Great Watch, Bad Compass

By Matthew Burleigh Ranked #291 - Running Watches August 15, 2009

I purchased my Observer in Feb 2007 and have been very pleased overall. The ABC are handy and readily available, though I have noticed the exact values tend to be off by up to 10% against known markers. It is not overwhelming is size or color, so I can wear it to business meetings without recieving strange looks from desk-jockies with the figure of Santa Clause. I have the titanium strap and since I trimmed it to fit my wrist, I have never had a problem since.

However, I do have a complaint about the compass. I understand that each time the battery is replaced, the compass needs to be reset. Unfortunately, I have had to reset it about 10 times, and I have only changed the battery three times. Test your compass before departing on a trip. Checking North doesn't do it. Twice, my North was spot on, East was very close, as was South. West should have ben 270, but instead was around 330. The last 90 degrees read as only 30. Check it prior to departure, but don't trust it beyond a general guide. Pack a standard compass as well. Also, the instructions for resetting the compass are not intuitive, so you may wish to bring a copy of the instructions if you intend on using it in the BC.

View Details: Suunto Observer Altimeter Watch

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