All About American Made Watches

Important Note: When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Content, pricing, offers and availability are subject to change at any time - more info.

American-made watches are exceptional and have been recognized globally for centuries. Despite the size and materials used in construction, these American watch brands are unique and admirable timepieces. Even with advances in technology, American watchmakers are continually designing extraordinary watches that are perfect and attractive to the eye of watch lovers.

All these watch-making companies aim to create brands that continue to make history. Whether made using American native products or products from other countries, every component of American-made watches is worth it. Today, most watch brands have become popular, whether dating from centuries ago or the modern era.

All American-made watches have various histories and features. Therefore, it’s crucial to understand multiple watch models and brands to make the best decision before purchasing one. Below are essential things watch enthusiasts should know about American-made watches.

What Makes a Watch Good for Military or Extreme use?

Though there are many watch designs, not all are suitable for military or extreme activities. Therefore, those considering military jobs or extreme activities should consider purchasing American-made watches with specific features and meets certain standards. This adds confidence as you work with the watch on your wrist. That said, below are qualities of a watch good for military or extreme use.

• Water Resistance: Military watches should have up to 200 meters of water resistance. They can also withstand changes in atmospheric pressure if there is excessive moisture. This increases their durability despite living a busy lifestyle.

• Readability: Watches for military or extreme use should be easily readable, even in the dark. They should have a lighting design to help military personnel and people with an active lifestyle read the numbers that reflect on the watch despite the outdoor conditions.

• Lightweight: Light watches are comfortable to wear and ideal for extreme use. This also increases their durability.

• Scratch-Resistance: Extreme use such as rock climbing and military activities should be strong and hard to shatter. Resistance to scratches also helps these watches maintain a crystal appearance and are hard to break.

Ready for the list of watches made in the good ol’ USA? Scroll on down or pick a brand below.

Vortic Watch Company

Vortic Watch Company has been known to make the best American watches since 2013. This company combined 3D printed prototypes and new technology to make antique American watches. However, this watch company focused on designing vintage watches for some time, facing challenges due to technological advances. After a significant reconsideration, Vortic Watch Company used reverse engineering and altered the old-fashioned cases to design antique but iconic watches. Today, the company continues constructing beautiful American-made watches in Fort Collins, Colorado.

In 2019 and 2020, Vortic Watch Company released Military Edition watches. They either have a bomber jacket material or classic black leather, with straps made of vintage military canvas bags. However, the 2021 Military Edition Model is more advanced with an antique Hamilton 4992B movement. These military watches can be used as stopwatches and have easy movement and lifting during usage.

The most popular brand is the Cleveland Railroad 005, 51mm, which is water-resistant because the cases are printed using titanium 3D cases and a nickel crown. However due to the small batches the most popular model is likely to change.

Most PopularCleveland Railroad 005, 51mm
Water Resistance200 meters
Shock ResistanceYes
LocationFort Collins, CO

Timex

These watches date back to 1854, when the first American watch was first designed in Waterbury, CT. Despite the exceptional craftsmanship in watchmaking, Timex continues to build its reputation over the years by constructing classic designs yet affordable watches. Today, Timex is known for creating a top-notch Timex Ironman, a sports and smartwatch with a good reputation. This is one of the most outstanding achievements, primarily due to advancements in sports technology.

Timex field watches are designed for military use because they are lightweight, small, and have a navigation-like feature. Though the company has altered the original watches, those used by military men have the same features as those created in the 1980s. Timex watches can also be used in intense activities such as piloting because they can withstand vibrations.

The most popular model is Timex Men’s Expedition Scout Chronograph watch which features a 42mm brass case. It has a diameter of 42mm and has a water resistance of 100m (330 feet). Therefore, it is a good option for swimming but not ideal for diving. According to I.S.O standards, the shock resistance of this watch is up to 30 minutes.

Most PopularTimex Men’s Expedition Scout Chronograph
Water Resistance100 meters
Shock ResistanceYes
LocationMiddlebury, CT

Kobold

Michael Kobold has been known for his watch-making skills since he was 16 years old. At the age of 19, in 1998, Kobold founded his company, where he started designing classic watches. This company is also known to involve third parties in supplying its watch brands but uses its original materials and products to make these watches. Kobold’s company improved its reputation in 2010 when Mike Kobold and his wife raised a significant amount of money for the Navy Seals by climbing Mt. Everest. The company continues designing watches in Pittsburgh, PA, and these watches continue selling, making them among the best American-made watch models.

These watches are designed to be used for military and other field activities because they don’t tarnish quickly. In addition, they are light and ideal to withstand extreme environments because the three-layer PVR doesn’t discolor. They are also scratch-resistant and therefore durable.

The most popular model is the Kobold Phantom Ops, with a water resistance of up to 300 meters or 1,000 ft.

Most PopularKobold Phantom Black Ops
Water Resistance300 meters
Shock ResistanceYes
LocationPittsburgh, PA

Talley & Twine

Watches created at Tally & Twine are almost look alike, beautiful, and affordable. They are made of various materials, including metal, leather or canvas. Again, they come in either gold or silver, so people have options to make when purchasing these watches.

These watches aren’t best for military or extensive activities. However, they have a great thickness and rest well on the wrist to allow people to do various activities.

The most popular model of Tally & Twine is Champagne & Gold with leather strap, with a water resistance of 50 meters.

Most PopularChampagne & Gold
Water Resistance50 meters
Shock ResistanceYes
LocationVirginia Beach, VA

RGM Watch Company

Roland G. Murphy founded RGM Watch Company in 1992 after undergoing training in Switzerland Training and Educational Program. Today, his company is known for making the best American-made watches that combine tradition and modern technology. Despite the evolving technology, RGM Watch Company focuses on manufacturing watches using traditional craftsmanship. Therefore, it has become the best watch-making firm to watch enthusiasts who love to wear vintage watches in this modern era. However, you still feel a modern touch when wearing an RGM watch because it still uses stylish watch manufacturing tools. The manufacturing of these watches continues in Mount Joy, PA.

RGM watches are used in various extensive activities, such as a navigational instrument to guide pilots. They can withstand vibrations and long periods of working. Therefore, these are some of the best time-keeping watches.

The most popular RGM watch model is the 801-COE. It has a water resistance of 50 meters. Again, these watches are lightweight.

Most PopularRGM 801-COE
Water Resistance50 meters
Shock ResistanceYes
LocationMount Joy, PA

Keaton Myrick

Keaton is an independent watch craftsman whose company is in Sisters, OR. In 2007, he graduated from Lititz Watch Technicum, where he became a skilled watch designer. He then began working for Rolex before founding his company. Though he makes few watches annually, his reputation for the best American-made watches. Again, Keaton Myrick watches are custom and handmade, making them unique.

These watches can withstand outdoor activities because they have an alligator strap and are made of stainless steel. But, again, they are customizable to fit the customers’ needs when using the watch.

The most popular model is the Keaton Myrick 1 30 series watch. It has a case diameter of 42 mm and a water resistance of 30 meters.

Most PopularKeaton Myrick 1 30 Series
Water Resistance30 Meters
Shock ResistanceYes
LocationSisters, OR

Autodromo

These watches are connected with the automotive industry and hence the name Autodromo. Bradley Price is the founder and has focused on manufacturing beautiful watches using unique products. All the watches from Autodromo have an in-house design that is a mixture of traditional and present designs. Therefore, these watches are suitable for watch lovers who need to keep in touch with mid-vintage and modern eras.

These watches aren’t the best for extensive outdoor activities. This is because of their highly polished surface and a protruding case near the lugs. However, they have a larger diameter to easily help those outside view time. Again, it is thin, light and can move easily on the wrist.

The most popular brand of Autodromo watches is Autodromo Group B Series 2 Automatic. It has a width of 39mm and a water resistance of 50 meters.

Most PopularAutodromo Group B Series 2 Automatic
Water Resistance50 meters
Shock ResistanceYes
LocationBrooklyn, NY

Weiss Watch Company

Cameron Weiss had been a watch enthusiast at a very young age and founded Weiss Watch Company in 2013. Before establishing his watch company, Weiss had improved his skills when studying at the university by joining a two-year watchmaking program. Before creating any watch, Weiss begins by hand-drawing the design, followed by an engineered prototype to help make top-notch watches. Each watch takes about 35 hours and is later inspected and tested to ensure they remain among the best American-made watches.

These watches are designed to serve field activities such as military-built purpose watches. They have an exemplary background and, therefore ideal for sub-dial stands. Therefore, they highly reserve power and are suitable for more prolonged and intense activities.

The most Weiss Watch Company popular model is Weiss Special Issue 42mm Stainless Steel and Leather Field Watch. Its water-resistant power is up to 10 bar, and these watches are continually created in Los Angeles, CA.

Most PopularSpecial Issue 42mm Stainless Steel & Leather Field Watch
Water Resistance100 meters
Shock ResistanceYes
LocationLos Angeles, CA

Brew Watch Company

These watches are created in New York, NY, and the founder Jonathan Ferrer ensures the company is busy every day. This company has built its brand as a refreshing cup of coffee. Jonathan Ferrer named his company Brew Watch Company because of the coffee philosophy. That’s why some of his watch designs resemble espresso machines so that people can feel the relaxing feeling that accompanies a cup of coffee. Wearing these American-made watches accompany a sense of relaxation because of the texture and colors they come with.

Though Brew Watch Company watches are made of high-quality materials, they are not the best for extensive outdoor or military activities. In addition, though they can withstand higher pressure, they aren’t entirely resistant to water.

The most popular Brew Watch Company model is the Metric model. It has a water resistance of 50 meters.

Most PopularMetric
Water Resistance50 meters
Shock ResistanceYes
LocationNew York, NY

Shinola

Though founded in 2011, Shinola is a fast-growing American watchmaking company. It’s known for designing luxurious leather watches that are long-lasting. To achieve quality watch creation, this company has employed a highly-trained team. It designs about 500 to 700 watches daily which undergo thorough testing to ensure each Shinola watchmaking is successful. It continues to produce beautiful watches in Detroit, MI and creates jobs for hundreds of watchmakers.

Shinola watches are made of stainless steel and suitable for intense outside activities. They have mineral crystals and can withstand heavy-duty activities. They also have nylon bands that give them a long-lasting strap.

The most popular Shinola watch model is Shinola The Runwell Chronograph Men’s Watch. Thus, you can swim with your watch has a water resistance of 100 meters.

Most PopularShinola The Runwell Chronograph
Water Resistance100 meters
Shock ResistanceYes
LocationDetroit, MI

Devon

This watch brand is focused on creating the most innovative watches. That’s why this company spends most of its time in the lab, intending to learn more about the limit of traditional watches. The lab engineers are highly skilled in making the company get nominated for ‘Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Geneve .’ It remains the only American watch-making company to be recognized in this group of watch categories. The watches are unique, showcasing unique intertwined time belts, a feature that most watches lack. And the price reflects that uniqueness.

However, these beautiful watches aren’t designed for outdoor activities. This is because they require constant recharging and may not be ideal, especially if one needs to stay outdoors for long hours. However, they can withstand extreme weather and are lubricant-free.

The most popular model of Devon watches is Devon Tread 1. It is waterproof and has a water resistance of 100 meters.

Most PopularDevon Tread 1
Water Resistance100 meters
Shock ResistanceYes
LocationPasadena, CA

Oak & Oscar

Chase Fancher founded the Oak & Oscar Company because he needed a job giving him a life balance. The idea behind establishing this American watch-making company is “design can and should inspire .”So, he employed a team to work and celebrate the long miles they take in watch making. This company is also dedicated to giving back to the community by making donations from what the brand earns after selling watches. The donations are made to a dog-based company in Chicago to help rescue more dogs.

Though it isn’t ideal for military activities, these watches can withstand various outdoor activities. They are adjustable on the arm and have a rubber material that allows shock absorption.

The most popular model of Oak & Oscar is the Humboldt GMT. This model offers a water resistance of 200 meters. In addition to being waterproof, this model has a double-domed sapphire crystal and a crown to help in screwing downwards.

Most PopularHumboldt GMT
Water Resistance200 meters
Shock ResistanceYes
LocationChicago, IL

Pelton

This brand is one of the most luxurious American-made watches. It was founded in 2016 and focuses on maintaining cases and bracelets with an in-house design. These watches are constructed using three leather types or the company’s signature, including a stainless steel band. This makes all Pelton watches extraordinary and beautiful to wear. The company continually designs these watches in Detroit, MI.

Pelton watches aren’t the best choice for extensive outdoor activities. Though made of stainless steel and nickel silver, they can’t withstand extreme activities such as rock climbing.

The most popular Pelton watch model is Perseus Automatic. These watches have a water resistance of 100 meters.

Most PopularPerseus Automatic
Water Resistance100 meters
Shock ResistanceYes
LocationDetroit, MI

Detroit Watch Company

American watch brands designed by Detroit Watch Company are native to Detroit, MI. The idea behind crafting these watches is to show work ethic. The founders are husband and wife determined to create a collection of beautiful American pieces.

These watches are suitable for military activities. The Detroit Watch Company made a tribute to the B-24 dedicated to the victory in World War 11. These watches have a Swiss automatic movement, a case back with a B-24 bomber and anti-reflective coating, and a lume for readability when outside.

The most popular model of Detroit Watch Company is the M1-Woodward. This model has a water resistance of up to 50 meters.

Most PopularM1-Woodward
Water Resistance50 meters
Shock ResistanceYes
LocationDetroit, MI

Bottom Line

Despite the continuous production of watches globally, American-made watches remain the most luxurious, classic and beautiful for watch enthusiasts. By exploring the above American-made watches, be assured the collection never gets old. Whether vintage, mid-vintage, or modern, these watches have the best designs and quality. Therefore, explore these choices and accessorize your look and style.

Similar Posts