If the latest watch releases of big-ticket brands Rolex and Tudor—namely the Explorer watch and Black Bay Pro—are any indication, it looks like there’s a growing demand for field watches. Is it because more people are moving away from their computer screens and are back going on adventures? Or just tired of clutter and want something stubbornly simple?
A field watch is called as such due to its association with ground activities—as opposed to a dive watch which is made for underwater exploration, or a pilot watch which is designed for challenges up in the air. A field watch is a simple military watch that traces its origins to WWI and WWII, when its crucial role was, well, you guessed it—tell the time accurately.
One of the iconic field watches by Tudor is the Oyster Prince, which has a special place in British Expeditionary history. It was worn by British North Greenland explorers who used to reference their movements during their historic trek to the North Pole 70 years ago.
The rare watch has inspired various Tudor models ever since, the latest of which was unveiled at a global launch in London—the Tudor Ranger.
David Celdran, who was at the event for his ANC show “Executive Class,” says the Tudor Ranger has a design and construction that ticks all the boxes of a proper field watch. It’s made for extreme environments, thanks to its legible and clear uncluttered black dialed luminous markers in its 39-mm case. This makes it possible to tell time at a glance even in bad weather or darkness.
Its durability is unquestionable as it features a robust stainless steel case, scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, and waterproofing of up to 100 meters. Its accuracy is likewise impeccable, thanks to a chronometer certified self-winding mechanical movement with 70-hour power reserve.
For those who prefer a more modern, trendier look, the Ranger also comes in a more casual style with a choice of a stainless steel, a hybrid rubber leather, or a NATO fabric strap, which Celdran says is his personal favorite.
The no-nonsense Tudor may not appeal to fashion sophisticates as it may look too simple. But that’s what a field watch should be anyway, Celdran points out, “a precision instrument, not a style signifier or fashion accessory.”
Tudor Ranger watches will set you back between P141,000 to P157,500.
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