Armourlite Field Series AL135 Swiss Made Tritium Illuminated Watch with Shatterproof Armourglass Review

First Impressions of Armourlite Field Series AL135 Swiss Made Tritium Illuminated Watch with Shatterproof Armourglass

The Armourlite Field Series AL135 Swiss Made Tritium Illuminated Watch with Shatterproof Armourglass promises rugged reliability and unmatched visibility, a combination that immediately piqued my interest. As a seasoned outdoor professional, I’ve struggled with watches that couldn’t withstand the rigors of the field or failed to provide clear visibility in low-light conditions. The Armourlite AL135, with its tritium illumination and shatterproof Armourglass, appeared to be the solution to those frustrations.

My old field watch, a digital behemoth, had finally succumbed to the elements after years of faithful service, its display now permanently obscured by a spiderweb of cracks. I needed a replacement that could not only withstand abuse, but also provide instantaneous and reliable timekeeping, day or night, without relying on battery-draining backlights. The promise of Swiss-made precision and tritium illumination in the Armourlite Field Series AL135 was too compelling to ignore.

The watch arrived in a sturdy, no-nonsense box, reflecting the brand’s focus on function over frills. The initial impression was one of solid construction; the 316L stainless steel case felt weighty and substantial, and the polyurethane strap exuded durability. Unlike some competitors that boast similar features but feel flimsy in hand, the Armourlite AL135 felt like a tool built to last.

I considered the Marathon GSAR and the Luminox Navy SEAL watch before settling on the Armourlite. While both are respected brands, the Armourlite offered a combination of features and price that felt right for my needs. The Armourlite also stood out with its screw bars instead of spring bar pins, a detail that suggested a higher level of robustness.

My first impression was one of quiet confidence. The Armourlite Field Series AL135 didn’t scream for attention, but its purposeful design and solid construction suggested a tool ready for anything. I was eager to put it through its paces.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Armourlite Field Series AL135 Swiss Made Tritium Illuminated Watch with Shatterproof Armourglass to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test of the Armourlite Field Series AL135 was during a week-long backcountry navigation course in the unforgiving terrain of the Cascade Mountains. I needed a reliable timepiece that could withstand harsh conditions, provide accurate timekeeping, and offer exceptional visibility during pre-dawn route planning and nighttime navigation exercises. The watch was subjected to rain, snow, mud, and constant impacts against rocks and gear.

The Armourlite performed admirably in all conditions. The tritium illumination was a game-changer, providing a constant, easily readable glow without requiring me to press any buttons or drain the battery. Even in the thickest fog or under the dense forest canopy, the time was instantly discernible.

The watch’s large, legible numerals and uncluttered dial made it easy to read the time at a glance, even while wearing gloves or while balancing on uneven terrain. I found the watch easy to get accustomed to; the uncluttered dial and simple functionality meant I didn’t have to spend time fiddling with complicated settings. There were no issues or surprises after the first use other than a renewed confidence in the brand and product.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of continuous wear, including multiple hunting trips, range sessions, and everyday use, the Armourlite Field Series AL135 has proven to be a remarkably durable and reliable timepiece. The shatterproof Armourglass crystal has remained pristine, resisting scratches and impacts that would have undoubtedly damaged lesser watches. The watch has seen use during SCUBA exercises in murky and cold water.

Despite exposure to harsh chemicals, sweat, and abrasive materials, the polyurethane strap shows minimal signs of wear, and the stainless steel case remains corrosion-free. Cleaning is simple; a quick rinse with soap and water is all it takes to remove dirt and grime. It easily outperforms and outlasts many other field watches I’ve owned in the past, providing a superior level of durability and reliability.

The battery life is exceptional. After months of continuous use, the watch continues to keep accurate time without any noticeable degradation in performance. The watch is easy to maintain and wear.

Breaking Down the Features of Armourlite Field Series AL135 Swiss Made Tritium Illuminated Watch with Shatterproof Armourglass

Specifications

The Armourlite Field Series AL135 Swiss Made Tritium Illuminated Watch with Shatterproof Armourglass boasts impressive specifications that make it a formidable tool for outdoor and tactical use. Key specifications include:

• Swiss Made Ronda 715 Quartz Movement: This movement provides exceptional accuracy and reliability. It is a robust and dependable workhorse.
• Shatterproof Armourglass Crystal (6,000 Vickers): The Armourglass is incredibly scratch-resistant and impact-resistant, ensuring long-term visibility. This is far more durable than mineral crystal and is nearly as robust as sapphire.
• 316L Surgical-Quality Stainless Steel Case: Offers excellent corrosion resistance and durability. The metal is anti-magnetic and hypoallergenic.
• 15 Swiss Made Tritium Markers by trigalight: Provides constant, battery-free illumination for exceptional low-light visibility. Tritium illumination is always on, requiring no charging or activation.
• Water Resistance to 100 Meters: Suitable for swimming, snorkeling, and other water activities. This rating is sufficient for most recreational water activities.
• Polyurethane Strap with Stainless Steel Buckle: Offers a comfortable and secure fit, even in wet conditions. The strap is durable and easy to clean.
• Case Diameter: 42 mm: The watch is sized well for average wrists, not too large and not too small. The diameter is ideal for legibility and comfort.

These specifications are important because they directly contribute to the watch’s performance, durability, and overall user experience. The Swiss movement ensures accurate timekeeping, while the Armourglass crystal protects the dial from damage. The tritium illumination provides unmatched visibility in low-light conditions, and the robust construction ensures the watch can withstand the rigors of demanding environments.

Performance & Functionality

The Armourlite Field Series AL135 excels at its primary function: providing accurate and reliable timekeeping in any environment. The Ronda 715 movement is known for its accuracy, and the watch has maintained consistent timekeeping throughout my testing period.

The watch has excelled in accuracy, reliability, usability, and comfort. The tritium illumination is the standout feature, providing exceptional visibility in low-light conditions without requiring any external power source. One area that could be improved is the bezel; a rotating bezel with markings would add another layer of functionality for timing events. Overall, it meets and exceeds expectations for a field watch.

Design & Ergonomics

The Armourlite AL135 features a no-nonsense, functional design that prioritizes legibility and durability. The large, easy-to-read numerals and uncluttered dial make it easy to tell the time at a glance.

The watch’s solid construction and comfortable strap make it suitable for extended wear. The watch has a hefty and reassuring weight, giving it a robust feel without being cumbersome.

Durability & Maintenance

The Armourlite Field Series AL135 is built to last. The shatterproof Armourglass crystal, 316L stainless steel case, and durable polyurethane strap are all designed to withstand the rigors of demanding environments.

Maintenance is minimal; the watch can be cleaned with soap and water. The screw-down crown helps to protect against water intrusion, and the screw bars securing the band offer a more secure attachment than traditional spring bars.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Armourlite AL135 comes with a standard polyurethane strap. While there are no specific customization options offered directly by Armourlite, the 22mm lug width allows for compatibility with a wide range of aftermarket straps.

NATO straps, leather bands, and metal bracelets can all be easily fitted to the watch, allowing users to customize its look and feel. There are currently no accessories outside of the watch strap that can be modified.

Pros and Cons of Armourlite Field Series AL135 Swiss Made Tritium Illuminated Watch with Shatterproof Armourglass