Watch with compass

[L Bow]

Anyone have any experience with these? I looked at some made by Freestyle and Timex and so far am "inclined" to go with an analog watch because I did not like the digital compass.
Thanks
Bill

[Lunal_Tic]

I have one of these:* Maratac (http://www.lapolicegear.com/maaqccowa.html) and it's pretty slick and it's analog.* I also like the Nike ACG and Suuntos, both digital.

-LT

[gbaker]

I have one of these:* Maratac (http://www.lapolicegear.com/maaqccowa.html) and it's pretty slick and it's analog.

-LT


That looks great esp since I wanted an orange watch with a compass.* Can a zulu band be put on it?* Like to put a Coast Guard orange band on it.

[luigi]

I have a Casio Pathfinder triple sensor.
I like it a lot.
The barometer is fine to predict bad weather I've used to forecast the weather on vacations with very good results :-)
The compass works great, specially when you are out of town and your map says "take I819 North" and you have no idea which one is north.
The altimeter is not very useful in urban situations since it depends on the barometer so changes to pressure will change the altitude even when you haven't moved a single meter.

Luigi

[Lunal_Tic]

This is what I did w/ mine.
http://img89.imageshack.us/img89/7521/watchsmall1xl.jpg

The pins are pressed in so you need a one piece strap. Though I list LA Police here, mine came from County Comm. It was a bit more expensive however.

-LT

[L Bow]

Thanks guys for the input. I also went throught this thread and noticed some other watches with compass set-ups http://edcforums.com/index.php?topic=78.0
I really like the clean look of the LT's Maratac. But I will have to check out the Casios in person. The barometer is tempting.

[gbaker]

This is what I did w/ mine.
The pins are pressed in so you need a one piece strap.* Though I list LA Police here, mine came from County Comm.* It was a bit more expensive however.

-LT


We are definately on the same wave length.* I like it.

[deeker]

I am a sucker for orange, I love the watch LunalTic!

O0

[Lunal_Tic]

Glad you guys approve. ;D

The watch is made by Timex for Maratec but the Timex version doesn't have the orange trim and sweep hands.

-LT

[Jaybee64]

Just a quick hint - if you get an analogue watch with a GMT hand (shows the time on a 24 hour sub-dial) - point hour hand at sun - 24 hr hand will show north - if you already knew this - sorry ;D
PS this is my all time top of the wish list watch - Pam Luminor Arktos GMT

[Lunal_Tic]

Just a quick hint - if you get an analogue watch with a GMT hand (shows the time on a 24 hour sub-dial) - point hour hand at sun - 24 hr hand will show north - if you already knew this - sorry ;D


I didn't know this. Thanks it's a good tip since I actually have a watch like that, a Victorinox.

-LT

[Dogsmeadow]

I have a Casio Protrek PRG-60T. It has a compass, barometer, altimeter and thermometer. It's big, solar, has analog hands as well as the digital. Barometer is always spot on with my local airport and the altimeter matches my Avocet altimeter when I set them at a known elevation. The compass points the same as the one on my sailboat. I like it. Oh, and it's titanium.
Jim

[Chief-Yeah]

I just saw this one today in an orvis catalog I just received
Swiss Army Compass Watch (http://www.orvis.com/store/product_choice.asp?pf_id=34PR&dir_id=885&group_id=11772&cat_id=11775&subcat_id=11776&feature_id=600)

[L Bow]

Lunal Tic I really like that watch, and it is in my price range. My problem is If I have anything other than a resin band, it will STINK after just a couple days. I'll have to search around for a band that will fit.

[Lunal_Tic]

L Bow,

You're probably going to need special equipment to get the pressed pins out and there's no guarantee that spring pins will fit after that. You might try coating it with something or soaking it with an anti bacterial/mold/mildew liquid that's skin friendly. I usually take my watch off before a shower if it's got a nylon band like this since they take a long while to dry. Too bad they don't make clear Plasti Dip.

-LT

[L Bow]

;D
Today i looked at the Casio Pathfinders. They are impressive, but a bit pricey for me now. I bought the Timex version of Lunal Tic's watch to check it out (couldn't find any good photos online). The compass function is cool. I came home and compared it to the photos of the Mara-tac. I will return it, for two reasons: the band seems even more difficult to replace, and the face has "Timex" and "compass" on it. I reallly like the "strerile" look of the Mara-tac.

So I ordered one from LA Policegear. $80.00 including shipping. Much less than I thought I woould be paying.
Thanks for all the input folks.

[quackPOT]

I bought my reversed Origo a few months back. I'm pretty pleased with it so far. I like the multiple sensors too.

"This is the watch that is curently being purchased by Marine Corps Force Reconnaissance, Special Operations Capable Marines, Overseas Contracters and more. Also available in a "reversed" black face with "lit" numerals this watch has a better price point, better impact resistance, and more accurate features than its competitors. Including a one touch digital compass, weather forecast indicator, one touch altimeter and more on this Blacked out Military watch ORIGO is the name to look for."

hotlinked image removed - gL

http://www.extremeoutfitters.us/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWPROD&ProdID=1013

[deeker]

That's a neat watch, too. Nice selelction of them to choose from in this thread.

By the way, LT - I have a can of clear Plasti-Dip.... :buck2:

[L Bow]

Those watches with barometers; I understand tha barometers take a reading every two hours. Can you also get a present reading?
(I have a birthday not too far off.)

[Lunal_Tic]

By the way, LT - I have a can of clear Plasti-Dip.... :buck2:


You're kidding. I guess I've been overseas too long. I wonder if they'll let me bring back a can when I visit next.

-LT

[quackPOT]

Those watches with barometers; I understand tha barometers take a reading every two hours. Can you also get a present reading?
(I have a birthday not too far off.)


The Origo watch samples once an hour and keeps tab of the last 30 hours worth of readings. When you enter the barometer section on the watch, it will show the current reading.

[sak_collector]

I recieved a PAW-1200 a couple of days ago. I have a lot of G-Shocks which are big watches...this thing dwarfs them ;D It has a ton of features on it...I have been wanting a watch with a thermometer for quite a while and this one has that covered and then some. The manual looks like the NYC phonebook...very large.
I also have a PRG-90 on the way which appears to be quite similar without the wave ceptor function...looking forward to getting it as well.
The compass is pretty neat as it will display direction in degrees but also has the pointers. Still working on figuring out how it all works.
http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e47/sak_collector/my%20photos/paw-1200.jpg

[drmaxx]

Just a quick hint - if you get an analogue watch with a GMT hand (shows the time on a 24 hour sub-dial) - point hour hand at sun - 24 hr hand will show north - if you already knew this - sorry ;D
PS this is my all time top of the wish list watch - Pam Luminor Arktos GMT

With a normal watch this trick works: Point the hour hand at the sun - south will be between the 12 o'clock mark and the hour hand. Correct for daylight saving if needed.
Old army trick...

[Jumpmaster]

With a normal watch this trick works: Point the hour hand at the sun - south will be between the 12 o'clock mark and the hour hand. Correct for daylight saving if needed.
Old army trick...


There are different methods depending on if you're in the northern or southern hemisphere.

http://www.wilderness-survival.net/chp18.php

You can also determine direction using a common or analog watch--one that has hands. The direction will be accurate if you are using true local time, without any changes for daylight savings time. Remember, the further you are from the equator, the more accurate this method will be. If you only have a digital watch, you can overcome this obstacle. Quickly draw a watch on a circle of paper with the correct time on it and use it to determine your direction at that time.

In the northern hemisphere, hold the watch horizontal and point the hour hand at the sun. Bisect the angle between the hour hand and the 12 o'clock mark to get the north-south line (Figure 18-2). If there is any doubt as to which end of the line is north, remember that the sun rises in the east, sets in the west, and is due south at noon. The sun is in the east before noon and in the west after noon.

Note: If your watch is set on daylight savings time, use the midway point between the hour hand and 1 o'clock to determine the north-south line.

In the southern hemisphere, point the watch's 12 o'clock mark toward the sun and a midpoint halfway between 12 and the hour hand will give you the north-south line (Figure 18-2).

JM-99

[ppfd]

I have a Timex Maratac as well. This is a great watch for the money! I needed a strong watch yet something that was perfect for EDC or dress. With the option of the different colored Zulu bands you can have 5 or 6 different watchs!
Check out this review: www.militarymorons.com look for the Maratac review.

[oregonshooter]

Another Maratac owner. Just got it from Countrycomm and really like it for EDC.

[Lunal_Tic]

LA Police Gear has the MaraTac AQC on sale if anyone is interested. http://www.lapolicegear.com/maratacwatches.html

-LT

[Malcontent]

LA Police Gear has the MaraTac AQC on sale if anyone is interested.* http://www.lapolicegear.com/maratacwatches.html

-LT


That is tempting, with free shipping even.

[geoffchan]

I recieved a PAW-1200 a couple of days ago. I have a lot of G-Shocks which are big watches...this thing dwarfs them ;D It has a ton of features on it...I have been wanting a watch with a thermometer for quite a while and this one has that covered and then some. The manual looks like the NYC phonebook...very large.
I also have a PRG-90 on the way which appears to be quite similar without the wave ceptor function...looking forward to getting it as well.
The compass is pretty neat as it will display direction in degrees but also has the pointers. Still working on figuring out how it all works.


Nice, i was thinking of getting that to replace my PRT40 Protrek.

I wonder how it behaves in Oz.

Geoff

[ppfd]

The Maratac is a great simple yet stylish watch! I dont think anyone would go wrong with one.

[Roy82]

Are there any batteryless watches with a compass? I really hate having my watch go flat, have an automatic now.
Or would a strap on compass, on the band be the only way for that?

Or can you change the battery yourself on the MaraTac. That watch looks really good!

Cheers

[Lunal_Tic]

Roy82,

IIRC Casio makes some "Tough Solar" watches that have that feature but it's been a long time since I looked into it.

Welcome to EDCF BTW.

-LT

[Roy82]

Thanks, forgot Casio. I was looking for this very thing (compass watch) before I got my current automatic. I probably did look at the Casios, but I much prefer an analogue bezel without the digital stuff.

I can't really get a new watch just now anyway, my newly created EDC buying list has created a backlog ;D

[bubbajoe]

her's another choice Angler II (http://www.buydakotawatches.com/watches.aspx?sr=t&Series=2)
I have one of these. I have a horse farm and have broken more wrist watches than i care to mention >:(
this is a tough little watch with a far amount of features that i like.







edit: fixed link -LT

[azranger]

Hi Everyone,
I enjoy this forum, but don't post much. I am looking for a watch, but not just any watch. I want a compass watch--I have this thing about needing to know my directions--in the city or boonies. Anyone else out there like this??? I have had many compasses and many watches, but here are my requirements (if there is such a watch).
1. Very reliable--the watch and compass must just work. Period.
2. Not cost a fortune. $250 about tops less is better.
3. Not take a rocket scientist to use it. Some complexity OK, but must be pretty intuitive. I will NOT carry a manual!
4. Useable in darkness without a light, but I could fudge on this a little.
5. Not so big on my wrist I need a sling! I am medium boned and I just wont wear a "colossus" watch.

Is there such a thing???

[jtg622]

Take a look at the Maratac AQC Compass Watch from CountyComm: http://www.countycomm.com/compassmaratac.htm.

They're also sold at the Military Watch Resource Forum: http://www.broadarrow.net/sale.htm.

It just might be what you're looking for.

[scríbhneoir]

Welcome to EDCF, azranger and jtg622!

Karen

[Lunal_Tic]

Previous 3 posts were merged with this thread.

Thanks,
-LT
:gz:

[DragonRider]

I've owned a Tissot T-Touch for 2 years, great wear, light due to the Ti body and bracelet, does come in stainless.
http://www.tissot.ch/dyn.php?gs=showrefimage&n=T33_7_588_41.jpg
http://www.tissot.ch/index.php?mod_collection/colid_0003/famid_0001/subid_000

They are between 5-700, mine is the previous version, with a simplier bezel, that can still be found. You hit the button on the right side and then tap the screen for the operation you want, temperature, weather, altemeter, chrono, compass, alarm. Good for the geek/tech freak guy ;D

John

[ScarabDrowner]

I'd love to get a T-Touch... right now I'm using a Silen-T, which is great so far, but I'd like the extra features

[oregonshooter]

Update on Maratac:

Since I posted, I have had one to return one because it just stopped working and another broke yesterday when putting on my backpack. It rubbed against the strap and broke the adjustment knob clean off with LITTLE pressure.

Don't think this watch is made to MILSPEC grade cause it aint.

[Regentag]

My personal favorite... (not my pictures - used without permission)

EDIT: Hotlinked pic removed. -LT
:gz:

Though I don't wear it much anymore - for some reason the "ticking" of the AMAG ETA movement is really loud!* Keeps me up at night. :(

Wonderful 'silky' feel to the titanium, though - and great summer/winter adjustable clasp.* The top half of the case is mirrored and has a 'stop' at 45 degrees for sighting (taking bearings) on distant objects.* A bit hard to come by these days, but worth it if you can find one.* Avoid the (earlier) Aluminum versions, for obvious reasons.

Cheers,

[cool_iago]

Hate to bump this after a month, but, hey - did I find the watch that meets these criteria. Just saw the ESQ Squadron in a magazine recently. The compass is built into the crystal. I've only seen them on-line, but ESQ are not bad watches at all:

http://www.princetonwatches.com/shop/ESQSquadron.asp

[L Bow]

They are sharp!, But they are beyond my budget.

[SF1]

I've owned a Tissot T-Touch for 2 years, great wear, light due to the Ti body and bracelet, does come in stainless.
http://www.tissot.ch/dyn.php?gs=showrefimage&n=T33_7_588_41.jpg
http://www.tissot.ch/index.php?mod_collection/colid_0003/famid_0001/subid_000

They are between 5-700, mine is the previous version, with a simplier bezel, that can still be found. You hit the button on the right side and then tap the screen for the operation you want, temperature, weather, altemeter, chrono, compass, alarm. Good for the geek/tech freak guy ;D

John


That Tissot looks very nice. Have you a more detailed report on it. I have always thought Tissot was a good brand.

Best,

SF1

[Bullzeyebill]

Some watches with altimeter readings will change their readings when the barometric pressure changes. Do some watches have features to adjust for barometric pressure and give accurate altitude readings?

Bill

[azranger]

I have for a number of years wanted a watch with a compass. But I have never gotten one. Either they were too big for EDC, too complicated, or too costly!
Is there an accurate, reliable, cost effective compass watch???
I am interested in the Origo Ranger I believe, but certainly need help here. Thanks. :D

[parnass]

:bump: Topics merged with a bump.