AllOutdoor Review: 5.11 Tactical Field Watch 2.0 – Classical Aesthetic
Patrik Orcutt 10.17.23
When it comes to tactical gear, 5.11 Tactical is a name that recently has been producing high-quality, mission-ready equipment. Now, they have ventured into the realm of wristwear with the 5.11 Field Watch 2.0. Designed for the modern adventurer, this timepiece blends rugged functionality with a touch of classic style. 5.11 recently sent me a copy of their Field Watch 2.0 to test and evaluate on my daily duties and adventures.
5.11 Tactical Coverage on AllOutdoor
The 5.11 Field Watch 2.0 was provided by 5.11 for this review and while I am allowed to keep the product indefinitely, this will not change my opinion on this product or any of 5.11’s current or past offerings. I have taken the 5.11 Field Watch 2.0 on many EDC outings over the past few months and worn it everywhere I would normally go.
The 5.11 Field Watch 2.0 strikes a balance between tactical functionality and classic aesthetics, and it’s this fusion that initially caught my eye. The watch exudes an understated, yet purposeful design, making it suitable for everyday wear as well as more technical adventures. The case measures 44mm, and its stainless steel construction ensures durability without sacrificing style. The matte black finish adds a touch of sophistication and is resistant to scratches and scuffs and makes it a great piece to wear in Uniform.
The dial of the watch features large, easy-to-read numerals and hands, which are illuminated ensuring visibility even in low-light conditions. The 5.11 logo on the dial is a subtle nod to the brand without being overstated. The date window sits at the 4 o’clock position. The scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, known for its toughness, ensures that the watch remains free from blemishes, even in challenging environments. Even after some rock climbing, an activity that has historically scratched my other watches, the Field Watch 2.0 came away with no marks.
What truly sets the Field Watch 2.0 apart is its practicality. It’s not just a fashionable accessory; it’s a tool. The watch is water-resistant up to 100 meters, making it suitable for snorkeling, swimming, and waterborne activities. The unidirectional ratcheting dive bezel allows for precise timing, an essential feature for any outdoor enthusiast. I will say that the bezel needs to be stiffer as I found it would move on me very often while putting on jackets. The durability of the watch is evident in its build, with a stainless steel case, a screw-down case back, and a durable strap that will last for a while. Accuracy is paramount for any timepiece, and the Field Watch 2.0 doesn’t disappoint. It houses a Japanese movement, ensuring precise timekeeping that’s reliable and easily maintained.
As a tactical timepiece, the Field Watch is loaded with features that are invaluable for adventurers. The illuminated hands and markers ensure that you can read the time at a glance, even in low-light conditions. The watch features a second hand, which can be vital for precise timekeeping in some scenarios. While the hands do have a good amount of luminescence to them, it would be nice to see this watch have a very small light option for when it is pitch black and you have been outside all night.
The true test of any timepiece is how it performs. To evaluate the 5.11 Field Watch, I took it on a series of outdoor adventures, ranging from hiking and rock climbing and even wore this during my recent visit to the Tactile Games in South Carolina. The water resistance was tested during a few days lake while swimming and every time I got in the shower wash up.
The comfort of a timepiece is crucial for extended wear, especially for those who intend to use it as an everyday accessory. The Field Watch’s design accounts for this. The stainless steel case is sized at 44mm, which may be larger than some are accustomed to, but it strikes a good balance between tactical functionality and everyday wear. The watch’s relatively slim profile for a tactical model ensures it doesn’t feel bulky on the wrist.
The standard NATO strap is durable and comfortable, but note that it will shrink and grow when introduced to water and moisture. I found the fit of the watch to be excellent for my wrist and if you don’t like the black strap it comes with, there are thousands of aftermarket options available online.
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The 5.11 Field Watch 2.0 blend of rugged functionality, classic aesthetics, and precision timekeeping, it caters to the needs of modern adventurers and tactical enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re embarking on a challenging outdoor expedition or simply want a reliable and stylish everyday timepiece, the Field Watch is up to the task.
