Factors To Consider When Buying A Watch For Boating Activities

03 Jul 2023

A watch and a compass

Before becoming a boater, it’s best to know that an accurate timepiece becomes an essential tool to help you carry out daily tasks as a mariner. Furthermore, qualities such as punctuality and precision are key when navigating the open seas. Thankfully, watch manufacturers have been focusing on producing sailing watches for decades to help sailors get the best experience when navigating the vast waters of the ocean. These watches have evolved into elaborate devices boasting multiple functions that help keep you safe and informed while out on the water.

That said, considering the plethora of options available, the right choice of getting the best watch can be quite challenging. To aid you in this endeavour, this article will list the features and functions you should look out for when choosing a watch that you want to use. Whether you’re fishing in your Quintrex Fishabout boat, yachting, sailing, or diving, you’ll want to see these.

Hopefully, you will be able to choose the best sailing watch suited to your needs. Make sure to also base your decision on your budget, requirements, and preferred style.

Features that qualify the best sailing watches

In the past, sailors had to use a wide variety of tools to access the most essential navigational metrics. Fortunately, most of these can today be consulted through a single timepiece. Below are some of the essentials that sailing watches should incorporate into their machines:

  • Water resistance: The working environment of a boater makes this feature a no-brainer. Even if you don’t plan on swimming with it, your timepiece will be exposed to water sooner or later. And in addition to the casing being waterproof, you should also look for corrosion-resistant components such as silicon or stainless steel. Corrosion can cause a watch to stop functioning.
  • Chronometers: In addition to providing precise timing, a chronometer is an essential tool for calculating longitude.
  • Countdown Timers: This is usually a prerequisite for any regatta captain or sailors who participate in boating races that help their countdown to the start of a race.
  • Compass: An essential item on any boat, a compass remains a reliable navigation tool in case your electronic system malfunctions. Some watches have a compass installed in them to 
  • Barometer: This tool shows the variations in air pressure and can help with predicting upcoming weather conditions and storms.
  • Tide Information: A crucial tool that can help you keep track of the ebb and flow of the ocean.
  • Multiple Time Zones: This is a tool that helps boaters and mariners remain punctual during longer expeditions especially when their vessel is crossing into different time zones.  
  • Specific Use: The features of each watch make them ideal for certain situations. For example, you can buy sailing watches with GPS to navigate the waters.

And finally, style shouldn’t be an afterthought. The best watches for boating are an integral part of your daily wardrobe and are an important indicator of your taste and sophistication. Some marine shops sell affordable watches that you can purchase if investing in luxurious watches is too much for you. However, buying an expensive watch is a good investment along the way and can last for years. 

 

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