GPW Field Model | Watch Review

GPW Field Model

GPW Field Model Specifications:

• 2-Year Manufacturer Warranty
• Titanium Case (62 grams without strap)
• Sapphire Crystal
• 200M (600ft) water-resistant.
• Automatic movement (24 Jewels) Seiko NH35
• Non-Radioactive Military Luminous for readability in the dark
• 22mm lug width
• 42mm case width
• 48mm lug to lug
• Screw-in locked crown
• Screwed in case back

Price: $349 USD

https://arctoswatches.myshopify.com/collections/gpw-fieldwatch-automatic/products/gpwfldbrn

The GPW Field model is a watch that has certainly become one of my favorite affordable watches in the past few months, and with good reason. First and foremost, the size and style appeal to me, but it also has many elements I personally like in a watch these days. I always wear and test out every watch I get sent for review, some more than others. It stands to reason that if you really like the look and feel of the watch, you are going to bond with it even more. That would be the case here. I have worn the GPW on its supplied thick leather strap, on my personal Hirsch Accent rubber as well as a well worn canvas strap. I have worn it out to dinner, doing work around the house and even in the pool. It is a very well rounded watch that I really have found no faults with.

Of course the design is similar to the Rolex Explorer, but it is more inspired by than a direct homage, though the use of the Mercedes hands makes people instantly think of Rolex. That is probably my one negative of the GPW Field Watch, if they had chosen a different set of hands, it would have separated itself even more. All of that said, the hands do match well with the dial and case, and the dial has minimal text.

The case itself as stated is constructed of titanium and has a blasted finish that really tones down the watch. This is not a watch that I feel that can really double as your dress watch. These days people wear whatever they want for any occasion, which is fine, but if we are talking traditionally here, definitely not a dress piece. That said, it is more than at home for being out in the “field”, hiking, camping, swimming (on a rubber or canvas strap), and of course in jeans and a t shirt.

The crown does screw down and seats very well into the case, though the edges of the crown are a little sharp. They don’t dig into the wrist or make it uncomfortable, but you can feel the sharp edges when running your fingers across it. Being equipped with a domed sapphire crystal will keep it from accumulating scratches from most objects, though with these domed crystals there is a trade off. The reflection is to the point I can see my face in it when looking at the time.

Keeping in mind that this is a $349 watch, you are not going to find a high end movement here. You will however find a quite suitable movement in the form of the Seiko NH35. While slightly lower beat than the Miyota 9015, it is quite capable. You will be seeing this movement in a few upcoming watches/brands as getting hold of the 9015 has been a little difficult as of late. Concerning the case back, nothing glamorous here, and that is just what I would expect with a Field watch such as this. No frills solid titanium case back with the appropriate information etched on.

The example I have for review comes with a tan leather strap with white stitching. It is a very capable leather strap and quite thick at almost 4mm. It is large enough to fit at least an 8 inch wrist, and is 22mm throughout with no taper. If this strap does not strike your fancy, then take a look at the GPW website as they have an array of leather and rubber options.

If you were wondering what it looks like on the Hirsch Accent I talked about earlier, here you go. This is one of my favorite go to straps for a casual/sport watch.

With its modest 42mm X 48mm case size, it wears slightly larger than a Rolex Explorer does, but of course is much lighter in weight due to the titanium construction. I feel the tan leather strap really does suit this watch, and is very comfortable right out of the box.

7 1/2 inch wrist for reference

Sometimes I see a watch such as this, with large numerals and markers that look like they will just glow all night long and am left very disappointed. Fortunately that is not the case with the GPW Field Model. It is on par with some of the best microbrand luminescence and is easily readable in the dark.

As I stated in the beginning, I really could find no faults with the GPW Field Model. It is comfortable, good looking, light weight and best of all, affordable. It is also from a company whose sister brand is Arctos Elite, in case you were afraid this might be a flash in the pan or one hit wonder. I definitely enjoyed wearing and reviewing this model, and I hope to see more affordable titanium watches from GPW soon.

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