The Top 12 Best Sailing Watches
Different types of sailing watches offer various styles and functions. Some of these include smartwatches that have multiple features including MOB (man overboard) alerts, tidal calculations, and race timers.
Waterproof self-winding watches are also effective but may not have all of the same features. The introduction of smartwatch technology has revolutionized sailing and allowed navigation and communication tools easily wearable on the wrist.
Garmin Quatix 5 Multisport Marine Smartwatch
The Garmin sailing watch has a Quick Fit band system, steel bezel, and rear case for 24/7 monitoring without a chest strap. It also connects with the free Garmin connect app to link with chart plotters and other devices for remote waypoint marking, data streaming, and autopilot control.
The watch includes a built-in Fusion-Link Lite app for controlling stereo-active products. It offers exceptional activity tracking but it may not be the best choice for rugged outdoor activities due to its high price so keep this mind.
Pros
- Helps keep up with your activities
- Can keep track of vitals and has GPS
- Has sailing assistance capabilities
Cons
- Might be too expensive compared to other brands
- Smartwatch might not work for those that have difficulty with electronics
Seiko Divers Watch
The Seiko sailing watch blends sporty and classy aesthetics with superior functionality and affordability. Its screw-down crown and unidirectional rotating bezel are notable attributes. It checks all the boxes for basic sailing needs such as:
- Water-resistant
- Easy to see luminous hands
- Scratch-resistant
- Sturdy and ideal for rugged activities
The watch's small size is sleek and unobtrusive but it may not be suitable for individuals with larger wrists. The bezel may also be challenging to turn. It has proven to be a dependable and fashionable choice for everyday wear and outdoor pursuits at an affordable price point.
Pros
- Sturdy enough to handle many water activities
- Quality construction and water-resistant
- Classic look that many boaters admire
Cons
- Large wrists might not work with wrist strap
- Bezel might be difficult to rotate
Casio Sport Sailing Watch
This water-resistant sailing watch is ideal for everyday use including light water activities and showering. It features a silent tick and a rotating bezel but its grip can be challenging at times. The rubber band has a sliding holder to keep the excess strap secure.
It is not recommended for deep diving and does not have glow or backlight functions. It is a classic diver-style watch that is durable and affordable with a straightforward appearance.
Pros
- Solid water resistance of 328 feet
- Arguably the most affordable under $30
- Constructed from resin with a sturdy buckle fastening
Cons
- Not meant for diving deep or long periods in the water
- Difficult to see at night or dark environments
Optimum Sailing Watch Time Series
This regatta timer watch is ideal for sail racing and favored by many enthusiasts for its large polarized display. It can be worn around your waist or stretched around the mast and has user-friendly features such as large buttons and the ability to rotate the display. It is also:
- Water-resistant up to five ATM (atmospheres)
- Shock-proof
- Specialized sailing timer functions
The strap may become floppy over time and there is a lack of countdown customization but it is still a durable and reasonably priced option. This watch is a must-have for anyone looking to be prepared for sail racing and is easy to read and use. It also happens to be a great choice for those on a budget.
Pros
- Water resistance rating up to five ATM (165 feet)
- Designed for regatta racers in mind due to regatta timer capability
- Easily adjusts to fit your wrist over can be worn over your sleeve
Cons
- Strap can become floppy or weakened over time
- Does not allow for custom countdown features
Ronstan Race Timer Sailing Watch
This watch stands out as a high-quality yacht racing timepiece with precise start race timing. It sets the standard for years to come and has a handy SYNC function. It is recommended that you test it out before regatta races since it can be difficult to start the timer if you are not familiar with it.It is affordable and can be programmed for other countdown sequences. It comes in three color combinations with contemporary styling that does not compromise usability.
Pros
- Has large digit displays provide effortless and convenient viewing
- SYNC button makes it easy to match countdown and ideal for sailors that enjoy races
- Sleek design with large buttons and intuitive programming
Cons
- Might need to practice working it before a race
- Instructions are somewhat unclear
Bulova Marine Star
Bulova's marine star sailing watch is a renowned nautical timepiece with stainless steel and rose gold-tone accents with a blue glass insert on the rotating bezel. It is waterproof up to 200 meters and has a six-hand chronograph movement that is perfect for marine activities.
The only downsides are that the lume fades quickly and it is not recommended for extreme diving. It can also be a costly option compared to other watches with the same characteristics.
Pros
- Perfect for pro marine pursuits and high-adrenaline surface water sports
- Reliable chronograph features incorporated in the design
- Water resistance rating of up to 656 feet
Cons
- Glow fades quickly
- Cannot be used for long diving adventures
- Might be too expensive for some
SUUNTO Core Sailing Watch
This functional nautical watch is a reliable companion for any adventure. It stands out for its ability to easily monitor direction using a rotating bezel or by locking onto your destination while exploring new places.
The plastic bezel and dim backlight are potential drawbacks. It can be used for many water applications and is equipped with a smart storm alarm, altimeter, and long battery life.
Pros
- Water-resistant up to 65 feet
- Can be used in different languages
- Has a barometer and compass as well as an altimeter
Cons
- Bezel is plastic and has printed numbers
- Backlight might be hard to see
Tissot Sailing Watch Multi-Function
The Tissot sailing watch is a durable timepiece with great scratch resistance. It has a Swiss quartz tactile movement and a racing chronograph feature. Its LCD display shows time, date, barometric pressure, compass heading and allows for two time settings and alarms.
The metal and rubber watchband is adjustable but the rubber strap and background light may be subpar. This versatile watch is suitable for sailors and non-sailors, with meteorological monitoring, perpetual calendar, two time zones, and chronometer functions. Its battery life can help be extended by a sleep function.
Pros
- Water-resistant up to 330 feet
- Expertly designed round case chronograph watch with luminous hands
- Displays relative pressure changes of past six hours through Histogram design
Cons
- Rubber strap is not the most durable
- Backlight not as bright as it could be
Garmin Instinct Watch
This branded GPS sailing watch is reliable in harsh conditions with global navigation satellite systems and preloaded activity profiles. It has auto data uploads to the brand’s fitness community and tracks stress, activity, and heart rate. The battery lifespan is short and iOS devices may have delayed responses.
It is compact and durable but also easy to navigate with a clear screen. The Garmin instinct is a great deal from a reputable brand.
Pros
- Water-resistant up to 328 feet and able to handle changes in water temperature
- Keeps up with vitals
- Includes a barometric altimeter and tri-axial compass
Cons
- Not a great battery life
- Seems to lag when connected to iOS devices
Wrist Armor Sport Watch
Wrist Armor offers an affordable high-quality marine watch with innovative components and military standards. It is perfect for sailing and outdoor activities that is easy to set up.
Despite lightweight packaging it offers maximum precision and performance under extreme conditions. It is arguably stylish and durable but is a great option that will not break the bank.
Pros
- Best suited for swimming or light water activities
- Affordable and has dual time, alarm, and backlight
- Water-resistant up to 165 feet
Cons
- Not a great battery life
- Seems to lag when connected to iOS devices
Timex Intelligent Quartz
The Timex INDIGLO Night-Light watch is a highly-rated sailing timepiece that is water-resistant up to 328 feet. Its analog thermometer and tide tracker are convenient features for aquatic activities and it maintains accurate timekeeping.
The sailing watch may not fit smaller wrists and is not intended for diving. This is a sailing watch intended for tech-savvy adventurers who love swimming and snorkeling.
Pros
- Easy to see hands and background with Indiglo
- Multiple functions including compass, monitoring tides, and gauging air and water temperature
- Great for light-water activities
Cons
- Not meant for diving
- Bezel attached to plastic channel
Nautica Sport Watch
Nautica makes some quality products among clothes and other apparel items. Their Quartz Resin Silicone watch is a popular and reliable sailing watch with a classic design.
Despite lacking fancy features it stands out among sailing watches and offers a variety of strap options. It is also an affordable option for those wanting something without spending too much on other expensive brands.
Pros
- Easy to dials with 24-hour timekeeping
- Water-resistant up to 165 feet
- Durable and scratch-resistant
Cons
- Feels heavy on the wrist
- Might not fit larger wrists
Tips to Find the Best Sailing Watches
Finding the best sailing watches takes time and patience. To maximize the value of your investment in sailing watches you should prioritize factors like water resistance and functionality over style.
Regatta watches can enhance your look but you need to make sure to choose a yachting watch that can withstand the challenges of sailing. By choosing wisely you will get a watch that satisfies your requirements.
Choosing Reputable Brands
When shopping for functional sailing watches you should prioritize the brand and consider those with unique designs, superior quality, and a range of prices. Established brands often provide the best quality along with reliable product warranties and customer service.
Basic Functions
Discover multifunctional regatta timepieces with a range of unique features such as:
- Altimeter
- Barometer
- Compass
- Thermometer (for digital models)
- Date and day display (for analog models)
These watches also include luminous features and countdown timers that are essential for race countdowns and available on either bezels or dials. Some are equipped with GPS capabilities that are great for long-distance sailing trips. These are especially a strong buying point if you have older or out of date navigational tools.
Having a tide tracker on a sailing watch is beneficial but it may not always be completely accurate. To ensure you have the most precise information based on your location it is important to choose a high-quality tide-tracking watch.
Heavy-Duty
Many regatta watches cater to water activities like swimming, diving, fishing, and snorkeling with varying water pressure resistance. To ensure durability it is important to know the pressure limit of the watch you want to buy. Some watches can withstand 328 feet while others are crafted for deeper diving up to 3280 feet.
Quality Materials
Regatta watches are manufactured using various materials for the machine, screen, and strap. Water-resistant stainless steel is used for the device and case to prevent water damage. Watch straps are made with leather, rubber or synthetic, and stainless steel.
Stainless steel watches are now coated with rust-proof material to make them seawater-friendly. Regatta watches are designed to be both functional and stylish for sailors.
Your Budget
Sailing watches are available in a wide range of prices. High-end brands command higher costs based on various factors such as the brand name itself and the materials that are used. Reasonably priced alternatives are also easily accessible if you do not mind losing out on a few options or the way it looks.
Different Types of Sailing Watches
There are many different variations of sailing watches. They also have different names based on the features they carry and are often called:
- Yachting watches
- Digital sailing watches
- A race countdown timer
Yacht countdowns are indicated uniquely with rotating discs displaying numbers or colors through date-like windows and differ among timer models. Even autopilot control is an option for different brands but some also have various chronograph functions.
Mechanical
Mechanical sailing watches are commonly made in Switzerland. These are water-resistant and rely on winding movements.
They are favored for their precision and can resist depths up to 1,000 feet. Some models are chronometer-certified or have chronographs for race timing.
The most expensive ones are chronograph chronometers. Prices for mechanical sailing watches begin at $2,000 and are more than their digital counterparts.
Digital
Digital sailing watches offer diverse costs and designs while some cater to certain functionalities. They usually operate on batteries to show information. They are ideal for feature seekers and are now more affordable.
While basic models display time, date, temp, and heading, they lack real-time data. Essential features like temp, heart rate, and compass operate offline.
Advanced models connect to offer various tools such as:
- GPS mapping
- Weather forecasts
- Messaging
- Speed tracking
- MOB signal
Waterproof digital sailing watches are suitable for offshore sailing. These are unlike regular smartwatches so make sure you know the difference.
What are Water Resistance Ratings?
Water-resistant watches are rated in feet, meters, or atmospheres, but ratings can be misleading. A watch rated to 50 meters may not be waterproof enough for sailing.
A 3 ATM watch is only suitable for showering, while a 5 ATM watch is marginally waterproof. A 10 ATM watch is reliable for extended use at shallow depths and can withstand rain and ocean spray.
For budget-friendly sailing adventures, 5 ATM or 50 meters of shielding (about 160 feet) are necessary for coastal cruising or short water dips with these affordable sailing watches. Having a 20 ATM watch is safer for extended underwater activities and dive watches are the most waterproof. Most of the well-known dive watches for serious diving have a 30 ATM rating.
Why You Need a Sailing Watch
The best sailing watches serve a multitude of purposes. Investing in a classic sailing watch is crucial for extreme outdoor sports enthusiasts. These watches can make outdoor activities more enjoyable and worthwhile besides just looking great on your wrist.
The best sailing watch will help play a vital role in the success of races and activities in rugged conditions and provide an easy-to-use technology for tracking time, weather, and other important factors. Today's sailing watches are both functional and aesthetically pleasing, with a range of professional features and the ability to be adjusted using a mobile device.
