View Full Version : Any Marathon Military Watch fans out there?
My love affair with Marathon just got re-kindled when Pappabear took my watch in and had the battery replaced with a bunch of his watches.
I have a 2007 LGP (JSAR as it's now called). I normally just have a beater solar Gshock, but the last week I've enjoyed having a nice looking hunk of steel on my wrist!
Not seen one in person, but I like chunky tool watches and would consider the brand. Teddy B is one of my go to YT channels for watches:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n-uDLL9aHv4
I'm saving for a GSAR. Someone posted a photo of one on the watch thread here and I love it. It will be my next watch.
Not seen one in person, but I like chunky tool watches and would consider the brand. Teddy B is one of my go to YT channels for watches:
Cool. I'll have to watch this at home later. There's no watch Chunkier than the LGP/JSAR. I joke that it's a Birthday Cake on my wrist.
I'm saving for a GSAR. Someone posted a photo of one on the watch thread here and I love it. It will be my next watch.
I can't comment much on the brand other than they look as good or better in person. Mine sat in a watch taco for years, but it's back up and I love it. I'd like to try an automatic, but I've not had good luck with autos in my reasonable price range in the past. (seiko black monster, etc)
I have a GSAR. It's a great watch. It looks stunning in person on the stainless steel band. I've worn it diving dozens of times and it's held up great. The GSAR and MSAR are solid choices. The "jumbo" sizes are stupidly big.
Imho, do NOT buy a cheaper GPQ unless you want to treat it as a disposable. Do not buy anything that does not have a sapphire crystal as it will scratch up very fast.
The DOWN SIDE, is the cheap(er) T25 tritium tubes. Yes, they will still "glow" after 10-12 years, but barely. I've had mine for 15 years now and the watch is almost unreadable in complete darkness. They are the same tubes that luminox uses. If you are OK with this, it's an awesome watch. They should be using longer lasting T100 tubes like Ball and Isobrite use. That's my ONLY gripe.
I'm done with tritium tube watches now unless I buy one expecting it to be disposable when the tubes wear out. Personally, I'd spend less than $500 now on a cheaper one and toss it in 6-7 years after the 2nd battery dies out and the tubes start to dim.
The "jumbo" sizes are stupidly big.
That's what I like about them, although the weight is no joke. The prices on these watches, like everything, have gone up a lot.
That's what I like about them, although the weight is no joke. The prices on these watches, like everything, have gone up a lot.
You have to be built like Arnold Schwarzenegger to wear a "jumbo". Good point though, the stainless watches with the stainless bracelets are SOLID pieces. Pictures do not do these things justice. The cost is up, but still less than 1/2 the prize of something like a Tudor Pelagos or BB 58.
the stainless watches with the stainless bracelets are SOLID pieces.
I have the natural rubber OEM band now, but just ordered the SS bracelet because they went on sale for 20% off today.
Cool. I'll have to watch this at home later. There's no watch Chunkier than the LGP/JSAR. I joke that it's a Birthday Cake on my wrist.
Oh, I wouldn't say that. :cool:
Some day I'm gonna get somemthing from Sel Instruments:
https://selinstrument.com/
You have to be built like Arnold Schwarzenegger to wear a "jumbo". Good point though, the stainless watches with the stainless bracelets are SOLID pieces. Pictures do not do these things justice. The cost is up, but still less than 1/2 the prize of something like a Tudor Pelagos or BB 58.
After owning a 58 for a few years, I sold it recently deciding that it's all name vs quality compared to other options for less $. I have a few high end watches, and a few micro brands, which is where it's at for value for $ if brand recognition does not matter to you.
Too big (diameter), too thick for me.
At one point I almost bought Will's Wise AD8, I still think that's a good looking watch.
I'm starting to stray away from "diver" style watches. Bought this Spinnaker (microbrand with Seiko movement) in August, thought it was a good size (40mm) and it is, it's about 13mm thick I think. Not a bad size really. A year ago I would be very satisfied with it. But now I'm leaning toward sub 40mm diameter.
https://i.imgur.com/wiXarXF.jpg
Anyone interested?
Too big (diameter), too thick for me.
These big ass watches can be a cumbersome, but I love them. Marathon does make smaller and slimmer than the JSAR, but I'm just goofy.
2006 contract SAR with maple leaf bracelet. I wear it a lot. Due for a service. Original pip fell out years ago.
https://i.imgur.com/y3MJs8h.jpg
You have to be built like Arnold Schwarzenegger to wear a "jumbo". Good point though, the stainless watches with the stainless bracelets are SOLID pieces. Pictures do not do these things justice. The cost is up, but still less than 1/2 the prize of something like a Tudor Pelagos or BB 58.
I used to dive so "big stupid watch" was my normal. I find 41/42mm watches normal. 46mm would actually be kinda nice. But the Marathon is a bit plain jane and not sure I can wear anything with a Canuck Maple Leaf on it, even it it's actually Swiss.
2006 contract SAR with maple leaf bracelet. I wear it a lot. Due for a service. Original pip fell out years ago.
Nice. I can't wait to get my bracelet.
I used to dive so "big stupid watch" was my normal. I find 41/42mm watches normal. 46mm would actually be kinda nice. But the Marathon is a bit plain jane and not sure I can wear anything with a Canuck Maple Leaf on it, even it it's actually Swiss.
Yeah. Anything under the 46mm feels like a womans watch to me. And I wouldn't buy the Maple leaf version unless it was 50% off the US Mil version or something insane.
Lum-Tec has a nice larger watch. Different styles in the 43 and 44mm range.
https://i.imgur.com/6oJXaW4.jpg
A dozen years ago I was curious about the Suunto watches with all the features it has, including the altimeter. So I bought one and quickly found it wouldn't fit under a long sleeve shirt's cuffs. It was cool to fly with it and watch the altimeter, but it didn't really showed the actual altitude because of the pressurized cabin. So after a few months, it went away.
Last year I wore my Seiko SBDC 101 (42mm) with a dress shirt with french cuffs. It was very tight. This picture was with a regular dress shirt, it was tight too. I rarely wear dress shirts but even under a sweater with those elastic cuffs its cumbersome.
https://i.imgur.com/IBgzjRQ.jpg?1
I used to dive so "big stupid watch" was my normal. I find 41/42mm watches normal. 46mm would actually be kinda nice. But the Marathon is a bit plain jane and not sure I can wear anything with a Canuck Maple Leaf on it, even it it's actually Swiss.
Yes and no. Marathon is a tool watch. That's it. The purpose of something like a Marathon is to just be bulletproof and work. At the same time,
it's not nearly as plain jane in person. For size, 38-41mm is my sweet spot.
As for the "leaf of socialism"... You can get a U.S. seal on the bracelet. Or just go plain. Edited: You can also get sterile dials. No leaf or U.S.G. markings.
https://cdn.staticsoe.com/uploads/28834/cart/resources/20220707/2f487e57-e9c0-4c2c-9694-2d2341266d97.jpeg
Yep, I’ve owned my since at least 2007, can’t remember exactly when I got it though.
As for the "leaf of socialism"... You can get a U.S. seal on the bracelet. Or just go plain. Edited: You can also get sterile dials. No leaf or U.S.G. markings.
Yeah. My dial just says MARATHON, and I got the "Great U.S. Seal" bracelet. The plain "M" Marathon was nice too, but I just went with the US Seal.
BangBang77
01-09-23, 17:27
The Marathon GSAR is one of my favorite mechanical watches. I have the US Government face on mine, bought direct from County Comm in 2010 for $425 with the rubber band. Grabbed a US Seal bracelet and a dozen different NATO straps over the years. I dress it up with the link bracelet and roll with a NATO strap most days.
I’ve beat the heck out of this thing paddling, diving, swift water rescues, climbing, hunting, cutting wood, and the crystal is still immaculate. No scratches whatsoever. I do hit the band and the sides of the watch case with some scotchbrite every now and then to keep it looking clean. The bezel has a ding or two in it but that’s it.
Only issue I’ve had is while being pulled out of the security line in Beijing and being questioned for an unrelated matter (to the watch), the communist popo asked me if I was a U.S. Government agent due to the watch face. They went thru my BlackBerry, my laptop, the roll of machine drawings I had with me, everything. Lol. Shaved head, no facial hair, sport coat and slacks, and a USG watch isn’t a good combination in red China…especially when you have a Bic and cigars. They confiscated the Bic as they define lighters as explosives (on airplanes) which was the original reason I was pulled out of line to begin with.
But I digress. The marathon watches are solid. I’m currently hunting for the Black Anthracite GSAR at a reasonable price to round out my collection.
Absolutely. I've had two GSARS, a JDD, and Marathon Navigator. They're awesome watches.https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20230110/c83b036de071fd9bdfd05a8ada474155.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20230110/cc4c065bd276668189aa51edff9805db.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20230110/2cba7d7b9c26685eb56e56787df31c3f.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20230110/075c8315092e80707a624bff6422fc93.jpg
Very cool. I haven't run a dive strap in many years. I used to get those things pretty crusty.
Here's my hog:
https://i.imgur.com/Ic0sqKx.jpg
I begrudge no one for buying these magnificent watches. I believe in a) free enterprise/capitalism/consumerism, and b) people can spend their money anyway they want.
My question do any of y'all dive with those dive watches?
My question do any of y'all dive with those dive watches?
I used to be really water active and definitely always had water-proof watches. But I don't know if even current divers use this type of time piece anymore... or if it's analogous to carrying a 1911.
Marathon makes a few categories of watches, but the Dive line is far and away the most handsome in my opinion. (so, for me, No. I'm in AZ, and diving isn't a good thing here. Lake dive? yuck!)
I used to be really water active and definitely always had water-proof watches. But I don't know if even current divers use this type of time piece anymore... or if it's analogous to carrying a 1911.
Marathon makes a few categories of watches, but the Dive line is far and away the most handsome in my opinion. (so, for me, No. I'm in AZ, and diving isn't a good thing here. Lake dive? yuck!)
When I was in the mil I dove with a Citizen dive watch (if strictly water) or a Casio G-Shock. As a civilian the Citizen dive watch. I have been away from diving a hot minute now so I don't know what's popular in the dive watch realm now.
Edited to add, I hate lake diving too. I never did it recreationally but as part of a search/rescue/recovery team.
I used to be really water active and definitely always had water-proof watches. But I don't know if even current divers use this type of time piece anymore... or if it's analogous to carrying a 1911.
Marathon makes a few categories of watches, but the Dive line is far and away the most handsome in my opinion. (so, for me, No. I'm in AZ, and diving isn't a good thing here. Lake dive? yuck!)
We do not.
As with most things, technology has advanced well beyond the usefulness of a watch for diving. It’s a safety issue and nobody would rely solely on a watch today.
This is my dive “watch.”
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20230110/aca6e711c2804445a7bb8253c2fd04b9.jpg
Regular watches are literally next to useless.
I begrudge no one for buying these magnificent watches. I believe in a) free enterprise/capitalism/consumerism, and b) people can spend their money anyway they want.
My question do any of y'all dive with those dive watches?
Nope, but ocean, pools, etc regularly. Me, I like tool watches, and dive watches are by default a tool watch with the ability to go deep underwater. I like the look of dive watches as a rule, and had only dive watches in my collection until recently, when I made the conscious decision to diversify it, but still with tool watch emphasis. I added a GMT, Pilot, and sport watch, all overbuilt tool type watches however. Skinny dress watches and such don't interest me much. There's also more watches of different styles, like a pilot intended as a tool watch being overbuilt, rugged, good water resistance etc.
Have an IWC "Dual Crown" Diver rated to 2K Meters (uh huh, sure) that's a brick.
I find myself slamming it into about every door jamb I go through.
We do not.
As with most things, technology has advanced well beyond the usefulness of a watch for diving. It’s a safety issue and nobody would rely solely on a watch today.
This is my dive “watch.”
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20230110/aca6e711c2804445a7bb8253c2fd04b9.jpg
Regular watches are literally next to useless.
Thanks. I remember when the first dive computers came out, expensive as hell, and we all said "those things will never catch on" lol. I have been away from diving a good while now.
Edited: when I did use computers, I worked out my profiles with paper first using the tables then used the computer as a back up to confirm. Do y'all use the tables anymore, or just the computers?
Yep, mine has been on several diving trips with me.
As a kid growing up first in Florida and later in Hawaii, I did a lot of diving and water sports. At that time the old Seikos were very popular. We would see a lot of cool stuff from Japan the mainland did not see until later. Lots of the older Rolex Subs were still in use as tool watches versus dress watches. For a few years, I was Tom Selleck’s paperboy when they were still filming Magnum PI. Everyone wanted his GMT.
Obviously computers have replaced the old decompression tables we carried. As someone mentioned above, I think it’s like shooting 1911’s. No one will argue there aren’t better choices, but they work and they look good. Many will argue why wear a watch at all when we have cell phones…
Thanks. I remember when the first dive computers came out, expensive as hell, and we all said "those things will never catch on" lol. I have been away from diving a good while now.
Edited: when I did use computers, I worked out my profiles with paper first using the tables then used the computer as a back up to confirm. Do y'all use the tables anymore, or just the computers?
You are taught to use tables and I can do the figuring manually. However, with the unit I posted above, it does everything for you, including different gas mixes as well as surface intervals. It even tells you your rate of air consumption and monitors the level of your tank.
You are taught to use tables and I can do the figuring manually. However, with the unit I posted above, it does everything for you, including different gas mixes as well as surface intervals. It even tells you your rate of air consumption and monitors the level of your tank.
I didn't know if current instruction does away with tables and is solely reliant on the computers now. When I got out of the industry I was using the computers (probably not nearly as advanced as what you posted) but still doing the calcs. I still have the NAUI table chart and PADI wheel in my office; and somewhere around here I have my USN dive tables book (I think it's a free PDF online, too).
I didn't know if current instruction does away with tables and is solely reliant on the computers now. When I got out of the industry I was using the computers (probably not nearly as advanced as what you posted) but still doing the calcs. I still have the NAUI table chart and PADI wheel in my office; and somewhere around here I have my USN dive tables book (I think it's a free PDF online, too).
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20230110/d65addfc107958b375aca52aa69b414c.jpg
People who don’t dive don’t realize how quickly you can injure or kill yourself.
It pays to know what you are doing.
My question do any of y'all dive with those dive watches?
Yup. Just "because". I still wear a computer, but I don't take the watch off to get in the water. Since I always wear a watch... 50-60 feet down here.
69549
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20230110/d65addfc107958b375aca52aa69b414c.jpg
People who don’t dive don’t realize how quickly you can injure or kill yourself.
It pays to know what you are doing.
People who watch videos or go online to look up military dive training, they see pool week, they see water conditioning, they see the physical aspects. They don't show the class work, the physics, the math, the medicine. That stuff attrites a lot of students, too, not just the physical stuff.
I was already a NAUI-certified advanced open water diver when I joined the Navy, I thought I knew it all, I was humbled with how difficult the academic part of dive school really was. And I wasn't a hard hat diver, either. Those guys are freaking brilliant.
Many will argue why wear a watch at all when we have cell phones…
We call those people Women!
69549
Nice!
Only issue I’ve had is while being pulled out of the security line in Beijing and being questioned for an unrelated matter (to the watch), the communist popo asked me if I was a U.S. Government agent due to the watch face. They went thru my BlackBerry, my laptop, the roll of machine drawings I had with me, everything. Lol. Shaved head, no facial hair, sport coat and slacks, and a USG watch isn’t a good combination in red China…especially when you have a Bic and cigars. They confiscated the Bic as they define lighters as explosives (on airplanes) which was the original reason I was pulled out of line to begin with.
F-china. I am an international airline pilot and have been there a couple times. If I'm ever forced to go there, I completely sterilize myself of anything I might want to bring home, AND of anything that has my personal data on it. My personal phone even stays home for that trip.
If I am forced to travel to a communist crap hole, I wear a square G-Shock digital display that has the atomic updating with all of the time zones. Specifically a DW5000 1JF. It's even the Japanese local consumer model, so short of being a Caucasian, well weathered, All-American looking guy with a US passport... I don't "usually" get confused for doing anything else on the side, other than flying airplanes.
https://static.mercdn.net/item/detail/orig/photos/m76080873201_1.jpg?1611945643
Back on Marathon... I really want an analog travel watch as I am disliking digital displays the older I get. Something light and quartz. I am REALLY leaning towards getting a navigator.
If you really want to pee on some people feelings around the globe, I am debating this version. If only it came in black. The sand color clashes with my uniform. Yes, I'll probably just go black in color with the sterile dial (no U.S.G. marking).
https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0585/3944/2385/products/WW194013-S-DT-DD-Standard-IMG7-Macro_d17f572e-73e9-447c-b725-710c64696bf1_1728x.jpg?v=1657569335
Yup. Just "because". I still wear a computer, but I don't take the watch off to get in the water. Since I always wear a watch... 50-60 feet down here.
69549
You don't want to test the 30 ATM limit lol?
^^^ Oh heck no! I just dive for fun. The furthest I've been down is about 110'. I have no desire to do anything more technical.
^^^ Oh heck no! I just dive for fun. The furthest I've been down is about 110'. I have no desire to do anything more technical.
Truth. That's why I love these watches that have, like, a 2,000 rating. I say if they prove that watch valid it's because it's strapped to a dead person.
During my twilight tour in the USAF I had an issue getting guys to voluntarily go to the Dive Supervisor course. Middle leadership studs figured out they'd be on the surface supervising the dive versus getting to do the action guy stuff so they'd drag their feet going.
As an incentive, we would issue them the Marathon analog dive watch in the NSN system upon completion.
When I initially came in, I was issued a Seiko analog dive watch, they eventually went to Citizen Aqualands and finally various flavors of Casio G-Shocks as the issued dive watch.
I always felt a large analog dive watch was a required uniform accessory for any military diver. I personally wore a Seiko "Arnie", a MKIII, Tag Heurs, my Marathon and various other Seiko's throughout my 28 year career.
On my later MK25 and underwater searches, always in limited visibility or at night, with my diminishing eyesight I really struggled seeing LEDs on digital dive timers and watches. I'd have to bring my wrist so close to my face it was blurry yet holding it away it would disappear in the murky water. I feel this is where analog instruments shine. The "clock method" for viewing pressure gauges is a great tip in that environment.
My personal issued Marathon has been a lemon. At the same time, the customer support at Marathon has been phenomenal at correcting issues. I've had to send it back twice due to issues with the crown. The same issue keeps occurring so it's about to go back a third time for the same issue once my divorce is finalized and I have financial freedom of maneuver.
I still dabble in the diving industry working with a client as an instructor that trains public safety divers, self-rescue and buddy rescue specific courses and I love recreational diving. I still plan my dives using tables and use my computer more as a digital dive log.
I'm absolutely disgusted with the recreational diving community and the watering down of standards but that is a discussion over a cold beer.
When I initially came in, I was issued a Seiko analog dive watch, they eventually went to Citizen Aqualands and finally various flavors of Casio G-Shocks as the issued dive watch.
I always felt a large analog dive watch was a required uniform accessory for any military diver....
I still dabble in the diving industry working with a client as an instructor that trains public safety divers, self-rescue and buddy rescue specific courses and I love recreational diving. I still plan my dives using tables and use my computer more as a digital dive log.
I'm absolutely disgusted with the recreational diving community and the watering down of standards but that is a discussion over a cold beer.
We had the old-school Citizen Aqualand with the sensor on the side that could calculate this and that. I never used that calc feature; just used it 'as a watch.' I used a G-Shock FAR more (still what I wear).
I agree about the analog dive watch; it's a uniform thing for military divers for sure.
I have said earlier I got out of diving, really when I got my commission in the Navy. After I went officer I dove (dived?) less and less. I had cancer surgery in my head/face, so now I can't. That said I stay in touch with some friends whose comments about the watered down civilian curriculum mirror yours.
Aside from the watch talk, it's interesting to read about your backgrounds/careers.
I begrudge no one for buying these magnificent watches. I believe in a) free enterprise/capitalism/consumerism, and b) people can spend their money anyway they want.
My question do any of y'all dive with those dive watches?
I don't dive. Never have. I wear a watch 24/4. I love swimming and showering and a dunk in the hot tub! [emoji41] I quickly learned anything with less than a 100M water resistance rating wasn't safe to swim with and some aren't safe to shower or wash your freaking hand with while wearing.
"Is 50M water resistant OK for swimming?
A 50m rating (also 5 ATM or 5 bar; these are all common measurements used) indicates some contact with water is acceptable. This generally translates to being caught in the rain or getting splashed. Further, 100m (10 ATM or 10 bar) is a swimming watch, capable of full immersion, but not diving." "Can I shower with 100M water resistant watch? Do not shower or swim with your watch unless it is rated 100m/330ft and has a screw-down crown. Never open, wind or operate the crown while in water."
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20230111/568cea3bf7aa342012cf081a3a5d9131.jpg
I don't need many of the things I enjoy. I don't need any of my AR's, SBR's, my SBS or my M203. I appreciate nice things and need to know what time it is. [emoji482]8
I begrudge no one for buying these magnificent watches. I believe in a) free enterprise/capitalism/consumerism, and b) people can spend their money anyway they want.
My question do any of y'all dive with those dive watches?
I used to dive quite a bit, usually every weekend and the ocean was my grocery store. But these days I wear divers for two reason.
1. Easy to read with old eyes.
2. Tend to be more durable / waterproof than other sport watches.
I don't dive. Never have. I wear a watch 24/4. I love swimming and showering and a dunk in the hot tub! [emoji41] I quickly learned anything with less than a 100M water resistance rating wasn't safe to swim with and some aren't safe to shower or wash your freaking hand with while wearing.
"Is 50M water resistant OK for swimming?
A 50m rating (also 5 ATM or 5 bar; these are all common measurements used) indicates some contact with water is acceptable. This generally translates to being caught in the rain or getting splashed. Further, 100m (10 ATM or 10 bar) is a swimming watch, capable of full immersion, but not diving." "Can I shower with 100M water resistant watch? Do not shower or swim with your watch unless it is rated 100m/330ft and has a screw-down crown. Never open, wind or operate the crown while in water."
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20230111/568cea3bf7aa342012cf081a3a5d9131.jpg
I don't need many of the things I enjoy. I don't need any of my AR's, SBR's, my SBS or my M203. I appreciate nice things and need to know what time it is. [emoji482]8
Good information, thanks! My Citizen watches have “W.R. 10 bar” on the case, now I know what that means.
Good information, thanks! My Citizen watches have “W.R. 10 bar” on the case, now I know what that means.
"Bar" is a unit of measurement of pressure, 14.504 psi. Sea level psi is 14.7 psi, so it's considered an equivalency. 10 bar is 145 psi, or roughly 330 feet (actually a tad under).
I see my bracelet is en route. Is this a jeweler only thing to remove links? I've never had a bracelet sized.
BangBang77
01-12-23, 14:10
I see my bracelet is en route. Is this a jeweler only thing to remove links? I've never had a bracelet sized.
I did mine. The bracelet links can be removed with a small slotted screwdriver, similar to what is used on glasses. Removing the pins is different than a standard watch pin whereas you have to depress the pin from the ends (outside the lugs) versus an internal shoulder between the lugs. They make a special tool to do this but I bent a paperclip in a U with the two ends bent at 90 degrees to face each other.
Re-inserting the pins into the lugs can be done via fingernail or a small screwdriver once the pins are inserted into the bracelet. The bracelet can only be inserted into the lugs from the back of the watch, face down. There are tabs on the end links that insure this and you will see it when you get to that step.
Edit - I am traveling this week and don’t have the tools with me but I will take some pics and post them over the weekend once I’m home.
Thanks. I've done the lug pins. I've just nevers sized a bracelet.
GSAR (automatic) or TSAR (quartz)? I watched WillBrink's video last night, and now I want a 41mm version too.
GSAR (automatic) or TSAR (quartz)? I watched WillBrink's video last night, and now I want a 41mm version too.
I have the 41mm auto. Had I to do all over again, I'd go quartz. First for shock resistance, second for the grab and go convenience (autos wind down), and third for less adjusting of the time*.
*Marathon's GSAR/TSAR have a weak spot in the crown. The threads are too small and strip easily. Lots of Marathons go back for fixing over this. With an automatic, you will be unscrewing the crown at least once a week. With a quartz, maybe every couple months. Every time you unscrew the crown, you run the risk of stripping it. YES, mine has gone back for a new crown too. I actually had it modified with a beefier crown. That really is my ONLY complaint about the watch. It's well over ten years old now and the tubes are still readable at night.
Awesome. Thanks. I agree. I'll take the battery replacement issues over the automatic concerns. I've not had the best of luck with autos anyway.
GSAR (automatic) or TSAR (quartz)? I watched WillBrink's video last night, and now I want a 41mm version too.
Personal preference really. I just love automatic movements but quarts is less $, more accurate, and generally tougher. Me, I only have autos.
Personal preference really. I just love automatic movements but quarts is less $, more accurate, and generally tougher. Me, I only have autos.
Price difference isn't too bad, but tougher is a strong characteristic for my clumsy ass.
Johnny Rico
01-13-23, 12:01
Personal preference really. I just love automatic movements but quarts is less $, more accurate, and generally tougher. Me, I only have autos.
Yup. Though I've gotta admit, I have a soft spot for automatic watches the same way I have a soft spot for a good 1911.
Price difference isn't too bad, but tougher is a strong characteristic for my clumsy ass.
A well made and designed auto watch can be close to bomb proof. The SEALs and Frog dudes before them had Rolex's and Tudor's and they survived a lot of hard use. I suspect Marathon just as tough, maybe more so, and use movements easy to service also. If the right models/brands chosen, I'd have no worries about an auto surviving hard use. But under similar hard use, it makes sense quarts is tougher simply due to far less moving parts. But quartz is to autos what Glock is to a 1911. One has a soul, the other does not.
Yup. Though I've gotta admit, I have a soft spot for automatic watches the same way I have a soft spot for a good 1911.
As I just wrote, quartz is to autos what Glock is to a 1911. One has a soul, the other does not.
I guess my harder abuse days are somewhat behind me. I'll think about it over the weekend.
As I just wrote, quartz is to autos what Glock is to a 1911. One has a soul, the other does not.
I'm an auto-watch guy too. I'll counter that everyone should have at least one grab and go quartz at the ready. Just like having a plastic gun. I'm as much as a 1911 fan as anyone, but I still carry a polymer frame semi as an EDC when not using my j-frame. No soul, it just works. I'll save my 2011 for nightstand use. Have one, or several of each variation. BOTH have their place.
I've got a dollar that you have a polymer frame semi in your rotation too.
I'm an auto-watch guy too. I'll counter that everyone should have at least one grab and go quartz at the ready. Just like having a plastic gun. I'm as much as a 1911 fan as anyone, but I still carry a polymer frame semi as an EDC when not using my j-frame. No soul, it just works. I'll save my 2011 for nightstand use. Have one, or several of each variation. BOTH have their place.
I've got a dollar that you have a polymer frame semi in your rotation too.
I do, but no quartz for me. Life is too short for quartz watches when autos exist. :neo:
I screwed up and ordered the 20mm bracelet for my LGP, so I have to buy a GSAR or TSAR so I can use the bracelet. :cool:
I'm leaning TSAR, but Will is getting inside my head.
I screwed up and ordered the 20mm bracelet for my LGP, so I have to buy a GSAR or TSAR so I can use the bracelet. :cool:
I'm leaning TSAR, but Will is getting inside my head.
That's my job bro.
I do, but no quartz for me. Life is too short for quartz watches when autos exist. :neo:
Yes... I only have one though. It's a bomb-proof "grab-n-go". No need to wind and set the date if I am in a hurry and/or just don't feel like fooling with setting up an auto. I'm one of those sickos that has to hack my auto with the atomic clock when I pull it out of the box.
Got around to taking a pic of mine. Caseback shows a production date of Jan 07 which from memory is when I bought it. Lume is gone and at some point the triangle in the bezel got knocked out. I’ve only ever worn it on a nato.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20230113/e0a4743b45415f4c1515b132c7131fa0.jpg
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
Got around to taking a pic of mine. Caseback shows a production date of Jan 07 which from memory is when I bought it. Lume is gone and at some point the triangle in the bezel got knocked out. I’ve only ever worn it on a nato.
Do they replace the tritium tubes? Or is it not worth the hassle?
BangBang77
01-13-23, 15:30
I do, but no quartz for me. Life is too short for quartz watches when autos exist. :neo:
Yup. I’m picking up what you’re putting down…
As far as durability, mine has done class IV / V rapids, hundreds of whitewater rescues and body recoveries, climbing, cave rescues and spelunking, diving, banging around nature, thousands of hours on BIG chainsaws, recoil of various calibers and the GSAR is still rocking along with no adverse affects that I’m aware of. The quartz models may be more durable, but short of a failed canopy deployment or a high speed car crash, I’m not sure what I could throw at my auto to test the durability theory to quantify a difference between the two versions?
The crown threads? I travel for work on a weekly basis so mine gets adjusted across the various time zones multiple times per week and has since I bought it. One thing I figured out early on is to not just thread and un-thread the crown allowing the threads to absorb the stem spring pressure. I always put enough end pressure on the crown to insure the threads aren’t side-loaded excessively. 11/12 years with thousands of adjustments, manual winds, etc. and no need to send it to Marathon for repairs. Are the concerns valid? Yes. But the again, some people can tear up anything they come across.
Damn it BangBang. I want to go automatic, but my piece of shit Seiko black monster left such a bad auto taste in my mouth, I'm struggling to pull the trigger!
Damn it BangBang. I want to go automatic, but my piece of shit Seiko black monster left such a bad auto taste in my mouth, I'm struggling to pull the trigger!
Ye gets whats ye pays for. That's like having a bad time with a Taurus 1911 and not wanting to own Colt 1911. The Marathon is the Colt of watches. It's not a Wilson mind you, but it's not Wilson/Rolex $ either. It has solid Swiss vetted work horse of a movement.
And BTW, they're making way more $ off you from that quartz movement which probably cost them like $5.
I have a couple of quartz watches.
A Bathys 100 Fathoms with a big easy to read dial and nuclear level lume.
https://i.imgur.com/JyLbn1O.jpg
A Seiko 6309/7548 quartz hybrid. The 7548 quartz movement drops nicely into the old school 6309 case.
https://i.imgur.com/v8Liio7.jpg
Damn it BangBang. I want to go automatic, but my piece of shit Seiko black monster left such a bad auto taste in my mouth, I'm struggling to pull the trigger!
I previously owned a GSAR automatic. It made it through our train up for Iraq in 2007, then made it through my tour. In a moment of shortsightedness, I sold it while chasing something else. I'm with Will on the quartz has no soul, but do have a couple grab and go quartz's that have been very reliable. There are known issues within the watchmaking world about battery brand compatibility issues with the ETA quartz movement's (Energizer is garbage even if the part numbers line up). My daily since 2017 has been a Tudor Pelagos, which incidentally, uses the same automatic movement as the GSAR. Albeit with some modifications from Tudor. The movement in the GSAR is an ETA 2824, and is widely considered the Chevy 350 of watch movements. It's a workhorse, and just runs no matter what shape or performance variation it is in. It is so ubiquitous that I can order parts for it all day long with no issues. When I was in watchmaking school, it was a standard movement we worked on to build our skills. My personal recommendation is go automatic, but like firearms, watches are a subject where there are a variety of preferences and there is no one right answer.
I previously owned a GSAR automatic. It made it through our train up for Iraq in 2007, then made it through my tour. In a moment of shortsightedness, I sold it while chasing something else. I'm with Will on the quartz has no soul, but do have a couple grab and go quartz's that have been very reliable. There are known issues within the watchmaking world about battery brand compatibility issues with the ETA quartz movement's (Energizer is garbage even if the part numbers line up). My daily since 2017 has been a Tudor Pelagos, which incidentally, uses the same automatic movement as the GSAR. Albeit with some modifications from Tudor. The movement in the GSAR is an ETA 2824, and is widely considered the Chevy 350 of watch movements. It's a workhorse, and just runs no matter what shape or performance variation it is in. It is so ubiquitous that I can order parts for it all day long with no issues. When I was in watchmaking school, it was a standard movement we worked on to build our skills. My personal recommendation is go automatic, but like firearms, watches are a subject where there are a variety of preferences and there is no one right answer.
I don't believe they have used ETA for a while, it's the Sellita SW200 with Incabloc, which is main competitor to ETA's 2824 with some small changes by Sellita. It's a solid movement used by various makers in the $ point. ETA is no longer available to most brands not under the Swatch Group of companies. I have two watches using the movement and another using the higher grade SW300-1, a Sinn U50. There's also 4 grades of SW200, and as $ goes up, you tend to see the higher grades:
Standard – adjusted in two positions; accuracy of +/-12 sec/day up to +/- 30 sec/day
Special (Elabore) – adjusted in three positions; accuracy of +/-7 sec/day up to +/- 20 sec/day
Premium (Top) – adjusted in five positions; accuracy of +/-4 sec/day up to +/- 15 sec/day
Chronometer – COSC criteria
(Source: https://calibercorner.com/sellita-caliber-sw200/)
I don't believe they have used ETA for a while, it's the Sellita SW200 with Incabloc, which is main competitor to ETA's 2824 with some small changes by Sellita. It's a solid movement used by various makers in the $ point. ETA is no longer available to most brands not under the Swatch Group of companies. I have two watches using the movement and another using the higher grade SW300-1, a Sinn U50. There's also 4 grades of SW200, and as $ goes up, you tend to see the higher grades:
Standard – adjusted in two positions; accuracy of +/-12 sec/day up to +/- 30 sec/day
Special (Elabore) – adjusted in three positions; accuracy of +/-7 sec/day up to +/- 20 sec/day
Premium (Top) – adjusted in five positions; accuracy of +/-4 sec/day up to +/- 15 sec/day
Chronometer – COSC criteria
(Source: https://calibercorner.com/sellita-caliber-sw200/)
I just went to the Marathon website, and you are correct Will. My mistake. I hadn't realized they had made the transition to Sellita and erroneously believed they still had access to the ETA movements. Still, even with Sellita SW series movements, they are essentially copies of ETA movements. They have a good track record of reliability and parts are available.
I just went to the Marathon website, and you are correct Will. My mistake. I hadn't realized they had made the transition to Sellita and erroneously believed they still had access to the ETA movements. Still, even with Sellita SW series movements, they are essentially copies of ETA movements. They have a good track record of reliability and parts are available.
They were copies, but Sellita has added their own improvements and Sellita made movement for ETA for decades. ETA is used mostly by companies under the Swatch Group now and I don't see Marathon listed:
https://www.swatchgroup.com/en/brands-companies
Ye gets whats ye pays for. That's like having a bad time with a Taurus 1911 and not wanting to own Colt 1911.
That seals it. Also what I needed to hear... that there's a quality difference. I'm going to give the GSAR a go!
My personal recommendation is go automatic, but like firearms, watches are a subject where there are a variety of preferences and there is no one right answer.
Thanks. Also since I already have the big boy in Quartz, might as well go with the automatic.
Do they replace the tritium tubes? Or is it not worth the hassle?
That’s a good question. They do provide overhaul services but I don’t see where they replace the tritium tubes.
https://www.marathonwatch.com/pages/watch-maintenance-repair-services
That seals it. Also what I needed to hear... that there's a quality difference. I'm going to give the GSAR a go!
.
We have a breakthrough! Marathon would not have decades of mil contracts and mil users if their auto didn't stand up well to hard use. Aint no one with any brains going to war with a 1911 from Taurus, but Colt 1911s made their way through two world wars and countless conflicts.
That seals it. Also what I needed to hear... that there's a quality difference. I'm going to give the GSAR a go!
Thanks. Also since I already have the big boy in Quartz, might as well go with the automatic.
Yes. That is what I was getting at earlier. You've got the grab and go quartz checked. An auto would fit the bill fine.
That’s a good question. They do provide overhaul services but I don’t see where they replace the tritium tubes.
https://www.marathonwatch.com/pages/watch-maintenance-repair-services
I think one would have to call them. My SWAG is that they will just have to swap the entire face with a new one that has fresh tubes. I have not priced this yet as my tubes still have another 2-3 years at current burn rate. I'm guessing they'll do it, or you'd hear a lot of bad reviews on them. T25 tubes don't burn that great forever. Imho, their "half life" IS their life. With my aging eyes, I have a hard time seeing a T25 tube after it's 10-12 years old. Useless "for me" after 15. Again, ones mileage may vary.
IF anyone does this, please let us know.
My original Luminox from 2009 is another story. The tubes are all but barely visible now and Luminox says I'm S.O.L.. "Buy a new one"... Um, no. I'll never part with it as it's been through some fun stuff.
Many people say that a $300-$1000 +/- watch is disposable after ten years... I guess that's one way to look at it, but mine tend to become sentimental after a couple of years.
All the reason why I'm done buying tritium watches for now, unless I get one for under $300... When the tubes dim, it gets tossed and replaced.
To me, the dial/hands etc are part of the watch. I wouldn’t want it changed for a new one, i would rather keep the burned out tubes. I only opt for movement services on my Rolex’s for the same reason.
Yes. That is what I was getting at earlier. You've got the grab and go quartz checked. An auto would fit the bill fine.
I think one would have to call them. My SWAG is that they will just have to swap the entire face with a new one that has fresh tubes. I have not priced this yet as my tubes still have another 2-3 years at current burn rate. I'm guessing they'll do it, or you'd hear a lot of bad reviews on them. T25 tubes don't burn that great forever. Imho, their "half life" IS their life. With my aging eyes, I have a hard time seeing a T25 tube after it's 10-12 years old. Useless "for me" after 15. Again, ones mileage may vary.
IF anyone does this, please let us know.
My original Luminox from 2009 is another story. The tubes are all but barely visible now and Luminox says I'm S.O.L.. "Buy a new one"... Um, no. I'll never part with it as it's been through some fun stuff.
Many people say that a $300-$1000 +/- watch is disposable after ten years... I guess that's one way to look at it, but mine tend to become sentimental after a couple of years.
All the reason why I'm done buying tritium watches for now, unless I get one for under $300... When the tubes dim, it gets tossed and replaced.
Whether painted on lume, tubes, etc, they have a limited life span, so there's that. I think it would be great if they offered replacement on the tubes, but may not make sense $ wise on a watch in the $ range. If it costs say $300 to do it to make it worth their effort say, probably few would bother. I have no doubt they have priced it out. Big tube users is Ball, and I'm not sure they offer replacements either, but I have not looked much.
Maybe they should design the watches with the idea of replacing the tubes in the future. For myself, rarely use/need lume so it's low priority when choosing watches.
To me, the dial/hands etc are part of the watch. I wouldn’t want it changed for a new one, i would rather keep the burned out tubes. I only opt for movement services on my Rolex’s for the same reason.
That's really what I'd do to. More of a curiosity question.
To me, the dial/hands etc are part of the watch. I wouldn’t want it changed for a new one, i would rather keep the burned out tubes. I only opt for movement services on my Rolex’s for the same reason.
I guess I'm the anomaly here. When I send a watch in, I want it to come back looking like a new one. As long as "most" of the parts are original, I'm OK. I've never been a "patina" guy. Never seen the allure. That's why I like the Rolex service center so much. I basically get a new watch every 7-12 years. Different strokes...
I guess I'm the anomaly here. When I send a watch in, I want it to come back looking like a new one. As long as "most" of the parts are original, I'm OK. I've never been a "patina" guy. Never seen the allure. That's why I like the Rolex service center so much. I basically get a new watch every 7-12 years. Different strokes...
I'm same, no interest in patina, "personality" of wear and tear, and if my watches can look brand new, I'm want that. When send an expensive watch in for full refurb, they do come back looking brand new. But, it's also expensive and a long wait. You're not going to get that from a sub 2k watch. They will fix what is broke, and send it back, that's it. The refurb on my JLC cost about what a new Marathon costs, but the entire watch is gone over by watch makers and technicians, taken apart and oil, cleaned, buffed etc. It looked brand new, and is good for another decade, and will run generations of time with that schedule.
On patina, when the bronze watches become popular, I liked how they looked, but then saw the level of patina and lost all interest. I'm gonna spend that kinda of $ on a watch that looks like crap a year later? Ya, no.
If they added a coating to the bronze where it kept it looking new, I'd be interested.
Coal Dragger
01-16-23, 14:32
Agreed, the polished new bronze looks great.
Put a hard clear ceramic coating on it though.
Agreed, the polished new bronze looks great.
Put a hard clear ceramic coating on it though.
And yet, most buy them because the like the look of the fugly green patina. I don't get it.
And yet, most buy them because the like the look of the fugly green patina. I don't get it.
Do they turn your skin colors?
Do they turn your skin colors?
I believe they will yes. Why would anyone want that?
https://28daysearlierdotcom.files.wordpress.com/2016/10/img_5818-1.jpg?w=1024&h=614&crop=1
I have seen threads on the watch forums with ways to accelerate the patina for those who ADHD to do it the normal route.
https://www.areswatches.com/
Here is a micro brand designed and headed by a former operator. For those that like big, hunk of metal watch, there you go. Like a Sinn on steroid. LOL
I've never seen one in person though, too much watch for me.
I watched one video on sizing the Marathon Bracelets and it looked like an ass ache. Dude had a heat gun and everything.
Could they size it for you before they shipped it?
Could they size it for you before they shipped it?
I don't know how. I'd rather take it somewhere and agree with the tech that it's sized right. Plus, the bracelet is here, and the watch is coming with the Rubber Strap.
I don't know how. I'd rather take it somewhere and agree with the tech that it's sized right. Plus, the bracelet is here, and the watch is coming with the Rubber Strap.
Just take to a watch store or quicky watch fix it places at malls and such. Sizing bracelets is easy enough if you have the right tools.I still prefer to have someone else do it.
Just take to a watch store or quicky watch fix it places at malls and such. Sizing bracelets is easy enough if you have the right tools.I still prefer to have someone else do it.
Definitely. I'm not messing with the little fasteners at all. Plus they can probably look at my wrist and bracelet and get it right in one pass.
I have the Marathon TSAR. It is a good watch, very accurate and easy to see. Mine was out of warranty, and about 1 year ago, it stopped. I was looking at it and it just quit. I sent it in and it was fixed, on my dime. Communication with Marathon was good. They said it was a moisture issue. I got the watch back and this past Sept. it quit again, just like the first time. This time it was repaired on their dime. This time they weren't clear on the cause. Both times the service was quick. I was not hard on the watch, especially before the second time it quit. I still like this watch, I am afraid it's fragile.
I also have a Ares. Mine is the diver with date model. This watch is much better and seems more durable than the Marathon. While it doesn't have tritium, the luminova is very bright and lasts for hours. This watch is just over three years old. It hasn't been babied. It has been in fresh and salt water, and through a couple of classes. I especially like the location of the crown. Both of these are quartz. I find they are more accurate than autos.
I also have a Maratac DC 50 from County Comm. For an auto it is fairly accurate, within the specs in a table presented above. It is a quality watch as well. but the Ares is my favorite.
I also have a Ares. Mine is the diver with date model.
Those ARES do look cool. I'd love to get one later, but the Marathon epitomizes what a watch should look like for me. It's curious though. I switched from my beater Gshock to my humungous LGP over a week ago, and not one person has mentioned the watch. Considering the size of this hog, it's odd that no one has mentioned it.
Those ARES do look cool. I'd love to get one later, but the Marathon epitomizes what a watch should look like for me. It's curious though. I switched from my beater Gshock to my humungous LGP over a week ago, and not one person has mentioned the watch. Considering the size of this hog, it's odd that no one has mentioned it.
I think you have to be in the right crowd for people to notice a watch. Like AR's or pistols. I pay attention to these things because they interest me. Most people don't.
The eagle has landed. My Lord, the GSAR seems tiny after wearing the LGP for the last few weeks.
https://i.imgur.com/DKtF1AP.jpg
The pics don't do the in person size difference justice. But I can see the GSAR's reasonable size winning me over. Just set the time, date and goosed it with some manual winding.
https://i.imgur.com/44xCU6z.jpg
Final update/crappy pic. Had the bracelet installed/sized. Well worth having a pro do it. I would have spent 2 hours and scratched every damned part of the watch and dropped it twice.
https://i.imgur.com/Z9YYs8w.jpg
Final update/crappy pic. Had the bracelet installed/sized. Well worth having a pro do it. I would have spent 2 hours and scratched every damned part of the watch and dropped it twice.
Like most things, do it yourself once, you don't begrudge what people charge to do it better and faster.
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