There are many types of watches suitable for outdoor activities, and one of them is the military watch, which is well-known for its durability. Despite being called military watches, these timepieces are not limited to military personnel. 

Many collectors also gather military watches for their personal collections. Let’s explore some examples in this article.

What is a Military Watch?

A military watch is a type of watch specifically designed to meet the needs of military personnel and professionals working in extreme conditions. 

These watches typically feature rugged designs, advanced functionalities, and high-quality materials to ensure reliability and durability in various terrains, such as forests, deserts, or aquatic environments.

One of the distinctive characteristics of military watches is their resistance to shock, pressure, water, and even extreme temperatures. 

Other common features include a compass, altimeter, barometer, world time indicators, and GPS technology, which are incredibly helpful for navigation and mission planning.

The primary function of these watches is not only to tell time but also to serve as a supportive tool that helps users stay organized and safe in high-risk situations.

Advantages of Military Watches Compared to Regular Watches

One of the main advantages of military watches is their durable materials, often made from high-quality substances like stainless steel, titanium, or specialized resin that is resistant to impacts, scratches, and extreme weather conditions.

Military watches also have superior water resistance, often certified for water resistance at specific depths, making them suitable for underwater missions or outdoor activities.

From a functionality standpoint, military watches are equipped with additional features such as compasses, altimeters, barometers, GPS, and even LED lights or luminescent technology to make it easier to read time in dark conditions. 

These features are highly beneficial for those who often find themselves in challenging environments or activities requiring precise orientation and navigation. 

Who Can Wear Military Watches?

Military watches are suitable for various groups of people who need or desire watches with durability, functionality, and practical design. 

Specifically, they are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, such as those who love hiking, camping, mountain climbing, fishing, or extreme sports like scuba diving.

Additionally, individuals who often work in the field, such as engineers, miners, or outdoor technicians, can benefit from these durable watches.

5 Best Military Watch Recommendations in 2025

After understanding the uniqueness of these watches, you might be interested in owning one. Here are some of the best military watch recommendations.

1. Tudor Ranger

First launched in the 1960s, the Tudor Ranger became one of the luxury military-style watches. It gained its reputation as a tough military watch through its involvement in the British North Greenland Expedition (BNGE).

The Tudor Ranger has a simple yet highly practical design. Its dial is typically black with large Arabic numerals at positions 3, 6, 9, and 12, along with thick and luminous hour hands.

As a military-style watch, the Tudor Ranger is crafted from high-quality stainless steel, resistant to corrosion and impact.

Currently, the Tudor Ranger collection is not yet available at Luxehouze. However, you can still find a range of other popular Tudor products.

2. Rolex ‘MilSub’ Submariner 

 

Rolex does not officially release a specific military collection. However, within the Rolex Submariner line, there is a model called the Military Submariner or ‘MilSub.’

This model is extremely rare, produced in limited quantities for the British Royal Navy in the 1970s. At that time, the Royal Navy required a watch with special features to support underwater operations.

The Submariner series is already renowned for its high water resistance. However, unlike the standard Submariner, which has markers only at certain intervals, the MilSub is equipped with a fully marked bezel up to 60 minutes.

3. Rolex Explorer 

The  Rolex Explorer was not specifically designed as a military watch, but its ruggedness has made it a popular choice among military personnel.

The automatic movement of the Rolex Explorer, caliber 3132, is built to withstand shocks and extreme temperature changes, making it reliable in combat or harsh expedition environments. 

The Explorer is made from oystersteel, a steel known for its resistance to corrosion and scratches, ideal for intensive use in demanding conditions.

4. Omega Seamaster 

The Omega Seamaster has been used by the military, especially by naval forces and special operations units in various countries.

Originally designed as a versatile daily watch, the Seamaster quickly gained recognition for its resistance to water and extreme conditions.

In the 1960s and 1970s, the Seamaster was adopted by several military branches, including the Royal Navy and Special Forces. Specifically, the Seamaster models used by the Royal Navy and Special Forces were the Seamaster 300 Ref. CK2913 and Ref. 165.024.

5. Longines Spirit Zulu Time

The Spirit Zulu Time is a model that embodies Longines’ long-standing heritage in aviation and exploration, while offering features highly relevant to military needs.

In 1925, Longines introduced one of the first watches with dual-time zone functionality, known as Zulu Time.

Dual-time zone watches are crucial for pilots and military personnel operating across different time zones, allowing them to stay synchronized with central command, especially during World War II. 

Additionally, the Spirit Zulu Time uses the L844.4 automatic movement, certified as a chronometer by COSC, ensuring high accuracy essential for military missions. 

At the moment, the Spirit Zulu Time is not yet available at Luxehouze. However, you can still explore other collections from Longines at Luxehouze.

These are some of the best military watch recommendations that can be added to your personal collection. For those interested, some of the watches mentioned above are available at Luxehouze.

Luxehouze offers a wide selection of luxury watches from various brands, all guaranteed to be 100% authentic and available at the best prices.