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Getting a new watch is always a fun experience. EDC watches, also known as ‘Everyday Carry’ watches, are designed to withstand the activities of daily living. They often offer a combination of functionality and toughness. Unfortunately, thousands of timepieces are supposedly EDC watches. We’ve researched to find the best choices of all.
After looking through countless blog posts and customer reviews, we came up with a list to help you find the best EDC watch for you. Whether you’re searching for tactical watches, or a simple field watch to read the time, we have you covered. Once you’re done with the list, enjoy the buyer’s guide at the bottom!
Finding a good everyday carry watch can mean that you only have to rely on one timepiece, rather than one for every occasion. We’ve compiled this list of the top choices from across the internet. Let us know which watch you chose!
View The Best EDC Watch Below
1. Casio G Shock Stainless Watch
G Shock is an incredibly popular type of watch. The Casio G-Shock Stainless Watch uses a digital display with the time, date, and day of the week stretched across the face. You can also use the numerous buttons to adjust the clock, change the mode, or use the various other features.
All in all, this EDC watch comes with one snooze alarm, four daily alarms, a stopwatch, an hourly signal, a calendar, and more. It packs quite a punch into the 46mm diameter. The width of the band is 16.6mm, and you can adjust or remove it in seconds with the removable pins.
If you decide to take a dip in a swimming pool, lake, or river, then you can rest assured that your watch will be fine. With a water resistance rating of 660 feet, you can swim, snorkel, and enjoy your favorite water sports while wearing the timepiece.
Pros:
+ Comes with multiple alarms and stopwatches
+ Tough resin design
+ 220-meter water resistance rating
+ Perfect military watch
Why We Like It – We like the Casio G-Shock because it’s comfortable and reliable, even if you drop it on the ground or in water.
2. Citizen Eco-Drive Atomic Timekeeping Watch
Citizen is another well-known company that continues to provide excellent watches. The Citizen Eco-Drive Atomic Timekeeping Watch is a great example of the brand’s dedication to precise detail and consistency. The silver-tone EDC watch is stunning to look at, but it offers plenty of features, too.
The 42mm case of this everyday carry quartz movement timepiece is backed by stainless steel. The sapphire crystal glass prevents scratches and glares. You can remove the stainless steel links since they’re designed to adjust to any wrist size.
As far as water resistance goes, this watch tops out at 220 meters (660 feet), which is more than enough to be considered a dive watch. If you love swimming frequently, then why not choose a watch that can go with you? There’s no need to remove it every time you jump in the water!
Pros:
+ Stunning, simplistic appearance
+ Japanese quartz movement
+ Top-notch choice for the price
+ Chronograph-style
Why We Like It – We like this product because you can wear it throughout the day on all sorts of occasions. It pairs well with nearly any wardrobe.
3. Citizen BM8180-03E Watch
The Citizen BM8180-03E Watch is a field watch with nothing but the basics. If you want to save money on a top-tier watch, then the price of this timepiece will get your attention right away. It comes with a stitched canvas strap that’s easy to adjust on your wrist, but it also doesn’t tear or rip.
This field watch also has luminescent hands to light up when it’s dark outside or inside. The second hand appears in red to distinguish it from the other two hands. You’ll find the day of the week on the right side of the watch, alongside the date.
You can control and adjust it by using the bulky crown on the far right side of the case. The buckle enclosure on the bottom holds it securely, rather than requiring a tie or a cheap strap connector. Citizen always goes the full distance for their customers to present the best watches.
Pros:
+ This tactical watch is a good choice for people who want something simple
+ The bold lettering is easy to read
+ Includes lit-up hands
+ Comfortable, tough canvas strap
Why We Like It – We like this field watch because it’s basic, but it offers durability that almost any other watch of its price cannot.
4. Garmin Instinct Rugged Outdoor Watch
Garmin has hundreds of products that each incorporate the company’s high-quality GPS tracking system. The Garmin Instinct Rugged Outdoor Watch does an excellent job of giving you a plethora of features, but it also has a tough exterior to protect your investment.
Mineral crystal tops the face of this watch, matched with a fiber polymer case to keep it safe. There’s also a silicone strap with holes throughout it to ventilate your wrist while you wear it. The strap’s holes act as connectors for the buckle for complete adjustments.
If you choose to go with this watch, you’ll be able to choose from plenty of colors. They include Graphite, Flame Red, Tactical Black, Sunburst Yellow, and plenty of other choices. The watch also has a heartrate monitor, a three-axis compass, a barometer, and preprogrammed fitness suggestions.
Pros:
+ Includes Garmin’s GPS system
+ Comes in all sorts of unique colors
+ Has everything you need for fitness purposes
+ Uses a mineral crystal face
Why We Like It – We like this model because it has so many extra features other than the time. You’ll be able to run your whole health profile through a smartwatch!
5. Orient ‘Mako II’ Japanese Automatic Diving Watch
If you’re trying to search the market for one that can be worn every day, but also fits the classic appearance for special events, you’re in luck. The Orient ‘Mako II’ Japanese Automatic Diving Watch looks wonderful. It has a stainless steel case that extends into the links. Paired with the deep-black face, it’s quite a stunning aesthetic.
You can choose from Black, Blue, or Blue and Red. In any sense, they’re all covered with a mineral crystal layer of glass. The impressive power reserve stretches up to 40 hours, and it even has luminescent hands. Each hand brightens up when the area is dark, but they fade back to normal when it’s bright in the room.
The unidirectional bezel connects to the single crown button on the right side. Push the crown in once you’re done, adjusting it to secure the 660-foot water resistance rating. You’ll also be happy to know that the diameter is 41mm, which is suitable for men and women alike.
Pros:
+ Created to work for military members and civilians as well
+ Shows the day, date, and time
+ Tactical watch that also looks professional
+ Great timepiece for the price
Why We Like It – We like this EDC watch because it doesn’t have too many features, but it’s one of the most unbreakable watches that we found throughout our search.
6. Garmin Forerunner 235 GPS Running Watch
Garmin has another excellent everyday carry watch worth looking into. The Garmin Forerunner 235 GPS Running Watch features Bluetooth connectivity to your smartphone, allowing you to receive texts and calls right from your wrist. It also has a display that adjusts to the sunlight outside.
If you buy the Forerunner 235, you’ll be able to choose from Marsala, Frost Blue, or Black & Gray. Either way, you’ll get a top-rated heart monitor, fitness progress tracking applications, a pace tracker, and all sorts of programs to improve your health.
The battery life of this watch goes up to nine days or eleven hours of constant fitness tracking. The average customer claimed that they had to charge it only once every three to four days with moderate usage, which is rather impressive compared to other watches of the same price.
Pros:
+ Good for military members who track their fitness
+ Water resistance to prevent damage from splashes of water and rain
+ High level of battery life
+ One of the best EDC watches on the market
Why We Like It – We like this everyday carry watch because it has countless functions, it’s comfortable to wear, and the price is affordable.
7. Seiko 5 Automatic Watch
If you want a field watch that’s comfortable to wear throughout the day, then the Seiko 5 Automatic Watch is for you. It’s one of the best tactical watches for viewing the time, date, and day of the week without being clouded by other information. The canvas strap is designed to sit relaxed on your wrist while providing a tough barrier.
Seiko watches aren’t always cheap, but we couldn’t argue with the price of the 5 Automatch Watch. Getting a tactical watch from such a well-known company is nearly unheard of. Throughout our search, this timepiece continued to show up on a handful of ‘Best of…’ lists.
Another useful feature is the fact that you can remove and replace the aforementioned canvas strap. You can swap your old band for a brand-new one in under a minute by following the company’s clear, concise instructions. Both edges of the strap connect to the stainless steel bezel.
Pros:
+ Great military watch for the simplicity and toughness
+ Tactical watch for people who want nothing but the time and date
+ Doesn’t cause wrist irritation
+ Fantastic price
Why We Like It – We like these military watches because they’re simple, affordable, and rugged.
8. Timex Expedition Scout 40 Watch
Last but certainly not least, the Timex Expedition Scout 40 is one of the best tactical watches for people who are looking for a budget-friendly timepiece. You don’t have to be an expert to see that this EDC watch is a steal for the price. It’s topped with brass and a mineral crystal cover to prevent damages.
If you’re in the military, or you enjoy a good tactical watch, then you should keep an eye on this timeless quartz movement watch. You’ll also be able to take advantage of the water resistance rating, as it goes up to 50 meters. Although it’s not the best rating, it’ll still protect it from splashes and hand-washing.
Finding an EDC that doesn’t cost a ridiculous amount of money is rare these days. Companies charge so much because they know that you’ll always be wearing the watch, but that doesn’t mean that you should be subject to high prices. Choose from the 10+ colors and more, all for a price that’s far lower than any other on the list.
Pros:
+ Uses quartz movement
+ Perfect for military members and anyone in need of an EDC
+ Simple display that includes nothing other than the time
+ Decent water resistance rating
Why We Like It – We like this EDC watch because it’s such a good quality timepiece for the overall cost. There are also up to 20 different colors to match your personal wardrobe.
EDC Watch Buyer’s Guide
As you can see, there’s certainly going to be an EDC on this list for you. With eight choices to choose from, you’ll have no problem finding the perfect timepiece. If you’re still trying to search through the selection, but you still have a few questions, then check out the FAQ and tips below for some clarity.
You’ll still have to make a decision on the small features, including deciding whether or not you want your timepiece to come with a quartz movement, the color preference, and if it uses a canvas or leather strap, or even a stainless steel band. These questions should help you along in the process.
What is an EDC watch?
An EDC is an ‘everyday carry’ timepiece that you can use daily. It should complement your lifestyle. If you’re always outdoors or you’re in the military, then you need something rugged and ready for intense situations. On the other hand, people who are in the business field should find something that’s visually appealing and stylish.
What watch do Navy SEALs actually wear?
All rumors aside, the Navy SEALs don’t wear a specific watch. People used to suggest that they all wore Rolex or Luminox, but most service members prefer something cheap. They’re always on the go, so why would they wear an expensive timepiece that could break?
What’s the best military EDC watch?
Given the description in the previous question, it’s safe to say that the best choice for military members would likely be the Timex Expedition since it’s the most budget-friendly timepiece. You could also try out the Seiko 5 Automatic timepiece. It has a decent water resistance rating, and it’s relatively affordable, as well.
What kind of watch does the military use?
Again, there isn’t any specific choice that’s unanimous among service members in the military. Since some of them work in the field and others work in an office, it’s impossible to pick out a single watch for everyone to wear. However, smartwatches are popular for workers who aren’t in the field, while soldiers who are up in action prefer a timepiece that can take a beating.
Expert Tip
The best way to choose an EDC is to consider three main factors:
- What’s the most comfortable material for you?
- Do you want an analog or a digital timepiece?
- Should it be rugged or professional?
The answers to these three questions should quickly narrow down your search to two or three from our selection. Good luck!
Did You Know?
Most watches have numerous interchangeable and adjustable parts, which means that you can create an entirely different timepiece than the one that you originally purchase. Change the strap with a new color or material, upgrade the screws, pins, and battery, or switch the hands out with luminescent ones; the choice is up to you! Using a repair kit, you can fix it all in minutes.