What Is A Field Watch? Military-inspired Timepieces Explained
A field watch is a rugged, highly legible timepiece designed for durability and reliability. Originally created for military use, these watches have evolved into versatile accessories perfect for outdoor adventures, tactical use, and everyday wear. Explore MAVEN’s MUS Collection, a minimalist reimagining of the classic field watch.
The History of Field Watches
Born in the trenches of World War I, field watches replaced impractical pocket watches with durable wrist-worn designs. By World War II, military specifications perfected these timepieces for combat. Today, field watches retain their toughness and reliable performance, making them a favorite among both watch collectors and outdoor enthusiasts.
For additional background, this article by WatchObsession provides a deep dive into the origins and cultural relevance of field watches.
Key Features Of A Field Watch
1. Rugged Case Design
Crafted from stainless steel, titanium, or with sandblasted finishes—field watches are built to endure scratches, shock, and harsh outdoor conditions.
2. High Legibility
Features such as high-contrast matte dials and luminous hands make it easy to read the time in low-light or fast-paced situations.
3. Military-Inspired Style
Typically fitted with canvas, NATO, or leather straps, field watches adopt a utilitarian, no-frills approach in their design language.
4. Water Resistance and Durability
Designed to resist splashes and rain. Built with sapphire or mineral crystal for added resilience.
MAVEN MUS Field Watches Collection
MAVEN's field watch series includes quartz, automatic, and solar-powered models. Minimalist in look but true to the core of military utility, these watches are suited for both rugged environments and refined everyday wear.
Want to explore sustainable timekeeping? Read our guide on how solar watches work.
MAVEN MUS Collection Comparison Table
| Model | MUS QUARTZ | MUS+ AUTOMATIC | MUS SOLAR CHRONO |
|---|---|---|---|
| Movement | Swiss Ronda Quartz (No-Date) | Japanese Miyota 8215 Automatic (With-Date) | Japanese Solar Movement (No-Date) |
| Case Diameter | 34MM / 40MM | 38 x 40MM | 40MM |
| Strap Size | 16MM / 20MM | 20MM | 20MM |
| Glass | Flat Sapphire Crystal | Double Domed Sapphire Crystal | Sapphire Crystal Glass |
| Thickness | 8MM | 14MM / 11MM | 12.5MM / 10MM |
| Lume | Swiss Super-LumiNova® Hands | Swiss Super-LumiNova® Hands | Japanese Luminescent Watch Hands |
| Case Material | Sandblasting Steel | Sandblasting Steel | Sandblasting Steel |
| Water Resistance | 30M | 200M | 100M |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
A good field watch is durable, legible in any condition, water-resistant, and features a reliable movement like quartz or automatic. Materials such as sapphire glass and stainless steel are also key.
Yes, their minimalist design and sturdy build make them perfect for daily use, matching both casual and smart-casual outfits.
Field watches are built for land-based durability and high legibility. Diver’s watches offer greater water resistance and rotating bezels for underwater timing.
Quartz field watches are highly accurate and low-maintenance. Automatic models offer a traditional, mechanical feel and are appreciated for craftsmanship.
Canvas, NATO, or leather straps are ideal. They’re comfortable, durable, and easy to replace—perfect for active lifestyles.