Suunto Vertical Titanium Solar Watch Review

First Impressions of Suunto Vertical Titanium Solar Watch

The Suunto Vertical Titanium Solar Watch promises to be the ultimate adventure companion. Suunto claims it delivers unparalleled battery life and accuracy, making it ideal for demanding outdoor expeditions. As someone who’s spent years relying on tactical gear, I was eager to see if this watch lived up to the hype.

I’ve always sought a reliable GPS watch that could withstand the rigors of the backcountry. My ideal watch had to have exceptional battery life, accurate navigation, and rugged durability. The Suunto Vertical Titanium Solar Watch, with its emphasis on solar charging and titanium construction, immediately caught my eye.

Unboxing the Suunto Vertical Titanium Solar Watch, I was immediately struck by its premium feel. The titanium case felt robust yet surprisingly lightweight. The sapphire crystal screen looked incredibly clear and scratch-resistant.

I considered the Garmin Fenix 7 and the Coros Vertix 2. Ultimately, I chose the Suunto Vertical Titanium Solar Watch for its superior battery life claims and the appeal of its offline maps. The promise of extended GPS tracking without constantly worrying about charging sold me.

My first impression was overwhelmingly positive. The watch felt solid and well-made, and the features seemed genuinely useful for my outdoor pursuits. I was excited to put it through its paces and see if it could truly handle the demands of my adventures.

Real-World Testing: Putting Suunto Vertical Titanium Solar Watch to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Suunto Vertical Titanium Solar Watch on a three-day backpacking trip in the Cascade Mountains. The terrain was challenging, with steep climbs and unpredictable weather. I wanted to see how the GPS accuracy and battery life performed under real-world conditions.

The watch performed admirably in varied conditions. Even with intermittent rain and cloud cover, the GPS signal remained strong and accurate. The watch’s altimeter and compass were invaluable for navigating through dense forests and across exposed ridges.

The user interface took a little getting used to. However, after a few hours of fiddling with the menus, I quickly became comfortable navigating the various features. The map display was clear and easy to read, even in direct sunlight.

Initially, I noticed the size of the watch was slightly larger than what I was used to. Yet it quickly became unnoticeable on my wrist after several hours of hiking. The silicone strap provided a comfortable and secure fit, even when sweating profusely.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Suunto Vertical Titanium Solar Watch has proven to be a reliable and durable companion. I’ve used it on numerous hiking trips, trail runs, and even a multi-day kayak expedition. The watch has consistently performed well in all conditions.

The Suunto Vertical Titanium Solar Watch shows minimal signs of wear and tear. The titanium case has resisted scratches and dents. The sapphire crystal screen remains pristine despite exposure to abrasive conditions.

Maintaining the Suunto Vertical Titanium Solar Watch is incredibly simple. A quick rinse with water after each use is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. The silicone strap is easy to clean and doesn’t absorb odors.

Compared to my previous experiences with other GPS watches, the Suunto Vertical Titanium Solar Watch outperforms them in battery life and GPS accuracy. The solar charging feature significantly extends the battery life. The dual-frequency GPS provides a more reliable signal in challenging environments.

Breaking Down the Features of Suunto Vertical Titanium Solar Watch

Specifications

The Suunto Vertical Titanium Solar Watch boasts impressive specifications. It features a sapphire crystal lens and a Titanium Grade 5 bezel. The case is made from glass fiber reinforced polyamide.

The watch weighs 2.61 oz and has a silicone strap. It offers a battery life of up to 85 hours with the most accurate GPS setting. The battery can last up to 60 days in daily mode or even up to one year without charging in the solar and titanium solar variants.

These specifications are crucial for optimal performance in demanding environments. The Titanium Grade 5 bezel ensures durability and scratch resistance. The extended battery life provides peace of mind on long expeditions.

Performance & Functionality

The Suunto Vertical Titanium Solar Watch excels at its core functions. The GPS is highly accurate, quickly locking onto a signal even in dense forests. The altimeter and barometer provide reliable data for navigation and weather monitoring.

The watch offers a wide range of sports modes, including running, cycling, swimming, and cross-country skiing. It tracks a variety of metrics, such as heart rate, pace, distance, and elevation gain. The personalized training feedback is a valuable tool for improving performance.

The Suunto Vertical Titanium Solar Watch meets and often exceeds my expectations. The battery life is exceptional. The navigation features are accurate and easy to use. The build quality is outstanding.

Design & Ergonomics

The Suunto Vertical Titanium Solar Watch features a sleek and modern design. The titanium case and sapphire crystal screen exude quality and durability. The watch is surprisingly lightweight, given its robust construction.

The watch is comfortable to wear for extended periods. The silicone strap is soft and flexible. The button placement is intuitive and easy to access.

There is a slight learning curve with the user interface, but it’s not overly complex. The menus are logically organized, and the watch responds quickly to inputs. After a short period of familiarization, the watch is easy to use.

Durability & Maintenance

The Suunto Vertical Titanium Solar Watch is built to last. The Titanium Grade 5 bezel and sapphire crystal screen are highly resistant to scratches and impacts. The watch is water-resistant to 100 meters.

Maintenance is minimal. A simple rinse with water after each use is typically sufficient. The silicone strap can be easily cleaned with soap and water.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Suunto Vertical Titanium Solar Watch comes with a charging cable and a quick start guide. There are no included accessories beyond these essentials.

The Suunto Vertical Titanium Solar Watch is compatible with a wide range of aftermarket straps. Users can choose from various materials, colors, and styles to customize the watch to their personal preferences. The Suunto app allows for further customization of watch faces and data fields.

Pros and Cons of Suunto Vertical Titanium Solar Watch

Who Should Buy Suunto Vertical Titanium Solar Watch?

The Suunto Vertical Titanium Solar Watch is perfect for serious outdoor enthusiasts. It’s ideal for hikers, backpackers, trail runners, mountaineers, and anyone who needs a reliable and durable GPS watch with exceptional battery life. It is also suitable for survivalists or tactical professionals who depend on accurate location data.

This product might not be necessary for casual users who only need basic fitness tracking features. Those who prefer a simpler and more budget-friendly option might find better value elsewhere.

A must-have accessory would be extra watch straps in different colors or materials to tailor the watch to different activities. Considering a screen protector film is also advisable to guard against potential damage to the sapphire crystal in extreme conditions.

Conclusion on Suunto Vertical Titanium Solar Watch

The Suunto Vertical Titanium Solar Watch is a top-tier adventure watch that delivers on its promises. The combination of exceptional battery life, accurate GPS, and durable construction makes it an outstanding choice for demanding outdoor activities. It provides unparalleled performance when reliability is paramount.

The price of $839.00 is justified by the quality of materials, the advanced features, and the overall performance of the watch. It’s an investment in a tool that will likely last for years. For those who prioritize reliability and longevity, the cost is easily justifiable.

I would highly recommend the Suunto Vertical Titanium Solar Watch to anyone looking for a premium GPS watch. If you need a reliable and durable adventure companion, this watch is an excellent choice. Go explore with confidence!