6 Most Durable Watches to Stand the Test of Time

Not all watches are created equal. Each model serves a particular function. The variety ranges from pilot’s watches to sports and formal watches. Many people, like service members, thrill-seekers, or outdoor enthusiasts, want tough watches that can function reliably under extreme situations. 

Even if you aren’t planning on climbing the Swiss Alps, you still need a long lasting watch that can handle your hectic daily life. Every year, watchmakers up the standards of durability, force, and pressure their timepieces can endure. By definition, a tough watch can withstand rough treatment without breaking. 

Almost unbreakable watches of this nature have qualities like shock, scratch, water, and weather resistance. There are a plethora of sophisticated models with these features that may appeal to you without having to commit to a bulky accessory. 

You’ll learn about six of the most durable watches in this article.

Sinn Diving Watches UX EZM 2B

The Sinn Diving range includes some of the best rugged watches for avid water athletes. Its most distinctive features include water resistance of up to 5000 meters, making it one of the toughest watches out there.

With a 44mm case made from the same steel used to construct German military submarines, the Sinn UX is at the cutting edge of watch technology.

But that’s not all: this unique steel is also non-magnetic and can withstand pressure up to 12,000 meters. To prevent physical damage, these shock resistant watches include a scratch-proof and anti-reflective sapphire crystal coating. The revolving bezel is also made from submarine steel for usage at great depths without the risk of dislodging or corrosion.

Sinn Diving UZ EZM 2B watches are powered by quartz technology that can be filled with oil. As a result, this makes the dial and time readable at any angle or when underwater. In addition, this mechanism makes the watch extremely water-resistant, regardless of depth.

Did you know you can also count on this model to function in extreme climates, as it is suitable for use between -20 and 60 degrees Celsius?

It is estimated that its seven-year battery lifespan makes this model stand out from other unbreakable watches. Moreover, the strap is made of silicone rubber with a double-push buckle and flip-lock clasp to secure the watch on your wrist. Currently, the UZ EZM 2B retails for $2,469, but you can find several online preowned options in this model that offer the same longevity.

TAG Heuer Formula 1 

Since Jack Heuer’s first sponsorship deal with Swiss racer Jo Siffert in 1968, TAG Heuer has maintained a strong presence in Formula 1. To honor this tradition, the brand created an F1-dedicated range with the most durable watches specifically designed for racers and fans. 

The first race-inspired timepiece on our list, the Formula 1 CAZ101AF BA0637 is one of the toughest watches available right now. This is because it features exceptional shock resistance, 43mm steel cases, and three quartz-powered chronographs. In addition, the limited-edition watch pays homage to the Senna racing team.

The Formula 1 is an obvious choice for anyone needing a bright, bold sports watch that can withstand track rigors. To support its mechanisms, the traditional tachymeter scale has been etched permanently into the PVD bezel of the watch. Moreover, the rhodium plating and LumiNova tips make it easier to read, even in the dark. Finally, the pin buckle is made of polished steel to secure the black rubber band on its wearer.

As if its price tag of $2,200 wasn’t enough, the ability to withstand water pressure of up to 200 meters makes this a leading contender for the most durable luxury watch. 

Luminox Bear Grylls Survival Land Series 

The best rugged watches also serve as tools. They include features like emergency kits and navigation, designed for use in rough and dangerous outdoor situations. However, it is unusual to come across a timepiece endorsed by a survivalist like Bear Grylls, who has seen it all! Likewise, Luminox is a significant name when considering the most durable watch brands, given its reputation for tool watch production that lives up to expectations.

A resilient model like the Luminox Bear Grylls Land Series remains an adventurist’s top choice. These watches will be your reliable companion as you face every challenge, from dive zones to paracord strapping. SOS in Morse Code and 300-meter water resistance are just a few aspects that make this a reality. This is also one of the most durable watches for construction workers constantly exposed to potential physical risks. 

Additionally, it has sapphire crystal glass and a 42mm Carbonox casing for extra strength. When paired with its 316L stainless steel backing and bezel, the Bear Grylls Land Series from Luminox might be one of the toughest watches for adrenaline junkies. The rubber strap cushions your wrist while attaching the included compass loop.

You can enjoy this practical option without worrying about wear and tear, low temperatures, or accidental drops. The highlight is it costs only $655, which is a steal!

Casio G-Shock DW5600E-1V

When talking about the world’s most durable watch brands, it’s impossible not to include Casio due to their vast contributions to the industry. However, when it comes to toughness and dependability, the G-Shock DW5600E-1V is hard to beat, with countless attributes and a classic design at only $45. 

This Casio G-Shock model also happens to be one of the most durable watches ever made by the brand. The DW5600E-1V is so tough it holds the Guinness World Record for the heaviest car driven over a watch after requiring a 20 metric tonne truck to crush it. Simply put, it represents Casio’s “Absolute Toughness” motto.

The watch comes with a resin strap and casing that are sleek and stylish. In addition, its compact size and low profile mean it fits most wrists comfortably. Another reason for its widespread appeal is that it doesn’t include the newer G-Shock hallmark case, which is oversized.

Wearers can count on incomparable reliability, shock protection, and mineral crystal coating. You can also go swimming or diving up to 200 meters deep without worrying about your Casio G-Shock. It uses a quartz movement, another hallmark feature of the brand.

Although it has the same diameter as a traditional round watch, the 45mm rectangular case gives it a vintage aesthetic. While the DW5600E-1V doesn’t include the most sophisticated G-Shock features, it compensates with practicality and suitability for daily use. The device also features a standard alarm, countdown timer, hourly time signal, 12 and 24-hour time styles, and auto calendar. Moreover, it also includes afterglow backlighting so you can tell the time in all environments.

Breitling Emergency Series

Lauded as the first timepiece to include a real dual-frequency distress call, the Breitling titanium Emergency watch has quite the claim to fame. If you are ever in a life-threatening scenario while adventuring, all you have to do is activate the beacon to send a signal alert to rescuers. This watch is ideal for climbers and thru-hikers who regularly encounter uncertain and potentially dangerous conditions in remote areas. 

Other features on the Emergency include a chronograph, dual-time zone support, alarm, calendar, and a timer. The compass rose on the unidirectional bezel makes it usable for navigation purposes. Its precision timing is guaranteed by quartz calibration and an analog and digital clock. 

The Emergency II, its latest variant, was introduced in 2013 and comes with a 51mm titanium metal casing that is both lightweight and strong. The Emergency Mission sports a 45mm case. This model doesn’t use digital readouts. Depending on your configuration, a Breitling Emergency II can well exceed $10,000, and a preowned Emergency I starts from roughly $3,200. 

Omega Speedmaster GMT 

Another timepiece focused on speed is the Omega Speedmaster GMT (321.92.44.52.01.001). Numerous fans connect this watch to the historic 1969 moon landing, as it was the first watch to make it to outer space. No longer known simply as the Moonwatch, the range has grown to include a variety of styles, from automatic watches with advanced Co-Axial technology to manual chronographs.

It sports a 42.5mm titanium case and sapphire crystal that are scratch-resistant. In addition, the watch can withstand water pressure up to 100 meters. So it is no surprise that Omega Master chronometers can withstand magnetic fields of up to 15,000 gausses. 

At first glance, the watch might appear somewhat bulky due to its 14mm case thickness. However, the lightweight metal and rubber strap ensure a smooth, comfortable fit. Although the retail cost of $9,100 may be steep to some, it’s relatively reasonable for such a robust automated watch. 

The Bottom Line on Durable Watches 

Durable watches are built to last, so you can put your money where your mouth is instead of worrying about replacing cheaper models every few months. With proper maintenance, the watches on this list have the potential to last a lifetime as they can withstand any number of extremes. Of course, each watch has its particular strength. But they all share a commitment to durability and toughness.