Best Watches for Firefighters

(Last Updated On: April 19, 2021)

Firefighters have an extremely important job- they protect the public and risk their lives every day for the well being of society.  If you are reading this as a veteran firefighter, or a new firefighter, I want to let you know how much I respect your work.

The job of a firefighter calls for a watch that can withstand heat, water and take some bangs every once and a while. Features like durability, easy readability, analog second hand, and a lighting up dial are some top capabilities that firefighters look for in a timepiece. That being said, I am here to give you the top five watches for firefighters.

Our Top Pick – Best Watches for Firefighters

Let’s cut to the chase. Rather than watering down your search, I’ll give you number one, best watch for firefighters. That watch being the German Military Titanium Watch. This watch literally could put a fire out on its own!

No really though, it passes every checkpoint to be considered an excellent watch for a firefighter. The German Military Titanium watch is as strong as they come, luminescent for easy viewing in the dimmest of light AND is very light and comfortable for everyday wear. It is literally heaven-sent for a firefighter.

The German Military Titanium may be the best in my opinion. However, I encourage you to continue on to find out the other four watches that are great for firefighters!

Best Watches for FirefightersWhat Makes it GreatOverall Ranking
German Military Titanium Watch GPWVERY Durable, Lightweight and Comfortable, Extra Bright Luminescent hands for easy viewing★★★★★

G-Shock Men’s Mud Master GG-1000-1A5CR

Easy to use, Durable, Two Years of Battery Life★★★

Marathon WW194003 General Purpose Mechanical

Self-illuminating Tritium Gas Tubes, Mechanical Movement, Long Lasting★★★★

Marathon WW194009SG

High Performing Quartz Movement (Great for Pulse Reading), MaraGlo technology, Fibershell High Impact Case★★★★
Aqua Force Firefighter Dive WatchGreat Firefighter design, Affordable, Durable★★★

Top Five Watches for Firefighters

German Military Titanium Watch

If it is built for military use. You know it could be used for firefighting as well. This is an amazing watch that is highly regarded and a perfect piece for any firefighter!

Best Watches for Firefighters

The German Military Titanium Watch GPW has a strong, tough look to it at first glance. It is similar in aesthetics to a dive watch, and that is definitely a compliment. If you decide to purchase this watch you will be more than happy to hear that it is literally the perfect watch for a firefighter.

The titanium build is not only strong but built to withstand anything that comes in its way. Not only is the case a powerhouse, but it is also lightweight titanium that does not bother the wrist with wear. This is a bulky watch that is actually really comfortable.

The Best Pick For The Active Firefighter

Not only is this timepiece durable and comfortable. But it also includes features that are very important for the job of a firefighter. Never miss a second with the bright, luminescent dial with an easy to see the red ticking second hand. Whether it is dark out, or very sunny, the anti-reflective sapphire crystal ensures that you can view the dial no matter what!

The wristband is made out of a comfortable rubber material that fits the firefighter look, and will not absorb water or sweat. So no smelly or wet wristband on this piece.

Top Features

  • SandBlasted Titanium Case
  • Reliable, Easy to read Swiss Quartz Movement
  • Extremely Great Value
  • Simple, Yet Stylish enough Design for Everyday Wear

G-Shock Mud Master

You can not have a durable watch review without including at least one G-shock. The Mud Master is top-notch when it comes to durability and great for the everyday fireman.

Best Watches for Firefighters

With a G-Shock, you know what you are paying for. Shock-resistant material, mineral glass, mud, and water-resistant. All of the perks you would look for in a durable watch.

The look of the watch is rugged, tough and bulky. Not a favorite of mine when it comes to looks. But hey, it looks great while putting out fires!

A Power House

Besides having all of the features that are needed for a fireman (backlight for visibility, analog display, and even a built-in compass), the G-Shock Men’s Mud Master GG-1000-1A5CR is also a long-lasting watch.  G-Shocks are built to last and built to withstand everyday wear. Go with the Mud Master if you are a long time fan of the Casio brand and enjoy a tough, rugged watch.

Top Features

  • Accurate, easy to read, dial
  • 5 daily alarms
  • Shock, water and mud resistant
  • G-Shock design

Marathon WW194003

Simple, yet so intricate at the same time.

Best Watches for Firefighters

One of the highlights of the Marathon WW194003 is the tritium gas tubes that illuminate without batteries. This is an excellent feature for a firefighter because you never have to worry about the light going out.

The Marathon is also designed for general infantry. So it’s self-explanatory when it comes to the durability of this timepiece. . . What makes the Marathon even better is the mechanical movement that lies within the watch. Why it may not be the best for taking a pulse, the movement runs without batteries, so again, you do not have to worry about the time turning off either.

No Batteries Needed

The Marathon WW194003 General Purpose Mechanical made today’s list because of the fact that no batteries are needed. It is a high-quality, Swiss-made watch with features that are typically found on more expensive watches.

The 34mm case is a great size and looks good on any wrist. Choose from multiple colorways to ensure you get the watch that fits your style the best.

Top Features

  • Self-winding, mechanical movement *(may be a con for those who want a ticking hand. Mechanical movements have a steady “sweeping” movement)
  • Nice sized, 34mm fiber shell case
  • Tritium, self-illuminating dial
  • Nylon military strap for comfort

Marathon WW194009SG 

Yes, this is another Marathon watch on the list. It is another great choice for firefighters.

Best Watches for Firefighters

Similar to the Marathon WW194003 in design, yet more affordable. This watch is PERFECT for those who love the Marathon name and design but do not want to break the bank.

The main qualities that are different in the Marathon WW194009SG model are a quartz movement, MaraGlo technology and yeah, that’s about it. So if Marathon watches are appealing, you won’t go wrong with either model.

Affordable and High Performance

Marathon watches are built for US government bodies. So perfect if you are a federal firefighter. If not, it is still a pretty interesting pickup! You will not be let down by the timekeeping. It is very accurate and ticks at a great rate. The durability is exactly the same as the Marathon WW194003 and also glows without batteries. However, instead of tritium, this model uses MaraGlo.

MaraGlo is a strong, non-nuclear paint that enables the dial to light up in even the darkest of lighting. Even in the pitch black! When compared to tritium it is pretty similar. Personally, I prefer the tritium ( it is a bit stronger and easier to view). But MaraGlo will not let you down.

Top Features

  • Amazingly affordable price
  • MaraGlo technology for a bright, easy to see dial in the dark
  • Strong, 34mm fiber shell case
  • Analog display with 2 timescales

Aqua Force Firefighter Dive Watch

This is a great watch to end the review with. It is made for a firefighter! The design makes a perfect gift for any hardworking, dedicated firefighter who loves their job.

Best Watches for Firefighters

It would be hard to see a firefighter open this watch as a gift and not let out a laugh. One thing to note. This is not the BEST performing watch. It gets the job done, but the beauty lies in the design.

47mm stainless steel case with a black and red rotating bezel gives the watch a dive watch look. Because of the large case size, it is suggested to purchase for those with bigger wrists.

The dial itself is black with a symbol in the middle that reads “firefighter” and has a fire hydrant and fire ladder featured beside the words. So definitely a watch for the proud firefighter who displays their passion on a daily basis.

Firefighter Design

For what it is, the Aqua Force Firefighter Dive Watch is a great choice. The quartz movement functions properly, only losing a few seconds per day. Being that this watch is the most affordable on the review. It is easy to see why some features may not be as great.

If firefighter looks outweigh the features and functionality of the timepiece you are looking for; then the AquaForce is probably for you.

Top Features

  • Designed for firefighters
  • Water-resistant up to 50 meters
  • Bright red second hand (great for taking a pulse)
  • Luminous hands and dial

Best Watches for Firefighters – Which Watch Will it Be?

At the end of the day, the choice is all yours! So which watch will it be! No matter what watch you decide to go with, I am sure you will be happy! If my word alone is not enough, check out the great reviews from current owners on Amazon!

If you do in fact go with one of the watches that reviewed today. Drop a comment below to let other readers know if you are enjoying your brand new watch.

For the readers today who are active (or will be becoming a firefighter), thank you so much for your service! I appreciate everything you do to protect and keep your community safe. Hopefully the review today helped assist you in finding a perfect watch to complement your awesome work. If you are someone buying a watch for a firefighter friend or family member, choose wisely!

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *