Best Tactical Watches
Check below our listing to see exactly what to look for when shopping for a military watch and how to wear a tactical watch the right way.
IWC Schaffhausen TOP GUN Automatic Chronograph
This tactical watch by pioneering luxury watch brand IWC Schaffhausen certainly looks the part. With its matte black case, black dial, and chunky fit, it’s exactly the kind of watch you could imagine being worn by any of the cast of the 1986 riveting action classic after which the watch is named.
The Top Gun movie is famous for its exhilarating aerial footage, and, like the other models by aviation specialist IWC, this watch also draws its inspiration from fighter planes. It is designed to deliver precise and reliable timekeeping up in the skies. 
This is the brand’s first pilot’s watch to be made with a Ceratanium case, a patented material that combines the lightweight durability of titanium with the scratch-resistant sturdiness of ceramic. It also has a soft-iron inner case to protect the movement from disruption by magnetic fields.
The calibre 79420 features the very best of Swiss craftsmanship, as well as a 44-hour power reserve. The IWC Top Gun also comes with a double chronograph that allows you to time two separate events simultaneously.
Best for: action movies fans seeking an equally adventurous watch.
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Case size: 44 millimetres
Material: Ceratanium case
Movement: mechanical automatic
Water resistance: up to 60 metres
Bell & Ross Black Camo
First impressions of the Bell & Ross Black Camo watch are impressive. Nothing says heavy-duty quite like that square black case, black dial, and black strap. It certainly has the no-frills and no-messing-around vibe you’d associate with a serious tactical watch.
And once you look closer, you’ll discover that the Bell & Ross Black Camo really is the perfect package for any devoted outdoorsman. The team over at Bell & Ross have developed a military-type tricolour coating for the watch face that reduces the risk of reflection and therefore detection. Just in case you’re undercover.
The watch also has a matte-black ceramic case. Ceramic is an unusual but perfect choice, being sleek, scratch-proof, and lightweight. Meanwhile, the display is a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal and the strap is rubber and synthetic—hard-wearing and long-lasting.
Finally, this model is one of the best minimalist tactical watches out there. You could probably get away with wearing it with casual or even formal attire. This is great if you frequently go straight from a workout to the office and want a timepiece that can make that transition just as effortlessly.
Best for: a survival-orientated watch that also feels high-end.
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Case size: 42 millimetres
Material: ceramic
Movement: mechanical automatic
Water resistance: up to 100 metres
Casio G-Shock
You’re setting off for a weekend into the great outdoors and you need something on your wrist that you can rely on—whether you’re heading out on a jungle trek, going skiing, or simply planning to enjoy an off-road ride in a luxury SUV.
The Casio G-shock was born from a desire to create the most durable and robust watch in the world. As the name suggests, this watch is completely shock-resistant, protected against any impacts and vibrations. It’s also resistant to gravity, electrical shocks, and low temperatures.
This is one reason that it has become the firm favourite of military personnel and law enforcement agents around the globe. It’s also water-resistant up to 200 metres, so you can wear it swimming and surfing—or just in the shower.
The EL Backlight with Afterglow function means the time is legible in the dark. The watch also has a 1/100 second stopwatch and countdown timer.
The G-Shock 6900-IV is also a popular model thanks to its unobtrusive contemporary design which is highly versatile. Indeed, it wouldn’t look out of place worn with a smart shirt and suit for a business meeting—an additional perk.
Thanks to its durability, high-quality, and multitude of extra features—all at a great price—the Casio G-Shock is the best overall tactical watch on our list.
Best for: adventurers wanting something they can wear both in the bush and the boardroom.
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Case size: 44.6 millimetres
Material: resin
Movement: quartz
Water resistance: up to 200 metres
Suunto Core Military
A tactical watch is just as much of an essential for adventurers and explorers as a penknife, first aid kit, or any other survival tool.
The Suunto is a great example of how wearing a tactical watch might just ensure the success of your mission—whether that’s hiking remote mountain trails or cross-country skiing.
It features an altimeter to track your progress on mountain ascents and descents. The barometer detects changes in air pressure while the storm alarm informs you of any sudden drops and approaching bad weather. This is one of the best tactical watches with a compass too.
Finally, you can pre-set the sunrise and sunset times for over 400 different locations, so you can plan your activities and make the most of the light each day.
When you take into account quality and price, the Suunto Core Military is one of the best value tactical watches out there.
Best for: best budget tactical watch for avid hikers.
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Case size: 49.1 millimetres
Material: carbon fibre
Movement: quartz
Water resistance: up to 30 metres
Luminox Navy Seal
If there’s anyone who knows about being prepared for all eventualities, it’s a Navy Seal. These military professionals have to endure the most challenging conditions on their missions around the world. And so this Luminox watch’s association with some of the toughest servicemen out there has already partly won our vote of confidence.
Need more convincing? What if we told you this timepiece features Luminox’s cutting-edge self-powered illumination system, which doesn’t require exposure to a light source or the pressing of a button. Instead, light comes from self-powering tritium gas capsules that last 25 years, making the watch readable in any situation.
The watch is made from a lightweight and sturdy carbon compound, rugged in shape, and, like all dive watches, has a rotating bezel. It’s water-resistant up to 200 metres with a screw-on casebook and double-security gasket crown.
The Luminox Navy Seal series has created quite a fuss in the world of horology. But when you see what these watches are capable of, it’s clear the hype is well-founded. You may not regularly be engaging in military warfare and enemy assaults, but even so, it’s good to be prepared. With a Luminox Navy Seal on your wrist, you definitely will be.
Best for: anyone who dreams of exhilarating missions in remote and rugged terrain.
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Case size: 45 millimetres
Material: CARBONOX™
Movement: quartz
Water resistance: up to 200 metres
Tag Heuer Aquaracer Calibre 5
Tag Heuer’s brand slogan is Don’t Crack Under Pressure, which says it all really. This is the kind of tactical watch that will see you through every extreme scenario. Whether you’re scuba diving in the tropics or motorbiking through remote wilderness, you can depend on the watch’s reliable and robust Calibre 5 automatic movement to keep you on track.
It’s a professional diving instrument, water-resistant to 300 metres, but even if you’re more of a land-based sportsman, this is a great choice.
The display is made from scratch-resistant and anti-reflective sapphire crystal and the bracelet is steel, with a safety clasp to stop it from accidentally opening. Durable materials, a 38-hour power reserve, and luminous hands and markers for low-light visibility also make the Aquaracer a top tactical watch.
It’s an intuitive timepiece to use, with all the functions necessary for an avid outdoors fan.
And it wouldn’t look inappropriate paired with a suit. All in all, the Tag Heuer Aquaracer Calibre 5 is the perfect multifunction watch, and one of the best premium tactical watches on our list.
Best for: fashion-conscious outdoorsmen seeking a combination of form and function.
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Case size: 43 millimetres
Material: stainlesssteel
Movement: quartz
Water resistance: up to 300 metres
Casio Pro Trek
Consider yourself a bit of an adrenaline junkie? Happiest when you’re out in nature, hiking, climbing, swimming, or engaging in any other heart-pumping pursuit?
Then you need a watch that can keep up with your own inexhaustible lust for adventure. Casio has you covered with the Pro Trek sports watch. This series of timepieces was designed especially for those who enjoy the rugged outdoorsy lifestyle.
The PRG270 incorporates Casio’s TripleSensor Version 3 engine, which is more accurate and energy-efficient than previous models. It’s battery-powered and the battery is recharged by a solar panel built into the watch face. But don’t worry if you don’t live in the sunniest of climes. These watches can stay fully functional for up to 23 months without exposure to light.
The buttons are large and easy to access so you can get all the information you need from your watch without any fumbling. The Casio Pro Trek also has a backlight, countdown timer, thermometer, digital compass, altimeter, and barometer. It’s the full package, basically.
Best for: wilderness lovers looking for the ultimate wearable toolkit.
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Case size: 52 millimetres
Material: resin
Movement: quartz
Water resistance: up to 100 metres
Garmin Tactix Bravo
If your idea of fun is heading out into the wilderness with just a rucksack and your own cunning to rely on, then you need a watch that’s just as resourceful to keep you company.
Garmin has stepped up to the challenge with the Tactix Bravo that has all the tactical features you’d expect with a name like that.
For example, navigation and tracking functionalities and a 3-axis electronic compass help you find your way. Sensors provide information on elevation and weather changes. Night-vision mode means it can be used alongside night-vision goggles. And Smart notifications mean you can receive any emails, texts, and alerts that come through to your phone.
More interested in training and fitness than explorations and expeditions? This is also a great sports watch, with the ability to track activities such as golfing, cycling, swimming, and hiking, and also to keep a record of your pace and calories burnt.
This is a multifunctional and extremely durable watch. And, when all’s said and done, the Garmin Tactix Bravo also looks nice and is comfortable enough to be worn every day.
Best for: adventure lovers and outdoor pursuits fans looking for an everyday wear.
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Case size: 51 millimetres
Material: fibre-reinforced polymer
Movement: quartz
Water resistance: up to 100 metres
Panerai Submersible Marina Militare Carbotech
Panerai’s Submersible is, like the name suggests, a dive watch. But even if you prefer to keep your feet on the land, this is an exceptional tactical watch for any outdoor pursuits fan.
Panerai used to supply watches to Italian Navy commandos, so they know what they’re talking about when it comes to military-grade timepieces. The name Marina Militare is a nod towards the brand’s nautical past.
But make no mistake, this is a thoroughly modern tactical watch with its eye trained on the future. Firstly, it’s made from Carbotech composite, a material based on carbon fibre, lighter than ceramic, and also hypoallergenic and corrosion-resistant.
Meanwhile, the case back is lightweight titanium, and the strap is made from super durable rubber. The watch has luminous hour markers and dots for night-time legibility, and the rotating bezel allows your times of water immersion to be accurately calculated.
Although it’s the most expensive tactical watch on our list, this is a function-packed timepiece for those who like to live life on the edge, and one of the best rugged watches available.
With its striking jet-black profile, we think the Panerai Submersible Marina might even look good peeking out from under a dress shirt.
Best for: the hardcore adventurist with a taste for life’s finer things.
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Case size: 47mm
Material: Carbotech
Movement: mechanicalautomatic
Water resistance: up to 300 metres
Timex Expedition Shock XL
Planning a holiday exploring the remote countryside? Or perhaps an expedition up a mountain? Then you’re the kind of amateur adventurer that Timex had in mind when it came up with the Expedition Shock XL.
This digital watch was built for those who enjoy getting off the beaten path and relish physical challenges. Made of a hardened resin, it’s shock-resistant to I.S.O. standards, making it the perfect hard-wearing and long-lasting timepiece to accompany you on your pursuits.
For fitness fanatics, you can track your personal bests using the chronograph function. The Indiglo backlight, Timex’s own revolutionary lighting technology, allows you to tell the time even after nightfall.
And when morning arrives, you can ensure you don’t oversleep and miss your dawn mission using the customisable vibrating alarm. There are also two time zone settings, great for jet setters and backpackers.
The Timex Expedition Shock XL also boasts an incredibly reasonable price for a watch as packed full of functions as this, making this one of the best budget-friendly tactical watches available.
Best for: outdoorsmen looking for a tactical watch under $100.
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Case size: 50 millimetres
Material: resin
Movement: quartz
Water resistance: up to 100 metres