Why field watches are the only real tool watches left

Every manufacturer wants to sell you the luxury version of their tool watch. Gold submariner. Canopus gold Speedy. Pave Royal Oak. But there is one watch the resists the pressure to become fully luxury. It's the humble field watch. Here's why.
Let's dive in.
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Cheers. 😀😀
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[@CaptainWillard830]

I served in the United States Marine Corps for 22 years. I went to the field to train and to do real world Marine things. Afghanistan, Iraq, Philippines, Sri Lanka…I wore Timex Ironmans. When I wasn’t in the field, I wore my TAGs. Watches my wife gifted me every time I was promoted. All of the watches have a story. My wife purchased all of my TAGs at the Marine Corps Exchange

[@urosbernik3033]

Just out of curiosity... did you chose them and she paid for them? It would drive me mad if my wife would buy watches for me, because it is totally subjective and even a function of time, whether you will like and wear a watch.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Thanks for sharing. My guess is those watches have a lot of memories attached to them 😃

[@CaptainWillard830]

@@urosbernik3033 she selected them without my input. Thankfully, my old lady has always had great taste and knows what I like. I’ll be honest, I was so busy back then with work, I rarely thought about what to wear as far as civilian attire and accessories. When I wasn’t in USMC attire (dress, utilities, or physical training attire), I was in khaki trousers, sensible shoes, polo or button down shirts, and not concerned at all about trendy fashion. I did once want a Rolex Submariner, but never could afford it with two little kids, and a wife, to take care of. Today, I can afford a Rolex, but now love my Omegas, TAGs, Seikos, and Casios. Maybe one day my wife will gift me a Rolex

[@yarly3180]

Maybe she bought her lovers Rolexes? *badum tsss*

[@CaptainWillard830]

@@yarly3180 Good old Jody! He gets around with that mullet and smooth talk. Running around with Submariners, greasy hair, STDs, and Crocs

[@elrockerchido]

The burger analogy is by far the best thing I’ve heard in a long time. Ill carry this analogy to more aspects of my life

[@wifine1951]

when did he say it

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Who doesn't like a burger... ?😃😂

[@patrickclancy150]

@@wifine1951 13:30

[@crux314]

Perhaps "fish and chips" would be more likely. No body wants his/ her watch to be inexpensive junk.

[@patrickclancy150]

@@crux314 Not sure of your location, except that the "fish and chips" reference implies UK. Here is the US there are routine fast food burgers that might be classified as inexpensive junk, but we have many good restaurants that serve burgers that would make you rethink your desire for seafood.

[@amilyester]

I just got into watches recently and my first purchase was a Citizen 37mm Garrison Chandler. Eco Drive movement for no fuss operation/maintenance, legible Arabic numerals on a stark, black dial, basic lume, day-date feature, an arrow in place of the 12 and 100M WR on the stock canvas strap. Works for me. Simple and effective.

[@jimg518]

I had my heart set on a Ranger, then I saw the Sinn 556 A and went with that. A lot less money and a really good quality watch.

[@dre32pitt]

How's the .223 model?

[@nikolastojanov8749]

I have been thinking about classifying watches into different categories and wearing watches on different occasions. This video made me realize that for me, its all about what emotions does a watch evoke when you put it on you hand. I am a lot into hiking, spending time in nature or at least parks, outdoor exercise of any kind, walking whenever I can. When I put on a field watch, it just evokes in me memories about hiking and nature and spending cool time with my parents in nature, generally very nice memories. Also, when I go exercise or do something in casual clothes in general, it just feels right to put on a field watch. When I dress more smartly for office, It just feels right to have a dressy watch on wrist. I dont wear divers for the most part except when I actually go swimming. Not sure why It works like that for me, its all about feeling 'right' and evoking the right emotion at the right time.

[@dannysimenauer5745]

I would just add one thing to Mike's thorough analysis/perspective of what makes a true "tool field watch" that Mike did not overtly state. A person who is buying a true field watch for its simplicity to read the time also wants to buy it as a "beater watch". Meaning I am going to use it at the gym, at a construction site (or other manual labor job), sweat in it, swim in it, biking with it, go rock climbing with it, even go to the office with it, or all of the above! The point being is that I want a watch that can be scratched or I can get dirty without worrying about babying it. The most important features are is it steel or titanium, and inexpensive to the point where I do not worry about scratching it. I guess a person who only wants to buy a field watch for its life style vibe would buy a Patek Philippe 5226 in white gold, but not someone who is going to beat the heck out of it in the field!

[@theshadow1812]

GADA watch

[@dannysimenauer5745]

@@theshadow1812 GADA means/stands for?

[@DavidMTurner]

@@dannysimenauer5745 Go Anywhere Do Anything

[@stevendearing3792]

​@@dannysimenauer5745it means "go anywhere, do anything"

[@dannysimenauer5745]

@@stevendearing3792 thanks!

[@handlehbt]

- Authentic field watch to work outdoors in the dust and mud is a Casio G-Shock. - To sit in clean environment and talk about what is a tool watch, is a Rolex Explorer or Hamilton Khaki (and the likes). - Burger analogy is spot-on.

[@JoeCC0087]

-agreed -agreed -🍔

[@PabloTBrave]

That may be an authentic modern field watch , and almost certainly the best fit for the job, but we have needed and used field watches way before 1983 ( first shock ) or 1969 ( first quartz) so the other field watches cannot be discounted. The American A 11s and the uk dirty dozen watches have been used in the military for 75 years you can say that about the g shock ..... Yet .

[@Robert-vw3od]

100% true for a long while . if you look at a list of watches with genuine use behind them in history, outside of dive watches you will see brands like gylcine hanhart ball Hamilton. I’m always fond of telling people in the first bourne movie he wore a quartz tag. nobody ever wore a Rolex for anything but showing off.

[@davidr2802]

I have one watch. A 2017 37mm Yachtmaster with platinum bezel that I wear when hiking, swimming, skiing etc. all over the world. Don't be that all so knowing tool who thinks what he says is fact.

[@handlehbt]

@@davidr2802My apologies. It was just my humble opinion.

[@kofiofosu9051]

I work in healthcare at a correctional facility. The correctional officers require a watch as part of their uniforms. 19/100 use an apple or android smart watch. 80/100 west G Shocks. The G shock is in my estimation the true, toughest modern day field watch. 1 officer wears an Omega seamaster professional. I’ve started to wear my G shocks there. It’s nice to blend in well.

[@drkesrf]

Great testimony. I can understand this.

[@Overlord277]

G-Shock is a lot of go-to picks. I was in the Army. I used an Armitron digital. It was more useful due to it's easy to read and use stop watch function.

[@miguelribeirodesousa9851]

On the spot in todays watch world. The question I have is that we sometimes seek some kind of differentiation but at the same time simplicity .

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

G-shock for the win 😀😀

[@dimatha7]

how are you allowed to wear a watch at healthcare?

[@danigomb]

I simply enjoy your eloquent explanations. I find it like great book material. Have a great time.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Appreciated kind sir 😃😃

[@mortenblomandersen4041]

Well, I've got an Eterna Bumper produced in 1942. That watch has actually been 'in the field', which makesvit a true field watch

[@simonwright6882]

If we are going to imagine anyone actually uses each watch for it's original purpose this makes me feel I've saved a bunch of cash by sticking with the kaki feild for my choice of feild watch. I love its simple design.

[@unwokeneuropean3590]

I have 2 nice dressy divers with 20 ATM. I have only used them as office watches.

[@andreasantonastaso5735]

Fantastic video, you couldn't use best words to explain why fild watches are definitely my favorite ones. Thank you for your work 👌

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

You are very welcome, and thanks for taking the time to say so 😃😃

[@jag1099]

My newest watch - The Tudor Ranger. Love it.

[@mrautomatech2329]

Yeah tried one on at my local shop, and it’s way nicer than I thought. Awesome watch

[@DocMulholland]

I've been owning a Tudor Ranger for almost one year now. It's the best daily I ever had. The watch is absolutely perfect for what it is, nothing has to be changed. In its own mystical way, it is simply gorgeous ❤

[@DeepFriedDoom]

Love the butt plug hour hand. Perfect for exploring new ground and charting unseen depths.

[@djrudog1158]

Not tool watch or field watch..

[@richardstiles6370]

I'm hoping to purchase one in near future 👍

[@TheMutchlerchad]

I love my Ranger. I enjoy having well made things that don't scream "luxury." As with many products, restraint in design often leads to a more fulfilling ownership experience. Don't get me wrong, there are times I like my watches a little more fancy, but sometimes, a quality understated tool is what I want. Thanks for the video.

[@paulgregory2601]

I love my RANGER aswell, superb piece 👍

[@lohikarhu734]

@TheMutchlerchad; I like understated, even "functional" appearance, but, where possible, some kind of "internal elegance"... the "field watch" genre (although i admit to having a day/date) is useful, readable, no battery to charge or replace, robust enough to wear wherever, whenever..and, for me, "luxury" is not something that i consider very much...if it looks like a "field watch", and is wonderfully well-made, and fits in the mould of "those who know, know, those who don't know, don't concern me.." maybe it's like the "de-badged" high-end Mercedes, or the not-so-obvious RS-6 "station wagon"?

[@darrenbayman8988]

I love mine as well. The micro adjustment on the bracelet just works so well, and I find myself adjusting it at least a couple of times in the day.

[@MrMaxc6po]

I totally agree but Went with the 2017 omega railmaster. Only the clasp is Better on the Tudor to my eyes but it still is a great piece…and affordable. The fact the railmaster is discontinued also means you won t see it everywhere

[@miopera40]

citizen eco-drive field watch $100 15 years ago and still going, has gone through hell, oil sand, salt water, mud, 30+ meter dives on weekly basis. Light, small, simple, cheap, durable for sure and always on time with zero adjustments or maintenance. A set it once and forget it type.

[@demej00]

I love this ad about Oris rebuilding a watch. Beautiful. I watch it almost every time. Beautiful music too.

[@wristcouture]

It's refreshing to see a focus on functionality and simplicity over luxury in the watch world.

[@Explorer40mm]

I personally don’t use the word “tool” anymore when talking about expensive mechanical watches. When you say, “use as a tool,” do you mean the act of reading the time? Really enjoy these theoretical discussions.

[@doyouwanttogivemelekiss3097]

I teach, and so I often use aspects of mechanical watches as tools: - often, the lessons aren't one hour, but 45 or 50 minutes, and sometimes they start at odd times. Thus, a diving bezel is helpful to remember when the lesson ends, especially when you are mentally occupied with other things. - bezels and stopwatches are also useful for small exercises within the class. But I agree: a casio would do the job just as well.

[@OpheliaNL]

It's like when people use the word ''beater'' for a stainless steel Rolex or Tudor. It means what the individual wants it to mean. Most people don't have the career or hobby to truly use these watches as a ''tool'', so guess for some people it's a tool as long as it tells the time and looks good as an accessory.

[@Explorer40mm]

@@OpheliaNL and I’m not even sure anyone has a career where they need an inaccurate mechanical watch for precision timekeeping. These things are mostly just fun little trinkets for cosplaying. I’m a diver, I’m in the field, I’m James Bond, I’m an astronaut, I’m a pilot, I’m a train operator, it’s all about imagination and dress up for adult men.

[@OpheliaNL]

@@Explorer40mm haha sounds about right.

[@doyouwanttogivemelekiss3097]

@@Explorer40mm I disagree partially: I need a watch.

[@solverxd]

Excellent video. You've just given me another reason to love my 124270 Explorer even more. It really is about as luxurious as a field watch should be without compromising its role as a tool.

[@ninjesus4079]

it is labelled as a tool watch but let's be honest, it is luxury. A tool watch is a Gshock

[@yusufbest4475]

​@@ninjesus4079 it is priced as luxury but it is just a good quality field watch

[@billymania11]

Rocking a Hamilton Bronze Khaki here, a gift from my son. I adore it. Upon my demise, the watch enters his collection.

[@matricious]

I've taken a dive into the watch world and at the end the only one which I ended up using on a daily basis is a 70€ Lorus Lumibrite with a day/date function. Convinience is what makes it stand out for me, even if it lacks all of Casio's functions. It does it's job quicker than a phone.

[@boatdetective]

Mike- your discussions are prescient, intelligent, and unbiased. I have been yearning for a field watch and have considered precisely what you discuss here. I would add that the best field watches are more than simply the design and construction. The best examples have a back story and an air of authenticity. Personally, I like the Ranger, the Hamilton 38 Murph, and the IWC Mk XV.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

I try, and am happy you enjoy my approach 😃😃 IWC for me.... 😃😃

[@TheZax85]

Just subscribed. Love the way you analyze every little detail in your videos, and your calm personality 👍

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Welcome aboard! 😃

[@mikeb6459]

Love your straightforward explanation. Really helps.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Glad you think so! 😊

[@Robert-vw3od]

An absolutely brilliant review with an absolutely brilliant ending.

[@jbe6812]

Great channel, arguably the most informed and seemingly least influenced out there, I congratulate you. However you have missed the Seiko SARB017. Arguably the purest and most functional field / alrounder of them all! Love the content 👌

[@pergustavsson2424]

For the past 10 years, my daily watch has been the Seiko SNK805. What I like the most about it, apart from the size and legibility, is the position of the crown at 4 o'clock. It is never in the way. Tragically, Seiko has stopped producing the clock, so I will have to find a couple of late production ones still out there somewhere.

[@Leadlobotamist]

I don't remember when I got it but I've been using an SNK805 for years. Threw a dark brown leather strap on it and it's a damn nice watch for being "budget"(use to be, they're twice what I paid for now). I love simple watches.

[@joseluismalagagranda4785]

Now I am wearing the srpg35, I found it can jump from field to formal casual changing to black leather strap .

[@ivanmoralesbello1]

Great point of view . Down to earth , intelligent perspective . Very much enjoyed .Thank you .

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Thank you kindly! 😃

[@francoisfournier2903]

Just purchased a Christopher Ward C65 Sandhurst field watch and love everything about it. I also have a Hamilton titanium khaki field, and alternate between the two.

[@daveLin104]

How does it compare to the Hamilton?

[@e_d_v_a_u_s]

Just found your channel from a post on WatchCrunch and this is the first video I watched from you. Smart, well thought out commentary. Subscribed.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Welcome aboard - Thanks a ton 😃

[@TheSlowoldman]

PP 5226 is GORGEOUS! I love that watch. I love plain faced watches, mainly with numerals at 12, 3, 6, and 9. (sometimes more like in the 5226). My daily wear tool (?) watch is a Timex Hodinkee Waterbury Limited Edition. I love the pebbled face of the dial and the simple legible dial layout.

[@donaldknapik2706]

I love listening to your analysis of different watch topics. I picked up a Bulova Hack about 9 months ago and it has become my daily driver. Its about half the price of a Khaki and the most accurate mechanical I own.

[@RCSFragrance]

First time to this channel and I learned more about watches in this video than any other video I have watched so far.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Glad you found it worth your time 😃

[@markikn3183]

That was very good and got me thinking about my relationship with my Hamilton Khaki Field Automatic 42 on bracelet, which ive always loved. Busier then the mechanical, it also starts to push that boundary (slightly) but remains firmly toolish because...i only paid $500. And that's another essence of the field watch, it's important not to pay too much.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Right on! 😃

[@michaelbrooks1061]

Nice take on the tool watch world. As an owner of a 5226g I appreciate the brand's option of a tool like watch. I think Patek successfully bridged that tool luxury divide. And that dial.....

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

That dial. Exactly 😃

[@johanvandersandt8904]

Reminds me of the KISS saying... Keep it simple stupid... You get the basics right and then they will be superb. I probably like the Draken Aoraki most. Its well made... Its tough... It has a faraday cage in it... It a great field watch! Have a great one Mike!

[@DocMulholland]

I've been owning a Tudor Ranger for almost one year now. It's the best daily I ever had. The watch is absolutely perfect for what it is, nothing has to be changed. In its own mystical way, it is simply gorgeous ❤

[@devileanblack]

Great analysis as always. I had exactly this idea on my mind lately, and you put on words way better. :)

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Glad to hear it! 😃

[@catsteeth]

Great video again from my #1 YT person. Delightfully refreshing to hear clear and structured thought 👍 I loved my Hamilton Khaki. I thought I was getting a 2824, but instead had the very first Powermatic out. Terribly unstable timekeeping. Ruined a great watch. I had to chuckle that you came down for the Tudor in the end. I picked up my 224270 up yesterday! After "only" a six month wait. So cheers 🤦

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Thanks again! and luck you!!! 😃😃

[@shoeshiRoll]

I have been in the US Infantry for the netter part of 9 years, and I have been absolutely thrilled to pick up a Rolex Explorer. I have had a deployment with this watch along with numberous training events where it gets thrashed left and right for the last two years. Using this watch as a tool watch, as it is originally intended, is what makes this piece so awesome. All the cool functions that come from a G-shock are cool and all, but we never use any of it in the real world; no need for the world time, no need for the stop watch function etc. We typically carry a GPS anyways that has all those functions. So why not train in style? The 100m water resistance gives me a lot of faith when working in harsh weather conditions and even during swim events. Even though it is a "luxury brand", i still think Rolex still has their head in the game for making some absolute beaters of a watch. When people say this watch can fit any situation, ill tell you what; it absolutely does.

[@Anaesdoc]

Extremely well thought through and articulate video. A real discovery, reminds me a bit of Watchfinder some years ago.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

That's high praise - Thanks a ton 😃😃

[@DogStar84]

Mike just talked me into wanting a field watch

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

lol 😂

[@stevehill8993]

Big fan of my two Hamiltons. They just feel perfect on my wrist. Large numerals are most appreciated.

[@dalesmith7250]

You nailed it. I think you could have even thrown the Longines Spirit into the conversation. Regarding the G-Shock...things with batteries like to act up in very cold weather and very hot weather, so I might argue that a mechanical watch is better suited to temperatures more on the extreme side.

[@wayneholmes637]

I found my mechanicals were somewhat bothered by the difference between -15°C in the German winter and +35°C during the S.E. Asian hot season. Much more than my gshocks and eco-drives.

[@FiremanFrach]

I am a simple retired fireman on a (hamburger) budget. For many years my “field watch” at work was a G Shock GA100-1a1. I don’t own a true field watch so the closest watches to that would be my Timex Expedition Rugged Field Mens Watch T49626 and my Timex Expedition Rugged Core. Both serve me well. As you say, the simple burger is best. Cheers.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

GA100 - Simple. Functional. Excellent. Good call 😊😊👍

[@bafa000]

I agree.... However, I also need to point out that you may be a user and not an enthusiast. thats when you start appreciating the 'little things' and may put the awesome gshock on the side

[@fredericperrin3279]

Amazing how you can talk for a quarter of an hour about this topic, with excellent and well thought through arguments. Well, my personal best field watch is a Norqain Neverest (Zermatt special edition). OK, by your definitions it is not a field watch as it has a rotating bezel and a "glacier" looking dial, but it certainly looks, feels and wears like a true field watch.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Thanks - I just ignore my family and nerd on watches in stead 😂😂 As for Norqain, I have to dive into them at some point. I'm seeing more and more of them and have stopped at the counter often, but never taken one out of the case... On the to do 😃

[@fredericperrin3279]

@@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch Great, thanks for the reply. I would love to have your enlighted view of the Norquain brand.

[@Hard_7_Iron]

One of the things I always loved about Steinhart Watches was the “field watch” vibe. I own the GMT which I’m sure was created for people who cant or wont afford a Rolex Explorer II. It is my weekend watch! My beater. The one I never worry about. All painted markers. 300M of water resistance. Completely brushed. All for less than $600 USD. I know a lot of people hate the brand because they knockoff other designs. But I love the only Steinhart I own…because its truly go anywhere do anything for the weekend beater. And with that said…it’s the weekend. See ya.

[@WestCoastAce27]

I have their take on the original Exp II too - and love it. If Rolex would reissue it and sell it to us mortals, I’d buy theirs and give the Steinhart to a young personas his gateway watch (still on the list for the 226570 polar - the downside of living in a metropolis).

[@gremlin76]

Thank you ❤. Not only have you treated me with another great video but you’ve also covered my absolutely favourite watch style. I like sports/divers watches (who doesn’t), I appreciate nice chronographs, but eventually my heart always goes to the simplest watches of all - field, no date, brushed. I love mechanical watches but I don’t want to loose on accuracy. That immediately sends me up the market. Somehow I didn’t connect with Sinn, my first proper field watch was Longines Spirit Titanium. Near perfect - light, accurate, legible, but - just as your theory says - it was too much. Too much gilt, too much detail on the dial. Great watch, but 6 months later I had to find it a new home. Months or research and trying different models at ADs allowed me to narrow the list down to two pieces- Tudor Ranger and Omega Railmaster. I love them both, both have what I’m looking for in an everyday watch. Keeping in mind my recent failure with Longines I decided to go with simplicity and buy a Ranger. Omega RM still catches my eye whenever I see it, but after nearly 7 months with Tudor I feel I’ve made a right choice. Love this little watch to death. Also, to your point about dress and field watches being close to each other - fully agree. Looking for a more formal watch I went with Omega Seamaster 1948 70th Anniversary Limited Edition. “Town, sea and country”. Almost field, but still very much a dress watch. Love this topic, thanks for sharing. Cheers.🍻

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Glad to hear that this vid hit a little closer to your heart. As for your final choice: Spot on 👍👍😀😀

[@jhors7777]

Great channel, well researched, well crafted, and eloquently and succinctly presented. Thank-you.

[@burkhardlange9280]

Thank you for this great video, Mike! It reminded me why I love my unpretentious Sinn 856 so much! Please keep up your excellent content!

[@bdcochran01]

1. Thank you. Your description is spot on. 2. My daily beater watch is a 40 year old Wenger military field watch. 3. Someone mention the Timex Ironman. I have 4 used ones. I have one remaining new one to gift. I give new Ironman watches as beater watches to high school and college graduates.

[@jb-hw9if]

Great video. You've reached into my thoughts and perfectly described my core watch strategy. Couldn't agree more with you.

[@Remboken]

I have always loved the Field watches, easy to read.

[@TomJones-tx7pb]

Every day I throw my polished titanium GS on my wrist and forget about it (whatever I am doing) until I need to know the time. It still looks the same as the day I bought it. No-one notices it because at a distance it looks like an everyday steel watch from the 70s. I never worry about its power level - it has never stopped. That is my idea of a tool watch.

[@Deconstructeur]

After the dive watch, I"d say the field watch is the most popular style out there. That's why there are tons of affordable options in addition to the models you show in your video. One of the better-known budget field watch it the Timex Expedition. They made a gazillion of them in different styles and one can see them quite often on the wrist of any given stranger on the street.

[@DavidFisher-fq2wh]

Nothing beats my $50 Timex Expedition. They “take a licking and keep on ticking” 😬

[@dmacarthur5356]

Seems there is no love for the Timex Expedition here lol. I loved mine and it took a beating but never failed and kept great time.

[@Jindsing]

I have the polished version of the khaki and absolutely love it. Its my work watch i wear to the office and great for when occasionally i need to go out into the field.

[@w.alexanderholt9338]

Awesome explanation of tool watch . Love your channel. Thank you 😊

[@jesperjohansson7062]

Thank you for making great content. I thoroughly enjoy every second of your videos, your calm and collected thoughts and even your voice is ASMR! In a world which is getting more and more divisive and where open discourse seems to be all to uncommon, it's nice that even though I may not always agree with your ideas, I am more than happy to hear them, and more likely than not to be persuaded by them. By the way, being swedish and not having english as a mother tongue I am having a hard time distinguishing where you are from. Is it Australia, New Zeeland, England or maybe even South Africa? Literally no idea. Would be cool to know. Looking forward to your next video, as always.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Thanks - Yes. I try to share my thoughts. I don't profess to be "right" - I just enjoy the process and happy that others find value in watching agree or disagree. Nobody got smarter by listening to people that had the exact same views as their own. 😃😃 And yes - South Africa 😃

[@markhamjeff9104]

My go to field watch is the Tudor BB36 gloss black dial. It’s simple, sporty, and the perfect size.

[@rassf1]

We need to point out that the Explorer was not on Sir Edmund Hillary's wrist when he climbed Mt. Everest and that Rolex had to retract the statement after his complaint. Even worse, there was not Explorer at the time and the the watch given to him (but not worn) was an OP.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

There's a reason I said "any watch that's been in or around Mount Everest" - a little bit of vagueness for the in crowd (like yourself) that knows the real story 😊

[@wowlsj]

My one and only "Field Watch" is the, as you noted in the video, the disqualified "Murph 38". I love it because it's "cleaner" than the base Khaki, but because of the beautiful brushed case, I won't let it become a beater - I love the clean brushing - which defeats the whole purpose! 😂

[@ghjong001]

I'm new to this channel, and I absolutely love the way you present so much information, so clearly. Subscribed. Also: I LOVE your burger analogy. I've had Daniel Boulud's foie gras burger. It was delicious and unique and arguably worth the $125 price tag... but it was definitely not a burger. There are elevated, fancy burgers that you definitely pay a price premium for... but that was not it. It crossed a line that I'm not sure I could easily define, but it definitely crossed it nonetheless.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Thanks - welcome aboard. As for the burger. I do agree - there is something about those luxury interpretations, but the basic burger is just so perfect in it's base form 😃😃

[@jespervver4181]

My favorite field beater travel watch is the Hamilton H70455523. Within the last ten years I have worn it on five different continents. On a nato it still wears fairly slim. I actually use the date complication when I travel compared to home where I prefer time only watches

[@WatchandSon]

Really very, very good. Great debate. I love Field Watches because of their simplicity and durability. I'll have my burger from the van outside the nightclub as you say.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Bingo 😊

[@InsaneFame]

The purpose of polishing is to shine and attract attention. A tool watch is meant to endure, which means brushed or even hardened like Sinn.

[@Explorer40mm]

Polished watches last just as long as brushed, it’s just aesthetic. You could be in a trench with your legs blown off but your trusty platinum Daytona will still tell you that it’s 1:15 p.m.

[@davidr2802]

It's so cute that you assume what you say is fact.

[@InsaneFame]

@@davidr2802 ok troll

[@pimba11]

Excellent and thought provoking video.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Glad you liked it! 😃

[@clivejenner4093]

Has to be the Ranger, I just love it's simple, retro design and general robustness. An excellent field watch.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Good choice! 😀

[@epvtrinidad]

Great discussion. And nice idea adding the 5226 here actually. That was an inspired choice. Saw your video as I’m on the market for a field watch. Even if it doesn’t have an inhouse movement, heavily considering the vertex (rich dirty dozen history) M100A. Modern interpretation but still has a very tool vibe to it. Theres something about it having a railroad track and subseconds that makes it have an elegant tool vibe to it. Costs as much as a Ranger though, but hey, we buy what we like eh?

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Exactomundo 😊

[@ttothec]

Excellent content, as always. Thanks.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

you are very welcome and thanks for sticking around 😃

[@michaelpeters5696]

After a lifetime of disposable timex's(and a really nice Seiko) my tool watch for the last 3 deployments was a GMT II- worked great, did everything I needed and took a lot of punishment-so, in my eyes, the best field watch I've owned.

[@MountainRancher]

I have the Hamilton Khaki 42 with green nato strap. Love it!

[@JBass33]

New subscriber here. This video is only 9 days old and already has nearly 500 replies. It is rare to find such an articulate and thoughtful discussion. My taste in field/tool/pilot watches are at a lower level than even the Hamilton. They are made by Casio, Orient and Seiko. Except for my Bulova military model with its 262khz movement, I can lose, damage, or break any of them without being heartbroken.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Thanks for subbing - appreciated. 😃

[@jeanlefranc3817]

This video really made me crave for a rose gold Sinn 556 (on a solid rose gold bracelet, obviously)

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Lol 😂

[@ghegeler]

The Tudor Ranger is my favorite of the field watches you touched on because its screw down crown, legibility and overall quality vibe on the wrist.

[@onedirection3510]

Excellent review! I like the Citizen eco field watch offerings. There is a studied subtly about the Explorer. It really seems to say, now this is a watch! I really wish the Explorer II didn’t have any polished metal. Brushed is so cool imo. OK this is quite a stretch of the imagination lol but I suppose if you were lost in the Alps somewhere, the reflection of polished metal could potentially get you found . 😅

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

*Waving a platinum daytona at the passing search helicopters* 😂😂

[@russellsmith1375]

There is a story floating around of a lost sailor using his watch to attract rescuers..so it can't be discarded😅😅

[@onedirection3510]

@@russellsmith1375 “floating around?” Pun intended? 😆

[@Paul-ic2ki]

Rolex Explorer II (216570 and 226570) say "hi"

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

😉

[@roamy3605]

When I finally set out to buy a field (tool) watch my first look was to the Rolex Explorer (39mm). I liked the heritage, reputation, and look. But in reality I liked the look of the Explorer 1016 much better. To me it had "the look". But the 1016's are getting pretty old and very expensive for a decent one. Fast forward a couple years and the newest Tudor Ranger arrives on scene. It's well built, has a modern/rugged movement, a great size for my 7 1/2" wrist, and had that Explorer 1016 look. I don't think I could be any happier about this purchase. I use it golfing, hiking, bike riding, and all sorts of work inside and outside my house. It did take me awhile to fully appreciate this Tudor and now I have a hard time giving my other watches time on my wrist.

[@richardmonsell3899]

I enjoyed your presentation very much. Just wanted to throw in that I ordered my first field watch this February. I was persuaded by the Mad Hacker to support his launch of his very own Field Watch. Listen to his sales / specifications speech and you may understand why I was hooked. Plus it’s wind up. Cheers R

[@DeeEx27]

Great video and topic. There’s something so refreshing and charming about the utilitarian spirit and unpretentious yet efficacious design of a field watch. I think you’re right in saying that sometimes less is indeed more. Simple uncomplicated three-handers can deliver a lot of enjoyment. I own ta Serica 4512, a modern no non-sense field watch, which is perhaps just a tad more sophisticated than your average hammy. And in fact the Murph 38 was Serica‘s main contender and lost also for a question of budget. But when it comes to field watches I have to mention the CWC G10 and W10. Especially their quartz variants deliver great value for watches that have historically been issued to the British army. I‘d love to add a W10 to my collection at some point!

[@jensfiehler4716]

Excellent take on this fun subject. The most upmarket field watch might be located at two thirds the way from a Ranger to an Explorer 39. Who could make such a thing? Maybe Grand Seiko?

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

True... 😃

[@jfu5222]

The function I find most important in a field watch is luminosity that lasts all night, I was an infantry scout and spent many nights on patrol. The cheap Timex field watches I wore at the time barely made it to first light. My favorite working watch was a gift from my mother-in-law, a Tissot PR100 Titanium. It's luminous marks are easily read on the longest nights without the preparation of holding the dial to a flashlight. I wear it every day, but it excels as my camping watch.

[@MikolaiStroinski]

The elegant watch is about composition. The key to good composition is clarity of ideas.

[@tezzanewton]

Also, the Chinese are pumping out some really good field watches with NH35 movements for not much money. And the build quality is pretty damn good

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

This is true 😀😀

[@paulwakeford4453]

Thank you - a work of clarity. But as asked, for me a Hamilton Khaki. I would take down a mine, cross a desert or climb a mountain. Strikingly plain and handsome too.

[@malikknows3510]

Excellent discussion. Thank you. I simply wonder why Longines and Omega, brands with a stellar history of producing tool watches (WWII era), simply don't offer these in their catalogue now. In fact, no one seems to be offering an a luxury tool watch rival to the Explorer. Your point about its 36mm size is excellent, but it is a outlier in today's market. If you want a luxury field watch the Explorer is really the only game in time. Thanks again!

[@Geniusclicks]

Railmaster in omega’s catalogue

[@malikknows3510]

@@Geniusclicks A plausible alternative but far larger at 40mm.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

They have the railmaster - but check out @IDguy video on the railmaster. He has some interesting perspectives on a model that just doesn't do particularly well in their catalogue 😃😃 I honestly think it's too expensive for it's features and doesn't look quite "luxury" enough either. So it's stuck a bit in between worlds 😃😃 (and it's for people that want a milgauss or an explorer, I think)

[@malikknows3510]

@@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch True, as the other viewer replied. The dial is a bit off-putting for me and, yes, it doesn't look luxury enough for its price. It is also far larger than it needs to be. I wish they'd offer a true dirty dozen re-issue. Thanks for the response.

[@Geniusclicks]

@@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch so your saying that people that buy Omega’s are people that want a Rolex?

[@SodabrotherNr1]

Really like my Vertex 100M. Great Video 👌🏼

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Thank you 😃

[@davidinda5922]

For me my Tudor Northflag its my personal favorite. A tool watch still but with a modern touch with tis yellow touches and charge indicator. Such an underrated watch that screams mute luxury.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Good choice - a watch that should never have been discontinued 😃

[@Claus-L.Mueller]

Hi! I would toss my Omega Railmaster with its charcoal dial in the ring. IMHO the Railmaster is an understated luxury tool watch. The 3, 6, 9 and 12 non applied numerals and the cross hair give it its field watch vibes. The case and bracelet is all brushed and the crown has got a decent size. Best wishes, Claus

[@user-cg7tw5yc9n]

Thanks for the vid. Already anticipated it since I woke up today. Perhaps the sushi comparison might have fit better, given the idea is to focus on the taste of the single most important ingredient (the fish in most cases), as opposed to other cuisine like French, Italian or even burger, where the combination, despite being simple, is key. And yes, the Hamilton Khaki is the field watch

[@bdcochran01]

I forgot to add: 1. thank you. You are accurate on describing the field watch. 2. Sunday, I had dinner with 4 family members. 3 wore Rolex watches. Those three I had gifted new Victorinox field watches over the years. one had a factory overhaul of her Rolex in Paris last year -$700, So, having a field watch as a beater watch can be a good move.

[@gene4094]

I bought a smaller watch when I was working in an analytical chemistry lab. The watch was inexpensive and all the things I needed. That was a Casico. It lasted for over twenty years.

[@verynormalman]

T4YC. I agree. BUT it shouldn't be shiny (for obvious reasons!). Much like a dive watch. These definitely can't be shiny (but some people don't understand that). Titanium is underated. It ages SO beautifully. And the wear makes it better. Steel's biggest weakness is the scratching. If you need to polish your watch, either the watch owns you, or you have the wrong watch.

[@hamtairo]

How i wish the field watch would be fully titanium (including caseback) + No Date + small size. The Longines Spirit seems to get close but the lug was too damn long (similar to nomos club sport 36mm but lug was massive for my wrist)

[@Tomkraai]

The RZE valour 38 ticks all those boxes i think.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Somebody said Nomos lugs! Hide! .😂😂 JK - Agree on the Spirt. Lovely watch but slightly off on proportions for some 😃

[@hamtairo]

@@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch Haha, i can comment on it because I used to owned one of 36mm nomos (that time my wrist is much smaller than now) Basically what I learn from that is some small watch can wear big (nomos.. cough!) and some big watch can wear small (eg the Seiko Tuna Quartz as well as monoblock Tuna) Also never ever buy the watch unless you can touch and feel the watch in real life. Although AD may not like it if you drop by just to play around the watches LOL.

[@henryperez606]

Protec has a field watch there is titanium and has tritium tubes. Very nice.

[@maxcontax]

I have and wear three different Hamilton automatics, one for dress, one sailing (Navy Pioneer), one all the rest of the time, the KhakiField model. They have been very reliable and get noticed, especially the Limited Edition Jazzmaster (2018). As an outdoors person I value the reliability. These replaced two Tissot quartz watches which fogged up because the kid that replaced the battery last time wrecked the gasket, I was out sailing and it just quit. These automatic field watches don’t have the issue of battery failure and humidity leaks. No battery to fail at -30C. Shockproof, easy to read at a glance, second sweep hand, smooth metal bracelet that stays closed. Not fancy, but they work in my real world.

[@richardstiles6370]

Excellent 👍 I wear Hamilton khaki field mechanical as my daily wear. Love it!!

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Thank you! Cheers! 😊

[@tomdoe5698]

your intro was describing invicta. " only chronograph with a meteorite face" shopNBC goid days

[@HERRESHOFFGSD]

Fantastic video. Thank you for the hard work and the comments. I wonder if you would consider the Omega Railmaster closer to a field watch or to a tool watch. Please let me know

[@woozertoo]

Interesting argument. I would think the luxury interpretation of a field watch would be crafting it out of materials that are difficult to work with / labour-intensive.

[@BoricuaTraveler]

Fantastic video! I wonder if the Omega Railmaster and the Grand Seiko SBGE285 meet your criteria for a tool/field watch...

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Thanks 😃😃 Railmaster - I would say yes (although it may technically more be an "engineers watch") but overall yes. It's a field watch largely in design. The SBGE? It's explorer II "esque". PErsonally I would say no - no numerals on the dial, superfluous GMT bezel and function, not a highly legible dial (white on white). Super cool. But field - not in my mind 😃😃

[@bradherndon8032]

This is such a great video and I really appreciate your point of view on this topic. Makes so much sense. For field watch, previously had a Hamilton Khaki 44mm, but it was just too big. Currently have a Hamilton Murph 38mm...has such a great vintage vibe and has all of those elements you described that make up a great field/tool watch. But I have to say....the Tudor Ranger....hmmm. 🙂

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Glad you enjoyed it! 😀