. Timex Men’s Expedition Field Chronograph Watch

Best Expedition Watch

Price: $$

Dimensions: 43 mm x 12.5mm

Weight: 3 Ounces

Material: Brass, Mineral, Quartz, Fabric

Pros: Sleak design, nice band, 6 variations

Cons: No bells and whistles

N/A

Description: The Timex Expedition Field Watch is a minimalistic watch that has a slight military feel too it. It has a vintage design that gives it a timeless look.

Timex Men’s Expedition Field Chronograph Watch
Timex Men’s Expedition Field Chronograph Watch

The specs of this thing do not quite measure up to some of our previous watches. As it only comes with a chronograph but it still does have a water resistance of up to 300ft, but that’s about it.

Its made by the company Timex, which needs no introduction as they have been making classic watches for over 150 years. While this watch may not have all the functionality of the other watches on this list, this one has a touch of class, so even if you are in an emergency, you going to look good while your in it.



Best Premium Survival Watches

We felt like we had to add a few other high spec watches to this list. Unfortunately when it comes to functionality survival watches that are under 200 just don’t have the same level of tech as some of the upper-end models. We added a few here that are more expensive, but they are worth it as they really do have the traditional specs you would want in a survival watch.


8. Seiko PROSPEX Marinemaster Quatz Watch

Best Premium Survival Watch With All the Bells and Whistles

Price: $$$$$

Dimensions: 47.7 mm x 14.7 mm Band Width 22mm

Weight: 14.4 Ounces

Material: Steel, Rubber, Hardlex

Pros: Has everything you could want in a survival watch

Cons: Expensive

N/A
Seiko PROSPEX Marinemaster Quatz Watch
Seiko PROSPEX Marinemaster Quatz Watch

Description: Here we have the Seiko Marinemaster Watch, if you haven’t already guessed it, it’s a divers watch, which means it can handle some serious pressure. This guy is nicknamed the “Tuna Can” coming with 7-jewel, luminous display even in low light conditions.

This comes with a rubber dive strap ad is good to up to 300meters below sea level. Which means that it can go wherever you go.



9. Casio G-Shock Rangeman

Best Bluetooth GPS Watch

Price: $$$

Dimensions: 20.2 mm x 5.8mm

Weight: 5.01 Ounces

Material: Steel, Rubber, Hardlex

Pros: GPS, Bluetooth, tracks data points, creates maps and routes

Cons: Nothing really

N/A

Description: The GPR-B1000 is a solar-assisted GPS watch that enables real-time navigation. The RANGEMAN features a Triple Sensor, which measures direction (compass bearing), altitude/pressure, and temperature; it is a digital compass with bearing memory function; and an altimeter with barometric pressure measurement.

In addition to these functions, the GPR-B1000 also boasts GPS navigation capability—a first for a G-SHOCK watch. By connecting to GPS satellites, it is possible to display your current location on a route or bearing to your destination in real-time.

Casio G-Shock Rangeman
Casio G-Shock Rangeman

The new G-SHOCK RANGEMAN series also features a solar charging system, Bluetooth connectivity and an altimeter/barometer sensor that can measure altitude from -700 to 10,000 m (-2,300 to 32,800 ft.), with a display range of -700 to +10,000 m (-2,300 to +32,800 ft.). In addition to the timekeeping functions of the watch itself (1/100th second stopwatch and countdown timer).

The downside of course is the cost, but if you want the functionality, it costs.



10. Citizen Eco-Drive Promaster Navihawk Watch

Best Survival Watch Under 500

Price: $$$$

Dimensions: 4.33 x 3.94 x 8.27 inches

Weight: 4 Ounces

Material: Carbon

Pros: GPS, Bluetooth, tracks data points, creates maps and routes

Cons: Bit expensive

N/A


Description: The Citizen Eco-Drive Promaster Navihawk A-T Quartz Mens Watch is a modern pilot’s watch with some premium tech. The easy-to-read analog display features a rotating slide rule bezel ring for quickly calculating flight times, fuel consumption, wind speed and distance traveled.

Citizen Eco-Drive Promaster Navihawk Watch
Citizen Eco-Drive Promaster Navihawk Watch

The 43 world city time zones are synchronized to the atomic clock for superior accuracy. This Citizen Eco Drive watch also features two alarms, 1/100 second chronograph that measures up to 24 hours, a calendar and power reserve indicator. Additional features includeDescr

The Navihawk is made from Stainless Steel has a Black Dial Chronograph Display and Brown Leather Strap. It is water-resistant but no surprises there. This guy is nearly perfect across the board and even more so if you are the flying type



11. Casio Men’s Pathfinder Triple Sensor Multi-Function Sport Watch

N/A

This solar-powered sport watch features a digital compass, barometer and thermometer, altimeter, and an EL backlight. It also shows world time for 31 time zones and 48 major cities, and includes a full auto calendar, countdown timer, and five daily alarm options. A premium resin band provides better quality and durability, and the impressive battery can last up to six months on a single charge with no additional light exposure.

The Pathfinder is water-resistant up to 100 meters and the watch will charge as long as it’s exposed to light. It offers a quartz movement and digital display, along with a 51-mm case made of durable stainless steel. Kiss plastic goodbye because the Pathfinder Sport Watch is going to provide years of durable use, thanks to its upgraded materials and premium construction. Whether you’re trying to get a read on a compass at night or just want an easy-ready display in any conditions, this watch delivers. Plus, it has a full-auto LED backlight with afterglow feature, making it great in low light, poor visibility, or for nighttime use.

Pros

  • Built-in compass
  • Solar battery with impressive lifespan
  • Duplex LCD

Cons

  • Doesn’t offer atomic timekeeping
  • Some users say the strap is uncomfortable


12. Men’s Citizen Eco-Drive Promaster Altichron Black Polyurethane Strap and Black Dial Watch

N/A

The Citizen Eco-Drive Promaster is a serious watch for serious adventurers. Whether you want to track time, find your location, or even know your elevation, this multifunctional watch has features galore that will serve a host of needs. It also has a sleeker finish, while still offering that sporty look that so many people love. The steel case features black ion accents and an altimeter that measures up to 32,000 feet. It also uses Eco-Drive charging and operational technology so that it charges in any light and never needs a battery or replacement.

The comfortable and durable strap is made of premium polyurethane and the watch offers water resistance up to 200 meters. Plus, like all Citizen watches, it comes with a standard 5-year warranty, giving you peace of mind in your purchase. Whether you’re climbing mountains or just hitting the trails, you’ll love the multifunctional features of this timepiece, along with its ease of use, giving you a reliable tool no matter where you go. Plus, when you never have to worry about a battery, you can spend more time enjoying your adventures.

Pros

  • 5-year limited warranty
  • Solar Eco-Drive technology
  • Low power usage

Cons

  • Smaller case than some models on this list (46mm)
  • No backlight or illumination feature, although hands do illuminate in low light and dark


13. G-Shock GG-1000

N/A

Another member of the G-Shock family, the GG-1000 is a mid-range survival/sporting watch that delivers just about everything that you want in a comfortable, durable package. The Casio watch is made of premium stainless steel and features twin sensor technology with mud-resistant buttons and a digital compass. There are also temperature readings and the Multiband technology adjusts time based on radio signals. With five daily alarms, a stopwatch, and a countdown timer, this multifunctional timepiece offers everything you need. Plus, it has a calendar and 31 different time zones programmed into the watch.

This lightweight watch comes in at just 3.4 ounces and it offers water resistance up to 200 meters. Known as the MUDMASTER, the premium construction will provide years of durable use, no matter how rough you get. Plus, it includes the shock resistance that people love from the G-Shock family and it features a dual analog-digital display that’s versatile enough for any need. The resin case is durable, and the quartz movement ensures accurate timekeeping for any outdoor or sporting need.

Pros

  • G-Shock shock resistance
  • Bigger face for easier reading
  • Multifunctional features

Cons

  • Some users report condensation issues with temperature or humid conditions
  • Low light visibility may be limited


14. Suunto Core All Black Military Men’s Outdoor Sports Watch

N/A

The Suunto Core Military Men’s sport watch features weather tracking, sun tracking, temperature and air pressure trends, and much more. There’s an included compass, as well as an altimeter that will keep track of your vertical movements. It operates in all temperatures and includes a storm alarm to give you advance notice in case of severe weather. This watch does have one unique feature that is more difficult to find: 400 locations that are preset with sunset and sunrise times to help you plan all of your adventures.

This sport watch is much more modern and stylish than most of the survival watches out there, which makes it great for the adventurer that also wants something that looks as good as it works. It offers a silicone band for premium comfort and durability, along with a quartz movement to keep near-perfect time. This sports watch is much more forward-thinking than a lot of the models on this list, offering something for just about everyone to appreciate.

Pros

  • Intelligent storm alert system that monitors severe pressure changes and weather patterns
  • Digital thermometer and compass
  • Durable construction and affordable price

Cons

  • Some customers have reported warranty issues


15. Timex Men’s Expedition Gallatin Watch

N/A

For the budget-minded adventurer, the Timex Men’s Expedition Gallatin Watch delivers premium performance at an affordable price. It’s from a leader in the watch industry, after all, and includes all of the features that you expect from such a brand. This watch is water-resistant up to 50 meters and features a premium mineral glass display that is scratch resistant. It also has a battery life of up to 10 years, and the tactical dial ensures that you get the information you need in an easy-to-read format.

The Gallatin weighs in at an impressive 1.44 ounces, making it one of the lightest options on the list. It comes with a fabric band and buckle closure with a luminous display. The quartz movement offers accurate timekeeping and the 44mm display is big enough without being oversized. This watch doesn’t include alarm settings or a rotating bezel, but for the money, it delivers capable performance and just the right features. If you’re looking for a watch that’s simple, affordable, and looks a lot fancier than it is, this model is the one for you.

Pros

  • Affordable price
  • Limited warranty included
  • Indiglo light-up display

Cons

  • Indiglo light-up display


16. Timex Expedition Grid Shock Watch

N/A

Another budget-friendly option, the Timex Expedition Grid Shock Watch is a great choice for those who need a functional watch that just gets the job done. This watch is full of features, starting with a 24-hour time mode for those who prefer to keep military time, along with a countdown timer that goes up to 24 hours and three different alarms that are audible and offer vibrating features. It meets ISO standards for shock resistance and will keep up with you, no matter where you go or how rough the road gets.

The Expedition Grid Shock watch includes the Indiglo light-up display and digital date and time, along with a thermometer, altimeter, and water resistance up to 100 meters. There is also a chronograph so that you can track your treks and smash your goals, and the rugged design ensures that it will withstand anything that comes its way. For the price, you get an impressive set of features with this watch, giving you the perfect sporting or survival timepiece even if you don’t want to spend a small fortune. Plus, it’s from Timex, a name that you can trust.

Pros

  • Chronograph included
  • Alarm function
  • Shock resistance

Cons

  • Fewer features because of the lower price point


17. Luminox Evo Navy Seal Blackout Men’s Watch

N/A

If you want a survival watch that’s as stylish as it is functional, the Blackout watch from Luminox is one of the best that money can buy. This timepiece features a rubber band and durable case that is reinforced with carbon for added protection. It also offers water resistance up to 200 meters and has a calendar function so that you can keep track of the date. This is a heavy-duty watch that weighs more than most on this list. It also doesn’t include some of the features of other high-end models, making it more of a style option than function, for most.

Still, the Luminox Evo Navy Seal Blackout watch does offer a durable, reliable sport watch for those who need it. Even without a chronograph or altimeter, many users find this to be their best choice when they want something stylish that mimics the cool military styles used by the pros today. Luminox is a leader in stylish, functional timepieces and each model comes with a limited warranty from the manufacturer. If you want sport function with military-style, this watch does the job.

Pros

  • Sleek blackout finish
  • Durable carbon-reinforced case
  • Rubber wrist strap for added durability

Cons

  • Lacks many features of other survival watches on this list


18. Citizen Men’s Eco-Drive Promaster Nighthawk Dual Time Watch with Date

N/A

The Citizen Men’s Eco-Drive Promaster Nighthawk is another great timepiece from Citizen, a leader in high-quality watches and timepieces. This survival watch comes standard with time and date features, along with the patented Eco-Drive solar technology that requires no battery changes because the watch is always charging when exposed to light. Unlike many of the watches on this list, this model is made of premium stainless steel to offer a more upscale finish and eliminate that cheap, sport look of many watches available today.

This watch from Citizen also includes a date window, dual-time display, and a slide rule inner chapter ring for pilots. There is a low-charge warning, and the watch is water-resistant up to 200 meters. The hands also offer the luminous display option so that you can see in any conditions, and the Japanese quartz movement ensures accurate timekeeping at all times. Plus, it comes with a limited warranty from Citizen, giving you peace of mind that you’re buying from a brand that you can rely on.

Pros

  • Stylish stainless-steel finish
  • Included pilot’s slide ruler
  • Dual-time display

Cons

  • No built-in altimeter or barometer


19. Seiko Men’s SNK809 Seiko 5 Automatic Stainless-Steel Watch with Black Canvas Strap

N/A

The Seiko Men’s SNK809 is a simply designed watch that is anything but boring. This premium timepiece features automatic movements and a built-in calendar for easy date tracking. The stylish analog display includes a black background with silver details and the nylon strap provides comfortable wear for any adventures or outdoor activities. The scratch-resistant case is also water-resistant to 100 meters and the watch includes a 40-hour power reserve with the patented technology used.

This is another lightweight option that weighs less than three ounces and includes a spring for automatic winding. Some people might prefer a model that doesn’t require winding or that offers automatic charging like many of the solar models available, but for those who prefer to rely on good old mechanics, the winding SNK809 offers style, sport features, and durability for a reasonable price. It’s a smaller watch that is ideal for those with smaller wrists, too, making it a good choice for anyone who feels that the standard sport watch is a bit too bulky.

Pros

  • Made by Seiko, a leader in timepieces
  • Includes nylon strap for durable wear
  • Scratch-resistant case

Cons

  • Lacks some sport features compared to other watches on the list


Best Survival Watches Buying Guide

What is a Survival Watch?

A survival watch is built with function in mind. This is what makes them different from a watch that is worn for fashion. Survival watches are built with extra added features, together with ruggedness and durability so that you can be sure they will be reliable when you need it most.

If you are rock climbing, hiking or out on a backpacking trip there might be situations when knowing how high you are, whether a storm is approaching, or knowing which way North is can be a lifesaver.

What good are all of those fancy survival features if the watch stops working when you need it most?

Survival watches are built with ruggedness in mind, which means they are durable and able to withstand drops and bangs without much of an issue. They are commonly tested and used by the military, police, and extreme adventure sports in varied conditions and environments from extreme hot and cold to water and mountains.

Most survival watch models on the upper end of the price spectrum have a timepiece, altimeter, and barometer, with the luxury models geared with a thermometer, compass, and GPS. The most common features found in a survival watch are:

  • Altimeter – which can measure altitude with many watches able to measure from -3000 to 9000 feet (which they often measure based on atmospheric pressure).
  • Barometers – are used to measure atmospheric pressure which can be used in knowing weather patterns. If a barometer shows low pressure it indicates the impending arrival of a low-pressure system
  • Thermometers – are also present in some watches with a range from -40 degrees Fahrenheit (-40°C) up to 140 degrees Fahrenheit (60°C).
  • GPS and Compass – can be found in more expensive survival watches but they usually only offer basic features like bearing or coordinates on the display.
  • Solar Panels – are also found in some watches and offer automatic recharge capabilities that often last 5+ months on a full charge which ensures your watch wont run out of batteries in a tight spot.

What Are The Advantages Of Using A Survival Watch?

The most notable feature of a survival watch is its durability. Regular fashion watches are designed as delicate pieces to decorate your wrist whereas survival watches are built from durable materials that can withstand the elements.

Some of these brands have actually paired up with the military and endurance athletes so as to ensure that they will work in the rain, snow, and other extreme conditions. Survival watches can also be used for everyday carry and not only in emergency situations as emergencies often happen when we least expect them to.

Either way, whether they are worn for EDC or for special occasions they are a great addition to your wilderness survival kit, or your bug-out bag list.

What To Look For In a Survival Watch?

There is a lot of fluff out there. And you want something that’s real. Here are a few things that you should look out for when picking out a watch.

Accuracy

This sounds like a no-brainer but you want a watch that tells the correct time. We aren’t going to be militant on this one and say it has to be 100% accurate as no watches are, due to the small deviations that occur in the mechanics of the watch, which can add up to seconds over time. Most watches will give you readings that are 99.994% accurate, which is good enough for us.

Construction/Quality

The construction of the watch is probably your paramount concern when you’re in the market for a good sporting or survival timepiece. If you noticed in the reviews, most of the watches include scratch-resistant cases, durable construction, and premium materials like stainless steel, carbon reinforcement, nylon, rubber, plastic, and more.

The goal here is to choose a material that is durable, but also comfortable to wear. After all, the last thing that you want is to constantly battle an uncomfortable watch when you’re out on the trail or another adventure. All of these materials provide quality, but it will be up to you to decide which you like best for your adventuring or survival needs.

Navigation/Compass

You’ll notice that most of the watches on this list include a compass or built-in navigational features. Some high-end digital models even include built-in GPS and other elements. However, not everyone needs this level of tech in their survival watch. You should consider a model that has navigational features, even if you think you’ll have a separate compass or GPS on your outings because it’s always good to have a backup in place.

Some watches include a standard analog compass that can be used to track location. Others interact with the sun to help you find your position. Still more include digital location features that can help you find your way in any conditions or location. This will add to the price of the watch, but it’s usually an upgrade worth making when you’re buying a survival watch.

Water or Weather Resistance

Again, most of the watches on this list have some kind of water resistance. If you want a fully submersible watch for diving or other adventures, you’ll want to choose the ones with premium water resistance and waterproofing. However, for basic survival use, any of the watches on this list will get the job done, with resistance ranging from 100 to 200 meters or more.

Think, too, about the materials used for construction here. A stainless-steel watch, for example, might not be as good of a choice if you’re going to spend a lot of time getting wet. Rubber or nylon, on the other hand, could provide more comfort and durability without slippery issues of metal or other materials. Most of this is common sense, but it’s so often overlooked because people don’t realize the importance of the most basic elements of a survival watch.

Multiple Time Zones

Having a timepiece that has multiple locales is a nice luxury though may not be a necessity. If you’re traveling through different time zones during global expeditions or visiting relatives over state lines, then it may become more important. We see this more of an added bonus though whether you need it or not will depend on the type of adventures your plan on going on.

Shock Resistant

If you’re an adventurous type then you’ll want to make sure your watch has a certain amount of shock resistance so when it takes a tumble or two it’s not going to break.

You don’t have to worry about this if there’s nothing in contact with the face, but some watches are simply less durable than others whereas some can withstand the direct impact that could leave other timepieces shattered on the ground.

Shock resistance doesn’t come just from direct impact but also from wear and tear that comes from many rugged outdoor activities (for instance, while skiing or going downhill mountain biking). If you ever have gone down a single track or down a steep downhill track you know how bumpy and gnarly the trails can get. A watch is going to get thrown around, and you are going to want something that can withstand a beating.

Cost

One of the biggest factors in purchasing anything is obviously cost. If you want a survival watch with all the features you are going to have to spend more; there really is no alternative as functionality has a higher price point simply because a compass, altimeter, solar battery etc. all costs more to manufacture, which obviously makes the price of the watch more expensive.

However, that being said there can be a middle ground where you are able to find something that has reasonable functionality at a price point that will not burn a hole in your pocket.


Conclusion

At the end of the day, size and design are all about personal preference. Choose a watch that works for you and your wrist. Cost is an important factor to consider when choosing a survival watch; luckily they’re not as expensive as some other gear on the market today.

The best thing you can do? Research online and find something that matches what you need in terms of features, materials—and most of all durability.

We hope this guide has been helpful in trying to figure out what survival watch is best for you. Good luck!

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase using links on our site, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

-Advertisement-

More Articles