As far as official US Air Force watches go, they are mostly used for marathon watches; however, airmen have many options when it comes to choosing the rightย Air Force watch that can stand up to the challenges of a busy cockpit.ย Whether you are a seasoned pilot or just an aviation enthusiast, having a reliable watch is a must. In this article, we take a look at some of the best options for airmen, carefully crafted by renowned horologists who understand the demands of military aviation.
Letโs start our journey by talking about a super cool watch called the Marathon Pilotโs Navigator. Itโs like a super fancy watch made by a really famous Swiss company called Marathon. These guys are known for making watches for the military, and this watch they made is a mix of being fancy, useful, and really tough. Itโs the official watch used by the United States Air Force, which is pretty awesome!
One cool thing about this watch is that it can stay underwater up to 60 meters deep without getting ruined. Thatโs like diving into a swimming pool with it, and itโll still work just fine!
The Marathon Pilotโs Navigator has a special feature called a โchronograph.โ Itโs like a super-precise timer that helps you measure time really accurately. It also shows you the date so you always know what day it is. Even in the dark, you can still see the time because it has a special system that makes the numbers glow, kind of like how glow-in-the-dark stickers work.
This watch is a great friend for the US Air Force folks who need a really, really good watch. People who bought it seem to really like it and gave it a rating of 4.5 stars out of 5, which is pretty high!
Now, letโs talk about some technical stuff:
Itโs built following strict rules set by the government for military stuff. Thereโs a special code on the back of the watch that tells you itโs made just right for the military.
The watch can light up by itself because it has special tubes inside that make it glow. You donโt need to shine a light on it for it to work in the dark.
This watch is made for pilots and people who jump out of planes (parachutists). Itโs not heavy, and itโs super tough. Itโs also not easy to scratch the glass on the front.
Inside the watch, thereโs a special Swiss-made part that helps it keep time really well. Itโs like having a super-precise engine inside.
So, in simple words, this watch is like a super tough, fancy, and accurate timekeeper made for the Air Force and other cool folks. It can even glow in the dark, and you can take it swimming with you without worries. Itโs like having a little piece of high-tech Swiss awesomeness on your wrist!
Price: USD$450
Rating: 4.4
36MM OFFICIAL USAF OFFICERโS WATCH WITH DATE (GPQ)
The USAF Officerโs Watch is a really awesome watch thatโs built to be super tough and reliable. Itโs made following strict military rules, and it has a really interesting history!
Imagine a watch thatโs not just cool but also tough. Well, thatโs what the General Purpose Field Watch is all about. Itโs designed to be tough and lightweight. The case of this watch is made from a special material that can take a lot of hits without breaking.
This watch goes by a few different names like Officerโs Field Watch Quartz (OFQ) and Stainless Steel General Purpose Quartz (GPQ-SS). Whatโs inside this watch is pretty amazing too. It has a special Swiss-made part called a quartz movement. This part makes sure the watch works perfectly, and it even tells you when the battery is running out.
Price: USD$500
Rating: 4.5
41MM OFFICIAL USAFโข PILOTโS NAVIGATOR WITH DATE
A long time ago, in 1986, there was something super cool created called the Navigator Class of Wristwatches. It was made in partnership with Kelly Air Force Base, and it was a big deal in the world of watches. Imagine it as a superhero of time!
Even today, the Navigator watch is still super awesome. In 2019, it got some cool updates to make it even tougher and better.
So, whatโs so special about this watch? Well, itโs not just a regular watch you wear on your wrist. Itโs like a super tool for keeping track of time. It makes sure you donโt waste any time and use every second wisely.
Here are some cool things about the Navigator watch:
Movement: Inside it, thereโs something called โhigh-torque movement.โ Itโs like the engine of the watch, and itโs really strong.
End-of-Life Indicator: It even tells you when itโs time to change the battery. How cool is that?
Tritium Tubes: The numbers and hands on the watch glow in the dark, so you can always read the time, even in the dark!
Bezel: Thereโs a special ring that you can turn to measure time. Itโs like a secret feature!
Case: The outside of the watch is built to be super tough, so it can survive in really rough places. Itโs like a superhero suit for the watch.
Every single part of this watch is made with lots of care and precision. Itโs like the people who made it wanted to make something really, really good.
So, if youโre an adventurer or a professional who wants a watch that can handle anything, the Navigator is the perfect choice. Itโs like having a trusty sidekick on your wrist, always helping you keep track of time in style!
Price: USD$480
Rating: 4.7
Popular watchesย in the US Air Force
There are a number of additional timepieces that Air Force members like in addition to the official US Air Force watches. These include timepieces made by companies like Suunto, Timex Expedition, Casio G-Shock, and Bulova Accutron. All of these timepieces are renowned for their sturdiness and dependability, which makes them perfect for usage in a military setting.
The Super Cool Air Force Watch โ GRAVITY MASTERย GR-B200RAF-8A
Have you ever heard of the Gravity Master watch? Itโs part of the G-Shock Gravitymaster Series, and itโs super special because it was made together with the Royal Air Force (RAF), which is the worldโs oldest air force. This watch is made for brave pilots who work in really tough conditions.
Letโs talk about what makes this watch so awesome:
Base Model: This watch starts with something called the GR-B200. Itโs like the foundation of the watch, and itโs built tough with something called a Carbon Core Guard structure. It also has a special sensor that can do four cool things: tell you which way is north (compass), measure how high up you are (altimeter/barometer), check the temperature, and even count your steps (pedometer).
Cool Colors: The watch is mostly a dark gray color, which looks like the color of the airplane. But there are also white and green parts that remind you of the colors you see in a fancy cockpit. Itโs a design inspired by stealthy, hidden airplanes.
Special Words: If you look closely at the band of the watch, youโll see the words โPer Ardua Ad Astra.โ Thatโs in Latin, and it means โThrough adversity to the stars.โ Itโs like a cool motto of the RAF, and youโll also spot the RAF logo on the band ring.
Amazing Collaboration: This watch is like a special team-up between the RAF, who do really tough missions in the sky, and the G-Shock Gravitymaster, which is the ultimate watch for pilots. It has all the fancy features pilots need.
More About the Features:
Step Count: The watch can count your steps, from 0 to a whopping 999,999 steps!
Power Saving: Itโs smart and knows when youโre not using it, so it takes a little nap to save power.
Altimeter: It can tell you how high up you are, even way up in the mountains.
Barometer: This helps you know if the weather is changing, so you can be ready.
Digital Compass: Imagine itโs like a mini GPS that shows you which way to go.
Thermometer: It can check the temperature, so youโll know if itโs cold or hot outside.
So, in simple words, the GRAVITY MASTER watch is like a high-tech gadget for pilots. It helps them fly safely, even in really challenging situations. Itโs not just a watch; itโs a buddy for pilots in the sky!
Price: Approx USD $350
Rating: 4.9
Bulova Accutron II Alpha Watch: A Timeless American Classic
Next in line is the Bulova Accutron II Alpha watch, a masterpiece meticulously crafted by the esteemed American horological institution, Bulova. With a rich heritage of crafting timepieces for the military, Bulova has established itself as a trusted brand among Airmen. This watch is a very good option for an official US Air Force watch.
Water-resistant up to 100 meters, the Bulova Accutron II Alpha is a resolute companion for your high-flying adventures. This watch movement is six times more accurate than a standard quartz movement, with an accuracy of +/- 10 seconds per year. With its classic design and dependable performance, the Bulova Accutron II Alpha stands as a premier choice for Airmen seeking a blend of style and functionality.
Price: Approx USD $570
Rating: 4.3
For those who hold Japanese precision and craftsmanship in high regard, the Seiko Prospex Flightmaster represents an exceptional choice. Seiko, renowned for its superlative timepieces, has fashioned a watch that caters to the needs of aviation professionals.
Timex Expedition Scout: Affordability and Reliability
Last but certainly not least, we have the Timex Expedition Scout, a watch that impeccably embodies the principles of affordability and reliability. Timex, a renowned American horological manufacturer, has carved a niche by producing timepieces that offer exceptional value for money. The perfect watch for serving in the US Air Force.
With a water resistance of up to 100 meters, the Timex Expedition Scout is a robust companion for Airmen seeking durability. Its chronograph feature ensures precise timekeeping, while the date aperture enhances practicality. Additionally, the Indiglo backlight provides excellent visibility, even in the darkest environments. If you are searching for a budget-friendly option without compromising on quality, the Timex Expedition Scout stands as an excellent choice.
Here are some of the pros and cons of the Timex Expedition Scout watch:
Pros:
Rugged and durable construction
Stylish and versatile design
Water-resistant to 100 meters
Indiglo night light
Affordable price
Cons:
The strap can be uncomfortable for some people
The watch is not as well-made as some other watches in its price range
Overall, the Timex Expedition Scout is a great watch that offers a good balance of style, functionality, and durability. It is a great choice for everyday wear or for more active activities.
The Perfect Official US Air Force Watches for You
These watches merely represent a fraction of the vast assortment of options available to Airmen and official US Air Force watches.ย Ultimately, the most suitable watch for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. Whether you prioritize Swiss craftsmanship, American heritage, Japanese precision, or affordability, there exists a timepiece perfectly aligned with your style and requirements.
So, take to the skies with confidence, knowing that your wrist is adorned with a watch that not only keeps you on track but also elevates your sense of style. Choose wisely and let your watch become a reflection of your passion for aviation.
Also Read:-ย ย ย US Military Standard watches
FAQs of official U.S Air Force watch
What is an official US Air Force watch?
An official US Air Force watch is a watch that has been approved by the US Air Force for use by its personnel. These watches must meet certain standards of quality and durability, and they are often designed with features that are specific to the needs of airmen.
What are the benefits of wearing an official US Air Force watch?
There are several benefits to wearing an official US Air Force watch. First, these watches are made to high standards of quality, so you can be confident that they will keep accurate time and withstand the rigors of military service. Second, many official US Air Force watches have features that are specifically designed for airmen, such as chronographs, timers, and night-vision compatibility. Finally, wearing an official US Air Force watch can be a source of pride and identification for airmen.
What are some of the most popular official US Air Force watches?
Some of the most popular official US Air Force watches include the Bulova Accutron II Alpha, the Timex Allied, and the Marathon GSAR. These watches are all made with high-quality materials and feature a variety of useful functions.
Where can I buy an official US Air Force watch?
Official US Air Force watches are available for purchase through a variety of retailers, including military surplus stores, online retailers, and authorized dealers.
Are there any special requirements for wearing an official US Air Force watch?
There are no specific requirements for wearing an official US Air Force watch. However, some units may have policies that specify the type of watch that can be worn.
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