Whatever the world throws at you, a well-equipped emergency kit can mean the difference between being in control and being at the mercy of the unknown. One essential yet often overlooked piece of gear? A reliable, battle-proven watch.

A Marathon watch isn't just an accessory—it’s a mission-critical tool designed for military personnel, first responders, and survivalists who demand precision, durability, and reliability. With a legacy of serving armed forces worldwide, Marathon timepieces are engineered to survive the harshest conditions. In this guide, we’ll break down why a Marathon watch belongs in your emergency kit and highlight three exceptional models that should be on your emergency checklist.

Why a Marathon Watch is a Must-Have for Emergencies

When facing an emergency scenario, reliable timekeeping is non-negotiable. Timing can dictate survival—knowing when to administer medicine, ration supplies, track shifts for security, or even measure travel durations without relying on electronic devices.

Here’s why Marathon watches are a critical addition to your emergency kit:

1. Always Operational – No Batteries? No Problem.

A watch is only useful if it works when you need it most. Marathon’s field-tested mechanical and quartz watches ensure you always have a functioning timepiece, no matter the circumstances.

• Mechanical Watches: Self-winding with no need for a battery, making them perfect for long-term emergencies where power sources are unavailable.

• Automatic Movements: For longer-lasting, accurate and dependable performance.

2. Military-Grade Durability

Marathon watches are built to withstand war zones, and that means they can handle whatever scenario you face. Constructed with high-impact cases, scratch-resistant sapphire crystals, and water-resistant designs, these watches are as tough as your resolve.

• Shock-resistant: Drops, impacts, and rough conditions won’t affect performance.

• Water-resistant: Ranging from 30M to 300M, these watches function in floods, rain, or submersion.

• Harsh conditions: Designed to operate in severe temperatures.

3. Always Visible – Tritium Illumination

In a grid-down situation, light sources may be compromised. Marathon watches use self-illuminating tritium gas tubes, ensuring readability in pitch-black conditions. Unlike phosphorescent lume that requires a light source to charge, tritium stays lit for years without external power.

4. Tactical Precision for Mission Success

Emergency situations require precise timing for coordination and survival. Marathon watches provide high-accuracy movement, allowing you to track everything from time-sensitive decisions to navigation using the sun.

• Swiss-made movements ensure unparalleled reliability.

• Highly legible dials with military-style 12/24-hour markings.

• Chronograph options for advanced timekeeping functions.

5. No-Nonsense Simplicity

Technology can fail. GPS batteries die. Smartphones break. But an analog Marathon watch is a fail-proof survival tool. Unlike digital devices, an analog watch isn’t vulnerable to cyber-attacks, EMPs, or power failures.

Analog Marathon watches are built to function—no apps, no reliance on satellites. Just pure, unrelenting dependability.

Top 3 Marathon Watches for Your Emergency Kit

1. 41mm GSAR with Stainless Steel Bracelet

Designed for elite military divers, SAR teams, and tactical professionals, the Large Diver’s Automatic (GSAR) is built to thrive in the harshest environments on earth—or under it. Engineered to military specifications and issued to active-duty personnel, this watch is a mission-critical tool, not just a timepiece.

Key Features:

• 41mm 316L stainless steel case: Built to MIL-SPEC standards for extreme durability and corrosion resistance

• Swiss Sellita SW200-1 automatic movement: Self-winding, highly accurate, and field-reliable

• 30 ATM water resistance: Purpose-built for deep-sea diving and amphibious operations

• Tritium gas tubes and MaraGlo illumination: Constant visibility, no matter the conditions

• Sapphire crystal: Scratch-resistant and ultra-clear for uncompromised readability

• Stainless steel bracelet: Heavy-duty and professional, built for operational use and formal settings alike

2. 41mm Jeep® Willys SSGPM

For those who want a tactical yet stylish survival watch, the Jeep® Willys SSGPM is an elite pick. Built for Jeep enthusiasts and survivalists alike, this automatic movement timepiece takes military-grade resilience to the next level.

Key Features:

• 41mm stainless steel case: Built to withstand high-impact situations.

• Automatic self-winding movement: No need for a battery.

• Tritium illumination: Readable in zero-light conditions.

• Water-resistant to 30M: Reliable in wet and stormy conditions.

• Military-inspired design: A nod to classic WWII-era field watches.

3. 41mm SSNAV-D Pilot’s Automatic

For those who demand self-sustaining precision and robust construction, the Steel Navigator Automatic delivers. Originally developed for pilots and airborne personnel, this watch is engineered for high-performance environments where reliability is non-negotiable. With automatic movement and military-grade materials, it’s built to perform—without compromise.

Key Features:

• 41mm 316L stainless steel case: Built to endure impact, pressure, and operational wear

• Sellita SW200-1 automatic movement: Swiss-made, self-winding, and field-reliable—no battery required

• Tritium gas tube illumination: Constant glow visibility in low- and no-light conditions

• Water-resistant to 100M (10 ATM): Trusted for airborne and maritime operations

• Mission-proven performance: Designed to meet the needs of pilots and tactical professionals worldwide

What Else Should Be in Your Survival Pack?

A Marathon watch is a cornerstone of preparedness, but a complete survival kit requires more essential gear. Consider adding the following items:

• Food & Water: Non-perishable food and clean drinking water (or purification tools like LifeStraw or iodine tablets).

• Tactical Clothing: Weather-appropriate, moisture-wicking, and durable gear for protection.

• Emergency Fire-Starting Kit: Waterproof matches, lighters, or fire-starting tools.

• Comprehensive First Aid Kit: Bandages, antiseptics, pain relievers, antibiotics, and trauma supplies.

• Multi-Tool & Fixed-Blade Knife: Useful for repairs, defense, and survival.

• Tactical Flashlight & Batteries: High-lumen, shock-resistant, and waterproof for night operations.

• Hand-Crank or Solar Radio: Essential for staying informed during blackouts.

• Self-Defense Tools: Pepper spray, firearms (if legally permitted), or tactical pens.

• Backup Power & Solar Chargers: Keep devices operational in long-term grid-down scenarios.

• Maps & Compass: Navigation tools in case GPS systems fail.

• Emergency Shelter: Compact tents, sleeping bags, and thermal blankets. You can find even more emergency gear here

Being ready for any emergency is about having the right gear, and a Marathon watch is an essential part of that mission.

Explore the full Marathon collection here: Marathon Watches