What Makes a Great Field Watch? Features to Look For

A field watch has never been about status or show. Its appeal lies in something quieter: trust. These watches were created to do one thing well and that is to tell the time clearly and reliably, even under the most demanding conditions. That honesty of purpose still resonates today. 

At Mudita, we’re drawn to field watches because they reflect the same values we hold in our designs: simplicity, durability, and usefulness without unnecessary distraction.

Decades later, the appeal hasn’t faded. Instead, it has grown. 

Today, a great field watch is still defined by that same blend of rugged functionality and quiet elegance. It’s a companion that works anywhere. Whether you’re navigating a trail at dawn, stepping into a meeting, or simply wanting a watch that tells the time without distraction.

So, what makes a field watch truly great? The answer lies in a handful of essential features, each one carrying the legacy of purpose-built design, each one still as relevant today as it was a century ago.

Here are the features you should look for and why they’re important. 

1. Legibility

A field watch should be readable at a glance, no matter the conditions. That means a clean dial with uncluttered numerals, high contrast between hands and background, and luminous markers for nighttime visibility.

In demanding environments, legibility should be thought of as a luxury because, in reality, it's very much a necessity. 

Watches like Mudita Radiant, with its full 12-digit layout, custom typeface, and premium Super-Luminova® BGW9, deliver exceptional clarity both in daylight and complete darkness.

2. Durability

Field watches must withstand daily wear, bumps, and unexpected knocks. A robust stainless steel case, scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, and shock protection ensure that your watch can take on life’s challenges without losing reliability.

Mudita Radiant, for instance, uses 316L brushed stainless steel to resist corrosion and mask scratches, combined with Incabloc® shock protection and a crown guard, all practical safeguards that keep it ticking under pressure.

3. Water Resistance

Life outdoors doesn’t always happen under sunny skies. Rain, humidity, or even a spontaneous swim can put a watch to the test. That’s why, for a field watch, a minimum water resistance of at least 50 meters (5 ATM) is recommended, with 100 meters (10 ATM) being preferable because it offers even more confidence.

With 10 ATM protection, Mudita Radiant can comfortably handle sudden downpours, sweat during a hike, or an impromptu dip, giving you peace of mind in unpredictable conditions.

4. Movement

The heart of any watch lies in its movement. Yes, quartz watches may be considered more reliable and low-maintenance,  however mechanical (manual or automatic) watches carry a sense of heritage and craftsmanship, while still being very precise. 

Additionally, an automatic watch is also inherently more sustainable because it harnesses the energy of your own movement, eliminating the need for disposable batteries.

Mudita Radiant embraces this tradition with the Swiss Made Sellita SW-200 Elaboré movement, fine-tuned by watchmakers for accuracy and equipped with a 41-hour power reserve.

It’s precision you can trust, paired with sustainability that resonates with today’s values.

5. Size and Wearability

A good field watch should sit comfortably on the wrist without being bulky. Historically, they were modestly sized, very often in the 36–40 mm range, making them easy to wear for extended periods. 

Because it’s be honest, comfort is just as important as toughness.

This is why Mudita Radiant offers three case sizes: 32 mm, 37 mm, and 40 mm, ensuring a tailored fit for every wrist. Its slim 10–10.7 mm profile means it slips easily under a sleeve while retaining its robust character.

6. Strap Versatility

Field watches were designed to adapt. Straps should be rugged, durable, and interchangeable. A quick-release system makes switching straps simple, letting you change your look depending on the occasion.

Mudita Radiant comes with six vegan straps in nature-inspired colors, made from recycled materials for both durability and sustainability. 

Quick-release functionality ensures you can swap styles in seconds, whether you prefer understated elegance or outdoor ruggedness.

Legible. Reliable. Ready for everyday adventures.

7. Accuracy and Reliability

A watch that can’t keep time defeats its purpose. It’s true that quartz watches excel in accuracy, but a well-regulated mechanical movement can deliver outstanding precision as well. Features like shock protection add another layer of reliability, ensuring your watch won’t let you down.

With its Elaboré-grade Sellita movement, adjusted in three positions for accuracy of ±7 seconds per day, Mudita Radiant proves that mechanical watches can balance tradition with modern dependability.

8. Design Heritage

Perhaps the most defining quality of a field watch is its timeless, utilitarian design. These watches were born out of necessity, and the best examples stay true to that ethos: minimalist, practical, and built to serve, not to show off.

Mudita Radiant embodies this heritage while elevating it with thoughtful details: an uncluttered dial, durable materials, and Swiss craftsmanship. 

It honors the tradition of the field watch while offering versatility for everyday adventures.

Final Thoughts

More than just an accessory, a great field watch is a reliable partner for any situation. From legibility and durability to movement and design heritage, each element plays a role in ensuring the watch is both practical and timeless.

If you’re ready to experience these qualities for yourself, Mudita Radiant is coming soon to Kickstarter. 

By joining the waitlist, you’ll not only be the first to know when the campaign goes live but also enjoy exclusive perks: priority shipping, the lowest campaign price, and a free extra strap when you back the project.

Join the Waitlist Today