The Best Tactical Watches

Sure, the primary purpose of owning a watch is to be able to know the time with a quick glance, but tactical watches go above and beyond the call of duty. A tactical watch may include features such as waterproofing, stopwatch functions, and directional aids, such as a compass. This type of watch is often used in the military due to its versatility and durability. But you don't have to be a soldier to make the most of a tactical watch. Tactical watches serve as a perfect gift for the athletic, outdoorsy person in your life. In order to find the absolute best tool for you, we have compiled a detailed list of our favorite products. In order to find the best tactical watches on the market, we considered three key factors: style, durability, and built-in features. With those criteria in mind, we landed on a few favorites. For example, we love Palada's tactical watch for its sleek design that provides optimal comfort throughout the day. This product's band blends with the watch face for an easy fit under any sweatshirt or uniform. However, the Palada doesn't quite match the amazing screen brightness of LYMFHCH's watch thanks to the long-lasting LED backlight. Read on below to find out more about your new favorite accessory.

Palada Tactical Watch

All climate compatibility

This sleek and stylish watch is good for more than just looks with its water-resistant feature.
Best Overall

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Bulky and bold isn’t for everyone, and Palada understands that, which is why they created this understated watch that is ideal for outdoor types. Designed with a sleek black finish, this watch fits snug against your wrist, so it’s ready when you need it. Take this piece fishing, swimming, hunting, or rock climbing without a worry thanks to its reliable waterproof feature. The durable band is built to be shock-proof, so no need to worry if you trip and fall on a hike. Aside from being tough, it’s also bright with its backlit LED screen that’s always there for you when the sun sets.

Pros:

  • This watch works better underwater than expected, such as during all-day lake swimming.
  • The digital display is bright enough to be read easily in low-light conditions.
  • Although somewhat thin, the band is still highly durable, even after being scuffed up from rock climbing.

Cons:

  • The light-up feature doesn’t stay on constantly; instead, it has to be manually activated.

Yihou Tactical Wrist Watch

The gift of time

For the outdoor types in your life, this watch is the perfect pick due to its adjustable strap and versatile functions.
Best Gift

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Classic and modern meet in the middle with this product by Yihou. Featuring both analog and digital clock displays, with this watch, you don’t have to choose between old and new. Furthermore, this watch also features the calendar day and month to keep you on schedule. Bring this accessory from the beach to the mountains without fear knowing that it is built to endure shock and water exposure, so you can keep doing you no matter where you are.

Pros:

  • For a low price, this watch has an expensive look with its anti-rust metal and matte black accents.
  • The watch band fits comfortably on all wrist sizes, even a young teenager’s.
  • The packaging includes an extra watch battery.

Cons:

  • This watch doesn’t do well in extreme hot or cold weather.

LYMFHCH Analog Tactical Watch

Durability in style

You don't have to compromise fashion for functionality, and this watch proves that with its extensive built-in tools and bold, energetic color accents.
Most Durable

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Show the world who’s boss in this bold and confident tactical watch. The classic black look is matched with a bright color accent for a dash of fun. Not only does this watch look straight out of an action movie, but it comes equipped with all of the essential tools to fulfill all of your action hero dreams. Dive underwater to swim with the dolphins or climb a mountain to sleep under the stars while knowing your watch is safe due to its shockproof and water-resistant properties. While you’re gazing up at the night sky, you can check the time and date to chart the moon’s phases easily with the help of the backlit LED screen. It doesn’t stop there though, this product also acts as a stopwatch and an alarm, so you’ll be covered morning to night.

Pros:

  • Although the price is low, this watch’s look competes with top-of-the-line products. Its LED lighting helps contribute to that.
  • Its stopwatch and alarm features are very easy to use and do not require reading the instructions to learn how.
  • The durable build makes it able to withstand dirt biking, ATV riding, and mountain biking.

Cons:

  • The band may be a bit stiff during the first couple of wears.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you activate the alarm clock or stopwatch feature on a tactical watch?

Each watch is different, so it’s always a good idea to check the manual for your particular product. However, most watches are equipped with small knobs on the right side of the watch face that can be pulled out and turned to set an alarm or stopwatch.

How do you care for a tactical watch?

The great thing about these particular types of watches is that they are waterproof and can withstand the average wear and tear your hands go through from taking a shower first thing in the morning to washing the dishes after dinner. Due to their durable construction, tactical watches don’t require a lot of upkeep. Simply wipe the clock face and wrist band down occasionally to reduce grime and dirt build-up, and you’re ready to rock. As for its energy source, watch batteries can last anywhere from two to five years depending on the amount of use. When the time does come to change out the battery, any watch store will happily assist you in replacing it with a new one.

About the Author

Just like the wind in her home state of Wisconsin, Emma's personal style is always shifting direction. Nonetheless, her strong fashion-sense stays steady. Through the years, she's gone from punk to whimsical, witchy to minimalist and back again. Her favorite looks involve layers and bright hair colors. Now, she hopes to share her fashion ideas with others, so they can feel inspired on the daily.

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