25 BEST Compass Watches for ALL Budgets (from $90 to $15,725)

Compasses have helped people for centuries to navigate their way through the world. By using the Earth’s magnetic field, a compass determines the direction in relation to the poles and helps guide the user on their way. 

They are incredibly useful for hikers, adventurers, and outdoor enthusiasts who want to stay on track while exploring new terrain. While wristwatches have not been around quite as long, they, too, help people navigate their daily lives.

A compass watch combines the functionality of a traditional timepiece with the added benefit of a compass. Whether you’re exploring a new city or hiking through the woods, a compass watch can give you the confidence to know exactly where (and when) you are.

Not only are compass watches practical, but they can also be a stylish addition to any watch collection. Many models come in sleek, modern designs perfect for everyday wear. Some even include additional features like altimeters, barometers, and GPS tracking to enhance their functionality.

A compass watch is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a reliable tool watch with a little extra tech. With various styles and prices available, there is a compass watch to suit almost anyone. Keep reading, and you might just find the perfect one for your needs.

History of the Compass

The compass has a rich history that spans centuries and has evolved significantly over time. The modern compass we use has its roots in ancient China. Initially, it was used as a divination tool, but it soon became a crucial navigational aid for travelers and traders.

Over time, new features were added to compasses, such as the ability to compensate for local magnetic variation and the inclusion of illuminated dials for use in low-light conditions. Today, compasses have been integrated into various devices, including watches, smartphones, and GPS systems.

Purpose of a Compass Watch

The purpose of a compass watch is to provide direction and orientation to the wearer, allowing them to easily navigate unfamiliar territory. Time and direction go hand in hand, so why not combine them in a single tool? By using the Earth’s magnetic field, a compass watch can determine the cardinal directions, enabling the wearer to know the time, where they are, where they need to go, and how to get there. 

Types of Compass Watches

Analog compass watches and digital compass watches are both useful tools for navigation and outdoor activities. The main difference between the two is how they display the compass information. Analog compass watches use a physical needle that points towards the magnetic north, while digital compass watches use a digital display to show the direction.

Ultimately, the choice between an analog and a digital compass watch comes down to personal preference and intended use. Those who prioritize simplicity and durability may prefer analog compass watches, while those who value accuracy and convenience may prefer digital compass watches.

Digital Compass Watches

Digital compass watches offer more accurate readings and additional features such as altimeters and barometers. They are also easier to use, with simple push-button controls, and can be calibrated automatically.

Analog Compass Watches

Analog compass watches have the advantage of being easier to read in bright sunlight and don’t require batteries, making them a more reliable option for outdoor activities. However, they require manual calibration and can be affected by nearby magnetic fields.

The Best Compass Watches

Bertucci DX3 Compass

The Bertucci DX3 Compass watch is a high-performance timepiece designed for outdoor enthusiasts who demand reliability, durability, and accuracy. This watch is constructed with a solid titanium case, a solid mineral crystal, and a durable nylon band, making it tough enough to withstand even the most rugged outdoor activities.

One of the standout features of the Bertucci DX3 Compass watch is its precise and accurate Japanese quartz movement, which ensures that the timepiece keeps perfect time. The watch also features a reliable and accurate compass that is easy to read and use, making it an essential tool for navigation in the wilderness.

The watch also includes a date display, a rotating bezel for tracking elapsed time, and a water resistance rating of up to 100 meters. Additionally, the watch’s luminous hands and markers make it easy to read in low-light conditions.

You can find the Bertucci DX3 Compass for around $70.

Seiko Solar Chronograph Compass SSC081

The Seiko Solar Chronograph Compass is a great all-around option, crafted with a stainless steel case and bracelet, making it durable enough to withstand the rigors of outdoor activities.

This beautiful quartz chronograph includes a date window, 100 meters of water resistance, and a comfortable diameter of 41mm. It also uses Seiko’s patented Hardlex crystal and has the accuracy of a Seiko quartz movement. The rotating internal compass bezel ensures you’re always heading the right way. 

If you’re looking for a combination of quality, looks, and value, it’s hard to go wrong with a Seiko, no matter which model you choose. However, if you are looking for a compass watch specifically, then this is the Seiko for you.

This watch is priced at approximately $190.

Timex Intelligent Quartz Tide Temp Compass Watch (ref. T2N720)

The Timex Intelligent Quartz Tide Temp Compass Watch is a fun and useful tool watch that will entice outdoor enthusiasts and gadget geeks alike. Aside from the standard functions like time, this little wrist robot can tell you the current tide conditions in your area. 

It also has a temperature sensor, a compass function, a 24-hour chronograph, and an alarm. It even comes with 100 meters of water resistance, a highly legible diameter of 45mm, and a soft silicone strap. It’s like having a personal assistant on your wrist without the annoying chitchat! 

The best part is it only costs a little under $200.

Suunto Core (ref. SS014279010)

This watch is a sleek and modern option for those who want a no-nonsense tool for the great outdoors. In addition to having a built-in compass, the Suunto Core SS014279010 also has a barometer and altimeter. 

The barometer measures air pressure and can help you predict changes in weather conditions, while the altimeter measures altitude, which is particularly useful for hiking and mountaineering. The watch also has a thermometer, which can help determine the temperature of your surroundings.

As a multi-function digital watch, the Suunto Core also includes a stopwatch, countdown timer, and multiple alarms. It also has a backlit display, making it easy to read in low-light conditions. It’s water-resistant up to 30 meters, while the strap is made of elastomer and is designed to be comfortable and secure on the wrist. At 49.1mm, it’s not a small watch, but that makes it all the more legible.

This excellent tool watch can be yours for around $220.

Casio G-Shock Master of G Mudmaster Twin Sensor (ref. GG1000-1A8)

The Casio G-Shock GG1000-1A8 Master of G Mudmaster Twin Sensor compass is a durable and versatile watch designed to withstand extreme conditions. It includes a mud-resistant shell, water resistance up to 200 meters, and a twin sensor that measures temperature and direction. It also features a countdown timer, a world time display, and a daily alarm.

The watch’s mud-resistant structure is achieved by using a specially designed case and button guards that prevent mud and debris from entering the watch. This feature is handy for outdoor enthusiasts and professionals who work in harsh environments.

It also includes a twin-sensor feature that allows the timepiece to measure both temperature and direction. If you want a watch that’s both rugged and functional, you can never go wrong when you choose a G-Shock. 

Plus, you can find it for approximately $200 if you shop around.

Orient Mechanical Sports Compass (ref. RA-AC0N02Y)

Orient is a part of the Citizen group, meaning that you know you’re getting good quality. The Orient RA-AC0N02Y Sports Compass has a diameter of 44mm, 200 meters of water resistance, and a rotating compass bezel. It also includes a day and date display, automatic movement, and scratch-resistant sapphire crystal. 

The highly legible orange and white dial is functional, fun, and stylish. After all, just because you’re traipsing through the woods doesn’t mean you don’t want to have a little pizazz in your wardrobe.

This unique and functional timepiece will set you back about $300.

Citizen Promaster Altichron (ref. BN5058-07E)

The Citizen Promaster BN5058-07E Altichron includes a sleek black dial, luminous hands and markers, a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, and Citizen’s legendary eco-drive movement. On the tech side, the watch also has an altimeter, barometer, thermometer, and date display.

The altimeter measures altitude up to 10,000 meters, while the barometer measures atmospheric pressure and helps predict weather changes. The thermometer function indicates the temperature in both Celsius and Fahrenheit.

The Citizen Promaster BN5058-07E Altichron compass watch has a diameter of 47mm, a thickness of 16.5mm, and a weight of 221g. Its water resistance rating is 200m, making it a great option for hiking, swimming, and many other outdoor activities.

You can find the Citizen Altichron for a little under $350.

96Zero Field Watch

The 96Zero Field Watch is as rugged as it is attractive. It features a 42mm case,  water resistance up to 100 meters, and a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal that can withstand the toughest of environments.

The watch is powered by a Swiss-made quartz movement that provides precise and accurate timekeeping. The black dial with white Arabic numerals gives great visibility even in low light. It also includes a three o-clock date window, a screw-down crown, and a comfortable canvas strap.

The watch has an approximate retail price of $400.

Seiko Prospex “Land Tortoise” SRPG15K1

Seiko has been a well-respected brand in the world of watches for decades, and their Prospex line is one of their most coveted collections. Among the many timepieces that the Prospex line boasts, the Seiko Prospex “Land Tortoise” SRPG15K1 stands out as a rugged and stylish compass watch that can do almost anything.

The Land Tortoise’s stainless steel case measures 42.7mm in diameter, making it large enough to be easily read and operated but not too big to be cumbersome on the wrist. The dial is protected by a scratch-resistant Hardlex crystal, ensuring the watch looks great even after prolonged use.

It is water-resistant up to 200 meters and features a Lumibrite coating, which makes it easy to read the time in low light conditions.

You can find the Land Tortoise for around $500.

Casio Pro-Trek (ref. PRG600YB-3)

The Casio Pro-Trek PRG600YB-3 boasts a wide range of features, including a compass, altimeter, barometer, thermometer, and world time display. With a durable construction, the watch is water-resistant up to 100 meters, making it perfect for all types of outdoor activities.

Other notable features include a stopwatch, a countdown timer, and five daily alarms. The watch is solar-powered and has a battery life of up to seven months on a single charge. The resin band and case are both tough and comfortable, and the watch’s design is sleek and modern.

This incredible tool watch can be found for around $300, or even less if you shop around.

Luminox ICE-SAR Arctic 1200 (ref. XL.1201)

Designed to withstand the harshest of environments, this watch is a favorite of the Icelandic Association for Search and Rescue (ICE-SAR). It features Luminox’s signature illumination technology. This means the dial is highly visible in low-light conditions, making it easy to read even in the darkest environments.

With a stainless steel case, 200 meters of water resistance, and a sapphire crystal, it’s highly resistant to scratches and can withstand extreme conditions. It also includes a unidirectional rotating bezel, Swiss quartz movement, and a date function. Add in the compass feature, and you’ll be ready to deal with anything the harsh environment can throw at you.

Depending on where you buy it from, you can find this watch for around $600.

Seiko Prospex Field Compass SRPD31K1

One of the most prominent features of the Seiko Prospex Field Compass SRPD31K1 is its compass bezel, which can be used to navigate and orient yourself in unfamiliar surroundings. The watch also features luminous hands and markers, making it easy to read in low-light conditions.

The case is made of durable stainless steel and is water resistant up to 100 meters, allowing for worry-free use while swimming or snorkeling.

The Seiko Prospex Field Compass SRPD31K1 also has a dependable Seiko 4R36 automatic movement, a rugged khaki strap, and a robust, military-inspired design, that adds to its overall durability. It’s a versatile watch that can be worn in various situations, from hiking and camping to everyday wear.

You can get this watch for approximately $500.

BOLDR Expedition II Eiger

BOLDR is a microbrand that’s been making waves in the watchmaking community lately. One of the main benefits of the BOLDR Expedition II Eiger is its durability. The watch is made from high-quality materials, including a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal and a stainless steel case.

It is also water-resistant to 200 meters, making it suitable for diving and other water activities. The watch features a number of useful specifications, including a Swiss-made Ronda 515.24H movement, which provides accurate timekeeping.

It has a 42mm case size and a thickness of 13.5mm, making it easy to wear and comfortable on the wrist. The watch also has a unidirectional rotating bezel, which can be used to measure elapsed time.

The Expedition II Eiger retails for $700.

Chase Durer Fighter Command  (ref. 2361WW3BR04)

With a water resistance of 300 meters, this watch is a great option for any outdoor enthusiast. What’s more, it has a sapphire crystal, a chronograph, a date function, and a compass function. The watch has a rugged but highly legible look.

The leather strap is durable and comfortable, rounding out the great features of this heavy-duty camping companion. 

Aside from the utilitarian functions of the Fighter Command, it has one of the best-looking tool watch designs you’ll find anywhere. This watch just screams durability, and it’s definitely not a shrinking violet on the wrist.

This watch has an approximate retail price of $850.

Seiko Prospex Alpinist SPB121

This watch is a part of Seiko’s Prospex line, which is designed for those who love adventure and exploration. The Alpinist SPB121 is a perfect example of this, with its rugged and durable construction and impressive features. The watch features a stunning green dial, complemented by a stainless steel case and bracelet.

The dial is protected by a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, which ensures that the watch remains looking great for years to come. 

The Alpinist also has a date function and a power reserve indicator, which are both incredibly useful features for anyone who wants to keep track of their watch’s performance. Add to that 200 meters of water resistance and a compass function, and you’ve got the perfect adventurer’s watch.

Plus, it doesn’t cost a fortune since you can find it for around $750.

Alpina AlpinerX (ref. AL-283LBO5AQ6)

The Alpina AlpinerX is a techie’s dream. With a range of sensors that allow the watch to track steps taken, calories burned, and altitude changes, this watch is more like a computer than a timepiece. In addition to its activity-tracking features, the AlpinerX has a range of smartwatch functions, including notifications for incoming calls and messages.

This means you can stay connected without constantly checking your phone. The watch has a sleek black dial, which is complemented by a black leather strap. Finally, it includes a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, a highly accurate quartz movement, and a bright orange chapter ring for improved visibility.

And all that for a price tag of around $1,000.

Tissot T-Touch Connect Solar (ref. T121.420.47.051.00)

One of the key features of this watch is its solar-powered technology, which allows it to charge using natural or artificial light. This means that the watch can function for an extended period without needing a battery replacement. 

The T-Touch Connect Solar watch also comes with various connectivity features, including Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, allowing it to connect with your smartphone, tablet, or computer. You can receive notifications, control your music, track your fitness goals, and even set reminders using this watch. 

It is an excellent choice for people who want to stay connected without being tied to their phones. The compass function just happens to take it to the next level. 

The T-Touch Connect Solar can be found for approximately $1,000.

Traser P68 Pathfinder (ref. 107718)

The Traser P68 Pathfinder 107718 features a tough, black PVD-coated stainless steel case with a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, making it highly resistant to wear and tear. Its black rubber strap is comfortable to wear and enhances the watch’s overall durability.

The standout feature of the Traser P68 Pathfinder 107718 is its compass bezel, which allows wearers to easily navigate their surroundings. The watch also features a date display, luminous hands and markers, and a highly accurate Swiss quartz movement. With water resistance up to 100 meters, the watch can withstand a variety of water-based activities.

In addition, the Traser P68 Pathfinder 107718 is also equipped with Traser’s innovative trigalight illumination technology, which provides exceptional visibility in low-light conditions. The watch is powered by self-illuminating tritium gas tubes, which require no external light source to function.

The P68 Pathfinder has a retail price of $1,050. 

Longines Christobal C Compass (ref. 5253)

The Longines Christobal C Compass 5253 watch is a stunning timepiece combining form and function. This watch is part of the brand’s Heritage collection and pays homage to the brand’s long-standing commitment to quality and precision.

At the heart of this watch is the L282.2 automatic movement, which provides reliable and accurate timekeeping. The case is made of stainless steel and measures 41mm in diameter. The dial is a beautiful silver color, featuring a unique compass function displayed on the outer rim. 

The compass function is activated by rotating the crown at the 2 o’clock position, and it allows the wearer to find their bearings by aligning the north-south axis on the watch with the actual north-south axis. The watch also features a date display at the 3 o’clock position, and it is water-resistant up to 30 meters. This watch is perfect for anyone who values precision, functionality, and style.

Prices on this watch vary, but you can expect to pay around $2,500 for one.

Sinn 212 KSK

The Sinn 212 KSK watch is a rugged and reliable timepiece specifically designed for use by the German Special Forces Command (KSK). This watch is built to withstand the toughest conditions and is packed with features that make it an essential tool for military operations.

The case is made of high-strength titanium, which is lightweight and extremely durable. It measures 44mm in diameter and features a black PVD coating that adds to the watch’s stealthy look. The dial is also black and is designed for maximum legibility in low-light conditions, thanks to its luminous hands and indices.

The Sinn 212 KSK  is powered by the SW 300-1 automatic movement, and it also features a chronograph function, a countdown timer, and a date display. The watch is water-resistant up to 200 meters, making it suitable for diving and other aquatic activities.

You can find the Sinn 212 KSK for approximately $3,000.

Bremont Special Edition Endurance (ref. 210000036627 – 00366274)

The Bremont Special Edition Endurance 210000036627 – 00366274 is a stunning timepiece that pays tribute to the Shackleton Endurance expedition of 1914-1916. This watch is designed to withstand extreme conditions and is packed with features that make it an ideal companion for adventurers and explorers.

With a diameter of 43mm, the dial is a beautiful blue color and features a date display at the 3 o’clock position. The hands and indices are coated with Super-LumiNova, making them easy to read in low-light conditions. It runs on the BE-93-2AE automatic movement, which features a GMT function.

One of the unique features of this watch is its strap, which is made from material taken from the sail of the Shackleton Endurance expedition. The strap is a reminder of the watch’s heritage and adds to its overall rugged and adventurous look.

The watch has a retail price of $6,395.

Breitling Endurance Pro (ref. X82310D51B1S1)

The Endurance Pro X82310D51B1S1 features a 44mm case made of Breitlight. This patented material is 3.3 times lighter than titanium and 5.8 times lighter than stainless steel, yet significantly harder and more scratch-resistant. The watch is also water-resistant, up to 100 meters.

It has a black dial with a red inner ring, making it highly legible. The dial features bold hour markers and hands coated with Super-LumiNova. The watch also has a unidirectional rotating bezel with engraved numerals that can be used to track elapsed time.

The Endurance Pro X82310D51B1S1 is powered by Breitling’s Caliber 82, a thermo-compensated SuperQuartz movement that is ten times more accurate than a standard quartz movement. The watch has a battery life of approximately three to four years and also features a chronograph function, a countdown timer, and a second time zone display. 

The strap has a Breitlight double-pin buckle, which ensures a secure and comfortable fit. Finally, in addition to all of those features, it includes a pulsometer.

The watch has a retail price of $3,300.

Bremont U-22

The Bremont U-22  is a tribute to the U-2 spy plane, a legendary aircraft used by the United States Air Force for reconnaissance missions. The watch is water-resistant up to 100 meters, has Super-LumiNova on the hands and indices, a date window at 3 o’clock, and a second-time zone display.

The Bremont U-22 is powered by a modified BE-36AE automatic movement, which is COSC-certified and features a 38-hour power reserve. The movement is also protected by an anti-magnetic Faraday cage, which helps to prevent interference from electronic devices and other magnetic fields.

One of the unique features of the Bremont U-22 is the incorporation of aluminum from the U-2 spy plane into the watch’s crown. This adds a touch of authenticity and history to the timepiece, making it a perfect choice for anyone.

You can find the Bremont U-22 for under $5,000 if you shop around.

Montblanc 1858 Geosphere (ref. MB119286)

The Montblanc 1858 Geosphere MB119286 features a unique dial that displays two rotating globes representing the Northern and Southern hemispheres. The globes rotate in opposite directions and provide a unique way of tracking time in two different time zones simultaneously.

The watch is powered by a reliable automatic movement and has a power reserve of up to 42 hours. It’s also water-resistant up to 100 meters, making it suitable for everyday wear. The case is made from stainless steel, and the strap is made from high-quality leather, ensuring both durability and style.

The watch has a retail price of $6,300.

Breitling Emergency (ref. E76325221B1S1)

The Breitling Emergency E76325221B1S1 is designed to withstand the most extreme conditions. It was created with outdoor adventurers, pilots, and other professionals in mind who may find themselves in dangerous situations where they need to call for help quickly. 

It has a robust and rugged design that can withstand harsh environments. It features a black titanium case, a black dial, and a black rubber strap. The watch’s hands and markers are coated with Super-LumiNova, making them easy to read in low-light conditions. 

The watch measures 43mm in diameter and 15.8mm in thickness, making it a substantial timepiece. It has a water resistance rating of 5ATM, which means it can handle some splashing, but not swimming or diving.

The watch is equipped with an electronic chronograph, a timer, a countdown timer, a second timezone, and an alarm. It also has a built-in distress beacon that can be activated by pulling out a specialized antenna. The Emergency is powered by a rechargeable battery that can last up to two months in standby mode.

The Breitling Emergency has a retail price of $15,725.

Conclusion

A compass watch is the definition of a tool watch. It’s perfect for anyone looking for a rugged option that works well for the great outdoors. Whether you are a camper, a runner, or just someone who enjoys the occasional hike, it’s a good idea to have a compass watch in your arsenal of outdoor gear. 

While a compass is nice to have, and a watch is nice to have, combining the two just makes life easier. Hopefully, you’ve found a compass watch that matches your needs in our list, and you can get back to what you really love; enjoying the beauty of nature.