Buying Guide Wrist Companions for Explorers, Waqt Guide to Adventure Watches

In our guide to adventure watches, we contemplated what precisely constitutes an adventure watch, and the conclusion we arrived at was a solid one: an adventure watch should be simple, durable, and legible. The dial should feature large, contrasting markings with minimal embellishments. The cases should protect the movements from impacts. All of these factors are essential for a watch designed to perform well in the great outdoors. However, the adventure category is so expansive that its definition remains rather ambiguous, given the countless reasons people spend time outside.

So, we must ask ourselves: In our guide to adventure watches, we contemplated what precisely constitutes an adventure watch, and the conclusion we arrived at was a solid one. Adventure watches cannot be confined to a specific category, but they share the common trait of being timepieces created for outdoor enthusiasts and adventurers. These watches are built to withstand extreme conditions, making them indispensable tools for activities such as hiking, camping, mountaineering, and more. They must be lightweight, shock-resistant, practical, water-resistant, and equipped with a substantial power reserve. To address these criteria, we have curated a selection of 5 watches from various manufacturers, featuring different price points to cater to every budget.

Rolex Explorer 36 Reference 124270

The Rolex Explorer is synonymous with adventure and exploration, boasting a rich history. Originally designed to accompany professional athletes and explorers in the world's most challenging environments, it was on the wrist of the first men to reach the summit of Mount Everest. The Explorer 36 edition, with its 36mm case size and classic Oystersteel design, embodies the spirit of adventure and ruggedness, providing durability and reliability for outdoor enthusiasts and explorers. Powered by Rolex's caliber 3230, known for precision and flexibility, this model combines elegance and functionality with a clear, legible dial and signature Mercedes hands. Suitable for all occasions, the Rolex Explorer 36 starts at 6,000 euros or approximately 29,000 UAE dirhams.

Panerai Luminor Marina

 Originally designed as a watch for the Italian Navy, this oversized 44mm watch is water-resistant to 300 meters, making a bold statement on the wrist. It's powered by the P.9010 caliber, ensuring accuracy and reliability. With both manual winding and automatic functions, the Marina collection reflects Panerai's rich heritage and unconventional yet dependable design. Prices for the Marina watches start at 8,000 euros, equivalent to 32,000 AED.

Seiko Prospex Tortoise

Prospex is renowned for its diving watches, and in the "Tortoise" versions, it takes inspiration from the French word meaning turtle. Seiko has replaced the usual one-way diving scale with a compass, and the 42.2mm case and bezel resemble a tortoise shell. The watch still features the famous Prospex crown at four o'clock and offers water resistance up to 200 meters. It's equipped with Seiko's automatic 4R34 caliber, boasting a 40-hour power reserve. The starting price for this watch is 400 euros or approximately 2,000 UAE dirhams.

Tudor Ringer

With an adventurous backstory, an in-house automatic movement, Tudor build quality, and a convenient 39mm watch diameter, this is the watch to consider when you decide to invest in a field watch. It could be seen as an affordable alternative to the Rolex Explorer. This watch is versatile enough to accompany you on adventures, yet it's equally suitable as a daily or office watch, thanks to its steel bracelet, which is also a great choice. The Ranger watch features an in-house automatic MT5402 caliber and boasts water resistance up to 100 meters. The Tudor Ranger watch is priced at 3,000 euros, which is equivalent to 12,000 UAE dirhams.

Zenith Chronomaster Revival Safari:

 A recreation of the 1969 original, this watch features a micro finished titanium case that's notably darker than expected. The combination of metallic gray and safari green gives it a striking appearance. It's equipped with the classic El Primero column-wheel calibre, resulting in a charming albeit somewhat high-priced chronograph. The watch's 37mm diameter is well-suited, and the rubber strap enhances comfort on the wrist. The hourly price is 9,000 euros, equivalent to 36,000 UAE dirhams.