Participating in a sailing journey is extremely exhilarating, but you need a robust vessel and a reliable timepiece too. The best sailing watch is far more than just an accessory; it’s a crucial instrument for those who are passionate about sailing. We’re exploring the top five aspects to look for in a sailing watch, with valuable insights and individual anecdotes to guide you in selecting the perfect watch for your sea adventures.
Number one on our list: picking the right type of watch movement.
Number two: features that are really useful for sailors.
Number three: durability and a rugged design.
Number four: features that are easy to use.
Number five: brand reputation and what others say about the watch.
Number one on our list: picking the right type of watch movement.
When you’re picking out a sailing watch, the type of movement is key. There are mainly two types: mechanical and quartz.
Most seasoned navigators go for mechanical watches. They’re classic and give you that satisfaction from personal winding and setting. But they need to be taken care of and can be sensitive to fluctuations in temperature. Quartz watches are more precise and low maintenance. I had to choose between a mechanical and quartz watch model once. After thinking about it a lot, I ended up going with a quartz watch because it’s trustworthy and user-friendly.
Number two: features that are really useful for sailors.
A great sailing watch should have features particularly beneficial to navigators. Features like a tidal calendar, moon phase display, and depth meter are super helpful.
A tide schedule is great for planning your trips around tidal highs and lows. The moon phase is useful for determining fishing periods, while the depth meter ensures your safety by keeping track of the depth of water. I used my timepiece to sidestep a perilous coral reef once upon a time. The tide schedule and depth meter were a considerable aid in that situation.
Number three: durability and a rugged design.
A sailing timepiece has to be tough to handle the choppy sea. You want a timepiece with a stainless steel casing, a really tough sapphire glass, and water-proof rating for at least 200 meters depth.
I really like timepiecees with a carbon composite casing—they’re lightweight and durable. It’s survived lots of crashes with the boat and always keeps precise timing.
Number four: features that are easy to use.
A watch might be highly sophisticated, but if it’s not easy to use, it’s not much help. The best sailing watch should be simple to use, with clear dials and settings you can change.
I bought a watch once that had too many complex functions and it was a real pain to use. Since then, I’ve been searching for watches that are simple and easy to use.
Number five: brand reputation and what others say about the watch.
When you’re picking out a sailing watch, think about the brand’s reputation and what others have said. Brands like Seiko, Citizen, and Omega have been making excellent timepieces for a long time.
Reading what other people say can give you a sense of how the watch will perform and how durable it is. I bought one watch because a sailing companion gave it a great review, and it has been an excellent purchase.