While there aren’t strict rules for defining what is a field watch, this beloved category was born from the military’s need for simple and durable timepieces.
Such military-inspired watches first emerged during the world wars and have endured ever since – read on to learn all about the origins of these historic timekeepers.
What are Field Watches? Origins and Military History
Field watches originally referred to the wristwatches used by soldiers during World War I. Known as the first “trench watches,” these accessories were incredibly helpful for soldiers who needed a reliable, no-frills way to keep time.
From the Trenches to Today
As World War I came and went, extra supplies of these watches became more and more accessible for regular civilians. They soon became affordable industry staples for citizens, while still retaining their practical and durable military DNA.
Nowadays, these iconic accessories retain all the functionality of their wartime origins while still serving modern needs.
Discover the exciting features of these historic pieces in the next portion of this guide. 
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Expedition® Field Post Solar 41mm Silicone Strap Watch41 mm Green/Stainless Steel$199.00
Key Features of a Field Watch
As mentioned earlier, there aren’t necessarily any strict industry rules or certifications for defining a field watch. However, the best ones often share these characteristic features and design elements derived from past army requirements:
1. Durability
This type of watch often serves as the gold standard for durability and functionality. These authentic military-inspired accessories are built rugged and tough, designed to withstand harsh conditions and perform well in almost any environment.
2. Legibility
Not only are these accessories built well, but they’re also incredibly easy to read. Classic designs often feature simple and high-contrast dials, while more modern models might include an INDIGLO® backlight for nighttime visibility. This backlight, developed by Timex in the early ‘90s, allows you to tell the time in the dark with just the push of a button. 
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Expedition® Field Post Solar 41mm Eco-Conscious Fabric Strap Watch41 mm Black/Gunmetal$199.00
3. 24-Hour Dial Markings
The basic part of the timepiece often display 12-hour markings. However, more recent iterations of the dial may include 24-hour markings, hearkening back to wartime standards used by soldiers. Contemporary GMT versions of this accessory can even sport a two-tone colored bezel with a 24-hour index, indicating the full number of hours in a day.
4. Water Resistance
The best types of army-standard timepieces have some amount of water resistance – that is, the ability to resist the penetration of water. These sturdy accessories come with water-resistant ratings ranging from 30 meters to even 200 meters; the higher the rating, the better they can withstand damage from activities like washing hands, light swimming, snorkeling, surfing, and more.
5. Simple Yet Functional Design
Overall, these military-inspired watches are simple, sleek, and incredibly functional. While they were originally built for basic performance, choosing these accessories today can make for bold but classy style statements. 
The Heritage of Timex’s Military-Inspired Watches
Many timepieces have drawn deep inspiration from wartime traditions throughout Timex’s long and prominent history. Some of the best examples of these storied models include the MK1, Expedition, and Waterbury collections.
1. The MK1 Collection
The MK1 Collection is a great example of a series that takes inspiration from watches made to American army specs in the ‘80s. The collection pays homage to Timex’s 1982 military-issue watch, the MIL-W-46374B, which was one of the last hand-wound models of the 20th century.
The reliable MK1 field watch features a clean dial with 12-hour and 24-hour markings, and luminant hands for better legibility in low-light conditions. It transcends generations, bringing the company’s history to the forefront while staying true to the spirit of functional, no-nonsense design.
2. The Expedition Series
Timex’s Expedition Series, on the other hand, is absolutely built for outdoor ruggedness. Engineered for exploration, the Expedition line features highly durable construction, premium materials, and the best of utilitarian design.
From this series, the Expedition Scout serves as a well-crafted update to the classic wartime watch. With its navy blue fabric and rich brown leather mixed material strap, this contemporary callback to military-inspired models even features 12-hour and 24-hour dial markings, a useful date window, an INDIGLO® backlight, and water resistance up to 50 meters.
3. Other Military-Inspired Models
Another example of a notable army-inspired model is the Waterbury Traditional GMT. Hailing from the brand’s historic Waterbury Collection, this piece offers incredible functionality with a 24-hour GMT hand that allows you to track additional time zones.
The Waterbury Collection reminds wearers of Timex’s early history as the Waterbury Clock Company. Blending traditional craftsmanship with innovation, this collection redefines its most storied models, bringing heritage and tradition to the modern world. 
4. The Timex Heritage Story
Throughout the years, Timex has famously transformed timekeeping into an essential for the everyman. From building tough, war-ready watches in the 20th century to supplying contemporary designs and craftsmanship today, we’ve embraced durability and innovation all across our rich heritage.
Choosing a Field Watch
Owning a Timex field watch means wearing a piece of history. So, make sure to choose the best possible model for your sensibilities to ensure memorable life experiences in the great outdoors and beyond.
Check out Timex’s enduring military-inspired collection and discover the one that perfectly suits your style. Add one of these classy pieces to your everyday wardrobe for a daily reminder of treasured history.
