Wristwatches reflect the sensibilities of their owners. While many prefer sophisticated, luxurious watches utilizing jewels and precious metals, you might prefer something more functional to fit into your outdoor lifestyle of being frequently exposed to the elements. Glamorous watches just will not last out there in the wind, rain, and snow. Some timepieces are made from hardy materials and are built to endure. These watches also have a variety of helpful features to ensure that they will become a mainstay of any camping or fishing trip.

STRAPS: RESIST EVERYTHING

Straps are what make a wristwatch a wristwatch. There are many different types of straps, each of which has effects beyond the overall aesthetic of the piece. Metal straps, often referred to as bracelets, can be delicate, in spite of their hard construction. Alligator leather and Milanese steel may be hardy in their own ways but are inferior in comparison to some materials.

It is advisable to use NATO or rubber straps for outdoor use. The former refers to synthetic fibers, such as nylon. This sophisticated Oris timepiece is an excellent example of a stylish, textile-strapped watch. These are waterproof and are fairly strong, which makes them great candidates for outdoor watches. They also come in a variety of colors that is ideal for customizing a watch’s look. Rubber straps are shockproof in addition to waterproof, making them the ultimate choice for some.

MATERIALS: MADE TO LAST

When it comes to outdoor watches, materials matter. While metal is traditionally considered strong and durable, this is not always the case. Steel can stain in saltwater, while gold and silver can corrode.

Carbon fiber is a new, state-of-the-art material that is legendary for its strong, lightweight qualities. Titanium is incredible as well, like in this sleek black rubber and titanium wristwatch. Many brands even treat them with a substance that makes them scratch-resistant, ensuring that their sophisticated aesthetic will never tarnish.

CASES: A VARIETY OF SHAPES

There are a plethora of case shapes out there, each embodying its own unique personality and aesthetic. Some are barrel-shaped, others are rectangular, but the most common and useful is the round case. Their circular shape is easy to read and provides plenty of surface area for multiple complications. Ease of use is imperative for any highly functional watch.

This black steel watch, for instance, is an exquisite piece made with tenacious materials and a classic round shape. The rubber strap and chronograph features make it especially useful.

COMPLICATIONS: FUN AND FUNCTIONAL

Complications are any timepiece features that do not strictly tell the seconds and hours. There are a myriad of these helpful tools available in the world of luxury timepieces. The chronograph is one of the most popular ones, as it acts as a stopwatch for timing your run, bike, or swim. A day/date feature is great to ensure that you always know what day it is. After a day or two spent in the woods, it can be easy to forget.

This Breitling Endurance Pro combines a strong case, a resistant strap, a chronograph, and legendary precision to create the ideal watch for anyone who likes to spend time outdoors. It is highly recommended for anyone looking for a tough watch.