The Explorer is considered one of Rolex’s flagship models. This iconic brand has long been an official supporter of mountain expeditions and the Explorer was originally conceived of as a mountaineer’s watch. Launched in 1953, it was primarily about functionality and improved legibility, with an improved dial design that allowed the wearer to read the time long after the sunset over the mountains. The case is mineral glass crystal and the movement is quartz, a precise and relatively maintenance-free choice. The battery should last up to 5 years. If you’re looking for an authentic field watch that has a genuine military air and a rugged robustness—all for a great price—then you want to take a look at the Hamilton Khaki Field Watch. It’s the best value field watch on our list. This watch also features a very minimal bezel with a large flat mineral crystal covering the top showing off the highly utilitarian dial. The crystal does extend a bit over the chamfered bezel and although the edge of the crystal is also chamfered, this might still be something to keep a lookout for. The Omega Seamaster Railmaster has the classic good looks of all Omega watches—plus that same impeccable durability. It features a 55-hour power reserve and the hour markers are recessed, vintage-style. The tropical dial, with its charming faded brown, features faux patina Super-LumiNova, further adding to the retro appearance.

These field watches draw inspiration from models actually used on the battlefield (note: many if not most of the watches in this guide could fall into this category, these are just two exemplary models) Priority number 1 of a field watch is warranted, reading the time is no issue. Hands and markers are broad, visually present and contrasting against the dial. The sub-dials are unobtrusive, they do not hinder the reading of time. The Tudor Heritage Ranger is available with a range of straps, including a gorgeous custom camouflage NATO strap. They all look great, but we have a slight preference for this classic brown leather look. Inside, you’ll find the Citizen caliber E1000 movement, featuring the brand’s trusted Eco-Drive technology. The watch is powered by light, any light, to function, so you won’t need a battery.Where can Orient go from here for the Defender? While this watch is already a great value and offers some welcome personality over other field watches, I think Orient could certainly benefit from tweaking the hand length, as well as possibly adding a sapphire crystal in the future. While I don’t know what Orient has in development, being able to hand-wind a field watch is always a good idea. And, if they are going to upgrade the movement, why not also add a power reserve indicator where the current logo is? Want to get your hands on a field watch without breaking the bank? These budget-friendly options are great for both beginners and hardcore watch enthusiasts In 1938, Breitling established the Huit Aviation department to produce pilot watches. Huit, or 8, now reappears as the name of this more contemporary model, the Navitimer 8, which was inspired by those early timepieces.

The case is made from a striking pure Grade 2 Titanium, making it both exceptionally corrosion-resistant and lightweight. It uses scratch-resistant sapphire-coated crystal glass to protect its gorgeous dial with Swiss-made Lume on the hands, hour markers, and the inner bezel. The Titanium Field Watch was built to tell time accurately, whatever the circumstances might be.With its dual winding movement, the Marathon field watch can be wound both by hand and automatically. Meanwhile, self-illuminating tritium gas tubes give the dial a lasting glow so you can read the time in any conditions.