The field watch is a military-inspired style with a lineage dating back to the early 20th century. Field watches are reliable and tough timepieces that were designed for soldiers to be able to use during World War I, which curated some of the best field watches at the time to provide durability, reliability, and legibility even in extreme conditions.
Pocket watches were the standard timepiece prior to the wristwatch era, but not very practical when it came to the battlefield. Soldiers needed a way to use their timepiece hands-free in mud, wind, and harsh weather while maintaining readability even in darkness. The answer was rugged, no-nonsense wristwatches with luminous hands and durable cases—perfect for the rigors of battle.
Decades later, these are still revered for their durability, built-to-last reputation, and simple looks. Because of these features, they are in demand with outdoor people, explorers, or perhaps those with a good sense of style. From the battlefield to your wrist—whether you’re in the wilderness or just looking for a practical yet stylish piece—field watches are not only rooted in accuracy and durability but have also paved their way into the forefront of most modern watch collections. The years have been kind to these timepieces, preserving both their utilitarian influences and inherent ruggedness.
Ratio Quest Vs Timex Expedition: A Detailed Breakdown
On the rugged, adventure-designed watch front, we have a pair of fresh contenders: the Ratio Quest Field Watch and the Timex Expedition. These two models best capture the rugged, simple yet legible cues of the outdoors. The Timex Expedition is a stalwart in solid functionality and reliable performance. The Ratio Quest uses sapphire crystal, typically seen in higher-end watches, and offers 100 meters of water resistance, making it ideal for adventure seekers in rugged environments. Now, let’s look at the features of both watches so you can choose the one that best suits your needs.
Ratio Quest Field Watch
Inspired by iconic military watches, the Ratio Quest Field Watch is a reliable companion for adventurers. Produced by the newer brand Ratio Watches, it balances durability and affordability, with the Quest Field series blending a traditional style with modern upgrades. Its standout feature is the use of premium materials like sapphire crystal, allowing it to handle harsh environments.
About the Watch
The series emphasizes functionality and legibility, key qualities for any outdoor watch. Like the Timex Expedition, the Ratio Quest has a clear, easy-to-read dial with luminous hands for visibility in low light. What sets it apart is the superior materials. Its 316L stainless steel case adds durability, making it perfect for exploring challenging terrains. The anti-reflective sapphire crystal offers scratch resistance and minimizes glare, ideal for outdoor adventures. The watch’s versatility is highlighted by interchangeable nylon or canvas straps, making it suitable for both rugged expeditions and daily life.
Looks and Design
The watch maintains the timeless, minimalistic look typical of such watches. Like the Timex Expedition, it features a large, easy-to-read dial with bold numerals and a date window for practicality. A unique feature of the watch is its engraved case back, which honors historical explorers like Lewis and Clark, adding a sense of adventure. Its slim 40mm case is comfortable and versatile, perfect for everyday wear and outdoor activities. Combining practicality and a spirit of exploration, the Ratio Quest appeals to history enthusiasts and adventurers alike.
Key Features
- 100 meters of water resistance
- Anti-reflective sapphire crystal for superior scratch resistance
- Quartz movement for precise timekeeping
- Luminous hands for better low-light visibility
- Durable 316L stainless steel case
Price
One of the most attractive features of the watch is its exceptional value. Priced under $50, it boasts premium materials like sapphire crystal and stainless steel—qualities typically found in much pricier watches. For anyone seeking a tough yet stylish outdoor watch without breaking the bank, the Ratio Quest Field Watch is a top contender.
Expedition: The Timex Field Watch
Timex has been making rugged, reliable watches since 1854, and the Timex Expedition—one of its budget-friendly options—carries on that legacy. Launched in the late 1990s as part of the Expedition series, this watch was designed for outdoor adventures. It stands out for its practicality and affordability, making it a top choice for adventurers who don’t want to break the bank.
The brand has also introduced special editions, such as the Timex Expedition North, which have been well-received by users. These special editions come with additional features but are priced higher.
About the Watch
The Timex Expedition Field Watch follows the design principles of military timepieces, similar to the Ratio Quest Field Watch. Its focus is simplicity and functionality. One thing that distinguishes the Expedition is Timex’s own Indiglo night-light technology, which makes the entire dial glow with a single push of a button for better readability in darkness. This is a major benefit for nighttime explorers. The Expedition is available in either resin or stainless steel cases, offering different durability and aesthetic options. Designed for rugged outdoor use, the Expedition can handle depths of up to 100 meters.
Design and Look
The watch retains a classic style with a rugged yet somewhat refined appearance. It features earthy tones, much like the Ratio Quest, reflecting its outdoorsy appeal. Fabric or leather straps, combined with resin or stainless steel cases, ensure durability while maintaining comfort. The slim profile makes it perfect for outdoor activities and daily wear, much like the Quest Field Watch.
Key Features
- Water resistance from 50m to 200m, depending on the model.
- Indiglo night-light for full-dial illumination (select models)
- Luminous hands for enhanced low-light visibility
- Durable resin or stainless steel case
- Reliable quartz or automatic field watch movement for accurate timekeeping
Price
The Timex Expedition is affordably priced between $50 and $300. Compared to the Ratio Quest, it may seem a bit pricey for just the added full-lume feature, but for outdoor enthusiasts needing a reliable timepiece, the Timex Expedition is still a solid choice.
Timex Field Watch Vs Ratio Field Watch: The Superior Men’s Field Watch?
In the showdown of these field watches, it’s a close call between both of these. In the end, it depends on what you prioritize in a watch.
The Timex Expedition Field Watch offers basic, no-nonsense functionality, including the standout Indiglo night-light and dependable water resistance. If you’re looking for a reliable yet affordable timepiece that can withstand the rigors of outdoor life, the Expedition is a solid choice.
On the other hand, the Ratio Field Watch provides high-end features at a budget-friendly price. Its use of the sapphire crystal, a durable 316L stainless steel case, and its well-known Lewis & Clark engraved design make it a standout among affordable field watches. For a tough, stylish watch with excellent craftsmanship at a great price, the Ratio Quest is hard to beat.
FAQ
Field watches are designed for durability, legibility, and reliability in rugged environments. Originally created for military use, they are ideal for outdoor adventures due to their robust construction and easy-to-read design.
Ratio’s field watches use high-quality materials like sapphire crystal and stainless steel at an affordable price, providing durability and practicality. This makes them a solid choice for those seeking a well-built watch without overspending.
The first field watch was developed for soldiers during World War I. These early wristwatches replaced impractical pocket watches and featured rugged cases and luminous hands for use in combat conditions.
