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Best sailing watches: 16 options for racing and cruising

  • October 17, 2023

Fox Morgan, Phil Sampson and Roger Hughes test and review 16 of the best sailing watches available with functions for racing and cruising sailors

best-sailing-watches-2022

The best sailing watches can offer a multitude of functions, from MOB alerts to tidal calculations and large faced race count down timers. And yet still there’s utter simplicity of a waterproof self winding timepiece.

Just as tablets and even smartphones have revolutionised how sailors use multifunction displays and instruments, so the latest smart watch technology has now firmly filtered into sailing. While we’re now familiar with using our watches to give us directions, make calls and send messages, and act as a repeater screen on our wrists ashore, so the latest sailing watches also make navigation, data and comms technology wearable afloat.

You’ll see that Garmin have several entries in our best sailing watches guide and if you’re specifically after a Garmin, we have rounded up the best of those in this guide to the best Garmin watch for yachting sailing and more .

However, the cleverest watch is not always the best watch for sailing. For racing an extremely simple and speedy to operate model may suit better. Price is not always an indicator of functionality either; even some of the least expensive sailing watches, like the Casio we showcase below, can be packed with features.

At the other end of the scale,  luxury horology brands – including Rolex, Panerai, and Omega among others – have long been closely associated with sailing, seeing it as the perfect sport to demonstrate their style, waterproof and ruggedised qualities, and accuracy.

In making our selection of the best sailing watches, we’ve chosen those with features specifically suitable for wearing aboard. That doesn’t mean, however, that they float, so be sure to do the clasp up securely and be wary of pulling off jacket sleeves in a hurry and losing your prized timepiece overboard!

Editor’s top choices at a glance

Best sailing smart watch – Garmin Quatix 7 Best premium sailing watch – Garmin MARQ Captain Best value sailing watch – Casio Lithium Quartz Best racing sailing watch – Ronstan Clear Start Race Timer

Best sailing watch for multifunction use

Garmin quatix 7.

Best sailing smart watch

Specifications: Apple or android smart phone compatible,  Sizes: 47mm / 51mm, Weight 70g, Battery life: up to 16 days with screen on by demand, GPS tracking, waterproof to 10 ATM

Reasons to Buy: Large easy to read face | incredible versatility for an array of lifestyle activity | healthy wellbeing and boat interactivity | customisable to suit individual needs Reasons to Avoid: Battery life not as good as the Quatix 6 if screen is always visible | bright facia can be distracting | touchscreen is pointless without the additional kit it interfaces with

Garmin’s latest sailing smartwatch includes improvements to strengthen integration with onboard electronics.

It’s a touchscreen model that can, for instance, be used to control MFD displays or Fusion audio systems, as well as Garmin autopilots.

You can also pay for things with contactless payments, but you’ll need to use an intermediary app, such as Curve if you are in the UK as British banks haven’t signed up for that function directly yet.

So let’s address the major change for the Quatix 7 over the Quatix 6, and that’s the display. Plenty of folks complained about the darkness or difficulty seeing the Quatix 6 screen, so they’ve addressed that with a much brighter lit up style of screen.  It is very bright even when turned to its dimmest setting. To save the battery from being drained unnecessarily at night, there’s a night time version of the watch screen where you can view it as a digital numeric mono display, on demand, otherwise the screen is completely blank. This brighter clearer display does come at a compromise of battery life or screen saver settings.

The extra screen size in the same outer bezel size though is really very nice. Maps and other tracking options can be easily seen.

High end Sapphire models add a new ultra-clear AMOLED touchscreen.

The watch can output directly to Strava and myfitnesspal along with other apps according to your preference. We like this watch very much indeed and it is currently the best smart sailing watch for all round functionality. Pricey though, but worth it.

sailboat racing watches

Garmin MARQ Captain

Best premium sailing watch

Specifications: Type: Smart | Size: 46mm

Reasons to buy: Weather and tidal data | MOB and GPS functions | Stream boat data to your wrist Reasons to avoid: Full extent of capabilities is governed by the onboard technology it’s connected to | Premium price

Tested by: MBY Editor, Hugo Andreae

Our top priced pick comes from wearable tech-specialists, Garmin. The MARQ Captain sailing watch comes packed with marine-relevant features.

Functions include weather and tidal data for your home port, a regatta timer to pinpoint starting times, a ‘tack assist’ function to determine whether you’re on lift or a header, a man overboard button and GPS.

The full extent of its capabilities is governed by the onboard technology to which it is connected, but possibilities include streaming boat data direct to your wrist wherever you are on the boat and controlling products from the Garmin-owned Fusion range of audio systems.

sailboat racing watches

Garmin Instinct 2S Solar

Specifications: Type: Smart | Size: 40mm / 45mm / 50mm, weight 53g(2oz)

Reasons to buy: GPS positioning on charts | barometric pressure and compass | Smartphone connectivity | An incredible amount of styles and colours | A single charge lasts 14 days Reasons to avoid: Premium price without a premium design

Tested by: Tech Editor, Fox Morgan

The Instinct 2, launched in February 2022 is Garmin’s all-round watch, which they call their outdoors watch. Features that are particularly relevant to sailors include GPS positioning on charts; barometric pressure and a compass.

It has smartphone connectivity, receives emails and texts, and can control music via a phone. This watch also has an inbuilt thermometer and heart rate monitor.

The Garmin Instinct is available in no fewer than 20 different styles and colours. It’s actual diameter is 47mm (1 13/16” in) but the viewable face is 32mm (1 1/4”). The Instinct is 16mm (5/8” in) thick and weighs 53g (2 oz).

For racing sailors, it also has multiple start sequence options. We have an indepth review from long term testing of this watch coming soon.

The Garmin Instinct watch is a good alternative for anyone seeking a more moderately priced alternative to the Quatix 6.

sailboat racing watches

Garmin Quatix 6 Multisport Marine Smartwatch

Specifications: Apple or android smart phone compatible,  Sizes: 47mm / 51mm, weight 82g, Battery life: up to 16 days with screen always visible, GPS tracking, waterproof to 10 ATM

Reasons to buy: Suits a multitude of water activity | Highly customisable | An incredible amount of data available on your wrist | A single charge lasts 14 days Reasons to avoid: High level of functionality is not for the technologically phobic

This watch I tested comprehensively for several weeks/months – it is a very smart design, with functions for every type of pastime on the water and off it.

Garmin is well known for superior boating instruments and they have now managed to squeeze all the data of a ten-inch chartplotter into a 1.3” inch round sailing watch. Bluetooth functionality means you can connect it to a Garmin chartplotter using the free Garmin Connect app, and to other makes of plotter using the Garmin transceiver (a $150 extra).

This allows all the features of a chartplotter to be displayed on the watch, including charts and even autopilot control to allow you to change heading or follow a GPS route – provided it is also connected through the chartplotter.

The Quatix 6 also offers more typical smartwatch functions including the ability to receive email and texts, can be used to control music on board, and monitors the user’s heart-rate.

It’s simple to switch between ‘boat display’ and ‘stylish watch’ modes, as hundreds of different watch faces that can be downloaded to customise it to the wearer’s preference, including an antique style face and even a copy of Big Ben. The Quatix 6 can also be switched between analogue and digital.

It’s overall diameter is 51mm (2” in) with a 36mm (1 5/8” in) viewable face, and it is 17mm (11/16”) thick. The Quatix 6’s weight is 83g (3oz) with the plastic strap or 156g (5.5oz) with the stainless band, which is quite a bit heavier than a conventional watch.

Note: We may earn a commission when you buy through links on our site, at no extra cost to you. This doesn’t affect our editorial independence.

Spinnaker haas automatic.

Specifications: Type: Analogue | Size: 43mm

Reasons to buy: S mart styling | easy to read day and night | electronics free | self winding Reasons to avoid: Due to self winding mechanism the watch is not as slim as a quartz movement watch which might mean that cuffs on shirts and foulies are tight.

Tested by: Professional TopSail Schooner Skipper, Phil Pryor

The joy of a traditional analogue watch is right here in this stylish all metal timepiece from Spinnaker.

Spinnaker Watches collaborated with the Marine Conservation Society to produce this limited edition model that’s a tribute to marine biologist and pioneering diver Hans Hass.

If you want to ditch the computers and keep it simple then this is definitely worth a look.

It feels reassuringly sturdy with it’s all metal band and easy to read rating bezel.

It’s waterproof to 300m and requires no batteries as this watch self winds from the motion of your hand through every day movement.

The winder unscrews to allow time, day and date adjustment and that my friends is all there is to this gorgeous watch. At least as far as the wearer is concerned. Behind that metal back is the smooth Japanese workings of a self winding watch. When it arrived in the box the watch was still and inactive. But the moment I removed it from the box it started to self wind. With just a small amount of movement, the second hand was moving.

For sailors who want to a sleek non electric time piece and for those divers who like to go under the water as well as on it.

I love this safety yellow colourway as it really stands out and is easy to read. This might not be to everyone’s taste though which is fine because the Spinnaker Hass comes in 9 different colourways.

Buy the Spinnaker Hass now on eBay

Buy Spinnaker Hass from Spinnaker

Casio Lithium Quartz

Best value sailing watch

Specifications: Type: Digital | Size: 48mm

Reasons to buy: Great value | Highly functional | 2 year warranty Reasons to avoid: Lacking in design | Lacking extensive features of premium alternatives

There’s no question that when it comes to affordable innovation, Casio is right up there.

Despite being one of the lowest-priced watches in our selection, the Casio Tide Watch Orange is a highly functional piece of kit which, in addition to all the usual time, day and auto date functions also features a tide graph and lunar phase display.

More conventional sailing watch functions include a timer, stopwatch and LED might. It is water resistant to 100m/10 bars and has a 2 year warranty, all packed into a 48mm diameter, 13 mm thick case.

Best sailing watch for racing

best-sailing-watches-ronstan-clearstart-race-timer

Ronstan Clear Start Race Timer

Best racing sailing watch

Specifications: Type: Digital | Size 65mm

Reasons to buy: Robust design with secure strap | Extra-large | easy to press silicon buttons | Great display Reasons to avoid: Some consumers report issues with clasp/strap

With wrist, hull, mast or boom mount options, the Swiss-made Ronstan ClearStart Race Timer is aimed squarely at racing sailors.

Made by renowned rigging and hardware company Ronstan, it’s a robust design with a secure elastic strap and substantial ‘bumper’ around the digital display.

The ClearStart Race Timer’s features include extra-large, easy-press silicon buttons, a highlighted start/stop button, oversized 16 mm digits set in a 65mm rotating face and a double line display simultaneously showing the race countdown and time.

In addition, the ClearStart Race Timer offers ‘5-4-1-0’ and Match Racing start sequence programmes, making it a great choice for competitive sailors. Ruggedly constructed and built to last, this sailing watch weighs in at 92 grammes and is water-resistant to 50 metres.

Buy the Ronstan ClearStart Race Timer now from West Marine

best-sailing-watches-optimum-time-series-14

Optimum Time Series 14 Rechargeable sailing watch

Specifications: Type: Digital | Size: 68mm

Reasons to buy: Rechargeable battery | Packed with features | Suitable for mounting Reasons to avoid: Basic design

Optimum Time’s bold coloured watches are popular among racing sailors from dinghies upwards, and the new rechargeable design makes it more sustainable for anyone who uses theirs frequently.

Featuring a 36mm diameter LCD display mounted within a bright red and black 68mm ABS case, Optimum Time’s Series 14 watch is a substantial device that is equally suited to being mounted on a mast or boom as your wrist, while the digits are large enough to allow crew to see the same timer as the skipper.

Waterproof to 5 ATM (i.e. capable of withstanding a pressure of 5 bar), the sailing watch is packed with useful features and comes complete with a bespoke USB charger clamp for convenient charging.

Buy the Optimum Time Series 14 now on Amazon

Timex-Intelligent-sailing-watch

Timex Intelligent Quartz Yacht Racer watch

Best analogue racing sailing watch

Specifications: Type: Analogue | Size 46mm

Reasons to buy: Striking analogue display | Countdown timers Reasons to avoid: Larger than average design | Complex to set up | lacks reset button | Expensive

This is a very striking analogue watch, designed to appeal specifically to racing sailors who don’t want a digital display. It features a racing countdown timers (from 5 mins, 3 mins or 1 minute), then after the start the chronometer automatically starts a race timer for up to one hour.

This is a larger than average design, at 46 mm (1.81” in) diameter and 14mm (0.55” in) thick.

However, this watch is complex to set up, as some functions require three buttons to be pressed in sequence. There is also no ‘reset’ button for anyone who misses their start sequence timer.

Buy the Timex Intelligent Quartz Yacht Racer now on the Watch Shop

Timex-Optimum-3

Optimum Time Series 3 sailing watch

Best all-round racing sailing watch

Specifications: Type: Digital | Size: 65mm

Reasons to buy: Great price | Highly functional | Easy to read Reasons to avoid: It’s really big

The popular ‘big yellow’ Optimum Time Series 3 is a lower-priced, yet highly functional racing watch. And it truly is big – far too large for my wrist at a gigantic 65mm (2.56” in) diameter and 16mm (0.62” in) thick. It’s also available in colours other than yellow – including white, blue and pink.

An advantage for racing is that this watch is easy to read at a distance thanks to its huge 16mm digits. A bracket is supplied to fix it to a mast. It also has a sync button if you miss the start gun, and can then run a repeat sequence or race timer for handicap competitions.

Robust, and water resistant to 5 ATM, with a wide elasticated strap.

Buy the Optimum Time Series 3 now on Amazon

Ronstan-ClearStart

Ronstan Clearstart RF4055 sailing watch

Best specialist racing sailing watch

Specifications: Type: Digital | Size: 50mm

Reasons to buy: Multiple start sequence options | Match racing timer | Can sync for early/late start Reasons to avoid: Larger than average design

This sailing watch is another specialist racing design. Race mode features include multiple start sequence options, match racing timer and the ability to sync for an early or late start.

The Clearstart RF4055 is unusual in that it has a fibreglass case, which is available in striking yellow and red as well as the more subtle black. It has a 50mm (2″) diameter face, which is larger than most watches, with a 13mm (0.5″ in) digital display, and the weight is 74gm (2.61oz), though the buttons have a lower profile than some other race watches making it neater to wear on shore.

Buy the Ronstan Clearstart RF4055 now on Amazon

Buy the Ronstan Clearstart RF4055 now on eBay

Optimum-series-12

Optimum Time Series 12 sailing watch

Best audible racing sailing watch

Specifications: Type: Digital | Size: 26mm

Reasons to buy: Audible warning features | Many colour choices Reasons to avoid: No GPS or interconnectivity | Small display is hard to read in hectic moments

Another race timer with countdown time and pre-programmed start and audible warnings. Despite its more smart watch-style appearance, there is no GPS or interconnectivity, but you do get a countdown repeat option, World Sailing 5-4-1-0 start sequence pre-programmed with audible warning signals, and a sync button.

The Optimum Time Series 12 is available in many colours, but has a small 26mm (1.02” in) display, with 10mm (0.34” in) figures, which will make it hard to read in the middle of a hectic race start.

Buy the Optimum Time Series 12 now on eBay

gill-race-timer

Gill Race Watch Timer

Best racing sailing watch for watersports

Specifications: Type: Digital | Size 44mm

Reasons to buy: Water-resistant to 30 metres | Carbon housing | The sleep feature preserves battery life Reasons to avoid: Basic design and functions

This striking red and black Race Watch Timer is a sailing-specific watch developed exclusively for watersports apparel company Gill. It’s water-resistant to an impressive 30 metres, with the timepiece unit encased in a reinforced carbon ABS plastic housing with a stainless steel back.

As well as telling the time, the sailing watch’s functions include a countdown with synchro, day, date and alarm. There’s a keyboard lock feature to you don’t accidentally change the settings and an electro-luminescent backlight allows the wearer to check the data day or night.

A neat sleep feature preserves and prolongs battery life in a ruggedly constructed unit designed for durability and years of trouble-free service.

limit-proxr-countdown

Limit ProXR Countdown sailing watch

Best value racing sailing watch

Reasons to buy: Large, clear, easy to read display | Multiple design options | Dual time, stopwatch, countdown and pacer functions Reasons to avoid: Lacks features/functions of more premium competitors | Chunky

Limit has been producing watches for more than 110 years and specialises in offering a wide variety of styles at great value prices.

For a budget-friendly sailing watch option, the Limit ProXR Countdown comes with a large, clear and easily readable display and is backed by a two-year guarantee.

It also has a dual time display and stopwatch, countdown and pacer functionality. No fewer than five alarms can be set and there’s a night time illumination facility.

Available in a choice of orange/black or blue/black, the looks of this chunky 50 mm case diameter sailing watch certainly belie its low price tag.

Buy the Limit ProXR Countdown now on gooutdoors.co.uk

best-sailing-watches-YAW276.new_gear.original_diver_the_ocean_race

Ulysse-Nardin The Ocean Race Diver

Specifications: Type: Analogue | Size: 44mm

Reasons to buy: manufacturer with a strong history in watch making | ‘green’ credentials | classy and collectible Reasons to avoid: Lacks features/functions of more sailing-specific watches | you’ll need deep pockets

Swiss watchmaker Ulysse Nardin sourced discarded fishing nets to upcycle into the base material for this watch, highlighting the 640,000 tonnes of nets that are discarded at sea each year.

In addition, 95% of components for the mechanical movement are sourced from within 30km of Ulysse Nardin’s site.

Buy The Ocean Race Diver now on ulysse-nardin.com

FAQ: What makes the best sailing watch?

The ability to read the time, countdown or data in a hurry or at an angle is key, so look out for digital readouts with large numbers – some sailing watches have the ability to switch from digital to analogue readouts – and screens that can be viewed in different qualities of daylight. Backlit functions are essential for anyone heading offshore, whether racing or cruising.

A well-fitting wristband or strap with a secure clasp is vital to keep the watch on your arm. Most sailing watches have soft rubber or synthetic wristbands, which are more durable in a marine environment, and safer than steel. Rubber straps are also lighter and easier to adjust.

If you plan to use your watch for race start timing, look for programmable start sequence options, a sync button, countdowns that switch to seconds in the final stages. A loud, clear alarm or ‘beep’ function that tells you time to the gun is particularly useful, so you can keep watching your course, trim and other boats around you during the final approach to the line rather than having to glance at your wrist.

You can read more about other types of GPS enabled and waterproof fitness trackers and smart watches at YBW.com

Didn’t find what you’re looking for? Head to Amazon’s dedicated boating page for more marine products.

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sailboat racing watches

Phil Sampson and Roger Hughes check out 15 of one of the best crusing watches out there with features for racing and cruising sailors

Simply as tablets and even smartphones have revolutionised how sailors use multifunction shows and devices, so the newest good watch expertise has now firmly filtered into crusing. Whereas we’re now accustomed to utilizing our watches to offer us instructions, make calls and ship messages, and act as a repeater display screen on our wrists ashore, so the newest crusing watches additionally make navigation, information and comms expertise wearable afloat.

Nonetheless, the cleverest watch will not be all the time one of the best look ahead to crusing. For racing an very simple and speedy to function mannequin might go well with higher. Value will not be all the time an indicator of performance both; even among the least costly crusing watches, just like the Casio we showcase under, may be filled with options.

On the different finish of the size,  luxurious horology manufacturers – together with Rolex, Panerai, and Omega amongst others – have lengthy been carefully related to crusing, seeing it as the proper sport to show their type, waterproof and ruggedised qualities, and accuracy.

In making our number of one of the best crusing watches, we’ve chosen these with options particularly appropriate for sporting aboard. That doesn’t imply, nevertheless, that they float, so you should definitely do the clasp up securely and be cautious of pulling off jacket sleeves in a rush and dropping your prized timepiece overboard!

Notice: We might earn a fee whenever you purchase by hyperlinks on our web site, at no additional price to you. This doesn’t have an effect on our editorial independence.

Greatest multi-function crusing watches.

sailboat racing watches

Garmin Quatix 6 crusing watch

Greatest good crusing watch.

Learn our in depth Quatix 6 assessment and long run take a look at.

This watch we tried out at size – it’s a very complete design, with features for each kind of pastime on the water, together with diving. It’s a superbly crafted and extraordinary wrist pc.

Garmin is well-known for superior boating devices and so they have now managed to squeeze all the information of a ten-inch chartplotter right into a 1.3” inch spherical crusing watch.

Bluetooth performance means you’ll be able to join it to a Garmin chartplotter utilizing the free Garmin Join app, and to different makes of plotter utilizing the Garmin transceiver (a $150 additional).

This permits all of the options of a chartplotter to be displayed on the watch, together with charts and even autopilot management to will let you change heading or comply with a GPS route – offered it is usually related by the chartplotter.

Garmin Quatix 6 in sail mode - tested

The Quatix 6 additionally gives extra typical smartwatch features together with the power to obtain e mail and texts, can be utilized to regulate music on board, and displays the consumer’s heart-rate.

It’s easy to change between ‘boat show’ and ‘trendy watch’ modes, as lots of of various watch faces that may be downloaded to customize it to the wearer’s desire, together with an vintage type face and even a duplicate of Huge Ben. The Quatix 6 may also be switched between analogue and digital.

It’s total diameter is 51mm (2” in) with a 36mm (1 5/8” in) viewable face, and it’s 17mm (11/16”) thick. The Quatix 6’s weight is 83g (3oz) with the plastic strap or 156g (5.5oz) with the stainless band, which is kind of a bit heavier than a standard watch.

It’s waterproof to 100 metres, daylight readable and has an evening mild mode. The watch has a mushy artificial wristband, out there in varied colors.

A single cost will final 14 days with regular use, or there’s additionally a solar-powered model for steady self-charging (out there at twice the worth). However no matter you do, don’t drop this crusing watch overboard, because it doesn’t float!

Causes to purchase

• Fits a mess of water exercise • Extremely customizable • An unbelievable quantity of knowledge out there in your wrist • A single cost lasts 14 days

Causes to keep away from

• Excessive stage of performance will not be for the technologically phobic.

Purchase the Garmin Quatix 6 now from Garmin UK

Purchase the Garmin Quatix 6 now from Amazon

Garmin Intuition 2S Photo voltaic

The Intuition 2, launched in February 2022 is Garmin’s all-round watch, which they name their open air watch. Options which can be notably related to sailors embody GPS positioning on charts; barometric stress and a compass.

It has smartphone connectivity, receives emails and texts, and may management music by way of a telephone. This watch additionally has an inbuilt thermometer and coronary heart charge monitor.

The Garmin Intuition is accessible in no fewer than 20 completely different kinds and hues. It’s precise diameter is 47mm (1 13/16” in) however the viewable face is 32mm (1 1/4”). The Intuition is 16mm (5/8” in) thick and weighs 53g (2 oz).

For racing sailors, it additionally has a number of begin sequence choices. We have now an indepth assessment from long run testing of this watch coming quickly.

Garmin Instinct 2 in the pool

Garmin Intuition 2, utilized in our current lifejacket take a look at

garmin instinct 2

Garmin Intuition 2 – sport modes

The Garmin Intuition watch is an effective different for anybody in search of a extra reasonably priced different to the Quatix 6.

Learn our Garmin Intuition assessment for the earlier mannequin

• GPS positioning on charts, barometric stress and compass • Smartphone connectivity • An unbelievable quantity of kinds and hues • A single cost lasts 14 days

• Premium value with out a premium design

Purchase the Garmin Intuition 2S Photo voltaic now from John Lewis

Purchase the Garmin Intuition 2S Photo voltaic now from Wiggle

Purchase the Garmin Intuition 2S Photo voltaic now from Garmin

Purchase the Garmin Intuition 2S Photo voltaic from Amazon

sailboat racing watches

Garmin MARQ Captain

Greatest feature-packed crusing watch.

Our high priced decide comes from wearable tech-specialists, Garmin. The MARQ Captain crusing watch comes filled with marine-relevant options.

Capabilities embody climate and tidal information on your house port, a regatta timer to pinpoint beginning instances, a ‘tack help’ perform to find out whether or not you’re on carry or a header, a person overboard button and GPS.

The complete extent of its capabilities is ruled by the onboard expertise to which it’s related, however prospects embody streaming boat information direct to your wrist wherever you might be on the boat and controlling merchandise from the Garmin-owned Fusion vary of audio methods.

• Climate and tidal information • MOB and GPS features • Stream boat information to your wrist

• Full extent of capabilities is ruled by the onboard expertise it’s related to • Premium value

Purchase the Garmin MARQ Captain now from Garmin

Buythe Garmin MARQ Captain now from Westmarine.com

Purchase the Garmin MARQ Captain now from Jura Watches

casio-tide

Casio Tide Watch Orange

Greatest worth crusing watch.

There’s no query that relating to inexpensive innovation, Casio is true up there.

Regardless of being one of many lowest-priced watches in our choice, the Casio Tide Watch Orange is a extremely practical piece of equipment which, along with all the standard time, day and auto date features additionally incorporates a tide graph and lunar part show.

Extra standard crusing watch features embody a timer, stopwatch and LED may. It’s water-resistant to 100m and guarantees a 10-year battery life, all packed into a 43mm diameter case.

• Nice worth • Extremely practical • 10-year battery life

• Missing in design • Missing in depth options of premium alternate options

Purchase the Casio Tide Watch Orange now from Amazon

Greatest crusing watches for racing

best-sailing-watches-ronstan-clearstart-race-timer

Ronstan ClearStart Race Timer

Greatest racing crusing watch.

With wrist, hull, mast or growth mount choices, the Swiss-made Ronstan ClearStart Race Timer is aimed squarely at racing sailors.

Made by famend rigging and {hardware} firm Ronstan, it’s a strong design with a safe elastic strap and substantial ‘bumper’ across the digital show.

The ClearStart Race Timer’s options embody extra-large, easy-press silicon buttons, a highlighted begin/cease button, outsized 16 mm digits set in a 65mm rotating face and a double line show concurrently exhibiting the race countdown and time.

As well as, the ClearStart Race Timer gives ‘5-4-1-0’ and Match Racing begin sequence programmes, making it a terrific alternative for aggressive sailors. Ruggedly constructed and constructed to final, this crusing watch weighs in at 92 grammes and is waterproof to 50 metres.

• Sturdy design with safe strap • Further-large, simple to press silicon buttons • Nice show

• Some shoppers report points with clasp/strap

Purchase the Ronstan ClearStart Race Timer now from West Marine

best-sailing-watches-optimum-time-series-14

Optimum Time Sequence 14 Rechargeable crusing watch

Optimum Time’s daring colored watches are in style amongst racing sailors from dinghies upwards, and the brand new rechargeable design makes it extra sustainable for anybody who makes use of theirs often.

That includes a 36mm diameter LCD show mounted inside a shiny crimson and black 68mm ABS case, Optimum Time’s Sequence 14 watch is a considerable machine that’s equally suited to being mounted on a mast or growth as your wrist, whereas the digits are massive sufficient to permit crew to see the identical timer because the skipper.

Waterproof to five ATM (i.e. able to withstanding a stress of 5 bar), the crusing watch is filled with helpful options and comes full with a bespoke USB charger clamp for handy charging.

• Rechargeable battery • Filled with options • Appropriate for mounting

• Fundamental design

Purchase the Optimum Time Sequence 14 now on Amazon

Timex-Intelligent-sailing-watch

Timex Clever Quartz Yacht Racer watch

Greatest analogue racing crusing watch.

It is a very putting analogue watch, designed to enchantment particularly to racing sailors who don’t desire a digital show. It incorporates a racing countdown timers (from 5 minutes, 3 minutes or 1 minute), then after the beginning the chronometer robotically begins a race timer for as much as one hour.

It is a bigger than common design, at 46 mm (1.81” in) diameter and 14mm (0.55” in) thick.

Nonetheless, this watch is advanced to arrange, as some features require three buttons to be pressed in sequence. There may be additionally no ‘reset’ button for anybody who misses their begin sequence timer.

• Putting analogue show • Countdown timers

• Bigger than common design • Complicated to arrange, lacks reset button • Costly

Purchase the Timex Clever Quartz Yacht Racer now on the Watch Store

Timex-Optimum-3

Optimum Time Sequence 3 crusing watch

Greatest all-round racing crusing watch.

The favored ‘large yellow’ Optimum Time Sequence 3 is a lower-priced, but extremely practical racing watch. And it really is large – far too massive for my wrist at a big 65mm (2.56” in) diameter and 16mm (0.62” in) thick. It’s additionally out there in colors apart from yellow – together with white, blue and pink.

A bonus for racing is that this watch is straightforward to learn at a distance due to its enormous 16mm digits. A bracket is equipped to repair it to a mast. It additionally has a sync button if you happen to miss the beginning gun, and may then run a repeat sequence or race timer for handicap competitions.

Sturdy, and water-resistant to five ATM, with a large elasticated strap.

• Nice value • Extremely practical • Straightforward to learn

• It’s actually large

Purchase the Optimum Time Sequence 3 now on Amazon

Ronstan-ClearStart

Ronstan Clearstart RF4055 crusing watch

Greatest specialist racing crusing watch.

This crusing watch is one other specialist racing design. Race mode options embody a number of begin sequence choices, match racing timer and the power to sync for an early or late begin.

The Clearstart RF4055 is uncommon in that it has a fibreglass case, which is accessible in putting yellow and crimson in addition to the extra delicate black. It has a 50mm (2″) diameter face, which is bigger than most watches, with a 13mm (0.5″ in) digital show, and the burden is 74gm (2.61oz), although the buttons have a decrease profile than another race watches making it neater to put on on shore.

• A number of begin sequence choices • Match racing timer • Can sync for early/late begin

• Bigger than common design

Purchase the Ronstan Clearstart RF4055 now on Amazon

Purchase the Ronstan Clearstart RF4055 now on eBay

Optimum-series-12

Optimum Time Sequence 12 crusing watch

Greatest audible racing crusing watch.

One other race timer with countdown time and pre-programmed begin and audible warnings. Regardless of its extra good watch-style look, there isn’t a GPS or interconnectivity, however you do get a countdown repeat choice, World Crusing 5-4-1-0 begin sequence pre-programmed with audible warning alerts, and a sync button.

The Optimum Time Sequence 12 is accessible in many colors, however has a small 26mm (1.02” in) show, with 10mm (0.34” in) figures, which can make it onerous to learn in the midst of a busy race begin.

• Audible warning options • Many color selections

• No GPS or interconnectivity • Small show is tough to learn in hectic moments

Purchase the Optimum Time Sequence 12 now on eBay

gill-race-timer

Gill Race Watch Timer

Greatest racing crusing look ahead to watersports.

This putting crimson and black Race Watch Timer is a sailing-specific watch developed solely for watersports attire firm Gill. It’s waterproof to a powerful 30 metres, with the timepiece unit encased in a bolstered carbon ABS plastic housing with a chrome steel again.

In addition to telling the time, the crusing watch’s features embody a countdown with synchro, day, date and alarm. There’s a keyboard lock function to you don’t by chance change the settings and an electro-luminescent backlight permits the wearer to verify the information day or night time.

A neat sleep function preserves and prolongs battery life in a ruggedly constructed unit designed for sturdiness and years of trouble-free service.

• Water resistant to 30 metres • Carbon housing • The sleep function preserves battery life

• Fundamental design and features

Purchase the Gill Race Watch Timer now from Amazon

limit-proxr-countdown

Restrict ProXR Countdown crusing watch

Greatest worth racing crusing watch.

Restrict has been producing watches for greater than 110 years and specialises in providing all kinds of kinds at nice worth costs.

For a budget-friendly crusing watch choice, the Restrict ProXR Countdown comes with a big, clear and simply readable show and is backed by a two-year assure.

It additionally has a twin time show and stopwatch, countdown and pacer performance. No fewer than 5 alarms may be set and there’s an evening time illumination facility.

Out there in a alternative of orange/black or blue/black, the appears to be like of this chunky 50 mm case diameter crusing watch actually belie its low price ticket.

• Giant, clear, simple to learn show • A number of design choices • Twin time, stopwatch, countdown and pacer features

• Lacks options/features of extra premium opponents • Chunky

Purchase the Restrict ProXR Countdown now on gooutdoors.co.uk

Greatest new crusing watches of 2022

best-sailing-watches-YAW276.new_gear.quatix_7

Garmin Quatix 7

Garmin’s newest crusing smartwatch contains enhancements to strengthen integration with onboard electronics.

It’s a touchscreen mannequin that may, as an example, be used to regulate MFD shows or Fusion audio methods, in addition to Garmin autopilots.

Excessive finish Sapphire fashions add a brand new ultra-clear AMOLED touchscreen.

Value: £599.99 to £1,049.99

Purchase the Garmin Quatix 7 now on Garmin.com

Purchase the Garmin Quatix 7 now on Amazon

Purchase the Garmin Quatix 7 now on Jura Watches

sailboat racing watches

Spinnaker Hass

Spinnaker Watches collaborated with the Marine Conservation Society to provide this restricted version mannequin that’s a tribute to marine biologist and pioneering diver Hans Hass.

It’s water-resistant to 300m, has a scratch-resistant lens and a battery-free automated motion. 5 p.c of proceeds will assist the society’s work.

Value: £375

Purchase the Spinnaker Hass now on eBay

best-sailing-watches-YAW276.new_gear.original_diver_the_ocean_race

The Ocean Race Diver

Swiss watchmaker Ulysse Nardin sourced discarded fishing nets to upcycle into the bottom materials for this watch, highlighting the 640,000 tonnes of nets which can be discarded at sea every year.

As well as, 95% of elements for the mechanical motion are sourced from inside 30km of Ulysse Nardin’s web site.

Value: US$11,500 / £9,540

Purchase The Ocean Race Diver now on ulysse-nardin.com

What makes a great crusing watch?

The flexibility to learn the time, countdown or information in a rush or at an angle is vital, so look out for digital readouts with massive numbers – some crusing watches have the power to change from digital to analogue readouts – and screens that may be considered in several qualities of daylight. Backlit features are important for anybody heading offshore, whether or not racing or cruising.

A well-fitting wristband or strap with a safe clasp is significant to maintain the watch in your arm. Most crusing watches have mushy rubber or artificial wristbands, that are extra sturdy in a marine atmosphere, and safer than metal. Rubber straps are additionally lighter and simpler to regulate.

Should you plan to make use of your look ahead to race begin timing, search for programmable begin sequence choices, a sync button, countdowns that change to seconds within the last levels. A loud, clear alarm or ‘beep’ perform that tells you time to the gun is especially helpful, so you’ll be able to maintain watching your course, trim and different boats round you through the last method to the road quite than having to look at your wrist.

You possibly can learn extra about different forms of GPS enabled and waterproof health trackers and good watches at YBW.com

Didn’t discover what you’re searching for? Head to Amazon’s devoted boating web page for extra marine merchandise.

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Why Tudor’s First Carbon Watches Are Perfect for Professional Yacht Racing

We spent two days embedded with the Alinghi Red Bull team as Tudor dropped two new Pelagos models in the ultralight material.

sailboat racing watches

By Allen Farmelo

Ultra-light carbon fiber and titanium encasing high-precision machinery ready to perform in the most demanding scenarios using only human power — these words can describe both the Alinghi Red Bull Racing America’s Cup sailboat and the new Tudor Pelagos FXD watches created to celebrate the Swiss sailing team’s attempt to reclaim the world’s oldest international racing title. Tudor is now a sponsor of the Alinghi Red Bull Racing team, marking a new chapter for the storied Swiss watch brand.

The physical similarities between the high-tech boats and these new Tudor Pelagos FXDs in carbon lend the partnership a tangible edge over the mere sharing of brand logos, which can feel spurious to us watch enthusiasts. After spending two days watching the Alinghi Red Bull racing boats in action as well as studying the boats up close, I came to view the new Pelagos FXDs as small horological versions of these fascinating sailing machines.

Tudor Pelagos FXD Alinghi Red Bull Racing Watches

Tudor Pelagos FXD Alinghi Red Bull Racing Watches

The two sporty, feather-light, high-precision chronometers (rated to the COSC spec of -4 / +6 secs/day but Tudor regulates to -2/+4 secs per day) seem to float on the wrist. These watches feel physically connected to the enterprise of pushing technology and knowledge in the service of the highest performance possible, which is exactly what the America’s Cup is all about. But, as a watch enthusiast first and a sailing fan second, I can also say that these carbon Pelagos FXD models are super cool watches even if we ignore the sailing connection, and they extend Tudor’s Pelagos range in daring new ways.

These are the first carbon fiber watches from either Tudor or its parent company Rolex, and the 43mm chronograph is the first Pelagos to feature the stopwatch complication. Impressively, the chronograph measures just 13.6mm thick, which is quite thin for a chronograph with 200m of water resistance. The 42mm time-only model is just 12.75mm thick, foregoes the date complication, and feels on wrist like a lighter version of the original Pelagos Titanium FXD of 2022, which Tudor created for the French Navy’s combat divers.

tudor watch on a wrist

FXD is short for “fixed,” which refers to the fact that the case has slots for the pass-through strap, rather than holes for mounting flimsy spring bars. Watches configured this way date back to WWI military units with welded lugs in order to stay put in the most demanding conditions. Further distinguishing the Pelagos FXD models is the countdown timing scale on the bi-directional rotating bezel. (To be clear, though the Pelagos is conceived for diving, these are not technically dive watches , which require unidirectional bezels that count up, not down.)

Where the previous titanium FXD for the French Navy was focused on timing legs of an underwater navigation route set with a compass, the countdown bezel of the new Alinghi Red Bull carbon Pelagos FXD can be used for various timing tasks when sailing, most notably the start of the race, a notoriously tense 10 minutes. Some may wonder why Tudor didn’t include a “yacht timer” 10-minute countdown complication, and the answer is that the sailing team maintains no pretenses of using a mechanical watch to time the start of the America’s Cup.

a tudor watch

To get a sense of how off-base such a pretense would be, consider that these sailors are tucked into tiny cockpits while wearing helmets equipped with noise-canceling radio headsets for all communications while racing. In other words, these sailors are long past the days of start guns, stopwatches and yelling times out across the deck.

As one Tudor representative told me, the Alinghi Red Bull team asked for an excellent watch that could withstand the daily abuses of working toward the goal of winning the America’s Cup. Those tasks range from actually sailing for a couple hours each day, to sanding down fins and blades, deconstructing and rebuilding the boats, stepping the carbon fiber mast, tensioning the rig and enduring rigorous daily physical training.

The larger boats that contend for the America’s Cup are powered only by humans and wind. What the wind does is obvious, but where human power formerly went directly into winching the sails, today’s teams use their legs to pedal power into elaborate hydraulic systems that not only trim the sails but also lift, lower and adjust the hydrofoils on which the boats rise out of the water and ride at over four times the speed of the wind. Like today’s watches, today’s sail boats have come a long way.

sailboat

The boats are high-tech marvels that rival Formula 1 racing cars in terms of pushing the boundaries of speed through material science, computer-aided performance analysis, aero- and hydrodynamic design and more. The technology and know-how is so advanced that one of the racing team’s representatives told me: “Some people don’t even consider it sailing anymore.” But out on the water cruising alongside these boats with their impressive hulls, masts and sails, I find it difficult to call this anything other than sailing — however untraditional the boats may appear when skimming at remarkable speeds up on their foils.

This is why the watches seem so compellingly aligned with the boats: both are pushing material science and precision machining to the limits, and both are coming up with very modern versions of machines that have been a big part of human endeavors for centuries. The basic mechanical concepts remain the same, but the technical execution is downright avant-garde.

While much of Tudor’s catalog celebrates the brand’s heritage with retro-inspired models (most notably the Black Bay series ), the Pelagos has always seen Tudor looking forward. That’s not to say the Pelagos doesn’t incorporate essential elements of vintage Tudor – the snowflake hands and square markers are derived from 20th-century Tudors, for example – but there’s no question that the Pelagos is Tudor’s platform for pushing design and technology, and no Tudor has been as tech-forward as these two carbon Pelagos FXD models.

a man wearing a watch while on a sailboat

The two watch designers who I met with in Barcelona confirmed that the design brief for these new Pelagos models was to move beyond anything Tudor has done to date while still maintaining the core ethos of the brand. It’s not an easy design brief, especially when one factors the Alinghi Red Bull team into the equation.

I was curious how closely the watch designers work with the manufacturing team responsible for making the final technical drawings, and it turns out everyone works together closely in an open work space. The mechanical viability of an aesthetic idea can be checked in a moment by simply calling to a colleague across the room. Working closely in this way, the team took about eight months to get the design ready for production. Not bad for a first go with carbon fiber.

On the wrist, both models feel exceptionally light, and the excellent Velcro straps by Julien Faure, a famous French ribbon maker, are the perfect compliment to these ultra-light watches. I’ve often found carbon watches with rubber straps a bit unbalanced because the rubber is heavy. I’ve also found carbon and ceramic bracelets to rattle like plastic. The textile solution Tudor has extended across many of its watches is ideal. The watch stays put, and it looks just as good as it feels wrapped around the wrist. Very light and very sporty.

close up of a watch strap on a tudor watch

It’s worth noting that both the 43mm chronograph and the 42mm time-only models wear much smaller than their diameters might suggest. The relative thinness of both models is an obvious boon to comfort, as is the light weight, but the shape of the case, the flat crystal and the snug fit of the strap all combine to make the watches exceptionally easy to wear.

Some have complained about the chapter-ring timing scale being interrupted for the “Alinghi Red Bull Racing” text, but for me it’s a far better solution than, say, slapping a logo on the dial. This text is similar to many Rolex watches that feature text on the chapter ring, and I find it to be a sporty reminder of why this watch exists. Maybe we’ll get a standard-issue carbon FXD without that text one day, but until then this one serves its specific purpose excellently.

close up of a tudor watch

Some have also questioned the brand alignment between Tudor (a storied Swiss watch brand) and Red Bull (an energy drink company). This strikes me as a snap judgment based on tired notions of luxury, and this concern also overlooks the fact that Red Bull Advanced Technologies has become one of the most prestigious technical solutions companies on the planet, a company to no small degree responsible for the accelerated advancement of racing technology across various sports for over two decades.

My sense is that Red Bull Racing syncs quite naturally with both Tudor and Alinghi, the eponymous Swiss sail racing team with more than a few prestigious titles to its name already. Witnessing the technicians tweak these racing machines and then watching the boats whizz across the water on their foils, I kept glancing down at the machine on my wrist as an undeniable material confirmation of just how well aligned these enterprises are.

The Tudor Pelagos FXD Alinghi Red Bull is available now. The time-only model (left) is priced at $3,675 and the chronograph (right) is priced at $5,075.

collage of tudor watches

Related Topics

Nomadic Sailing

12 Best Sailing Watches (+4 Luxury Watches)

Wrist watch on man

Sporting a nice-looking sailing watch that also brings massive value can be one of those personal items that you end up keeping for years and years.

Over time, it’s not uncommon to become accustomed to a particular watch of ours that serves one function or another and ends up growing on us. Like that old-school t-shirt, hat, or wallet we’ve kept for years, a watch can stay with us for quite some time.

For a sailor, wearing a sailing watch that has multiple sensors and other functionalities we use by the minute can be extremely useful.

This is especially true if you’re in a situation that demands your attention immediately. Whether your watch has an altimeter, barometer, tide chart, temperature meter, or GPS, it’s good to know we can be in the know with a quick flip of the wrist.

The Best Sailing Watches That Are Actually Affordable

There are some sailing watches out there that can cost an arm and a leg, but I’m less interested in prestige and more interested in the functionality.

Obviously, we want our sailing watches to look good too, so I put together a list of the best sailing watches that not only look great but give a sailor just the right information they need when they need it.

1. Garmin Quatix 6 Multisport Marine Smartwatch

sailboat racing watches

Easily one of the best sailing watches out there is the Garmin Quatix 6 Multisport Marine Smartwatch .

If you’re looking for a digital sailing watch that’s stylish and smart, you’ve certainly found your next one. There are so many useful features built into this watch it’s difficult to summarize!

Apart from the Garmin Quatix 6 having a nice design, it comes with a number of useful features for sailing (and watersports in general).

For one, it has a built-in GPS, altimeter, barometer, and compass that allows you to more easily navigate the waters.

You can also connect it to any of your other Garmin devices via Bluetooth so you can stream any sailboat data instantly across your wrist. It also monitors your heart rate and has a number of sailing apps that can be installed on it!

2. Casio Men’s Pathfinder Triple-Sensor Watch

sailboat racing watches

If you’re looking for an affordable sailing watch that’ll last you a very long time, definitely check out the Casio PRG270 Multi-Sensor Sports Watch .

I’ve owned this watch for many years and have not regretted that purchase for a second. It’s a tough watch that can take some hits and provides all the necessary functionality you’ll need on the water.

One of the best features about this men’s nautical watch is that it’s 100% solar-powered, so I’ve never had to worry about replacing the battery.

Apparently, the battery life can last up to 6 months without a charge! It also has an easy-to-use digital compass, altimeter, barometer, thermometer, backlight, world time, daily alarms, stopwatch, full calendar, and much more. I actually wear my watch literally all the time and it serves many functions in my daily routine.

3. Casio Pro Trek Men’s Stainless Steel Watch

sailboat racing watches

I’d say Casio is one of the better affordable watch brands for sailing out there based on all of the watches I’ve researched.

This stainless steel Casio watch is almost exactly like the Pathfinder, but instead of having a resin strap it has a strap that’s made of titanium.

The price of this nautical men’s watch is a tab bit higher than the Pathfinder, but it probably has a heavier feel to it and it’s potentially more durable. Also, it looks more stylish than the Pathfinder, so you can probably wear it in many different settings.

4. Suunto Core Wrist-Top Computer Multi-Sensor Watch

sailboat racing watches

The Suunto sailing watch brand is quite extensive and they make some really high-quality digital sailing watches for a reasonable price.

One of the coolest smart sailing watches is the Suunto Core Wrist-Top Computer Multi-Sensor Watch . This watch looks very nice and comes in a multitude of colors and strap designs.

This Suunto sailing watch is a bargain for what you get out of it. Not only does it have an altimeter, barometer, and digital compass, but it has a very intuitive and well-designed display that just makes sense.

It’s also water resistant, which is a big plus. The display is so well built that you can even display weather charts along with the other sensor inputs! Truly amazing.

5. Casio G-Shock Men’s Black Resin Sports Watch

sailboat racing watches

As you’ve already probably figured out, I’m a sucker for Casio watches because they’re just so affordable and functional to the core. With that in mind, another fantastic digital sailing watch to check out is the G-Shock Men’s Black Resin Sports Watch by Casio .

As one of the most affordable sailing watches on this list, you’ll get just what you need to stay on top of the basic metrics while sailing.

From measuring the current tide and the moon phases via an intuitive graph to having a world clock at the flick of the wrist, you’ll be in the know.

It’s even water resistant down to 200 meters (600 feet), so a great watch for scuba diving as well.

6. Timex Intelligent Quartz Yacht Racer Watch

sailboat racing watches

The look and feel of this nautical watch are very unique and serve as a benchmark for how a sailing watch should be presented.

Apart from the amazing design, this Timex watch is the first one on this list that’s 100% analog. Keeping it simple by never having to worry about battery life can be very handy.

It also has a Perfect Date feature that has the world date and time preprogrammed so you’ll never have to set the date and time again. Very cool!

7. Tissot Sailing-Touch Men’s Multi-Function Watch

sailboat racing watches

Some of the oldest, most trusted watch brands today are Swiss-made, and the Tissot Sailing-Touch Men’s Multi-Function Watch  is a tribute to that reputation.

As an affordable, well-crafted Swiss sailing watch, it’s hard to pass up this great sailing watch for any other.

We’re all aware of the quality that comes with owning a Swiss watch. This Tissot sailing watch comes with a hybrid analog-digital display that delivers information regarding tide, speed, direction, pressure, countdown timer, and more.

Through a clear digital display, you’re able to recall this past data via a chart as well. If you’re looking for quality and functionality, you’ve found the right watch.

8. Casio Pro Trek Tough Solar Digital Watch

sailboat racing watches

Yet again, the Casio watches enter the arena of best sailing watches. This one is great if you can find it in stock: the Casio Pro Trek Tough Solar Digital Watch .

While it’s a tad bit more expensive compared to the previous digital sailing watches we looked at, the reasons will become evident very soon.

Apart from being solar-powered and having all the necessary metrics you want to follow when having a sailing watch, like direction, elevation, pressure, and temperature, you also have an awesome looking display on the watch’s face.

A tide and moon graph can quickly be displayed on the screen and even has an atomic timekeeping feature. This will probably be my next sailing watch.

9. Timex Intelligent Quartz Watch

sailboat racing watches

The look and functionality of this sailing watch are hard to beat and surely provide a lot of value when having it on while out sailing. It’s especially durable as well thanks to its stainless steel body.

This watch by Timex looks amazing and has the basic features that you expect with a good quality sailing watch. While having the standard digital watch features, it also comes with its patented INDIGLO night light for those low light conditions, has a racing chronograph, and is of course water resistant.

10. Nautica Men’s Quartz Resin Silicone Watch

sailboat racing watches

The Nautica watch brand has a lot of really nice-looking watches and one of the more popular ones I’ve seen among those sailing is the Nautica Men’s Quartz Resin Silicone Watch .

This watch has a classic design that’s sturdy and reliable exactly as you’d expect.

While this Nautica watch doesn’t have the same fancy features that the other sailing watches do, I have to bring it up because it’s one of the more popular sailing watches out there.

It does come with a variety of designs and even comes with either a resin, leather, or metal strap.

11. Nautica Men’s Triple-Sensor Watch

sailboat racing watches

This is another one that’s often out of stock. The last Nautica watch we looked at was more of a classic watch, but the Nautica Men’s Triple-Sensor Watch  is in a league of its own.

This watch is specifically tailored to sailors and comes with a sleek design that rivals many other sailing watches.

This Nautica watch comes with multiple sensors, including a compass, a tide tracker, and a thermometer. This combined with its rubber strap makes it a functionally beautiful sailing watch that can handle even the toughest of beatings.

12. Casio Men’s G-Shock Gulfmaster Watch

sailboat racing watches

I promise you this will be the very last Casio watch I show you in this list of the best sailing watches.

One of the coolest Casio digital sailing watches has to got to be the Casio Men’s G-Shock Gulfmaster Watch due to its cool design and extremely useful functionality.

This Casio sets itself apart from the rest of the sailing watches on here because it’s the only one that has the ability to predict weather changes.

With its advanced sensor technology, they’re not only able to measure the standard metrics most sailing watches can measure, but it attempts to predict the future and alert you when necessary. This is a super smartwatch that can absolutely last a lifetime!

4 Luxury Sailing Watches for Superyachters

Now, I’m not in any place to afford any of the following luxury sailing watches, but there’s no doubt that they’re functional pieces of art that would look good on anyone and each can easily fit the category of the best sailing watch. For those superyachters out there, this next list’s for you.

1. Citizen Eco-Drive Men’s Promaster Aqualand Analog Watch

sailboat racing watches

There are few watch brands out there that command immediate respect and awe.

Citizen is one of such brands and it demonstrates that quite effectively with the Citizen Eco-Drive Men’s Promaster Aqualand Analog Watch .

While certainly not the cheapest watch, it’s the most affordable in our superyachters edition.

This Citizen watch is a sight to see. Along with its elegant design, it has the Eco-Drive technology that allows it to quickly charge via the sun and can last a very long time.

It’s also water resistant for up to 200 meters (600 feet) and has the ability to keep track of and record the depth when out diving.

2. Tag Heuer Aquaracer Men’s Watch

sailboat racing watches

We enter the sailing watch space of yet another well-known Swiss watch brand; Tag Heuer. Among the many fancy and expensive yachting watches offered by Tag Heuer, their Aquaracer Men’s Watch  is one of the most beautiful watches on the market today.

The Aquaracer Men’s Watch by Tag Heuer comes with an amazing blue Bezel display illuminated by the luminescent hands and markers on the watch’s face.

This watch requires no charging, solar power, winding, or battery replacement since it’s designed to mechanically self-wind based on your movement.

On top of that, it’s capable of going all the way down 500 meters (1650 feet) so deep scuba sessions are more than welcome.

3. Omega Men’s Seamaster Aqua Terra Stainless Steel Watch

sailboat racing watches

A fantastic watch brand that has a long reputation for quality has to go to Omega, which has come out with the attractive Omega Men’s Seamaster Aqua Terra Stainless Steel Watch  for water dwellers all over the world.

If you’re looking to splurge on a superyachters watch, surely this one won’t disappoint.

This Omega Seamaster yachting watch has an elegant design that’s fitting for any occasion, whether you’re out sailing or dining out.

Its classic stainless steel, silver design gives off a familiar look and is accompanied by a Swiss-certified chronometer to boot. It’s also powered automatically via self-winding, so there’s no need to worry about battery life ever again.

4. Rolex Oyster Perpetual Seadweller Deepsea

sailboat racing watches

This list of luxury sailing watches would not be complete without mentioning the most famous yachting watch brand in the world; Rolex.

The Rolex Oyster Perpetual Seadweller Deepsea Watch  is the epitome of a high-quality sailing watch with a price tag to match.

The amazing thing about Rolexes is that they don’t really need to be explained in terms of how good they are.

The Rolex Oyster Perpetual Seadweller Deepsea is one of the most famous luxury sailing watches on the market and comes with a Swiss-certified chronometer that’s self-winding.

On top of that, it’s capable of going down 3900 meters (12,800 feet) underwater! Now that’s deep.

Which Sailing Watch Is Right for You

Sailing watches (or yachting watches) have proven to be a tremendous help out on the water in navigating and planning.

When it comes to a good sailing watch, it’s up to what is best for the individual and how they plan on using it .

Each sailing watch can have its own unique features and intricate designs that set it apart from other watches. So which sailing watch is considered the best based on usefulness and quality?

Most Important Features of a Sailing Watch

Not just any watch is going to cut it when you’re out on the water. You need a timepiece that is going to stand up to the rough conditions that you’ll face, as well as provide important information when you need it.

These include durability, resistance to water, GPS capabilities, and tracking the tide, which most sailing watches have.

All are important for how you plan to sail, so you need a high-quality sailing watch that can handle any situation.

Excellent Durability

Sailing has its moments where it can be tough in the heaviest conditions. A watch that can withstand wear and tear is going to be crucial if you’re spending thousands of dollars on one.

You should consider getting a watch that’s made out of stainless steel and titanium, in particular with a stainless steel case.

The glass also needs to be somewhat shatterproof, as you will need something to handle scrapes and dings.

Superior Water Resistance

You want your watch to be protected from the elements, especially if you’re constantly getting wet while sailing. Each watch will have a different rating on its water-resistant capabilities, which can be confusing since it is measured in meters, atmospheres, or feet.

At a minimum, you need five atmospheres (ATM) or 50 meters of protection. This is equivalent to 160 feet, which is somewhat waterproof and meant for coastal cruising or brief moments in the water.

These are generally less expensive sailing watches, so it is understandable if you’re on a budget and want something to compliment your sailing experience.

If you can afford a step up in quality, you can check out sailing watches that have at least 10 ATMs, which is the same as 100 meters or 300 feet deep of water.

These are the best bang for your buck, as they cover decent depths of water and spray from the ocean.

The best water-resistant watches are 20 ATMs, which are 200 meters or 660 feet.

These are dive-worthy and are the beginning stages of the best sailing watches with high water resistance. Some go even higher to 30 ATMs or 1,000 feet, making them a part of the dive watches family.

Informative GPS

Not only do you want a fashionable and functional sailing watch, but one that has GPS capabilities. You don’t want to rely on old maps that have not been updated for years.

These watches include up-to-date marine information to travel safely along designated routes.

These sail tools alone are worth their weight in gold, especially if you have an older method of navigating the ocean. Some are well advanced to help provide tack assistance to ensure you’re sailing at optimal speeds.

Accurate Tide Tracking

Tide tracking is another useful feature to have in a good sailing watch. A tide tracker can be relatively precise to match the true state of a tide.

While some are very accurate, it is important to know that they are not always 100% correct. Some tide-tracking watches are better than others.

You want one that will give you proper information based on your location to provide the closest possible scenarios.

Types of Sailing Watches

There are a few variations of sailing watches that prove to be useful, with some that sailors absolutely cannot live without.

Each one has its own benefits, so find out what works best for you and how to utilize them in your own sailing goals.

Mechanical Sailing Watches

Mechanical sailing watches are just as they sound, as they don’t have a battery and have a classic look to them.

Some have solar-powered capabilities so you don’t have to worry about changing batteries. They have wind-up or self-winding features to operate and often time are accompanied by a countdown timer.

The best mechanical sailing watches come from Sweden and are manufactured by the top names in the business.

In addition, they have some of the best waterproof capabilities for divers that want to go around 1,000 feet down.

Digital Sailing Watches

Digital sailing watches operate on battery life, while typically having a display to read. They vary considerably depending on how much they cost and the features they provide.

A digital sailing watch is generally affordable for any budget, but only if they are simple in its functionality.

They usually have an LCD screen in the form of a digital display showing the date, time, and temperature. They can even have a countdown timer, multiple time zones, a dual time display, a date window, and much more

One of the best sailing watches is the Garmin Quatix 6  which has an altimeter, barometer, and compass.

It also has Bluetooth, which you could argue makes it a sailing smartwatch too. Definitely one of the more popular sailing watches out there.

Sailing Smartwatches

Sailing smartwatches are very similar to digital sailing watches. They typically have an LCD screen displaying basic information, but their waterproof capabilities are slightly higher.

They have Wi-Fi and Bluetooth options to connect to charts, GPS, and other crucial data.

They are even used in competitive sailing races to offer sail racing assistance to track important data for the team or the individual racer.

The Suunto Core Wrist-Top Computer Watch  is one of the best sailing smartwatches out on the water.

It allows you to save navigation data, track boat speed and heading through GPS, and offers multiple pages of information through Wi-Fi. This is a sailing smartwatch powerhouse.

Final Thoughts

Sailing watches are an innovative tool that offers sailors the ability to process information in real-time.

Each sailor can find their own unique function in a sailing watch, whether it be mechanical, smartwatch, or digital.

Since they offer GPS, tide tracking, or a stylish stainless-steel watch that will last for years, a great sailing watch is worth the investment.

There are plenty of affordable sailing watches to fit any budget, so finding one should be simple if you narrow down your criteria.

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Best sailing watches: 15 options for racing and cruising

Phil Sampson and Roger Hughes take a look at 12 of the best sailing watches available with functions for racing and cruising sailors

best-sailing-watches-buying-guide

Photo: Garmin

Just as tablets and even smartphones have revolutionised how sailors use multifunction displays and instruments, so the latest smart watch technology has now firmly filtered into sailing. While we’re now familiar with using our watches to give us directions, make calls and send messages, and act as a repeater screen on our wrists ashore, so the latest sailing watches also make navigation, data and comms technology wearable afloat.

However, the cleverest watch is not always the best watch for sailing. For racing an extremely simple and speedy to operate model may suit better.

Price is not always an indicator of functionality either; even some of the least expensive sailing watches, like the Casio we showcase below, can be packed with features.

At the other end of the scale,  luxury horology brands – including Rolex, Panerai, and Omega among others – have long been closely associated with sailing, seeing it as the perfect sport to demonstrate their style, waterproof and ruggedised qualities, and accuracy.

In making our selection of the best sailing watches, we’ve chosen those with features specifically suitable for wearing aboard. That doesn’t mean, however, that they float, so be sure to do the clasp up securely and be wary of pulling off jacket sleeves in a hurry and losing your prized timepiece overboard!

Note: We may earn a commission when you buy through links on our site, at no extra cost to you. This doesn’t affect our editorial independence.

Best multi-function sailing watches.

best-sailing-watches-garmin-marq-captain

Garmin MARQ Captain

Our top priced pick comes from wearable techno-specialists, Garmin. The MARQ Captain sailing watch comes packed with marine-relevant features.

Functions include weather and tidal data for your home port, a regatta timer to pinpoint starting times, a ‘tack assist’ function to determine whether you’re on lift or a header, a man overboard button and GPS.

The full extent of its capabilities is governed by the onboard technology to which it is connected, but possibilities include streaming boat data direct to your wrist wherever you are on the boat and controlling products from the Garmin-owned Fusion range of audio systems.

RRP: £1,699.99 / $1,850

Buy it now from Garmin

Buy it now from Westmarine.com

Buy it now from Jura Watches

casio-tide

Casio Tide Watch Orange

There’s no question that when it comes to affordable innovation, Casio is right up there.

Despite being one of the lowest priced watches in our selection, the Casio Tide Watch Orange is a highly functional piece of kit which, in addition to all the usual time, day and auto date functions also features a tide graph and lunar phase display.

More conventional sailing watch functions include a timer, stopwatch and LED might. It is water resistant to 100m and promises a 10-year battery life, all packed into a 43mm diameter case.

RRP: $82.99 / £62

Buy it now from Amazon

Garmin-quatix-6-sailing-watch

Garmin Quatix 6 sailing watch

See  MBY ‘s Garmin Quatix 6 review.

This watch we tried out at length – it is a very comprehensive design, with functions for every type of pastime on the water, including diving. It is a beautifully crafted and extraordinary wrist computer.

Garmin is well known for superior boating instruments and they have now managed to squeeze all the data of a ten-inch chartplotter into a 1.3” inch round sailing watch.

Bluetooth functionality means you can connect it to a Garmin chartplotter using the free Garmin Connect app, and to other makes of plotter using the Garmin transceiver (a $150 extra). This allows all the features of a chartplotter to be displayed on the watch, including charts and even autopilot control to allow you to change heading or follow a GPS route – provided it is also connected through the chartplotter.

garmin-quatix-boating-smart-watch-helm-black-friday-deals

The Quatix 6 also offers more typical smart watch functions including the ability to receive email and texts, can be used to control music on board, and monitors the user’s heart-rate.

It’s simple to switch between ‘boat display’ and ‘stylish watch’ modes, as hundreds of different watch faces that can be downloaded to customise it to the wearer’s preference, including an antique style face and even a copy of Big Ben. The Quatix 6 can also be switched between analogue and digital.

It’s overall diameter is 51mm (2” in) with a 36mm (1 5/8” in) viewable face, and it is 17mm (11/16”) thick. The Quatix 6’s weight is 83g (3oz) with the plastic strap or 156g (5.5oz) with the stainless band, which is quite a bit heavier than a conventional watch.

It is waterproof to 100 metres, sunlight readable and has a night light mode. The watch has a soft synthetic wristband, available in various colours.

A single charge will last 14 days with normal use, or there is also a solar-powered version for continuous self-charging (available at twice the price). But whatever you do, do not drop this sailing watch overboard, as it does not float!

RRP: £629 / $699

Buy it now on Amazon

Buy it now on eBay

Garmin Instinct outdoors watch

Read our Garmin Instinct review

Garmin also sent this watch for us to wear. The Instinct is Garmin’s all-round watch, which they call their outdoors watch. Features that are particularly relevant to sailors include GPS positioning on charts; barometric pressure and a compass.

It has smartphone connectivity, receives emails and texts, and can control music via a phone. This watch also has an inbuilt thermometer and heart rate monitor.

The Garmin Instinct is available in no fewer than 20 different styles and colours. It’s actual diameter is 47mm (1 13/16” in) but the viewable face is 32mm (1 1/4”). The Instinct is 16mm (5/8” in) thick and weighs 53g (2 oz).

For racing sailors it also has multiple start sequence options.

The Garmin Instinct watch is a good alternative for anyone seeking a more moderately priced alternative to the Quatix 6.

RRP: £269.99

Best sailing watches for racing

best-sailing-watches-ronstan-clearstart-race-timer

Ronstan ClearStart Race Timer

With wrist, hull, mast or boom mount options, the Swiss-made Ronstan ClearStart Race Timer is aimed squarely at racing sailors.

Made by renowned rigging and hardware company Ronstan, it’s a robust design with a secure elastic strap and substantial ‘bumper’ around the digital display.

The ClearStart Race Timer’s features include extra large, easy-press silicon buttons, a highlighted start/stop button, oversized 16 mm digits set in a 65mm rotating face and a double line display simultaneously showing the race countdown and time.

In addition, the ClearStart Race Timer offers ‘5-4-1-0’ and Match Racing start sequence programmes, making it a great choice for competitive sailors. Ruggedly constructed and built to last, this sailing watch weighs in at 92 grammes and is water resistant to 50 metres.

RRP: $119.95 / £85

Buy it now from West Marine

best-sailing-watches-optimum-time-series-14

Optimum Time Series 14 Rechargeable sailing watch

Optimum Time’s bold coloured watches are popular among racing sailors from dinghies upwards, and the new rechargeable design makes it more sustainable for anyone who uses theirs frequently.

Featuring a 36mm diameter LCD display mounted within a bright red and black 68mm ABS case, Optimum Time’s Series 14 watch is a substantial device that is equally suited to being mounted on a mast or boom as your wrist, while the digits are large enough to allow crew to see the same timer as the skipper.

Waterproof to 5 ATM (i.e. capable of withstanding a pressure of 5 bar), the sailing watch is packed with useful features and comes complete with a bespoke USB charger clamp for convenient charging.

RRP: £85 / $111

Timex-Intelligent-sailing-watch

Timex Intelligent Quartz Yacht Racer watch

This is a very striking analogue watch, designed to appeal specifically to racing sailors who don’t want a digital display. It features a racing countdown timers (from 5 mins, 3 mins or 1 minute), then after the start the chronometer automatically starts a race timer for up to one hour.

This is a larger than average design, at 46 mm (1.81” in) diameter and 14mm (0.55” in) thick.

However, this watch is complex to set up, as some functions require three buttons to be pressed in sequence. There is also no ‘reset’ button for anyone who misses their start sequence timer.

RRP: £132.99

Buy it now on the Watch Shop

Timex-Optimum-3

Optimum Time Series 3 sailing watch

The popular ‘big yellow’ Optimum Time Series 3 is a lower priced, yet highly functional racing watch. And it truly is big – far too large for my wrist at a gigantic 65mm (2.56” in) diameter and 16mm (0.62” in) thick. It’s also available in colours other than yellow – including white, blue and pink.

An advantage for racing is that this watch is easy to read at a distance thanks to its huge 16mm digits. A bracket is supplied to fix it to a mast. It also has a sync button if you miss the start gun, and can then run a repeat sequence or race timer for handicap competitions.

Robust, and water resistant to 5 ATM, with a wide elasticated strap.

RRP: £59

Ronstan-ClearStart

Ronstan Clearstart RF4055 sailing watch

This sailing watch is another specialist racing design. Race mode features include multiple start sequence options, match racing timer and the ability to sync for an early or late start.

The Clearstart RF4055 is unusual in that it has a fibreglass case, which is available in striking yellow and red as well as the more subtle black. It has a 50mm (2″) diameter face, which is larger than most watches, with a 13mm (0.5″ in) digital display, and the weight is 74gm (2.61oz), though the buttons have a lower profile than some other race watches making it neater to wear on shore.

RRP: £85.95

Optimum-series-12

Optimum Time Series 12 sailing watch

Another race timer with countdown time and pre-programmed start and audible warnings. Despite its more smart watch-style appearance, there is no GPS or interconnectivity, but you do get a countdown repeat option, World Sailing 5-4-1-0 start sequence pre-programmed with audible warning signals, and a sync button.

The Optimum Time Series 12 is available in many colours, but has a small 26mm (1.02” in) display, with 10mm (0.34” in) figures, which will make it hard to read in the middle of a hectic race start.

RRP: £95

gill-race-timer

Gill Race Watch Timer

This striking red and black Race Watch Timer is a sailing-specific watch developed exclusively for watersports apparel company Gill. It’s water resistant to an impressive 30 metres, with the timepiece unit encased in a reinforced carbon ABS plastic housing with a stainless steel back.

As well as telling the time, the sailing watch’s functions include countdown with synchro, day, date and alarm. There’s a keyboard lock feature to you don’t accidentally change the settings and an electro-luminescent backlight allows the wearer to check the data day or night.

A neat sleep feature preserves and prolongs battery life in a ruggedly constructed unit designed for durability and years of trouble-free service.

RRP: $110 / £75

limit-proxr-countdown

Limit ProXR Countdown sailing watch

Limit has been producing watches for more than 110 years and specialises in offering a wide variety of styles at great value prices.

For a budget-friendly sailing watch option the Limit ProXR Countdown comes with a large, clear and easily readable display and is backed by a two year guarantee.

It also has a dual time display and stopwatch, countdown and pacer functionality. No fewer than five alarms can be set and there’s a night time illumination facility.

Available in a choice of orange/black or blue/black, the looks of this chunky 50 mm case diameter sailing watch certainly belie its low price tag.

RRP: £29.99

Buy it now on Nauticalia.com

What makes a good sailing watch?

The ability to read the time, countdown or data in a hurry or at an angle is key, so look out for digital readouts with large numbers – some sailing watches have the ability to switch from digital to analogue readouts – and screens that can be viewed in different qualities of daylight. Backlit functions are essential for anyone heading offshore, whether racing or cruising.

A well-fitting wristband or strap with a secure clasp is vital to keep the watch on your arm. Most sailing watches have soft rubber or synthetic wristbands, which are more durable in a marine environment, and safer than steel. Rubber straps are also lighter and easier to adjust.

If you plan to use your watch for race start timing, look for programmable start sequence options, a sync button, countdowns that switch to seconds in the final stages. A loud, clear alarm or ‘beep’ function that tells you time to the gun is particularly useful, so you can keep watching your course, trim and other boats around you during the final approach to the line rather than having to glance at your wrist.

You can read more about other types of GPS enabled and waterproof fitness trackers and smart watches at YBW.com

Didn’t find what you’re looking for? Head to Amazon’s dedicated boating page for more marine products.

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Watch Ranker

Best Sailing Watches in 2022 (From Budget to Luxury)

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Table of Contents

Best Sailing Watches

Garmin quatix 6 multisport – premium sailing smartwatch.

sailboat racing watches

Read Amazon Reviews | See on Garmin

Tissot “Sailing Touch” Watch – Swiss-Made  

Tissot Sailing-Touch Mens Rubber Strap Multi-Function Watch T056.420.27.051.01

Casio Tide Watch (WS-1100H-4AVCF)

Casio Men's 10 Year Battery Quartz Resin Strap, Orange, 22.8 Casual Watch (Model: WS-1100H-4AVCF)

Optimum Time Sailing Watch: Simple Budget Pick

Optimum Time Series 3 Sailing Watch - BLUE 314 - NEW COLOUR

Garmin Quatix 5 

Garmin quatix 5, Multisport Marine Smartwatch, Comprehensive Boat Connectivity, Stainless Steel - Blue

See the  quatix® 5 on Garmin.com | Read Amazon Reviews that mention “Sailing “

If you’re looking for a watch with multisport functions, this should be at the top of your list. Garmin is a trusted brand when it comes to smartwatches for sports, so you’re sure that you’ll have some of today’s best technology. The Garmin Quatix 5 is built on the powerful Fenix 5 platform, a smartwatch designed for use in the water. This is a good option if you want a more affordable version of the Quantix since the price has dropped since the release of the newers version 6.  There really are too many features to name here. If you want a closer look at what’s changed to see which is a better fit – check out this comparison of the Quatix 5 and 6 on Garmin. This powerful GPS marine smartwatch has a heart rate monitor (it’s wrist-based, so you don’t need to use a chest strap). Aside from the boat features, this model also has functions for a wide array of sports (i.e. running, hiking , biking , swimming, etc.) Garmin has dozens of models for different sports and fitness activities, but the reason why the Quantix model made our list is that it has Garmin SailAssist™ Capabilities that allow the user to have a virtual starting line. There is also a tack assist and a race countdown timer. This one is excellent on water, but it’s equally efficient on dry land too. Its simple design is also perfect for daily wear.

SUUNTO Core – All around value

SUUNTO Core, All Black

The brand’s sailor-specific watch, the Suunto Elementum Ventus , was one of our top picks in the past but this one is not made anymore, but you may still find second-hand models on the market today. Occasionally one will pop up on eBay . The Suunto Elementum Ventus is a smartwatch with a sleek and sophisticated design, sapphire crystal glass, stainless steel case, and leather strap. The sailing features include a sailing timer, chronograph, compass, and weather predictions.

Garmin MARQ Captain (010-02006-06)

Garmin MARQ Captain, Men's Luxury Tool Watch with Advanced Nautical Features, Track Wind Speed, Direction, Temperature and Tide Information

Read Reviews | See on Garmin.com

The Garmin MARQ Captain is an impressive luxury smartwatch filled to the brim with fantastic features for various activities. Along with Garmin’s staple features such as GPS, activity tracker, smart notifications, and Garmin Pay support – the MARQ Captain also provides Driver, Aviator, Expedition, Athlete, and Captain modes. This smartwatch is undoubtedly a masterclass in what these devices can achieve. Design-wise the Garmin MARQ is more oversized than your typical smartwatch. However, this bulkier appearance makes sense considering the MARQ’s build quality and feature-packed design. Also, despite the larger build of the Garmin MARQ, it is surprisingly lighter than you would think, at only 94 grams. In terms of features, the Garmin MARQ offers similar functionalities to the Garmin Fenix 6, and I would even dare say that the MARQ is simply a flashier version of the Fenix 6. However, one of the most notable features in the Garmin MARQ is undoubtedly the Athlete mode. This feature comes with layers of functionality that cover a vast selection of sports such as running, swimming, cycling, skiing, and golf. Besides the variety of sports features, MARQ also offers nifty functions such as a heart-rate sensor, stress tracking, and incident detection that sends notifications to your emergency contacts about your location. I also want to highlight the Recovery feature, which helps you keep track of your rest which can significantly help if you are nursing an injury. For sailing, I have to say that Garmin MARQ provides an unbeatable collection of features for sailors. The MARQ comes with a Regatta feature that helps you formulate the optimum route. The Tack feature also gives you real-time updates on wind shifts. In addition, the Garmin MARQ comes with a Man Overboard function that enables you to track a person who accidentally fell off the boat, which is one of its unique features. Garmin MARQ is undoubtedly one of the top options available in the market as a sailing watch. The Garmin Fenix 6 is a solid sailing watch, but the MARQ Captain is undoubtedly the more stylish of the two.

Ronstan ClearStart Sailing Watch – Budget

Ronstan ClearStart 40mm Sailing Watch- Blue [RF4054B]

Corum Admiral AC One 45 Tides

Corum Admiral's Cup Ac-One 45 Tides 277.101.04/F373 AB12 45mm Automatic Titanium Case Blue Rubber Anti-Reflective Sapphire Men's Watch

Rolex Oyster Perpetual Yacht-Master II

Rolex Yacht Master II White Dial Blue Bezel Stainless Steel Automatic Mens Watch 116680WAO

Ulysse Nardin Marine Regatta

Ulysse Nardin Marine Regatta Stainless Steel / Blue / Rubber 1553-155-3/43

Panerai Luminor 1950 Regatta

Panerai Luminor 1950 3 Day Chrono Flyback Regatta Black Dial Mens Watch PAM00526

Bremont Regatta AC

[instagram url=https://www.instagram.com/p/BDRRISat_Ld/ hidecaption=true width=320] The Bremont Regatta AC (America’s Cup) is a limited edition model (the company only produced 235 pieces) and is no longer in production. However, you can still try your luck searching for sellers on eBay. It was priced at around $6,800 when it was still available, this is relatively more affordable than the two luxury brands above. This series and a partnership with Oracle Team USA (OTUSA) were released in Baselworld 2016 with much acclaim. A Blog to Watch quoted Oracle Team USA Skipper Jimmy Spithill as saying (about both AC and OTUSA):

“Naturally, we have a central digital clock on the boat but every sailor still likes to have the time on his wrist, and before a race the countdown to the start is critical. It’s a really tough sport both mentally and physically, and not only does the team need to make decisions under immense pressure but we need to have equipment that allows us to do so,” Spithill said. “With the countdown function being so crucial when racing out on the water, we are really delighted that Bremont has invested in this for us and it’s incredibly special for me that the watches also incorporate some of our winning AC72 which I skippered in 2013.”

Some of the main features of the AC include a titanium case material, automatic movement, sapphire glass, and a rubber bracelet. This chronograph timepiece’s sleek, classic design exudes elegance without being flashy.

TNG Classic Tornado Sailing Chronograph

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The 13 Best Sailing Watches For Serious Sailors 2024

Looking for the best sailing watches.

The best watches for sailing have to tick a lot of different boxes in this day and age. Gone are the days when you just wanted a sailing watch that could tell the time accurately.

Sailing watches these days are PACKED with different features and will do a whole lot more than let you know when it’s time to drop the anchor for lunch.

If you’re shopping for yourself or looking for the perfect sailing gift for someone else, then we have a range of great options that cater to both style and function.

Let’s have a look at what the best watches for sailing can do for you.

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. We also earn from other affiliate programs. This means we may receive a small commission on products purchased through our links at no extra cost to you.

Table of Contents

  • Garmin Quatix 6
  • Suunto Core
  • Garmin Instinct
  • Timex Intelligent Quartz Watch
  • Ronston Clear Start
  • Tissot Sailing-Touch Watch
  • Omega Speedmaster Racing Automatic Chronograph
  • MARQ™ Captain Modern Tool Watch
  • Ulysse Nardin Marine Torpilleur Automatic Chronometer
  • Panerai Luminor Marina
  • Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra
  • Bulova Marine Star Chronograph
  • Frederique Constant Yacht Timer Regatta Countdown
  • What makes a great sailing watch?

The Best Watches For Sailing

We’ve found the best watches for sailing in the market. These make the perfect present, or why not treat yourself? They all come with great features that will make sailing even more fun and enjoyable.

#1 Garmin Quatix 6

sailboat racing watches

Although being one of the most expensive sailing watches on our list at nearly $600, we had to include the Garmin Quatix 6 , as it really is one of the best currently on the market.

This really is a whole lot more than just a watch, with features for every type of sport on the water including diving.

Bluetooth functionality means you can connect it to a Garmin chartplotter using the free Garmin Connect app. You can also connect it to other makes of plotter using the Garmin transceiver for $150 extra. This allows all the features of your chartplotter to be displayed on the watch, including charts and even autopilot control if that’s connected to your chartplotter.

It comes with p reloaded apps for boating tides and many features for race sailors including a race countdown timer. It even includes preloaded topographic maps, including ski maps ! We told you this watch really does have it all.

The Quatix 6 has a choice of displays to you can customise your sailing watch, and can also be switched between analogue and digital. You can get it with a plastic strap or stainless steel, but we prefer the plastic as it’s a lot lighter!

It receives e-mail and texts just as any smartwatch, can be used to control music on board, is waterproof to 100 meters, is sunlight-readable, and comes with night light. The Quatix 6 even monitors your heart rate (great for showing your other half just how stressed you get when mooring the boat!)

The battery version lasts around 14 days between charges or you can get a solar-powered version for double the price. This is a do-anything watch perfect for anyone serious about sailing and adventure sports.

✅ Buy Now from Amazon

#2 Suunto Core Watch

sailboat racing watches

While not quite as fancy as the Garmin sailing watch above, the Suunto Core is still packed with a wide range of features that make it a practical and useful tool for days out on the water (and with a much softer price tag of around $150!) If you’re looking for a more affordable watch for sailing then this is a great choice.

It comes with a compass, barometer, and weather forecasting features like a storm alarm to keep you in the know of current conditions in your area. It has duel times for long-distance sailing and useful extra features like predicted sunrise and sunset times. This watch is suitable for freediving, recording depths accurately to 30 feet.

Suunto watches have a great reputation among adventure lovers. These Scandanavian designs are made to last even in tough conditions. It’s not a small watch but this actually makes it a lot easier to use, and we like the fact it isn’t too heavy. For a sailing watch on the cheaper end of the spectrum, you can’t go wrong with the Suunto Core.

#3 Garmin Instinct

sailboat racing watches

Garmin’s more affordable product to make our best watches for sailing list is the Garmin Instinct watch. Garmin call this their outdoor watch, and although it doesn’t have as many fancy features as their Quatix 6, it’s still a fantastic sailing watch.

It’s co nstructed to U.S. Military standard 810G for thermal, shock, and water resistance (rated to 100 meters) so it will withstand being thrown around at sea. It has a built in 3 axis compass and barometric altimeter, plus multiple global navigation satellite systems (GPS, Glonass, and Galileo).

It also has smartphone connectivity so can receive e-mails and texts, and can control smartphone music. It has a thermometer and a heart-rate monitor.

#4 Timex Intelligent Quartz Watch

sailboat racing watches

This might not be up there with the smart sailing watches but for anyone wanting a bit of old-fashioned class from their sailing watch the Timex Intelligent Quartz is one of your best (affordable) choices. This watch will look good both on and off the water and comes with some useful sailing features too!

The tide tracker counts down to high or low tide, it has a thermometer to measure air & water temperature and an analog compass. The dial lights up for night sailing and it’s water resistant to 100m (though note that they recommend it for snorkelling and swimming rather than diving).

✅ Buy Now on Amazon

#5 Ronstan Clear Start Sailing Watch

The Ronstan Clear Start Sailing Watch is designed with race sailors in mind and is a popular choice for those wanting something reliable and purpose-built.

The textured buttons are easy to locate and the numbers are big enough to see at a glance. The multi-line display enables you to see the time and timer together and there’s a backlight option, which is useful in bad lighting or adverse weather conditions.

The SYNC feature quickly synchronises the timer if it’s missed the count-down sequence by a few seconds and the pre-programmed race audible sequence provides a count-down signal so you don’t have to look down.

✅ Buy Now from West Marine

#6 Tissot Sailing-Touch Watch

sailboat racing watches

The Tissot Sailing-Touch is designed with sailors in mind. Its stainless steel case and rubber strap make it rugged and it’s water-resistant to 200 meters.

You can choose 2 time zones for long-distance sails, it has a tide tracker, temperature, and compass.

For race sailors, the REGATTA function consists of a countdown that can be set from 0 to 10 minutes and is used as a timer for the departure procedure of a regatta. When the countdown reaches zero, it transforms into a racing chronograph.

#7 Omega Speedmaster Racing Automatic Chronograph

This is one classy watch by Omega, who make some of the best on the market.

In a stainless steel case with a fixed black aluminum-filled bezel showing tachymeter markings, and a black dial with luminous silver-tone hands, you’ll certainly get compliments on this new addition to your wardrobe.

But what about sailing features? This chronograph watch has three sub-dials displaying 60 seconds, 30 minutes, and 12 hours. It is water resistant to 100 meters, so it will cope with all the salt water you can spray at it, and the scratch resistance is a great feature too.

✅ Buy now from Amazon

#8 MARQ™ Captain Modern Tool Watch

This watch has all the gadgets, but still looks great.

You’ll find a revolutionary regatta timer enhanced with GPS technology which pinpoints the start accurately. There is a tack assist and a man overboard button for the helmsman and it’s water resistant to 100 meters.

It has preloaded marine mapping with GPS navigation, maritime profiles and weather forecasts, including storm alerts and home port conditions.

If the gadgets don’t win you over then the exquisite nautical details will. With navy ceramic bezel and jacquard-weave strap made by artisans in the south of France you’re going to look the part no matter where you are.

✅ Buy now from West Marine

#9 Ulysse Nardin Marine Torpilleur Automatic Chronometer

We love the look of this watch, it’s so classic and timeless. With a stainless steel case and a blue (alligator) leather strap, fixed coin edge stainless steel bezel and blue dial with silver-tone spade-shape hands and Roman numeral hour markers, this watch really looks the part both on and off the water.

It’s water resistant to 50 meters, scratch resistant and has roughly 60 hours power reserve. This watch is pure luxury, and perfect for sailors who want to look the part.

✅ Buy now on Amazon

#10 Panerai Luminor Marina

The Panerai Luminor Marina is a classic sailing watch with modern features. It looks great whether you’re wearing it out sailing or to work, as it doesn’t have the sporty look of some of the other modern sailing watches.

It has an oversized crown that’s easy to grip, even with wet fingers. It’s water resistant to 100 meters.

#11 Omega Seamaster Aqua Terre

Omega really do make incredible watches, and the seamaster Aqua Terre is no exception. You don’t need to see this watch close up to know it’s a step above the rest.

The finishes are impeccable and this stylish watch lands somewhere between sporty and classic, so it goes with every outfit.

This watch has a 150-meter depth rating, a 60-hour power reserve, and a resistance to magnetic fields of up to 15,000 Gauss.

If you’re looking for the perfect watch for days out sailing and every day wear then look no further.

#12 Bulova Marine Star Chronograph

The Bulova Marine Star Chronograph Watch is designed with a gold-tone stainless steel case with rotating dial ring to measure elapsed time. It has some beautiful details, like the red stitching on the blue leather and silicone strap, and the three-piece buckle closure.

It features a six-hand chronograph and is water resistant to 100 meters, so is perfect for days on or in the water.

#13 Frederique Constant Yacht Timer Regatta Countdown

The  Frederique Constant Yacht Timer Regatta Countdown  is one of the more simple and elegant watches on this list. It has a simple sophistication that goes perfectly from yacht to dinner to business.

Featuring a rose gold-plated polished stainless steel case with navy blue dial with guilloché decoration and applied rose gold-plated luminous indexes, and hand polished rose gold-plated hour, minute, orange second hands, this watch looks good on anyone.

It has an automatic FC-380 caliber with a 48-hour power reserve and a 100-meter depth rating.  

What Makes The Best Watches For Sailing?

the best watches for sailing

Rugged Watches For Sailing

A watch used on the water is often exposed to harsh elements for long periods of time. The number one requirement of a watch for sailing is that it can stand up to any weather condition thrown at it.

Look for waterproof and shockproof watches that will withstand the various knocks it’s bound to get out at sea!

Features Of A Sailing Watch

Depending on what you plan on using your sailing watch for (day sailing, cruising, racing), you may not see some of these features as necessary. But here are a range of different tools you can look for in a sailing watch to help you find the perfect one for you.

  • Chronometers – For ultimate accuracy. 
  • Countdown Timers  – especially useful for race sailors to help them 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. 
  • Barometer  – this tool shows the variations in air pressure and can help with predicting upcoming weather conditions and storms. 
  • Tide information  – a tool that can help you keep track of the ebb-and-flow of the ocean. 
  • Multiple time zones  – for longer expeditions when the vessel is crossing into different time zones.  

Sailing Watch Strap

a man wearing one of the best watches for sailing underwater

This might seem like a strange thing to include, but a decent strap could make the difference between a watch that stays on your wrist, or one that falls overboard! If you’re going to invest in a decent watch for sailing then you’ll want to be sure it will stay on you at all times!

Most watches have soft, rubber, synthetic wristbands, which are considered more sustainable than either leather or stainless steel in the sailing environment. Rubber straps are also lighter than stainless and easier to adjust.

You’ll find that the most expensive sailing watches tend to feature a mixture of leather and synthetic wristbands, to add class for a watch that can be worn both on and off the boat.

Conclusion: The Best Sailing Watches

The best watches for sailing don’t have to have all the modern fancy features and there are plenty of affordable options out there that will provide you with the basic tools you need for a safe and enjoyable day out on the water.

For those among you that spend a little more time out at sea, there are some very advanced watches for sailing out there that should make your life on the water a whole lot easier!

If you’re looking for a more detailed review of sailing gear must haves then we’ve got you covered!

We really hope you found what you were looking for in this article. If you found this post useful then please do share and check out some more of our sailing articles below.

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Best Sailing Watches

  • By Sailing World Staff
  • Updated: April 18, 2019

From audible and visual countdowns to help ease the stress of starting, to compasses for detecting line bias and getting your bearings, there’s a perfect sailing watch for every sailor. But if you’re buying your first watch, which one do you choose? It helps to have a few sailing watch reviews to get you started, especially if this is a gift for a friend, and we hope our list of the best sailing watches acts as a guide during your buying process.

Timex Ironman

A good sailing watch has a lot in common with a good crew: dependable, trustworthy, and necessary for the success of any practice, race, or regatta. As a dinghy sailor with a petite wrist, my preference has always been for smaller, more basic watches rather than those with extra sailing-specific functions. The Timex Ironman 30-Lap has been my watch of choice in recent years. It’s easy to start and reset the countdown, plus the option for a rolling countdown makes team race starts easy to follow. While I’ll always appreciate the simplicity of the Ironman, the following five watches made with sailing in mind are, well, better-suited for the purpose.

Aquastar Match Race Sailing Watch

The Aquastar Match Race line immediately caught my eye with its visual display of the countdown using five small circles above the time. Every thirty seconds equals half a circle, and you’ll see the circles empty from left to right as the clock ticks down. The watch also gives you a double beep every minute and a single beep every second during the final 10 seconds. It was the quietest watch I tested (which can be a good thing if you don’t want a lot of noise in sequence). A double-click of the sync button rounds the clock down to the next minute, and the stopwatch starts after the gun. The Swiss import is simple with a single screen on the mineral crystal display. The back of the stainless steel case is engraved with the time zones for major cities—a perfect bonus for traveling. It was one of the smaller models of the group, but it’s also a little heavier because of the materials it’s made with. My model (9010) has a black rubber band, but the bands also come in navy, orange, and yellow in rubber, leather, and Velcro.

Gill Regatta Master II Sailing Watch

The Gill Regatta Master Watch II takes advantage of its large display in the last minute of the countdown, when the seconds remaining until the start take over the screen. If that visual isn’t enough, the countdown is also audible: It beeps every minute up until one minute, then every 10 seconds, then every second in the last 10. You can then program it to either start a timer or roll into the next start. One button will sync the watch down to the next minute or round to the nearest minute depending on your settings, and a double-click of another button resets the countdown. I was able to calibrate the watch’s compass easily after reading the manual and giving it a couple of tries. The compass has a backward bearing mode and a lock function to save coordinates. You can put the watch in power saving mode with a blank screen after racing. If you forget, you’ll get a low-battery warning when it’s time to recharge. This was the biggest wristwatch of the group (excluding the Ronstan ClearStart Race Timer). However, it was surprisingly lightweight.

Optimum Time sailing watch

The U.K.-based Optimum Time offers a range of sailing-specific wristwatches designed with a "simple is good" philosophy. Their watches have different shapes (round or square), materials (stainless steel or plastic), and wrist straps (Velcro or rubber). Similar to other Optimum Time models, the OS224 that I tried has large digits and features a countdown and an alarm. The countdown is intuitive and gives you the option to roll into the next start afterwards or start a stopwatch. The sync feature drops the clock down to the next full minute with the push of a button. It was the loudest of the group. I silenced the countdown because there was a bit too much beeping involved for my liking (two beeps every second when you were 10 seconds from the start, and then three beeps every second from 5 seconds to the gun—on top of the normal warnings throughout the sequence). I liked the style and simplicity of this one, and as the smallest watch I tried, it fit me the best of the group.

Ronstan ClearStart Race Timer Sailing Watch

The Ronstan ClearStart Race Timer is not a watch you would want to wear to the bar, but its oversized display is ideal for nailing the starting line on time, even if you forget your prescription sunglasses. The watch is a breeze to use with two modes: time and countdown. Just press the big red button to start the countdown (you can't miss it), and a push of the sync button will drop the countdown to the next minute. The timer has the same alarms as the OS224, but the tone of the timer is slightly deeper. (Optimum Time manufactures the watch for Ronstan and offers a similar "big yellow" OS 315 timer.) You can silence the alarms if you want, and you can also program it for rolling starts or to start a timer afterwards. A low-battery warning ensures you'll never miss a start. Even though it's huge, an elastic band pulls it tight to any size wrist. Plus you can rotate the display in its case to get a better viewing angle from your hiking straps; you can even mount it on your mast.

Suunto Regatta Sailing Watch

The Suunto Regatta has everything you might need, and then some. The Finnish import features an audible sailing timer that gives you a double beep every full minute you're in sequence and every 10 seconds during the last minute, and then a beep every second during the last 10 seconds. Plus, 60 little bars run the perimeter of the display to give you a visual representation of the seconds left to the gun. You can sync the watch to the nearest minute with the click of a button, and the time of day shows below the countdown. After the start, the stopwatch automatically starts—there's no option for rolling starts. The watch also has a traditional countdown timer, three alarms, and a low battery warning. Taking advantage of the other goodies that come with the price tag requires a quick study of the 32-page manual. The electronic compass has a leveling bubble, a bearing tracking function, a rotating bezel ring, and marks on the display to help you find the favored end of the line. It's an average size compared to the others in the group, and it won't weigh down your wrist.

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Best Sailing Watches of 2024: The Ultimate Guide to Setting Sail in Style!

Reviewed by Tim West

Note: As a reader-supported site, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you when you purchase through links in this post; your support helps us maintain our content, read more .

best sailing watches

This is a review of the best sailing watches in 2024 . 

As someone who’s spent a considerable amount of time sailing, I know a reliable sailing watch is a must-have during any journey.

It’s not just about time, it’s about getting key info to make your journey smooth and rewarding.

But, I get it – with so many choices and features out there, picking the right sailing watch can feel like navigating stormy seas. You’re balancing water resistance, durability, and accuracy, plus high-tech features like GPS, MOB alerts, race countdown timers, weather data, and more.

No worries, though! I’ve got your back. I’ve sailed these waters before, and I’m here to guide you through. 

Let’s begin this journey to discover the best sailing watches available for serious sailors.

Best Sailing Watch

Garmin MARQ Captain : Best Equipped Sailing Watch

Garmin Quatix 7 : Best Sailing Watch With Smart Features

Ronstan ClearStart Race Timer : Best Sailing Watch For Racing

Optimum Time Series 3 Race Timer : Best Large Display Sailing Watch For Racing

Casio Tide Graph Moon Phase : Best Budget-Friendly Sailing Watch

Table of Contents

Looking to upgrade your sailing wardrobe? Don’t miss our comprehensive Sailing Outfit Guide , designed to ensure you’re optimally prepared for every weather condition and sailing challenge.

Best Sailing Watches Reviewed

Garmin marq captain.

Garmin MARQ Captain

Display Size: 1.2” (30.4 mm) diameter

Water Rating: 10 ATM (330ft / 100m)

Battery Life: Up to 12 days (Smartwatch mode)

Pros: With its advanced features, the Garmin MARQ Captain offers sailors real-time boat data,  weather, and tidal data, an accurate regatta timer, MOB (man overboard), and a tack assist function. This ensures you’re always a step ahead, making informed decisions for exceptional sailing performance.

Cons: The MARQ Captain comes with a steep price tag. Also, utilizing its full range of features requires a solid understanding of its functionalities, which could be a learning curve for some users.

As a long-time sailor, Garmin is a brand I’ve grown to trust. Known for their commitment to precision and innovation, their latest offering, the MARQ Captain, is no exception.

Firstly, the real-time weather and tidal data right on your wrist is a godsend. No more guessing or approximations, it’s about making informed decisions for your sailing trip. As someone who has sailed since the times this technology was almost non-existent, this feature alone is a game-changer for me.

The Garmin MARQ Captain has also revolutionized how I start my races. The regatta timer, backed by enhanced GPS, ensures that I start my races exactly on time. It feels like having a personal assistant counting down for me.

As for the ‘tack assist’ function, it’s an incredible tool that tells me whether I’m on a lift or a header. It’s like having a second pair of expert eyes on the water. Plus, the MOB button is an essential safety feature I enjoy sailing with and gives me peace of mind.

This classic sailing watch also integrates with the onboard technology of my boat. Streaming boat data directly to my wrist, or controlling Garmin’s Fusion audio systems—you name it, the MARQ Captain does it. It’s like having your boat on your wrist.

The watch’s aesthetics are impressive, too. The navy ceramic bezel, jacquard-weave strap—every detail speaks to the thought and craftsmanship that’s gone into it. It feels good to wear, and it turns heads.

I also love the always-on display and waterproof capability up to 100 meters. The QuickFit® mechanism on the jacquard-weave nylon strap makes it comfortable for long wear.

The GPS sailing features including speed, distance, heading, and a virtual starting line are like my personal dashboard on the water. Having a time-to-burn calculator is incredibly helpful, too.

Lastly, the preloaded marine mapping and weather forecasts, including storm alerts and home port conditions, really round out the Garmin MARQ Captain as the best sailing watch for anyone serious about their time on the water.

So, if you’re looking for the perfect watch on the market, do yourself a favor and give the Garmin MARQ Captain a serious look. I can personally vouch for its outstanding features and benefits— this durable timepiece it’s well worth the investment.

Garmin Quatix 7

Garmin quatix 7

Display Size: 1.3” (33 mm) diameter

Battery Life: Up to 16 days (Smartwatch mode)

Pros: Advanced navigational features and comprehensive connectivity with select compatible Garmin devices, providing critical data right on your wrist. Bright display, ensuring readability even in direct sunlight.

Cons: High price points might deter budget-conscious buyers. 

The Garmin Quatix 7 is a unique multisport GPS smartwatch that is as useful on the water as it is off. As a previous user of the Quatix 6, I was excited to experience the updated features of the Quatix 7, and it did not disappoint.

The first thing you’ll notice about the Quatix 7 is its bright AMOLED display, which is a notable upgrade from the Quatix 6. This AMOLED display basically means you get rich, vivid colors and excellent image quality compared to other display technologies. The Quatix 7’s display is considerably brighter, making it much easier to read, especially in direct sunlight. 

However, some users have flagged that the extra brightness brings down the watch’s battery life compared to its predecessor Quatix 6 This wasn’t my case and I guess it all depends on which one of the watch’s features you use on a regular basis. 

As for its navigational capabilities, the Quatix 7 excels with its support for coastal charts and inland maps. It offers comprehensive connectivity with select compatible Garmin chartplotters using the free Garmin Connect app,  Fusion-Link™ entertainment system control, and even autopilot control. It’s also embedded with BlueChart® g3 charts and LakeVü g3 maps, which are perfect for any water-based adventure.

One standout feature for me is the watch’s ability to connect to my boat’s compatible devices and provide data like water depth, engine RPM, wind, and more right on my wrist. It even alerts me to imminent swell changes and anchor drag, offering a level of situational awareness that is incredibly useful when on the water.

The Quatix 7 also shines off the water, offering a suite of health monitoring and sports apps. It consistently samples your heart rate, even underwater, and provides advanced sleep monitoring and a recovery time advisor for post-workout.

This Garmin sailing watch is as rugged as it is sophisticated, with a scratch-resistant sapphire lens and a comfortable silicone strap. It’s designed to fit comfortably on wrists with a circumference of 125-208mm. It’s also water-rated to 10 ATM, so it can easily handle your aquatic adventures.

Overall, the Garmin Quatix 7 offers a wide array of features that will appeal to both boating enthusiasts and multisport athletes alike. Its bright display, comprehensive connectivity, and health monitoring capabilities make it a versatile and duarable companion for any adventure, whether it’s on land or sea. However, be prepared for a bit of a learning curve.

While this sailing watch has a somewhat steep price point and complex features, its benefits and capabilities make it an investment worth considering. From the accurate GPS and useful navigational features to its health-tracking features and impressive durability, this smartwatch offers a comprehensive package for any sailing enthusiast.

So, if you’re looking for a reliable, feature-rich wearable timepiece that can keep up with your adventures, I encourage you to consider this sailing smart watch. Its blend of practical features and rugged construction is designed with you in mind, ready to meet the unique challenges and demands of life at sea.

Ronstan Clear Start Race Timer

RONSTAN ClearStart Race Timer

Display Size: Oversized 5/8″ (16mm) digit display

Water Rating: 5 ATM (165ft / 50m)

Battery Life: Not specified

Pros: The Ronstan ClearStart sailing watch stands out with its large display and intuitive race sequence synchronization feature. These make it the perfect companion for racing sailors who value precision and ease of use.

Cons: While the watch excels in many areas, some users have reported difficulties trying to turn the watch on (watch the video below for a guide on how to solve this issue!).

When it comes to sailing gear, Ronstan is a name that commands respect. Their products are hailed worldwide for their innovativeness, and the ClearStart Race Timer is a proud addition to their portfolio.

Now, onto the watch. Imagine you’re out on the water, the sun’s gleaming, and you’re gearing up for a race. The large display of this sailing watch is a sight for sore eyes, with 5/8″ (16mm) digits that are a breeze to read, even from the boom or mast base. For an average sailor, it’s a relief not having to strain their eyes in crucial race moments.

The Multiple Start Sequence options are a great feature of this watch, offering World Sailing 5,4,1,0, Match Racing, and User Set. It’s like having a Swiss army knife of sailing watches. No matter your race type, this watch has got you covered.

I’ve always loved the SYNChronisation function on this watch. It’s easy to start the countdown too early or too late in the heat of the moment, but this feature brings you right back on track with the official race time. You’ll love how it keeps you on track, making your sailing experience smoother.

We all appreciate an alert when we’re up against time. With this watch’s pre-programmed race sequence sounds you’ll know exactly where you are in the start sequence. It’s like having your personal assistant on board, keeping you updated without having to glance at the watch.

Then there’s the multi-line display, showing the start sequences and time concurrently. It’s all there – no switching between modes needed. It’s almost like this watch reads your mind.

And the flexibility it offers! The countdown can repeat at the end of a sequence or start counting up to track elapsed race time. Plus, the separate fast access to Race and Time mode scrolling makes navigation a breeze.

As sailors, we value a watch that can withstand the elements. This watch is water-resistant up to 50 meters and shock-resistant, too. You can confidently wear it without fear of damage, even in the most rigorous of races.

Finally, it’s worth mentioning the diverse mounting options this watch offers – wrist, hull, mast, or boom. This adaptability to different positions caters to personal preferences and optimizes functionality based on your needs.

The Ronstan ClearStart Race Timer isn’t just a watch; it’s a versatile companion that meets the unique demands of a sailing enthusiast. So, check out this sailing watch, folks. It’s not often you come across a combination of practicality, durability, and sleek design. 

OptimumTime OS3 Race Timer

OptimumTime OS Series 3

Pros: Large display and buttons for easy navigation; Multiple start sequence options and a sync button make it perfect for competitive sailing.

Cons: The large size might not suit everyone.

In the sailing world, the ‘big yellow timer’ has quite the reputation. It’s renowned for its blend of robustness and user-friendly functionality, making it a go-to choice for sailors across the globe.

One thing that genuinely stands out about this Optimum sailing watch is its large, rotatable display. You see, it’s not just about the size, but the flexibility it offers. With a quick twist, you can adjust the viewing angle for optimal readability. No more squinting or awkward wrist twists to check the time while you’re tacking.

The timer function of this sailor watch is nothing short of impressive. Whether you’re a fan of the standard 12 or 24-hour format or need something a bit more advanced like the pre-programmed 5,4,1,0 ISAF start sequences, this watch has got you covered. You’ll appreciate the audible alarms too – just the nudge you need without being too intrusive.

We’ve all had those ‘oops’ moments when we’ve missed a gun. But here’s where this watch comes into its own. The sync button is a lifesaver – one press, and you’re back in sync with the race control timer. You can start your countdown late or early, and this watch will still keep you on track.

Despite its size, this sailing watch is surprisingly comfortable to wear, thanks to the adjustable elasticated strap and the neat, low-profile buttons. Even better, it’s water-resistant up to 5 ATM and built to withstand shocks, meaning it can handle whatever your sailing adventures throw at it.

Finally, there’s the backlight feature. As someone who enjoys sailing into the sunset, I can tell you how invaluable this is. Whether you’re in a race or simply navigating at night, being able to see your watch clearly is a game-changer.

If you’re on the lookout for the best watch for sailing out there, you can’t go wrong with this big yellow timer. It’s more than just a sailing watch; it’s a reliable partner that will make your sailing experience smoother and more enjoyable. 

So, don’t wait any longer. Check it out for yourself and see the difference it makes.

Casio Tide Graph Moon Phase

Casio Tide Graph Moon phase

Display Size: 1.6” (42 mm)

Battery Life: Up to 10 years

Pros: This Casio sailing watch offers practical features including sea level graphs and moon phase, which any sailor can appreciate. The durability and extensive battery life of this watch make it a steadfast partner for maritime adventures.

Cons: Though sturdy, it does not provide the advanced features and capabilities available in modern smart sailing watches.  

Let’s chat about Casio. This brand, renowned for bringing innovations that meet our latent needs, continues to delight with its range of reliable products. One of which is their tough watches.

This watch is like your personal almanac on your wrist, providing world and dual time features and even displaying moon data like the moon’s age and phase. Being on the open sea, it’s you, your vessel, and this Casio watch acting as your guide.

The tide information for specific dates and times is a great feature when planning your sailing strategy. 

Built to last, this watch has a resilient resin casing and is water-resistant up to 100 meters. No more worrying about a wave splash, or an accidental drop in the water. This watch is likely to survive countless sailing escapades without skipping a beat.

One of the standout attributes of this watch is its remarkable battery life. Imagine not having to worry about a battery change for approximately 10 years! That’s a whole decade of worry-free sailing adventures.

The LED light feature is really useful when you’re sailing during dawn or dusk. With a selectable illumination duration, it ensures the watch is always easy to read in any lighting condition.

While this watch offers an array of useful features for any sailor, it’s important to note that it doesn’t include the kind of specialized sailing and racing features found in some of the higher-end sailing watches we’ve talked about. I am talking GPS, maps, boat data capabilities, connectivity etc. 

But if you’re looking for an entry-level, budget-friendly option to simply track time during your sailing adventures, this Casio watch is a strong contender. It might not be the most high-tech option out there, but it certainly delivers on functionality and reliability.

So, if you’re searching for a new sailing watch that offers great value for money, give this Casio a look. It may not be the most specialized watch for our purposes, but it holds its own with many of the best sailing watches in terms of practicality and durability. 

Ready for your next adventure on the waves? Don’t miss out on this sailing companion! Check out the Casio Tide Graph Moon Phase today and make it your reliable mate for all your sailing adventures.

What To Look For When Choosing A Top Sailing Watch in 2024

Sailing watches aren’t just timekeepers; they’re precision instruments engineered with the sailor in mind. These timepieces often include unique features such as tidal information and weather predictions, serving as starting points for the sailor’s journey. Advanced models go further, offering dedicated navigational features and racing chronographs essential for when the countdown reaches zero at the start of a race.

Their functionality extends beyond the typical scope of regular watches. These watches are not just about keeping time but are integral in keeping sailors safe and well-informed on the water. With waterproof designs, they withstand the challenging marine environment, ensuring reliability whether you’re racing or cruising.

Finding the best watches requires considering your specific sailing needs. Sailors use these watches for a variety of purposes, from timing maneuvers as the race countdown reaches zero to navigating through treacherous waters. The right watch is suitable not just as a timepiece but as a tool for precision and safety in every sailing scenario.

Whether your focus is on competitive racing or leisurely cruising, understanding and selecting a watch that aligns with your sailing needs is crucial. This guide aims to navigate you through the options, ensuring the watch you choose enhances your sailing experience.

Key Considerations for Sailors

When it comes to choosing a sailing watch, you need to consider its waterproof capability, as we’re dealing with a pretty wet environment! Durability is crucial too – it needs to withstand the rigors of saltwater, sun, and hard use. 

Accuracy is vital as well, particularly for racing, where seconds matter. And let’s not forget ease of use. You want something that’s intuitive to operate, even in challenging conditions.

Essential Features of Sailing Watches

A top-notch sailing watch should include features like race countdown and race start functions to keep you competitive during races. GPS capabilities help you navigate and plan routes, while a compass keeps you oriented. 

Being able to access tidal data and barometric pressure info can be a real game-changer, offering you insights into local conditions and upcoming weather patterns. 

Some advanced sailing watches even offer charting or plotter capabilities, allowing you to view electronic charts directly on your watch, providing a visual representation of your position relative to coastlines, landmarks, and other navigational information.

Timing Functions and Accuracy When Yachting

Timing is everything in sailing, and what you look for in a sailing watch is crucial. A good sailing watch will offer a range of timing functions like countdown time for racing and other regatta timers.

These tools help a race sailboat captain countdown to the start of a race and control pacing. Split timing for tracking multiple events can also come in handy when using your watch, especially for racers juggling multiple tasks.

Water Resistance and Durability

Sailing watches are rated for their ability to withstand water exposure, and a high water resistance rating is key. Your watch certainly needs to be durable, capable of handling not just splashes but also sustained submersion. It should be constructed with a rugged case and scratch-resistant glass to keep the watch performing in top condition. Tough materials like stainless steel or hard resin are ideal to ensure the watch stands up to the sea’s demands.

You’ll find that these watches are typically rated at 5 ATM or 10 ATM, indicating they can endure pressures equivalent to depths of 50 meters or 100 meters, respectively. This level of water resistance is essential to keep the watch protected during various activities, including sailing, swimming, and even light diving.

GPS and Navigation Features

Advanced sailing watches often feature integrated positioning capabilities, enabling you to navigate more accurately. With this feature, you can have distance travelled and GPS routes displayed on the watch, calculate speed, and even mark and record waypoints  This helps with route planning and can be a lifesaver if you get off course.

Environmental Sensors and Data

Modern sailing watches can include sensors to measure temperature, barometric pressure, and compass heading. Access to real-time tidal data can help you plan your route and timing, especially for long-distance sailing. These features give you a better understanding of your environment and allow you to make more informed decisions on the water.

Design and Comfort

Watches these days are designed to provide the best in both style and functionality for sailors. Not only should a sailing watch be lightweight and easy to read in various lighting conditions, but it should also ensure comfort.

Most watches have soft rubber or synthetic straps, ideal for the marine environment and preferable over metal for safety and durability. These materials provide the best combination of comfort and resilience, essential for sailors who need quick and easy access to data on a well-designed watch face.

Brand and Price Considerations

In your search for the perfect sailing watch, brands like Garmin, RONSTAN,  Rolex, Timex and Optimum Time are renowned for their quality, enhancing the experience of sailing. While expensive sailing watches may seem like a hefty investment, they often provide superior performance and durability, key qualities to look for in sailing gear.

Remember, a quality sailing watch may not only elevate your experience sailing but can also serve as an exceptional sailing gift. The right choice, though pricier, pays off in the long run.

Maintenance and Care

Maintaining your sailing watch is crucial for its longevity. You’ll need to keep an eye on the battery life and possibly consider regular servicing to keep the watch’s internal mechanisms in top shape. As for cleaning, rinse the watch in fresh water after each sailing trip to remove any salt or dirt. With proper care, your sailing watch can serve you well for many years.

Final Words

Well, there you have it! After navigating through our guide to the best watches specifically for sailing, it’s clear that the Garmin MARQ Captain stands out as the premier choice for sailors who want the best.

This timepiece is more than a watch; it’s a testament to what makes the best in maritime timekeeping. With its precise navigation capabilities and crystal-clear display, it is perfectly tailored for sailors.

The Garmin MARQ Captain not only meets but exceeds the expectations of sailors who want a watch designed specifically for sailing, boasting a wealth of features dedicated to their unique needs.

Happy sailing as you embark on your adventures with one of the finest watches for sailors!

Why not explore more? We’ve got other sailing articles that you might find interesting:

  • Best Sailing Hats
  • Best Sailing Shoes
  • Best Sailing Jackets
  • Best Sailing Sunglasses
  • Best Sailing Movies
  • Best Sailing Gloves

Do you need a sailing watch?

A sailing watch is beneficial for serious or competitive sailors, offering features such as waterproofing, race countdown timers, and navigational aids. For casual sailing, a standard watch may suffice, but for enhanced safety and performance, a sailing watch is a valuable asset.

Are sailing watches reliable?

Absolutely, sailing watches are built to be reliable under extreme sailing conditions. They’re designed to withstand the elements and to provide crucial data accurately. Their reliability, however, depends on the quality of the watch, so always choose a reputable brand.

What features should a good sailing watch have?

Watches for serious sailors typically have a countdown timer for races, water resistance, durability, and a clear display. Advanced features can include GPS, barometric pressure tracking, temperature sensors, tidal data, and a compass.

What is a good watch for sailing?

The Garmin MARQ Captain is an excellent choice for sailing, offering a wealth of specialized sailing and racing features. For a budget-friendly option, Casio’s Tide Graph Moon Phase is a solid choice with basic yet valuable features for any sailor.

What makes a sailing watch?

A sailing watch is specifically designed to assist sailors with functions such as countdown timers, tidal data, and accurate timekeeping. They’re built to withstand harsh marine conditions, offering high water resistance and durability.

Which Garmin watch is best for sailing?

The Garmin MARQ Captain is the best for serious sailing. The Garmin Quatix 7 is also good and a bit cheaper. It has many useful features for sailing too. You can learn more about these watches in this article.

What is a nautical watch?

A nautical watch, also known as a sailing watch, is designed to assist sailors with useful features such as tidal information, countdown timers for races, GPS for navigation, and strong water resistance. They’re built to endure marine conditions and provide sailors with the necessary data for their adventures.

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Best Sailing Watches of 2024

Watches and sailing go together. Sailboat racers have very particular timekeeping needs, and premium watchmakers have long sought the cachet of association with high-end yacht races. That association produces some truly extravagant timepieces. If the $200,000 price tag on the Breguet Marine Equation Marchante 5887 seems excessive, you can always settle for the Rolex Oyster Perpetual Yachtmaster-II at a mere $18,750! Fortunately, watchmakers recognize that sailors of slightly humbler means also use sailing-specific watches, and they’ve responded with an array of affordable timepieces that can stand up to the rigors of sailing and provide many of the same features found on the most refined models. This guide to the best sailing watches should help you choose one that suits your needs.

For more of our top sailing gear recommendations, check out the Best Sailing Gloves .

Quick Answer - The Best Sailing Watches

  • Optimum Time Series 3 Sailing Timer View at Amazon
  • Ronstan Clear Start View at Amazon
  • Timex Intelligent Quartz Yacht Racer View at Amazon
  • Tissot Sailing-Touch View at Amazon
  • Garmin Quatix 6 View at Amazon

Comparison Table - Best Sailing Watches

Reviews - best watches for sailing, optimum time series 3 sailing timer.

  • Water Resistance : To 50 meters/5 ATM
  • Battery : Replaceable CR2032
  • Display Size : 65mm
  • Band : Elastic
  • Multiple Specialist Race Timing And Countdown Options
  • Luminous Backlight For Use In The Dark
  • Can Be Mounted On A Mast Or Boom
  • Huge 16mm Digits For Easy Visibility

BEST BUDGET SAILING WATCH

Optimum Time brings you a full-featured sailing watch with an impressive array of features and a remarkably accessible price tag in the Series 3. The “big yellow watch” is well-known and popular, and you can look around almost any club race and spot a number of these mounted on wrists and ready for action! If you don’t want to mount it on your wrist, there’s a bracket for mounting on your mast or boom, and the massive display and audible countdowns make it easily usable from a distance. The face can be rotated 360 degrees to give you a clear view in any mounting situation.

There’s a full range of pre-programmed countdown and count-up sequences also a re-sync feature that allows you to reset to race time if you miss the starting gun. We never do that, of course, but it’s good to know we’re covered if it happens!

Ronstan Clear Start

  • Water Resistance : 50 meters/5 ATM
  • Display Size : 50mm
  • Band : Silicone
  • Large 13mm Digits Can Be Read At A Glance
  • Pre-Programmed Race Start Sequences
  • Multi-Line Display Shows Race Time And Real Time
  • Durable Fiber-Reinforced Resin Body

BEST VALUE RACING WATCH

Ronstan claims that the Clear Start is “the most popular sailing watch in the world”, and it’s hard to contest that claim. The latest generation of the Clear Start model packs a host of race-specific features into a well-planned interface that gives you fast access to key features and is easy to master. The watch is water and shock resistant and the case and crystal are solid enough to stand up to regular racing. 

The Clear Start provides great value in a race-specific watch, but it is primarily designed for racing, and if you’re a recreational sailor who prefers exploration to competition, it’s probably not the best choice.

Timex Intelligent Quartz Yacht Racer

  • Water Resistance : 100 meters/10 ATM
  • Battery : Replaceable CR2016
  • Display Size : 45mm
  • Band : Silicon
  • Dedicated 4th Hand For Compass Readout
  • Air Or Water Temperature Readings In Fahrenheit Or Celsius
  • Indiglo Night Light Illuminates Face In Low Light Conditions
  • Tide Tracker Counts Down To Next Low Or High Tide

BEST IF YOU DON’T RACE

Not all sailors race and not everyone wants a race timer with a digital display. This offering from Timex delivers a sleek, traditional analog package that will appeal to non-racing sailors. The body is crafted from a solid steel casting and the watch combines durability with elegance. The race-specific timing functions are replaced by more general marine features that all boaters will find useful: an effective compass, a thermometer that will measure air or water temperature, and a tide tracker. It’s an appealing package for the marine enthusiast who isn’t all about competition.

Some reviewers found the multi-dial functions confusing, so you can expect to spend a little time with the owner’s manual to master everything the watch can do. As with any watch offering temperature readings, you’ll have to remove the watch from your wrist to get an accurate reading, as body heat can skew the results.

Tissot Sailing-Touch

  • Battery : Replaceable LR44
  • Band : Stainless Steel
  • Weather Forecasting Function Tracks 6-Hour Barometric Pressure Trends
  • Regatta Mode For Start Countdown And Time Synchronization
  • Integrated Compass and Speed Tracking
  • Tide Tracker Gives Current Tide State, Ebb Or Flow, And Time To High Or Low

BEST ANALOG DIAL SAILING WATCH

If you prefer the look of a traditional chronograph but want a full range of sailing-specific functions, The Tissot Sailing-Touch will grab your attention. This Swiss manufacturer has a long history of making practical, elegant sailing watches, and the Sailing-Touch continues that tradition. You get start countdown and time synchronization functions for racing, a functional compass for navigation, and tide and weather tracking to keep tabs on sailing conditions. The whole package comes wrapped in a stylish, durable stainless steel case and combines the appeal of the traditional watch dial with fully modern functionality.

The Tissot Sailing-Touch delivers many of the features and much of the visual appeal that you’ll find in sailing watches that cost many thousands of dollars and brings them to market at a reasonable price. It’s a top pick for sailing enthusiasts looking for an affordable high-quality analog-dial sailing watch.

Garmin Quatix 6

  • Display Size : 30.5mm
  • Multifunction Touch Screen
  • Bluetooth Connectivity To Your Boat’s Garmin Navigation Instruments
  • Activity Profiles And Performance Metrics For Multiple Water Sports
  • Full GPS Navigation Capability
  • Garmin SailAssist Suite Of Sailing-Specific Functions

BEST GPS SAILING WATCH

They call it a smartwatch for a reason. Lots of sailing watches will give you a race countdown. The Quatix 6 will show you a virtual starting line, your distance from the starting line, your position relative to the starting line, your speed, wind direction and speed, and your tack angle. Other sailing watches will give you tide and barometric pressure data; the Quatix 6 gives you a continuous link to your boat’s entire navigation suite (check for compatibility). You get GPS navigation and tracking functions, a 3-axis electronic compass, a wrist-based heart rate monitor and much more. It also tells the time!

The only real downside here is that the sheer number of functions and options can be overwhelming: if you like to keep it simple, this may not be the watch for you. If you’re willing to spend some time working out what it can do and how to get it done, you’ll have one of the most effective wrist-based information systems on the market!

THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING A SAILING WATCH

All sailing watches are water-resistant. They usually offer a visual and often audible countdown designed to help racers time their approach to a starting line and set an ideal starting position. That’s just the beginning. Many modern sailing watches can provide barometric pressure, tide data, compass bearing and much more. Some can double up as a GPS and take on advanced navigation functions. You can fit a lot of power on your wrist, and you don’t need to spend a small fortune to get it!

DO YOU RACE?

What most manufacturers call a “sailing watch” might be better described as a “regatta watch”: the niche is largely defined by race-specific functions. If you race or you’re thinking about racing and learning how race starts work, these functions are important. If you don’t race and don’t intend to race, you’ll be looking for a solid water-resistant watch that offers functions like barometric pressure readings, tide status, and even the navigation capacity offered by wrist-based GPS units.   

GPS FUNCTIONS

If your sailing is more about journeys and exploration than competition, you may want to look for a GPS-equipped “smartwatch”. Many sport-oriented smartwatches also offer race-specific functions. If you’re interested in this type, check out this guide to choosing a GPS sports watch .  

STYLE MATTERS

Most of us don’t wear a sailing watch exclusively for sailing. You may not wear it every day, but it’s likely to go on your wrist well before a race or an expedition and stay on it for a while after. If you have specific preferences in watch styling, take those into consideration! Some people like digital watches, some like analog, some prefer stainless steel bands, others silicon. Find a watch you like to look at, and wearing it will make you happier!

SPECS AND FEATURES EXPLAINED

Water resistance.

Manufacturers specify water resistance in different terms. Some state a specific depth of water, some cite pressure in ATM, which is the pressure equivalent to atmospheric weight. 10 ATM is 10x the weight and pressure of the atmosphere. One ATM is roughly equivalent to ten meters according to the depth rating criteria. 

Note that a “50 Meters” rating does not mean that a watch is safe to use at that depth. Activity that moves the watch through the water greatly increases the pressure, especially if it involves significant speed, like a high dive into the water. In general, a 50m or 5 ATM rating is considered safe from splashing or rain, while 100m or 10 ATM is preferred for swimming, snorkeling, and other sports requiring sustained immersion. Remember that impacts can compromise water resistance, even if there’s no visible damage!

For more information, check out this comprehensive guide to water resistance ratings .

RACE TIMING FUNCTIONS

Sailboat racing is unique in that much of what goes into winning happens before the race starts. Getting to the starting line at the right time and position relative to the wind, the course, and the other contestants often determines who wins and loses. If you’re at the helm you need to keep an eye on the race countdown and your position on the water at the same time, which is why the sailing watch and its race-specific features are so important to racers. Race starts and the rules that govern them are complicated and take some time to master. Sailing World offers this advice on sailboat racing rules at the starting line and Yachts & Yachting contributes this advice on how to start faster .  

Most watches use a replaceable battery. The batteries typically last a long time, and it’s easy to forget they are there until they finally run out! If watch batteries aren’t readily available in your area, consider ordering extras with the purchase of your watch.

For more of our top sailing gear recommendations, check out these popular buyer's guides:

Sailboat Anchors

Sailboat Winches

Sailing Shoes

Solar Panels for Sailboats

Bilge Pumps

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Best Boating Watches For The Avid Sailor

Best Boating Watches For The Avid Sailor | Life of Sailing

Last Updated by

Daniel Wade

May 1, 2023

‍ Key Takeaways

  • Sailing watches come in many variations and intended uses
  • A digital sailing watch can be ideal if you enjoy advanced technology on the water
  • Many sailing watches can track your data in real-time and give feedback
  • A great sailing watch does not have to break the bank but some are quite expensive
  • Sailing watches are often used for sailing races to help track the countdown timer

‍ Sailing watches are quite useful for sailors that spend a lot of time on the water. But what are the best watches for boating?

The best sailing watches are from reputable brands such as Seiko, Tissot, Casio, Garmin and Optimum. There are other sailing watch brands that make a competitive product such as Wrist Armor, Garmin, and Timex. What makes one sailing watch better than another will vary based on many factors.

Accurate timekeeping is crucial when sailing and that is why certified sailing watches are necessary. Dive watches are similar and they offer more benefits for sailing due to their complexity. In my experience there is a watch to suit every need.

Table of contents

‍ 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

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.

  • Helps keep up with your activities
  • Can keep track of vitals and has GPS
  • Has sailing assistance capabilities
  • Might be too expensive compared to other brands
  • Smartwatch might not work for those that have difficulty with electronics

Seiko Divers Watch

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.

  • Sturdy enough to handle many water activities
  • Quality construction and water-resistant
  • Classic look that many boaters admire
  • Large wrists might not work with wrist strap
  • Bezel might be difficult to rotate

Casio Sport Sailing Watch

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.

  • Solid water resistance of 328 feet
  • Arguably the most affordable under $30
  • Constructed from resin with a sturdy buckle fastening
  • Not meant for diving deep or long periods in the water
  • Difficult to see at night or dark environments

Optimum Sailing Watch Time Series

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.

  • 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
  • Strap can become floppy or weakened over time
  • Does not allow for custom countdown features

Ronstan Race Timer Sailing Watch

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.

  • 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
  • Might need to practice working it before a race
  • Instructions are somewhat unclear

Bulova Marine Star

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.

  • 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
  • Glow fades quickly
  • Cannot be used for long diving adventures
  • Might be too expensive for some

SUUNTO Core Sailing Watch

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.

  • Water-resistant up to 65 feet
  • Can be used in different languages
  • Has a barometer and compass as well as an altimeter
  • Bezel is plastic and has printed numbers
  • Backlight might be hard to see

Tissot Sailing Watch Multi-Function

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.

  • 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
  • Rubber strap is not the most durable
  • Backlight not as bright as it could be

Garmin Instinct Watch

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.

  • 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
  • Not a great battery life
  • Seems to lag when connected to iOS devices

Wrist Armor Sport Watch

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.

  • Best suited for swimming or light water activities
  • Affordable and has dual time, alarm, and backlight
  • Water-resistant up to 165 feet

Timex Intelligent Quartz

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.

  • 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
  • Not meant for diving
  • Bezel attached to plastic channel

Nautica Sport Watch

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.

  • Easy to dials with 24-hour timekeeping
  • Durable and scratch-resistant
  • 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:

  • 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.

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 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 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
  • Speed tracking

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.

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Best sailing watches: 16 options for racing and cruising

Best sailing watches: 16 options for racing and cruising best sailing watches 2022 300x169 1 BB Yacht Charter Marbella

Fox Morgan, Phil Sampson and Roger Hughes trst and review 16 of the best sailing watches available with functions for racing and cruising sailors

best-sailing-watches-2022

Just as tablets and even smartphones have revolutionised how sailors use multifunction displays and instruments, so the latest smart watch technology has now firmly filtered into sailing. While we’re now familiar with using our watches to give us directions, make calls and send messages, and act as a repeater screen on our wrists ashore, so the latest sailing watches also make navigation, data and comms technology wearable afloat.

However, the cleverest watch is not always the best watch for sailing. For racing an extremely simple and speedy to operate model may suit better. Price is not always an indicator of functionality either; even some of the least expensive sailing watches, like the Casio we showcase below, can be packed with features.

At the other end of the scale,  luxury horology brands – including Rolex, Panerai, and Omega among others – have long been closely associated with sailing, seeing it as the perfect sport to demonstrate their style, waterproof and ruggedised qualities, and accuracy.

In making our selection of the best sailing watches, we’ve chosen those with features specifically suitable for wearing aboard. That doesn’t mean, however, that they float, so be sure to do the clasp up securely and be wary of pulling off jacket sleeves in a hurry and losing your prized timepiece overboard!

Note: We may earn a commission when you buy through links on our site, at no extra cost to you. This doesn’t affect our editorial independence.

Best multi-function sailing watches.

quatix 6

Quatix 6, tested by Fox Morgan

Best sailing watches: 16 options for racing and cruising tested 135x42 1 BB Yacht Charter Marbella

Garmin Quatix 6 sailing watch

Best smart sailing watch.

Read our in depth Quatix 6 review and long term test.

This watch we tried out at length – it is a very comprehensive design, with functions for every type of pastime on the water, including diving. It is a beautifully crafted and extraordinary wrist computer.

Garmin is well known for superior boating instruments and they have now managed to squeeze all the data of a ten-inch chartplotter into a 1.3” inch round sailing watch.

Bluetooth functionality means you can connect it to a Garmin chartplotter using the free Garmin Connect app, and to other makes of plotter using the Garmin transceiver (a $150 extra).

This allows all the features of a chartplotter to be displayed on the watch, including charts and even autopilot control to allow you to change heading or follow a GPS route – provided it is also connected through the chartplotter.

Garmin Quatix 6 in sail mode - tested

The Quatix 6 also offers more typical smartwatch functions including the ability to receive email and texts, can be used to control music on board, and monitors the user’s heart-rate.

It’s simple to switch between ‘boat display’ and ‘stylish watch’ modes, as hundreds of different watch faces that can be downloaded to customise it to the wearer’s preference, including an antique style face and even a copy of Big Ben. The Quatix 6 can also be switched between analogue and digital.

It’s overall diameter is 51mm (2” in) with a 36mm (1 5/8” in) viewable face, and it is 17mm (11/16”) thick. The Quatix 6’s weight is 83g (3oz) with the plastic strap or 156g (5.5oz) with the stainless band, which is quite a bit heavier than a conventional watch.

It is waterproof to 100 metres, sunlight readable and has a night light mode. The watch has a soft synthetic wristband, available in various colours.

A single charge will last 14 days with normal use, or there is also a solar-powered version for continuous self-charging (available at twice the price). But whatever you do, do not drop this sailing watch overboard, as it does not float!

Reasons to buy

• Suits a multitude of water activity • Highly customizable • An incredible amount of data available on your wrist • A single charge lasts 14 days

Reasons to avoid

• High level of functionality is not for the technologically phobic.

Best sailing watches: 16 options for racing and cruising 5star 1 BB Yacht Charter Marbella

Buy the Garmin Quatix 6 now from Garmin UK

Buy the Garmin Quatix 6 now from Amazon

Best sailing watches: 16 options for racing and cruising 20221031 141601 0000 BB Yacht Charter Marbella

Quatix 7, tested by Fox Morgan

Garmin Quatix 7

Garmin’s latest sailing smartwatch includes improvements to strengthen integration with onboard electronics.

It’s a touchscreen model that can, for instance, be used to control MFD displays or Fusion audio systems, as well as Garmin autopilots.

But as a Quatix 6 user and someone with touchscreen fatigue, the first thing I did was turn off the touch screen function. It’s pretty quick to toggle between it being on or off, but it’s been off now for a few months.

Best sailing watches: 16 options for racing and cruising 20221031 171908 0000 BB Yacht Charter Marbella

Quatix 6 and Quatix 7 in daylight conditions

Best sailing watches: 16 options for racing and cruising 20221031 155259 0000 BB Yacht Charter Marbella

The two Quatix watches, the Quatix 6 on the left and Quatix 7 on the right, in darker conditions

So let’s address the major change for the Quatix 7 over the Quatix 6, and that’s the display. Plenty of folks complained about the darkness or difficulty seeing the Quatix 6 screen, so they’ve addressed that with a much brighter lit up style of screen. Whilst this might appease a large number of wearers, I have found it a bit garish and a major battery suck. It is very bright even when turned to its dimmest setting. To save the battery from being drained unnecessarily at night, there’s a night time version of the watch screen where you can view it as a digital numeric mono display, on demand, otherwise the screen is completely blank.

This bright screen comes at a cost to the battery life. Whereas the Quatix 6 could last a whole 10 days, the Quatix 7 barely makes 6 days before I need to plug it in to charge.

Best sailing watches: 16 options for racing and cruising 20221031 141455 0000 BB Yacht Charter Marbella

Another tweek to the watch is the raised housing either side of the MOB button. Some people with bigger wrists than mine noted that it was too easy to accidentally trigger the MOB button just by articulating their wrist.

Although both the Quatix 6 and the Quatix 7 have the same overall size dimensions, the screen on the Quatix 7 is bigger due to the thinner bezel.

As for the functionality of the watch, very little has changed to my own user experience other than the menus being moved around and a few user interface design tweeks. I still track my cycle rides, coastal rowing and some of my sailing, plus I track my sleep and overall health monitor. The Quatix 7 has integrated more functionality into the Garmin app on the phone, so it’s easier to make changes to the user functionality of various apps within the watch, rather than having to fiddle about doing them on screen as with the earlier Quatix watches.

Would I tell someone with a Quatix 6 to upgrade to a 7? Probably not, you could wait for the next one, unless the dark screen has you cursing, then sure, do it. But if you don’t have a Quatix watch yet, or yours is an older version, then I would say absolutely yes! This is a brilliant watch with a huge amount of functionality for anyone whose life revolves around being in, on and around water. I feel utterly undressed without my Quatix these days.

I’ve docked the watch half a star for the reduction in battery life over the Quatix 6. Other than that, this is an utterly brilliant piece of kit.

Also, if you love to change the look of your watch, the straps are quick release so you can swap them out within seconds. In the pictures you’ll see two other strap options other than the standard Blue as supplied with the Quatix out of the box.

To buy the metal strap or the yellow strap you get get those via the links below. There’s loads of colours and styles to choose from, so if these don’t float your boat, there’s probably something else that does.

Best sailing watches: 16 options for racing and cruising 20221031 142221 0000 BB Yacht Charter Marbella

High end Sapphire models add a new ultra-clear AMOLED touchscreen.

Price: £599.99 to £1,049.99

Best sailing watches: 16 options for racing and cruising 4.5star BB Yacht Charter Marbella

Buy the Garmin Quatix 7 now on Garmin.com

Buy the Garmin Quatix 7 now on Amazon

Buy the Garmin Quatix 7 now on Jura Watches

Buy Metal strap for all Quatix 22mm watches

Buy a colourful Yellow strap for all Quatix 22mm watches

Instinct 2

Instinct 2, tested by Anna Kastanias Kirton and Fox Morgan

Garmin Instinct 2S Solar

The Instinct 2, launched in February 2022 is Garmin’s all-round watch, which they call their outdoors watch. Features that are particularly relevant to sailors include GPS positioning on charts; barometric pressure and a compass.

It has smartphone connectivity, receives emails and texts, and can control music via a phone. This watch also has an inbuilt thermometer and heart rate monitor.

The Garmin Instinct is available in no fewer than 20 different styles and colours. It’s actual diameter is 47mm (1 13/16” in) but the viewable face is 32mm (1 1/4”). The Instinct is 16mm (5/8” in) thick and weighs 53g (2 oz).

For racing sailors, it also has multiple start sequence options. We have an indepth review from long term testing of this watch coming soon.

Garmin Instinct 2 in the pool

Garmin Instinct 2, used in our recent lifejacket test

garmin instinct 2

Garmin Instinct 2 – sport modes

The Garmin Instinct watch is a good alternative for anyone seeking a more moderately priced alternative to the Quatix 6.

Read our Garmin Instinct review for the previous model

• GPS positioning on charts, barometric pressure and compass • Smartphone connectivity • An incredible amount of styles and colours • A single charge lasts 14 days

• Premium price without a premium design

Buy the Garmin Instinct 2S Solar now from John Lewis

Buy the Garmin Instinct 2S Solar now from Wiggle

Buy the Garmin Instinct 2S Solar now from Garmin

Buy the Garmin Instinct 2S Solar from Amazon

Marq Captain, tested by Hugo Andreae

Marq Captain, tested by Hugo Andreae

Garmin MARQ Captain

Best feature-packed sailing watch.

Our top priced pick comes from wearable tech-specialists, Garmin. The MARQ Captain sailing watch comes packed with marine-relevant features.

Functions include weather and tidal data for your home port, a regatta timer to pinpoint starting times, a ‘tack assist’ function to determine whether you’re on lift or a header, a man overboard button and GPS.

The full extent of its capabilities is governed by the onboard technology to which it is connected, but possibilities include streaming boat data direct to your wrist wherever you are on the boat and controlling products from the Garmin-owned Fusion range of audio systems.

• Weather and tidal data • MOB and GPS functions • Stream boat data to your wrist

• Full extent of capabilities is governed by the onboard technology it’s connected to • Premium price

Buy the Garmin MARQ Captain now from Garmin

Buythe Garmin MARQ Captain now from Westmarine.com

Buy the Garmin MARQ Captain now from Jura Watches

SPinnaker Hass

Spinnaker Hass, tested by Phil Pryor, Alex Hancock and Fox Morgan

Spinnaker Hass Automatic

The joy of a traditional analogue watch is right here in this stylish all metal timepiece from Spinnaker.

Spinnaker Watches collaborated with the Marine Conservation Society to produce this limited edition model that’s a tribute to marine biologist and pioneering diver Hans Hass.

If you want to ditch the computers and keep it simple then this is definitely worth a look.

It feels reassuringly sturdy with it’s all metal band and easy to read rating bezel.

It’s waterproof to 300m and requires no batteries as this watch self winds from the motion of your hand through every day movement.

Best sailing watches: 16 options for racing and cruising 20221031 133923 0000 BB Yacht Charter Marbella

The winder unscrews to allow time, day and date adjustment and that my friends is all there is to this gorgeous watch. At least as far as the wearer is concerned. Behind that metal back is the smooth Japanese workings of a self winding watch. When it arrived in the box the watch was still and inactive. But the moment I removed it from the box it started to self wind. With just a small amount of movement, the second hand was moving.

For sailors who want to a sleek non electric time piece and for those divers who like to go under the water as well as on it.

Best sailing watches: 16 options for racing and cruising 20221031 134233 0000 BB Yacht Charter Marbella

Best be quick though, this watch is selling out all over the place due to high demand.

I love this safety yellow colourway as it really stands out and is easy to read. This might not be to everyone’s taste though which is fine because the Spinnaker Hass comes in 9 different colourways.

smart styling, easy to read day and night, electronics free, self winding

due to self winding mechanism the watch is not as slim as a quart movement watch which might mean that cuffs on shirts and foulies are tight.

Price: £375

Buy the Spinnaker Hass now on eBay

Buy Spinnaker Hass from Spinnaker

casio-tide

Casio Tide Watch Orange

Best value sailing watch.

There’s no question that when it comes to affordable innovation, Casio is right up there.

Despite being one of the lowest-priced watches in our selection, the Casio Tide Watch Orange is a highly functional piece of kit which, in addition to all the usual time, day and auto date functions also features a tide graph and lunar phase display.

More conventional sailing watch functions include a timer, stopwatch and LED might. It is water resistant to 100m and promises a 10-year battery life, all packed into a 43mm diameter case.

• Great value • Highly functional • 10-year battery life

• Lacking in design • Lacking extensive features of premium alternatives

Buy the Casio Tide Watch Orange now from Amazon

Best sailing watches for racing

best-sailing-watches-ronstan-clearstart-race-timer

Ronstan ClearStart Race Timer

Best racing sailing watch.

With wrist, hull, mast or boom mount options, the Swiss-made Ronstan ClearStart Race Timer is aimed squarely at racing sailors.

Made by renowned rigging and hardware company Ronstan, it’s a robust design with a secure elastic strap and substantial ‘bumper’ around the digital display.

The ClearStart Race Timer’s features include extra-large, easy-press silicon buttons, a highlighted start/stop button, oversized 16 mm digits set in a 65mm rotating face and a double line display simultaneously showing the race countdown and time.

In addition, the ClearStart Race Timer offers ‘5-4-1-0’ and Match Racing start sequence programmes, making it a great choice for competitive sailors. Ruggedly constructed and built to last, this sailing watch weighs in at 92 grammes and is water-resistant to 50 metres.

• Robust design with secure strap • Extra-large, easy to press silicon buttons • Great display

• Some consumers report issues with clasp/strap

Buy the Ronstan ClearStart Race Timer now from West Marine

best-sailing-watches-optimum-time-series-14

Optimum Time Series 14 Rechargeable sailing watch

Optimum Time’s bold coloured watches are popular among racing sailors from dinghies upwards, and the new rechargeable design makes it more sustainable for anyone who uses theirs frequently.

Featuring a 36mm diameter LCD display mounted within a bright red and black 68mm ABS case, Optimum Time’s Series 14 watch is a substantial device that is equally suited to being mounted on a mast or boom as your wrist, while the digits are large enough to allow crew to see the same timer as the skipper.

Waterproof to 5 ATM (i.e. capable of withstanding a pressure of 5 bar), the sailing watch is packed with useful features and comes complete with a bespoke USB charger clamp for convenient charging.

• Rechargeable battery • Packed with features • Suitable for mounting

• Basic design

Buy the Optimum Time Series 14 now on Amazon

Timex-Intelligent-sailing-watch

Timex Intelligent Quartz Yacht Racer watch

Best analogue racing sailing watch.

This is a very striking analogue watch, designed to appeal specifically to racing sailors who don’t want a digital display. It features a racing countdown timers (from 5 mins, 3 mins or 1 minute), then after the start the chronometer automatically starts a race timer for up to one hour.

This is a larger than average design, at 46 mm (1.81” in) diameter and 14mm (0.55” in) thick.

However, this watch is complex to set up, as some functions require three buttons to be pressed in sequence. There is also no ‘reset’ button for anyone who misses their start sequence timer.

• Striking analogue display • Countdown timers

• Larger than average design • Complex to set up, lacks reset button • Expensive

Buy the Timex Intelligent Quartz Yacht Racer now on the Watch Shop

Timex-Optimum-3

Optimum Time Series 3 sailing watch

Best all-round racing sailing watch.

The popular ‘big yellow’ Optimum Time Series 3 is a lower-priced, yet highly functional racing watch. And it truly is big – far too large for my wrist at a gigantic 65mm (2.56” in) diameter and 16mm (0.62” in) thick. It’s also available in colours other than yellow – including white, blue and pink.

An advantage for racing is that this watch is easy to read at a distance thanks to its huge 16mm digits. A bracket is supplied to fix it to a mast. It also has a sync button if you miss the start gun, and can then run a repeat sequence or race timer for handicap competitions.

Robust, and water resistant to 5 ATM, with a wide elasticated strap.

• Great price • Highly functional • Easy to read

• It’s really big

Buy the Optimum Time Series 3 now on Amazon

Ronstan-ClearStart

Ronstan Clearstart RF4055 sailing watch

Best specialist racing sailing watch.

This sailing watch is another specialist racing design. Race mode features include multiple start sequence options, match racing timer and the ability to sync for an early or late start.

The Clearstart RF4055 is unusual in that it has a fibreglass case, which is available in striking yellow and red as well as the more subtle black. It has a 50mm (2″) diameter face, which is larger than most watches, with a 13mm (0.5″ in) digital display, and the weight is 74gm (2.61oz), though the buttons have a lower profile than some other race watches making it neater to wear on shore.

• Multiple start sequence options • Match racing timer • Can sync for early/late start

• Larger than average design

Buy the Ronstan Clearstart RF4055 now on Amazon

Buy the Ronstan Clearstart RF4055 now on eBay

Optimum-series-12

Optimum Time Series 12 sailing watch

Best audible racing sailing watch.

Another race timer with countdown time and pre-programmed start and audible warnings. Despite its more smart watch-style appearance, there is no GPS or interconnectivity, but you do get a countdown repeat option, World Sailing 5-4-1-0 start sequence pre-programmed with audible warning signals, and a sync button.

The Optimum Time Series 12 is available in many colours, but has a small 26mm (1.02” in) display, with 10mm (0.34” in) figures, which will make it hard to read in the middle of a hectic race start.

• Audible warning features • Many colour choices

• No GPS or interconnectivity • Small display is hard to read in hectic moments

Buy the Optimum Time Series 12 now on eBay

gill-race-timer

Gill Race Watch Timer

Best racing sailing watch for watersports.

This striking red and black Race Watch Timer is a sailing-specific watch developed exclusively for watersports apparel company Gill. It’s water-resistant to an impressive 30 metres, with the timepiece unit encased in a reinforced carbon ABS plastic housing with a stainless steel back.

As well as telling the time, the sailing watch’s functions include a countdown with synchro, day, date and alarm. There’s a keyboard lock feature to you don’t accidentally change the settings and an electro-luminescent backlight allows the wearer to check the data day or night.

A neat sleep feature preserves and prolongs battery life in a ruggedly constructed unit designed for durability and years of trouble-free service.

• Water-resistant to 30 metres • Carbon housing • The sleep feature preserves battery life

• Basic design and functions

Buy the Gill Race Watch Timer now from Amazon

limit-proxr-countdown

Limit ProXR Countdown sailing watch

Best value racing sailing watch.

Limit has been producing watches for more than 110 years and specialises in offering a wide variety of styles at great value prices.

For a budget-friendly sailing watch option, the Limit ProXR Countdown comes with a large, clear and easily readable display and is backed by a two-year guarantee.

It also has a dual time display and stopwatch, countdown and pacer functionality. No fewer than five alarms can be set and there’s a night time illumination facility.

Available in a choice of orange/black or blue/black, the looks of this chunky 50 mm case diameter sailing watch certainly belie its low price tag.

• Large, clear, easy to read display • Multiple design options • Dual time, stopwatch, countdown and pacer functions

• Lacks features/functions of more premium competitors • Chunky

Buy the Limit ProXR Countdown now on gooutdoors.co.uk

best-sailing-watches-YAW276.new_gear.original_diver_the_ocean_race

The Ocean Race Diver

Swiss watchmaker Ulysse Nardin sourced discarded fishing nets to upcycle into the base material for this watch, highlighting the 640,000 tonnes of nets that are discarded at sea each year.

In addition, 95% of components for the mechanical movement are sourced from within 30km of Ulysse Nardin’s site.

Price: US$11,500 / £9,540

Buy The Ocean Race Diver now on ulysse-nardin.com

What makes a good sailing watch?

The ability to read the time, countdown or data in a hurry or at an angle is key, so look out for digital readouts with large numbers – some sailing watches have the ability to switch from digital to analogue readouts – and screens that can be viewed in different qualities of daylight. Backlit functions are essential for anyone heading offshore, whether racing or cruising.

A well-fitting wristband or strap with a secure clasp is vital to keep the watch on your arm. Most sailing watches have soft rubber or synthetic wristbands, which are more durable in a marine environment, and safer than steel. Rubber straps are also lighter and easier to adjust.

If you plan to use your watch for race start timing, look for programmable start sequence options, a sync button, countdowns that switch to seconds in the final stages. A loud, clear alarm or ‘beep’ function that tells you time to the gun is particularly useful, so you can keep watching your course, trim and other boats around you during the final approach to the line rather than having to glance at your wrist.

You can read more about other types of GPS enabled and waterproof fitness trackers and smart watches at YBW.com

Didn’t find what you’re looking for? Head to Amazon’s dedicated boating page for more marine products.

The post Best sailing watches: 16 options for racing and cruising appeared first on Yachting World.

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The 5 Best Sailing Watches With GPS

Paul Stockdale Author Avatar

The 5 best sailing watches with GPS are listed below.

  • Best Overall : Garmin Instinct
  • Best For Features : Garmin Fēnix 5
  • Best For Price : Suunto Traverse Alpha
  • Best For Underwater : Garmin Descent MK1
  • Best For Battery Life : Garmin Quatix 5x Sapphire

A great sailing watch with GPS tells the time, fits comfortably, looks stylish, offers the latest tech, is suitable in all marine environments, is waterproof and customizable, and provides GPS data to the person wearing the watch.

In recent years, the evolution of wearable technology has significantly enhanced the functionality of sailing watches with GPS, making them indispensable tools for sailors seeking precision and convenience on the water.

1. Garmin Instinct

Top Sailing Watch With GPS Garmin Instinct

The best overall sailing watch with GPS is the Unisex Garmin Instinct manufactured by the US/Swiss brand Garmin at their manufacturing hub in Taiwan and sold worldwide.

It comes in 5 editions including standard edition, eSports edition, surf edition, tactical edition, and camo edition. There is a solar-powered version available too. It comes in quartz movement.

We recommend the standard edition as this edition is more than enough to cater to all sailing activities. Buying this watch gives buyers access to the Garmin Connect app too.

it is priced between $170 and $320 making it the most affordable option compared to the other sailing watches. It comes with a one-year warranty to protect against defects or errors in workmanship.

The battery life lasts 14 days in smart mode, 16 hours in GPS mode and 40 hours in Ultratrac battery mode. It is chargeable through a USB cable that plugs into the back.

It has a bright display with a display resolution of 128 x 128 pixels. It has a memory of 16MB.

The comprehensive features of this watch are listed below.

  • Heart Rate Monitor
  • 3 Axis Compass With Barometric Altimeter
  • Digital Time Display
  • Pre-Programmed GPS (Multi-GNSS Satellite Support)
  • Elevation Tracker
  • Audible Smart Notification Alerts
  • Garmin App Connectivity

The dimensions are 45 x 45 x 15.3 mm. The screen size is 1.27 inches. It fits wrists with a circumference of 132-224 mm. It weighs 52 grams so it is lightweight on the wrist.

It is shaped round/circular with a sleek design and comfortable fitting. It comes with 5 total buttons on either side of the watch display. These buttons control the light display, the GPS, a back button, an up button and a down button.

It comes with a water rating of 10 ATM which means it can withstand 10 bars of pressure which is approximately a water depth of 100 meters.

It is compatible with smartphones including Android and Apple devices. This enables alerts and notifications to be received on the smartwatch itself.

It is not compatible with Windows 95, 98, Me, Windows NT, and Mac OS 10.3 or earlier.

It can operate in a temperature range from -4ºF to 140ºF which means it can work in most sailing weather conditions.

It comes in 13 different colors from black to red.

The material in this watch includes U.S. Military standard 810G for thermal, shock and water resistance, a fully vented silicone wristband strap with 2 removable keeper loops, a monochrome & sunlight-visible memory-in-pixel (MIP) display and a fiber-reinforced polymer case

The new package includes 1 smartwatch, 1 battery, 1 USB cable and 1 piece of documentation with device and warranty information.

The wireless frequency/protocol of this watch is 2.4 GHz @ 2.4 dBm nominal.

The 5 benefits are listed below.

  • It's water resistant up to 100 meters depth : It has a 10 ATM water rating which means it is resistant in water depths of 100 meters/10 bars. This means it is the perfect watch for any sailing trip
  • There are many color options : It comes with 13 color options which means buyers have plenty of choices to choose from to suit their own preferences and style
  • The display screen is scratch resistant : The watch display is chemically strengthened to create a scratch-resistant display which is great for harsh and rough marine environments when sailing
  • People can easily see all their statistics and data in the Garmin Connect app : This watch automatically logs data to the Garmin Connect app which means people can easily check their stats inside the app
  • It has multiple great features : It can monitor heart rate, track elevation data, provide GPS data, automatically update Garmin Connect app, track activity etc. which means it is a great multi-function smart watch for sailing

One disadvantage is the battery can drain fast in the GPS mode with a battery life of just 16 hours in GPS mode.

2. Garmin Fēnix 5

Top Sailing Watch With GPS For Features Garmin Fēnix 5

The best sailing watch with GPS for its features is the Unisex Garmin Fēnix 5 manufactured by the US/Swiss brand Garmin at their manufacturing hub in Taiwan and sold worldwide.

It comes in 2 editions which are the sapphire edition or the standard edition with no sapphire. It comes in 3 different case sizes which are 42mm, 47mm and 51mm.

We recommend the Garmin Fēnix 5 sapphire edition 47mm case as this edition features a scratch-resistant sapphire lens, speedy Wi-Fi connectivity and the 47mm case is a great size for sailing. The 42mm watch is one of the thinner watches on the list.

It is priced between $370 and $680. The large price range is because the different case sizes vary in price.

It comes with a one-year warranty to protect against defects or errors in workmanship.

The battery life is 2 weeks in smartwatch mode, 24 hours in GPS mode and 60 hours in Ultratrac battery saver mode. It is chargeable through a USB cable that plugs into the back of the watch.

It has a display resolution of 240 x 240 pixels. It has a memory of 64MB.

The major features of this watch are listed below.

  • Easy Reset Ultra Cleaer Digital Colored Screen Time Display
  • GPS With Full Colored TOPO U.S. Mapping
  • Bluetooth Connectivity
  • Smart Audio Notifications
  • Step Counter Tracking
  • Built-in Altimeter, Barometer, 3-Axis Compass
  • Sleep Tracking
  • 3D Speedometer
  • Accelerometer
  • Thermometer

The dimensions are 47mm x 47mm x 15.5 mm. The screen size is 1.20 inches. The weight is 85 grams so it is one of the heavier watches on the market.

It is shaped round/circular. It comes with 5 total buttons with 3 buttons on the left side of the customisable watch display and 2 buttons on the right side of the watch display. These buttons control the light display, selecting an activity, a back button, an up button and a down button.

It is smartphone compatible and it can work with Apple and Android devices. This watch can pair with a smartphone device that is within 10 meters (33ft) of the watch's range.

It can operate in a temperature range from -4ºF to 122ºF which means it can work in most marine weather conditions.

It comes in 13 colors from grey to black.

The material includes a polymer case with stainless steel rear cover, a PVD-coated stainless steel bezel and buttons, a chemically strengthened robost sapphire crystal lens and a silicone or steel strap.

The wireless frequency/protocol of this watch is 2.4 GHz @ 8.16 dBm nominal.

The benefits are listed below.

  • It comes with a great high resolution full color display : It comes with an incredible high quality fully colored display screen
  • The sapphire edition is scratch-resistant : The sapphire edition is scratch resistant and durable so it can withstand harsh marine environments
  • It is wi-fi enabled : This watch can connect to any wi-fi network which is an added benefit
  • It comes with a great 1-year warranty : This watch comes with a 1-year warranty which gives added peace of mind
  • It is water & shock-resistant : This watch can withstand up to 100 meters underwater and it is made of durable and shock-resistant material which is great for rough seawater when sailing

One disadvantage is it is more expensive than other sailing watches with GPS with a price tag ranging from $370 to $680.

3. Suunto Traverse Alpha

Top Sailing Watch With GPS For Price Suunto Traverse Alpha

The best sailing watch with GPS for its price is the unisex Suunto Traverse Alpha manufactured by the watch brand Suunto in Finland and sold worldwide.

It is priced between $230 and $260.

It comes with a two-year warranty to protect against defects or errors in workmanship.

The battery life is 14 days in time mode and 15 hours in training mode with GPS. It is chargeable through a USB cable that plugs into the back of the watch.

It has a display resolution of 128 x 128 pixels. It comes with 5 customizable modes which are running mode, cycling mode, hunting mode, fishing mode and sports mode.

The features are listed below.

  • Programmable Digital Compass
  • GPS & GLONASS for route and POI navigation
  • Training Analysis Logger
  • Barometric Altimeter
  • Speed, Distance & Altitude Tracker
  • Temperature Display
  • Moon Phase Calendar
  • Alarm Clock
  • Vibration Alerts
  • Step Counter
  • Real-Time Route Recording
  • Mobile Notifications (Calls, Texts & Push Notifications)
  • Access To Movescount App
  • 3D Map Route Creation
  • Weather & Storm Alerts
  • Night Vision Goggle Compatible

The dimensions are 1.97" x 1.97" x 0.59". The weight is 75 grams.

It is shaped round/circular. It comes with 5 total buttons with 2 buttons on the left side of the watch display and 3 buttons on the right side of the watch display. These buttons are the back button, view button, start button, next button and the light button.

It is smartphone compatible and it works with iOS and Android devices.

It can operate in a temperature range from -5ºF to 140ºF which means it can work in most marine weather conditions.

It comes in 2 colors which are black and graphite.

The material includes stainless steel bezel material, sapphire crystal glass material, textile strap material and a battery.

The package includes 1 smartwatch, 1 charging/data USB cable, 1 quick guide and 1 warranty leaflet.

The 4 benefits are listed below.

  • The glass case is scratch-resistant : The sapphire glass display is a robust, scratch resistant which means this watch can withstand tough environments without getting scratched or scuffed
  • It comes with a great 2-year warranty : This watch comes with a 2-year warranty which gives added peace of mind
  • It's a great price : This watch is one of the cheaper options on the market at a price range of $230 to $260 which means people will not have to spend a lot of money to get one
  • It is water-resistant : This watch is water resistant up to 100 meters underwater which means it can function perfectly when out sailing on the water

Two disadvantages are it has a low battery life in training mode with a battery life of just 15 hours and it only comes in two color options so there are not many color choices to choose from.

4. Garmin Descent MK1

Top Sailing Watch With GPS For Underwater Capabilities Garmin Descent MK1

The best sailing watch with GPS for its underwater abilities is the unisex Garmin Descent Mk1 manufactured by the US/Swiss brand Garmin at their manufacturing hub in Taiwan and sold worldwide.

It is priced between $1,050 and $1,350.

There are 3 styles of this watch to choose from including a steel case with a silicone band style, a titanium case with a silicone band style and a titanium case with a titanium band style.

We recommend the sturdy titanium case with a silicone band version as it is the lightest weight of the three versions.

The battery life is 19 days in watch mode, 10 days in smartwatch mode, 30 hours in UltraTrac mode, 40 hours in dive mode, and 20 hours in GPS/HR Activity mode so there is a great battery life for sailing trips.

It has a display resolution of 240 x 240 pixels. It has a memory of 16GB.

  • Digital Colored Screen Time Display
  • GPS Speed & Distance Tracker
  • Surface GPS With TOPO Mapping
  • Wrist-Based Heart Rate Monitor
  • Tidal Depth Sensor
  • Full LED Faced Display
  • Steps Track
  • Calorie Burn Tracker
  • Bluetooth, ANT+& Wi-Fi Connectivity
  • Impressive Dive Log Tracks Up To 200 Dives

The dimensions are 51mm x 51mm x 17.8 mm. The display size is 1.20-inch in diameter.

The weight is 101 grams for the steel case and silicone band version, 94 grams for the titanium case with silicone band version and 145 grams for the titanium case with titanium band version.

It is shaped round/circular. It comes with 6 total buttons with 3 buttons on the left side of the watch display and 2 buttons on the right side of the watch display and 1 button on the display screen. These buttons control the light display, up and down buttons, select buttons, back button and confirm button.

It comes with a water rating of 10 ATM which means it can withstand 10 bars of pressure which is approximately a water depth of 100 meters. It also comes with a dive EN 13319 water rating which means it can be used to dive in depths up to 100 meters.

It is smartphone compatible and it can work with Apple iOS and Android devices.

The underwater operating temperature range is 32º to 104ºF.

It comes in 3 colors which are grey sapphire with black band, silver sapphire with black band and grey sapphire with DLC titanium band.

The material includes a polymer case, a stainless steel or titanium bezel and buttons, a sapphire glass lens and a elastic silicone or titanium strap.

The package includes 1 smartwatch, 1 rechargeable battery, 1 extra long adjustable strap, 1 USB cable and 1 piece of documentation with device and warranty information.

The wireless frequency/protocol is ANT+ 2.4 GHz @ -1 dBm maximum, Bluetooth 2.4 GHz @ 0 dBm maximum and Wi‑Fi 2.4 GHz @ 12 dBm maximum.

  • It is waterproof : This watch is waterproof and can be used diving up to 100 meters underwater which means it is great for withstanding harsh marine
  • It is durable and shock resistant : The great fiber-reinforced polymer case with sapphire glass helps protect the watch and ensures it is durable and can withstand any force that may be experienced while out sailing or swimming
  • Multiple style options : There are 3 different style options to choose from which is great as it gives people plenty of choices to choose their preferred style of comfort, sturdiness, and durability.
  • Large memory : This watch comes with a great 16GB memory which is large for a watch

Two disadvantages are it is not air integrated and it is expensive with a price tag of between $1,050 and $1,350.

5. Garmin Quatix 5 Sapphire

Top Sailing Watch With GPS For Battery Life Garmin Quatix 5

The best sailing watch with GPS for its battery life is the unisex Garmin Quatix 5 Sapphire manufactured by the US/Swiss brand Garmin at their manufacturing hub in Taiwan and sold worldwide.

It is priced between $800 and $900.

It comes with a simple one-year warranty to protect against defects or errors in workmanship.

There are two editions of the Garmin Quatix 5 to choose from which are the sapphire edition and the standard edition.

We recommend the sapphire edition as this protects the glass case against scratches much better compared to the other edition.

It is suitable for adults. It is not suitable for children.

The superior battery life is 20 days in smartwatch mode, 24 Hours in GPS/HR mode and 60 hours in UltraTrac mode.

  • Wi-Fi Connectivity
  • Boat Autopilot Control
  • Tidal & Depth Information
  • Boat Stereo Control
  • Garmin Marine SailAssist Capabilities (Create 2 Waypoints Visual Sail Racing Start Line And Finish Line)
  • Collects Water Sports Data
  • High-Sensitivity GPS Navigation & Tracking Functions
  • Wrist Based Heart Rate Monitor
  • Internal Gyroscope Helps Improve Position Accuracy
  • Smart Notifications (Receive Emails, Texts & Alerts On Watch Screen)
  • Garmin's Fusion-Link Lite App Access

The dimensions are 47mm x 47mm x 15.5 mm. The display size is 1.20-inch in diameter.

The weight is 85 grams with the flexible silicone band and 156 grams with the thick metal band.

It is shaped round/circular. It comes with 5 total buttons with 3 buttons on the left side of the watch display and 2 buttons on the right side of the watch display.

It can operate in a temperature range from -4ºF to 122ºF which means it can work in most boating weather conditions.

It comes in 2 colors which are stainless steel with blue band and stainless steel grey sapphire with silver metal band

The material includes a secure fiber-reinforced polymer case, a stainless steel bezel, buttons and rear case, a sapphire glass lens and a conventional silicone or stainless steel metal band.

The package includes 1 smartwatch, 1 rechargeable battery, 1 watch band, 1 USB cable and 1 piece of documentation with device and warranty information.

The wireless frequency is 2.4 GHz @ 4 dBm nominal.

The 3 benefits are listed below.

  • It can connect to sailboat autopilot or boat entertainment system: This watch offers the ability to connect to a boat's autopilot system or entertainment system through Garmin's Fusion-Link Lite App
  • The glass display is scratch-resistant : The sapphire case means the glass display is scratch resistant which is great for protecting the watch from getting scratched
  • It has a great long battery life : This watch can last up to 20 days in smartwatch mode before needing to be charged again

One disadvantage is it is heavy on the wrist when a person chooses the metal band option as the weight of the watch with the metal band option is 156 grams.

Top Sailing Watches With GPS Comparison Table

What to consider when buying a sailing watch with gps.

The factors to consider when buying a sailing watch with GPS are:

  • Price : The price of a sailing watch with GPS is an important factor to consider when buying a sailing watch. People have different budgets so some people can only afford cheaper sailing watches whereas others can afford more expensive ones
  • Material : The material of the sailing watch with GPS is a factor to consider when looking to buy one. Different materials can change how well the sailing watch operates and functions so choosing the ideal materials is important
  • Waterproof Compatibility : Is the sailing watch with GPS waterproof? This is an important factor as most people prefer waterproof watches with sailing out on the seawater. A waterproof sailing watch will ensure no damage when sailing or swimming
  • Design & Style : The style of the sailing watch is a factor to consider when buying a sailing watch with GPS. Buyers prefer a fashionable and stylish-looking sailing watch and every person has their own unique taste
  • Size : The size options are another factor to consider when buying a sailing watch with GPS. Buyers can only purchase a watch if the watch fits around their wrist

Frequently Asked Questions About The Best Sailing Watches With GPS

Below are the most commonly asked questions about the top sailing watches with GPS.

What Are The Top Sailing Watches With GPS Brands?

The 2 top sailing watches with GPS brands are listed below.

How Much Do Top Sailing Watches With GPS Cost?

The best sailing watches with GPS cost between $230 and $1,350.

How Much Does The Cheapest Top Sailing Watch With GPS Cost?

The cheapest top sailing watch with GPS is the Garmin Instinct watch which costs approximately $170 to $320.

How Much Does The Most Expensive Top Sailing Watch With GPS Cost?

The most expensive top sailing watch with GPS is the Garmin Descent Mk1 watch which costs between $1,050 to $1,350.

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INTRODUCING RONSTAN ORBIT WINCHES™

sailboat racing watches

Sailing Watches & Race Timer

Use them anywhere.

The most popular sailing watch in the world just got better. Ronstan’s ClearStart™ race timer and watches are completely updated with bold new styling and true sailing functionality. Besides the fresh new look they feature large buttons, easy to read displays and advanced intuitive programming designed specifically with the racing sailor in mind. Developed with input from some of the world’s top sailors, ClearStart™ watches and timers are sure to set the standard for years to come. If you’re looking for a simple competitive edge, the difference is ClearStart™.

RACE MODE FEATURES - SAILING WATCHES & RACE TIMER

  • Multiple Start Sequence options – World Sailing 5,4,1,0, match racing, user set
  • SYNChronisation function – auto-correction if you start the countdown early or late
  • Multi-line display – Start Sequences + Time
  • Loud intuitive lead-up and start sound signals
  • Count down repeat or count down and up options (for elapsed race time)
  • Separate fast access Race and Time mode scrolling
  • Water resistant to 5 ATM (50m/150ft) – double gasket seals.

STANDARD FEATURES - SAILING WATCHES & RACE TIMER

  • Time, hours/minutes/seconds – 12 or 24hr format
  • Month/Day or Day/Month format
  • Daily alarm
  • Chronograph - Including hours and time of the day
  • Luminescent backlight
  • Battery saving mode – light can be turned off
  • Shock resistant.

Re-synchronisation feature

Clearstart™ RACE TIMER

Rf4050 (black, red, white).

  • 65mm (2 9/16") diameter face
  • Oversized 16mm (5/8") digit display
  • Rotating face
  • Wrist/Hull/Mast/Boom mount options
  • 30mm (1 1/8") wide stretch Nylon band with security loop
  • Flush fit buckle
  • Dual batteries
  • Extra-large easy-press silicon buttons – highlighted Start/Stop button
  • Weight 92g (3.3oz)

CLEARSTART™ Race Timer

Clearstart™ Race Timer

Clearstart™ sailing watch

Rf4055 (red, grey) / rf4055a (black, grey) / rf4055b (blue, grey).

  • Durable, ultra-clear mineral crystal lens
  • Comfortable and secure silicon band
  • Glass fibre reinforced case
  • 50mm (2") diameter face
  • Oversized 13mm (1/2") digit display
  • Textured easy-find buttons
  • Stainless steel buckle with silicon band retainer
  • Stainless steel back
  • Weight 73 (2.6oz)

CLEARSTART™ SAILING WATCHES

Clearstart™ Sailing Watch, 50mm, Red

Clearstart™ 40MM sailing watch

Rf4054 (red) / rf4054a (black) / rf4054b (blue).

  • 40mm (1 9/16") diameter face
  • Oversized 10mm (3/8") digit display
  • Weight 50 (1.8oz)

Clearstart™ Sailing Watch, 40mm, Red

LARGE QUICK VIEW DISPLAYS The entire ClearStart™ range features oversized digit displays for easy viewing. The Race Timer presents huge 16mm (5/8") numbers that can be easily viewed by the crew when mounted on the boom or mast base. The 50mm Sailing Watch display is only slightly smaller with 13mm (1/2") digits which can be quickly viewed at a glance without taking your hand off the helm, and the compact 40mm Sailing Watch still has impressive 10mm (3/8") digits.

RACE SEQUENCE RESYNCHRONISATION All racing sailors know how hard it can be to get the watch going at the exact second the start sequence is commenced. With the handy SYNC function, you can quickly resynchronise the ClearStart™ to the official race time. A simple press of a button allows you to drop down to the next minute, allowing you to get your starting sequence back in perfect SYNC at the next opportunity.

PRE-PROGRAMED RACE SEQUENCE SOUNDS

The intuitive ClearStart™ sound signals let you know exactly where you are in the start sequence without looking at the display. Pre-programmed with World Sailing 5-4-1-0 and match racing start sequences, it can also be programmed for other count down sequences by the user. Sound signals can be turned off if desired.

END OF SEQUENCE - COUNT DOWN OR COUNT UP Depending on the user’s preference, the watch can be set up to repeat the count down at the end of the sequence for general recall restarts, or to start counting up to track elapsed time.

MULTI-LINE DISPLAY WITH REAL TIME No need to switch between count down and time modes because the actual time is displayed below the countdown time on the new multi-line ClearStart™ display.

DAILY LIFE FUNCTIONALITY From waking up for work to working out, a ClearStart™ watch is also great for everyday activities. Standard modes include 12 or 24 hour time format, date in day/month or month/day format, daily alarm and chronograph (stop watch).

LUMINESCENT BACKLIGHT Bright, full-face electroluminescent backlighting is easy to read at night and can be turned on temporarily for a quick view.

WATER AND SHOCK RESISTANT Designed to survive the rigours of competitive sailing, ClearStart™ watches and timers are water resistant rated at 5ATM and highly shock resistant. Watch housings are moulded in rugged fibre reinforced resin, with a resiliant and super-comfortable silicon band.

How to use Ronstan ClearStart™ Race Timer and Watches

Learn the basics of your ClearStart™ and troubleshoot common issues. 0:00 – Turning on your watch 0:35 – Buttons, icons and digital displays 1:45 – How to set the time and datee 3:50 – Changing between time and race mode 4:33 – Troubleshooting

Need some advice?

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Official Sponsors of the Australian Sailing Team

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WASHINGTON (AP) — Federal prosecutors chided the judge presiding over former President Donald Trump’s classified documents case in Florida, warning her of potential jury instructions that they said rest on a “fundamentally flawed legal premise.”

In an unusual order, U.S. District Judge Aileen Cannon had asked prosecutors and defense lawyers to file proposed jury instructions for most of the charges even though it remains unclear when the case might reach trial. She asked the lawyers to respond to competing interpretations of the law that appeared to accept the Republican ex-president's argument that he was entitled under a statute known as the Presidential Records Act to retain the sensitive documents he is now charged with possessing.

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The order surprised legal experts and alarmed special counsel Jack Smith's team, which said in a filing late Tuesday that that 1978 law — which requires presidents to return presidential records to the government upon leaving office but permits them to retain purely personal ones — has no relevance in a case concerning highly classified documents.

Those records, prosecutors said, were clearly not personal and there is no evidence Trump ever designated them as such. They said that the suggestion he did so was “invented" only after it became public that he had taken with him to his Mar-a-Lago estate in Palm Beach, Florida, after his presidency boxes of records from the White House and that none of the witnesses they interviewed in the investigation support his argument.

“Not a single one had heard Trump say that he was designating records as personal or that, at the time he caused the transfer of boxes to Mar-a-Lago, he believed that his removal of records amounted to designating them as personal under the PRA," prosecutors wrote. “To the contrary, every witness who was asked this question had never heard such a thing.”

Smith's team said that if the judge insists on citing the presidential records law in her jury instructions, she should let the lawyers know as soon as possible so they can appeal.

The filing reflects continued exasperation by prosecutors at Cannon's handling of the case.

The Trump-appointed judge has yet to rule on multiple defense motions to dismiss the case as well as other disagreements between the two sides, and the trial date remains in flux, suggesting that a prosecution that Smith's team has said features overwhelming evidence could remain unresolved by the time of the November presidential election.

Cannon, who earlier faced blistering criticism over her decision to grant Trump's request for an independent arbiter to review documents obtained during an FBI search of Mar-a-Lago, heard arguments last month on two of Trump's motions to dismiss the case: that the Presidential Records Act permitted him to designate the documents as personal and that he was therefore permitted to retain them.

The judge appeared skeptical of that position but did not immediately rule. Days later, she asked the two sides to craft jury instructions that responded to the following premise: “A president has sole authority under the PRA to categorize records as personal or presidential during his/her presidency. Neither a court nor a jury is permitted to make or review such a categorization decision.”

An outgoing president's decision to exclude personal records from those returned to the government, she continued, “constitutes a president's categorization of those records as personal under the PRA.”

That interpretation of the law is wrong, prosecutors said. They also urged Cannon to move quickly in rejecting the defense motion to dismiss.

“The PRA’s distinction between personal and presidential records has no bearing on whether a former President’s possession of documents containing national defense information is authorized under the Espionage Act, and the PRA should play no role in the jury instructions on the elements of Section 793,” they said, citing the statute that makes it a crime to illegally retain national defense information.

“Indeed, based on the current record, the PRA should not play any role at trial at all,” they added.

Trump, Republicans’ presumptive nominee for 2024, is facing dozens of felony counts related to the mishandling of classified documents, according to an indictment alleging he improperly shared a Pentagon “plan of attack” and a classified map related to a military operation. The Florida case is among four criminal cases against the former president, who has insisted he did nothing wrong in any of them.

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Marussia f1 team return to russia for moscow city racing, andy webb, marussia ceo: we have seen the strength of that support again in the last few days following the very pleasing announcement of our new powertrain partnership with scuderia ferrari..

Max Chilton, Marussia F1 Team MR02

Despite the three-week gap between Rounds 9 and 10 of the FIA Formula 1 World Championship® the Marussia F1 Team has had little time to draw breath, embarking on a series of promotional events to reward the loyal support of its fans.

This week, while the race team conduct the Young Driver Test at Silverstone, the demonstration team are heading ‘home’ to Russia for their second year of participation in ‘Moscow City Racing’.

The event takes place on 20 and 21 July, with the demonstration runs scheduled for Sunday 21 July on the streets surrounding the Kremlin and the ‘paddock’ located close to Red Square.

Max Chilton, Marussia F1 Team

Photo by: XPB Images

Visitors will also be given the opportunity to enter the inner-sanctum - the Paddock - to soak up the atmosphere and see for themselves the intricacies of Formula 1 design and engineering.

Aside from his on-track duties, Max will participate in a range of promotional activities, taking time out to mingle with the Russian fans during autograph sessions and photo opportunities.

Supporting the Marussia F1 Team over the weekend are main event partner Liga Stavok along with additional partners Instaforex, QNet and RBC.

Max Chilton: “There have been quite a few ‘firsts’ for me in my debut season in Formula One - new racetracks, new cities, meeting new fans - and Moscow City Racing will be my very first visit to Russia. I can’t wait. From what I hear from previous events, the demonstration runs are a fantastic spectacle and the crowd is huge and very supportive.

That’s nice, because we are the only Anglo-Russian team and it is good to keep building on their love of Formula 1 before Russia gets its very own race next year in Sochi. I’m really excited about making the trip and I hope to meet as many of the Russian fans as possible, when I’m not driving through their streets!”

Andy Webb, CEO: “The Marussia F1 Team are very excited to be returning to Russia to participate in the Moscow City Racing event for a second successive year. As the only Anglo-Russian team in Formula One, this event has become a very important date in our Team calendar, as we continue our determined efforts to bring more of F1 to Russia and more of Russia to F1.

This is our opportunity to get closer to the fans and for them to see our car and drivers right on their doorstep, not just on the TV. Our drivers Jules Bianchi and Max Chilton are enjoying a flying start to their exciting debut seasons and the Marussia F1 Team really is going from strength to strength now, making good progress towards its long-term ambitions.

We look forward to a fantastic crowd in Moscow and to expressing our thanks for all the incredible support we receive ‘back home’ in Russia. We have seen the strength of that support again in the last few days following the very pleasing announcement of our new powertrain partnership with Scuderia Ferrari. It seems the fans share our optimism for the future of the Marussia F1 Team.”

Marussia F1 Team

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IMAGES

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  1. Best sailing watches: 16 options for racing and cruising

    Editor's top choices at a glance. Best sailing smart watch - Garmin Quatix 7. Best premium sailing watch - Garmin MARQ Captain. Best value sailing watch - Casio Lithium Quartz. Best racing ...

  2. Best sailing watches: 15 options for racing and cruising

    Gill Race Watch Timer Greatest racing crusing look ahead to watersports. This putting crimson and black Race Watch Timer is a sailing-specific watch developed solely for watersports attire firm Gill. It's waterproof to a powerful 30 metres, with the timepiece unit encased in a bolstered carbon ABS plastic housing with a chrome steel again.

  3. Best Sailing Watches: Nautical Options For Sailors

    Sailing watches fall into two categories: mechanical and electronic. The best mechanical sailing watches are the Rolex Yachtmaster and the Omega Seamaster. ... Best Sailing Racing Electronics. Daniel Wade. July 5, 2023. Popular Posts. Best Liveaboard Catamaran Sailboats. Daniel Wade. December 28, 2023. Can a Novice Sail Around the World ...

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    Like today's watches, today's sail boats have come a long way. Tudor is now a sponsor of the Alinghi Red Bull Racing team. Allen Farmelo. The boats are high-tech marvels that rival Formula 1 racing cars in terms of pushing the boundaries of speed through material science, computer-aided performance analysis, aero- and hydrodynamic design ...

  5. 12 Best Sailing Watches (+4 Luxury Watches)

    4. Rolex Oyster Perpetual Seadweller Deepsea. This list of luxury sailing watches would not be complete without mentioning the most famous yachting watch brand in the world; Rolex. The Rolex Oyster Perpetual Seadweller Deepsea Watch is the epitome of a high-quality sailing watch with a price tag to match.

  6. Best sailing watches: 15 options for racing and cruising

    In addition, the ClearStart Race Timer offers '5-4-1-0' and Match Racing start sequence programmes, making it a great choice for competitive sailors. Ruggedly constructed and built to last, this sailing watch weighs in at 92 grammes and is water resistant to 50 metres. RRP: $119.95 / £85. Buy it now on Amazon.

  7. Best Sailing Watches in 2022 (From Budget to Luxury)

    This article will feature both old and new brands and will cover the best sailing watches - from affordable to luxury options. Sailboat Race: Image by Skeeze. Images. Watch Model. TOP. Garmin Quatix 6: Premium Sailing Smartwatch. Tissot Sailing-Touch: Overall Value. Suunto Ambit3: Versatile Sports Watch w/ Sailing.

  8. The 13 Best Sailing Watches For Serious Sailors 2024

    The best watches for sailing. Garmin Quatix 6. Suunto Core. Garmin Instinct. Timex Intelligent Quartz Watch. Ronston Clear Start. Tissot Sailing-Touch Watch. Omega Speedmaster Racing Automatic Chronograph. MARQ™ Captain Modern Tool Watch.

  9. Best Sailing Watches and Reviews

    It helps to have a few sailing watch reviews to get you started, especially if this is a gift for a friend, and we hope our list of the best sailing watches acts as a guide during your buying ...

  10. Best Sailing Racing Electronics

    Garmin Quatix Marine Smartwatch. No sailing race would be complete without the use of a sailing watch. Club racers can use the Garmin Quatix 7 which offers a broad range of activities to be had on the water. It provides excellent navigation acts and is designed to handle conditions while racing or cruising.

  11. Best Sailing Watches 2024: Top Timepieces For Sailors

    Garmin MARQ Captain: Best Equipped Sailing Watch. Garmin Quatix 7: Best Sailing Watch With Smart Features. Ronstan ClearStart Race Timer: Best Sailing Watch For Racing. Optimum Time Series 3 Race Timer: Best Large Display Sailing Watch For Racing. Casio Tide Graph Moon Phase: Best Budget-Friendly Sailing Watch.

  12. Best Sailing Watches 2023: Our Pick of the Top Models & Buyer's Guide

    Garmin 010-02064-01 Instinct, Rugged Outdoor Watch... $223.99. View on Amazon. The Best Overall Sailing Watch - Garmin Quatix 6. The Garmin Quatix 6 wins our award for the best overall sailing watch. This smart model comes with a clean look, featuring stainless steel casing and a sapphire display.

  13. Top 5 Best Sailing Watches of 2024 • The Adventure Junkies

    Watches and sailing go together. Sailboat racers have very particular timekeeping needs, and premium watchmakers have long sought the cachet of association with high-end yacht races. That association produces some truly extravagant timepieces. If the $200,000 price tag on the Breguet Marine Equation Marchante 5887 seems excessive, you can always settle for the Rolex Oyster Perpetual ...

  14. Best Boating Watches For The Avid Sailor

    The best sailing watches are from reputable brands such as Seiko, Tissot, Casio, Garmin and Optimum. There are other sailing watch brands that make a competitive product such as Wrist Armor, Garmin, and Timex. ... This regatta timer watch is ideal for sail racing and favored by many enthusiasts for its large polarized display. It can be worn ...

  15. Best sailing watches: 16 options for racing and cruising

    Fox Morgan, Phil Sampson and Roger Hughes trst and review 16 of the best sailing watches available with functions for racing and cruising sailors. B&B Yacht Charter. BLOG. Yachting World; Best sailing watches: 16 options for racing and cruising ... B&B Yacht Charter Marbella ...

  16. The 5 Best Sailing Watches With GPS

    Disclosure: We earn a commission if you buy through links on this page. The 5 best sailing watches with GPS are listed below. Best Overall: Garmin Instinct. Best For Features: Garmin Fēnix 5. Best For Price: Suunto Traverse Alpha. Best For Underwater: Garmin Descent MK1. Best For Battery Life: Garmin Quatix 5x Sapphire.

  17. Ronstan ClearStart™ Sailing Watches and Race Timer

    Ronstan's ClearStart™ race timer and watches are completely updated with bold new styling and true sailing functionality. Besides the fresh new look they feature large buttons, easy to read displays and advanced intuitive programming designed specifically with the racing sailor in mind. Developed with input from some of the world's top ...

  18. Best Sailing Watches

    With sail racing data, a virtual starting line, race countdown timer, and a distance to starting line function, the Quatix 5 is designed for serious sailors. ... Ocean Racing Offering Optimum Time Sailing Watches. Diane Byrne. May 17, 2010. Engines & Parts. Cool Watches From Optimum Time. Zuzana Prochazka. June 2, 2010. 25 Best Beginner Sailing ...

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