Today’s technologically savvy timekeepers seek to explore sylvan settings while wearing watches that feature great outdoor-worthy functions. From digital compasses to altimeters, thermometers, chronograph timers, and even alarms, the high-powered wristwatch becomes a rucksack of instruments all by itself. Selecting a great watch to keep you company is a balance of personal taste, form, and function. On an all-day hike through miles of trails or while cycling winding bike paths, an athletic timepiece should match your needs. Having a multifunctional instrument on your wrist means you don’t have to pack extra gear and gives you peace of mind.
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From VictorinoxSwiss Army, this Night Vision watch ($695) integrates low-consumption LEDs for dial illumination, flashlight, and strobe functions.
Citizen’s Eco-Drive Altichron watch ($850) offers an altimeter that measures heights up to 32,000 feet and depths to 1,000 feet below sea level. With an electronic compass and power reserve indicator, it is water-resistant to 200 meters. The 49.5-mm titanium case is durable, and the antireflective crystal allows for reading without glare.
This Tissot T-Touch Expert Men’s Sport watch ($1,175) features a Touch-activated screen and provides 16 functions, including two alarms, altitude difference meter, a compass, azimuth, thermometer, two time zones, and relative and absolute air pressure. The titanium bracelet and scratch-resistant sapphire crystal with antireflective coating can withstand rugged wear.
The new Pro Trek PRG260 watch ($250) from Casio America, Inc. offers five alarms, sunrise and sunset time, a duplex LCD display, and one-touch Triple Sensor technology (for barometric pressure, altitude, temperature, and compass).