7 best smart watches with an altimeter (altimeter) 2018-2019

When going fishing, you need to be very careful when packing. What your catch will be is influenced by many factors such as weather, quality of gear, equipment, etc. Many fishermen, especially beginners, do not think about the fact that even such an item as a watch can make fishing more productive and comfortable . And in fact, this is not fiction. There are watch models created specifically for fishermen. In this article we will look at the capabilities of modern fishing watches, tell you what you should pay attention to when buying, and also give a rating of the most popular models.

Features of a modern watch for a fisherman

Many fishermen believe that a mobile phone is enough for fishing - it will tell you the time, tell you the weather, and prevent you from getting lost in an unfamiliar area. Of course, such a point of view exists. But is it really convenient to constantly pull your phone out of your pocket? And if at the moment when you, for example, look at the time, a fish bites. Will you drop your phone in the water?

With watches, everything is completely different. They are always on your hand and do not distract from your main activity. In addition, modern fishing watches are a kind of computer located on the wrist. And they are inferior to a mobile phone only in that it is impossible to make calls from them.

What watches can you buy?

When choosing a watch for fishing, you should think about the purpose for which you plan to use it. If you only need to know the time, then you can stick to the simplest models. If you plan to monitor the weather using a watch, then purchase models with a built-in barometer and temperature sensor. For those who want to receive a forecast of possible fish bites, a watch with a function of displaying lunar phases is suitable.

The main thing that any fishing watch should have is water resistance and shock resistance.

Among the manufacturers producing fishing watches are the following companies:

Casio.
Suunto.
Timex.
Sunroad.
Garmin.
Tissot.
Hama.

How to forecast the weather by the hour?

Typically, a watch with a barometer displays all the data on the screen in the form of a chart with a variable graph of pressure fluctuations. If the watch shows a stable diagram, then this indicates the stability of the weather that exists at the time of measurements. If a decrease in pressure or a sharp jump in the diagram downwards is visible, then this is a clear sign of approaching bad weather. If the diagram shows a flat line in its lower values, then you should prepare for stable bad weather, when a flat line in the upper values of the diagram, on the contrary, shows the stability of good weather. In some models, the diagram is replaced by a digital display, which operates on the same principle.

It is worth knowing that in many models the barometer sensor automatically reads the ambient atmospheric pressure once every three hours, but if you manually activate the barometer button, it will start reading data every 5 seconds.

What features are available?

The functionality of the watch should be given special attention.

Let's take a closer look at what modern fishing watches are packed with:

Waterproof. One of the main parameters that the watch must meet if you decide to go fishing with it. Water resistance is indicated in meters, atmospheres or bars. Remember that 1 atmosphere = 1 bar = 10 meters. A watch with water resistance of 100 meters is suitable for fishing. But if you don’t plan to dive with a watch, you can also use models with a diving depth of 50 m.
Impact resistance. This feature is also extremely important for the fisherman. Because while fishing, your watch will often encounter various mechanical impacts.
Barometer. A watch with this feature allows you to track changes in atmospheric pressure. This allows you not only to predict weather changes, but also to understand what the bite will be like.
Thermometer. The display of watches equipped with a thermal sensor shows the ambient temperature.
Moon phase scale. An important function for fishermen, since the activity of fish depends on the phase of the moon and its location. Watches with this function show not only the phases of the moon, but also the time of its sunrise and sunset.
Time for fishing. A feature found on some Casio watches. Its purpose is to show the watch owner the optimal time for fishing. To do this, icons depicting several fish are displayed on the display. The more fish are painted over, the higher the likelihood of a bite. This forecast is made based on your location, Moon phases, and tide times.
Compass. This function will help you better navigate the terrain and also tell you the direction of the wind.
Display backlight. A great feature for night fishing enthusiasts. Some models are equipped with an automatic backlight function. In this case, the display lights up when you turn your wrist towards your face.

Additional options

Above we looked at the main functionality that is useful for fishing. However, in addition to this, there are additional options intended, rather, for a certain circle of people and certain situations.

Let's look at them:

Altimeter. A watch with this feature measures how high you are relative to sea level. First of all, anglers who prefer to fish in mountain rivers will need such a sensor.
GPS navigator. An option that serves both to determine your location and to calibrate most sensors.
Route. Using this function, you can build a travel route, as well as mark several of the most important points on it. This will allow you to find your way to camp or to your car even in the most difficult weather conditions.
Countdown timer. An option that sports fishermen may need. With its help you will ensure the accuracy of the wiring interval.

What properties should they have?

The most important requirement for a fishing watch is reliable operation. This is due to the specifics of use, because it is important that at any time the time indicator properly performs its functions.
To ensure this quality, an automatic watch winding function would be useful.

The uniqueness of the special watch is the presence of a whole range of additional functions, for example, a compass, thermometer, alarm clock, fish indicator, etc., which will ensure the most comfortable and productive fishing.

Convenient and popular functions include:

Protection against accidental pressing of buttons.
Alarm clock and stopwatch with circular and interval counting capabilities.
The presence of powerful backlighting for the convenience of fishing in the dark.
Controlling the transition to seasonal time and movement between time zones.
Providing power from solar energy.
Internet access required, etc.

Clock selection

Anyone who wants to purchase a fishing watch may encounter certain difficulties, since there are many models on the market, and they have even more functions.

So, let's decide what you should pay attention to when choosing a fishing watch:

Pay attention to the mechanism. Buy watches with a quartz movement, because unlike mechanical ones, they are not afraid of moisture and shock.
If you are going to fish only in the summer, then a rubber or rubber strap would be optimal, as it has the necessary flexibility and water repellency. For winter fishing, it is better to use a fabric strap, as it will not crack in the cold.
Pay attention to the manufacturer. Since a fake will not serve you for a long time.
Determine for yourself the minimum set of functions that you want to see in your watch. This will allow you to make your choice faster.
A fishing watch should not be too massive or heavy, otherwise it will put unnecessary strain on your hand.
Also pay attention to the size of the buttons on the watch. They should not stick out too much, as this will lead to inevitable snags on clothing or gear.

Popular watch models for fisherman

Let's look at the most popular models of fishing watches:

Casio AW-82-2A. A budget model that has proven itself in use by many fishermen. The advantages of the AW-82-2A include the “Time for fishing” and “Moon phase scale” functions. The body is made of polymer plastic, and the glass has a spherical shape, which provides it with additional strength. The model comes with a strap made of polymer material, which makes it quite flexible, but at the same time durable. The AW-82-2A neon display can be illuminated for a long time at night. In addition, the watch is equipped with a multifunctional alarm clock, and the battery will last you for a long 10 years. The disadvantages of the AW-82-2A include water resistance of 50 meters. The price of the watch is 1700-2500 rubles.

Hama H-106915. This watch will be an excellent choice for amateur fishermen. The case is made of plastic and the strap is made of rubber. Hama equipped this model with a temperature sensor, barometer, altimeter and compass. There is also a weather forecast function that displays the necessary information on the display in the form of icons. The display backlight makes this watch convenient even in the dark. In addition, there is a timer and alarm clock. The disadvantage of Hama H-106915 is its water resistance of 30 meters. The average price of these watches is 2500-3000 rubles.

Sunroad FR802A. An inexpensive model that will appeal to lovers of outdoor activities and fishing. Sunroad has included barometric pressure and temperature sensors in this model. This watch also measures altitude above sea level. By the way, the barometer stores the received data for 24 hours and displays it on the display both in the form of a digital value and in the form of a graph, which, of course, fishermen will appreciate. In addition, the FR802A is equipped with a digital compass and weather forecast function. And the green backlight, pleasant to the eye, allows you to receive all the necessary information even in the dark. The model also has disadvantages: water resistance of 30 meters, as well as battery life - only 1.5 years. Sunroad FR802A can be purchased for 6,000 rubles.

Casio G-Shock GDF-100BB-1E. A model with many functions, which is also suitable for fishing. This watch lacks the “Fishing Time” and “Moon Phase Scale” functions, which can be attributed to its shortcomings. Instead, the G-Shock features a barometer, thermometer, and altimeter. The GDF-100BB-1E can withstand immersion to depths of up to 200 meters, and the polymer-metal housing makes the model even more shock-resistant. The battery is designed for a five-year service life. G-Shock also has Countdown Timer, Alarm Clock, Automatic Calendar and Alarm Clock functions. You can purchase this model for 7000-7500 rubles.

Suunto Vector. The Vector case is made of plastic, as is the strap. A special feature of this watch is the level built into it, which helps to position the watch strictly horizontally for more accurate compass readings. Suunto Vector has the following functionality: “Altimeter”, “Barometer”, “Thermometer”, “Compass”. It is possible to set up to 3 alarms on the watch, and there is also a timer. The disadvantages of this model include the shallow immersion depth - only 30 meters. Of course, the Vector can withstand rain and various splashes, but diving into them is not advisable. Another drawback is the temperature sensor. In warm weather, the error in its measurements is about 5 degrees. The cost of Suunto Vector is 9,000-10,000 rubles.

Casio ProTrek PRG-250-1D. This model is more suitable for professional fishermen. The clock is powered by a solar battery. The display backlight automatically turns on in dim lighting conditions. The ProTrek display provides information in both digital and graphical formats. The model is equipped with sensors that measure pressure, temperature and altitude above sea level. Also, the Casio ProTrek PRG-250-1D is equipped with a compass, a moon phase scale and a reverse timer, which will make fishing much more productive. The only minor drawback of this model is that the altimeter readings are insufficiently accurate. The error in readings is ±5 meters. You can buy ProTrek PRG-250-1D for 11,500-12,500 rubles.

Timex T49841. This watch is also a great choice for fishing. The body is made of high-strength plastic and stainless steel. The rubber strap does not get wet and fits perfectly on the hand. The watch has a convenient wide display, which is illuminated by electroluminescent backlighting. Timex are equipped with a compass, barometer, altimeter, thermometer and countdown timer. The watch converts the information collected from the sensors into a weather forecast for the next 6 hours. The disadvantages of the T49971 include its shallow immersion depth of 50 meters. This model is estimated at 15,000-15,500 rubles.

Garmin Tactix. A wonderful symbiosis of a watch and a GPS navigator. The metal body can withstand even strong impacts. The design feature of the Tactix is concave glass, which protects the display from scratches and glare. The watch is equipped with a barometer, altimeter and three-axis compass, which are automatically calibrated using GPS. Another feature of this model is the presence of a function for constructing a route and recording up to 1000 intermediate points in it. In addition, the watch contains data on sunsets/sunrises and moon phases, which they convert into a calendar of optimal times for fishing. There is also a thermometer and timer. In addition, the Tactix are equipped with a lithium-ion battery that can withstand 1.5 months of operation without recharging. A small drawback of this watch is that it is water resistant to a maximum depth of 50 meters. You can purchase this device for 32,000-35,500 rubles.

Suunto Elementum Terra. Luxury watches from a Finnish manufacturer, which are assembled by hand. The model is made of stainless steel, the display is made of sapphire glass. The Terra's features are similar to other fishing watches. There is also a barometer, altimeter, thermometer and 3D compass. In addition, there is a weather forecast function. Suunto Elementum Terra is shockproof and also has a water resistance of 100 meters. The disadvantages of this model include the short battery life - 10 months. Another drawback is the weight of this watch - 200 g, which makes it quite heavy. For comparison, Suunto Vector weighs only 54 g. Those interested can buy Elementum Terra for 37,000-39,000 rubles.

Tissot T013.420.17.202.00. A watch that is suitable for both fishing and any official event. The model is easy to use, despite its high-tech functionality. The main feature of this watch is, of course, the touch dial. With a simple touch of the sapphire crystal, you can view measurement data on altitude, absolute and relative pressure, and temperature. In addition, Tissot has a compass, as well as an azimuth function. The steel case protects the mechanism from shocks, and the 100-meter water resistance allows you to keep this watch on if you decide to go swimming. No deficiencies were identified with Tissot T013.420.17.202.00. The price of this “supercomputer” is 46,000-47,000 rubles.

[Functions] Barometer on Casio watches - operating principle and tips for use

G-STORE.RU - official Casio watch store in Russia

Today we will take a closer look at the operation of the barometer in Casio watches. Perhaps the information will seem too redundant and difficult to understand to some, but we tried to explain as clearly as possible: how to measure atmospheric pressure, what the measurement results depend on, and what needs to be done to obtain the correct values. Don’t forget, the instrument has relative accuracy, which means small deviations from actual pressure values are quite acceptable. However, add your experience in the comments.

ProTrek PRG-250 and 1012 hPa

Barometer Basics -

The watch receives information about atmospheric pressure using a built-in sensor. Casio watches use a piezoresistive method for detecting atmospheric pressure, which is based on interpreting information about changes in silicon [a chemical element, a kind of material in the earth's crust]. Silicon has high sensitivity due to the change in the volume resistivity of the semiconductor when deformed by pressure [correct if wrong]. Roughly speaking, the characteristics of silicon are highly dependent on atmospheric pressure and this pattern is digitized in an understandable form in your watch.

GW-9400 - Shockproof with Barometer

By indicators of atmospheric pressure, the general condition and changes in the atmosphere are assessed. By observing these changes, it is possible to predict with high accuracy changes in the weather in the near future. The watch automatically measures atmospheric pressure every 2 hours. If the pressure rises, you should expect clear weather; if it decreases, you should expect cloudy weather. When ascending to a higher altitude, atmospheric pressure drops [air density decreases with increasing altitude].

PRW-3100 - all tracks have a triple sensor [which also includes a barometer]

Cautions

To adequately assess changes in atmospheric pressure, it is important to be at the same altitude throughout the measurements [you get the idea, different altitude means different pressure].
If you are at different altitudes during the measurement process, this will lead to incorrect construction of the pressure graph and display of data in the clock, which will make it impossible to predict the weather.
The built-in pressure sensor is not intended to be used as a precision measurement or official weather forecasting instrument.
A sudden change in ambient temperature can affect the sensor readings, resulting in measurement errors.

PRG-600 - office style, but with a barometer))

Units

Depending on the selected time zone, the watch automatically determines the units of measurement [note: in new models].
The units of atmospheric pressure can be hectopascals [hPa] or inches of mercury [inHg].
The barometer range is 260–1100 hPa [7.65–32.45 inHg].
The atmospheric pressure measurement step is 1 hPa [or 0.05 inHg].
If the current altitude readings go beyond the values described above, the “—” icon is displayed on the clock display. The data is automatically updated when the indicators enter the acceptable measurement range.

GWG-1000 - another powerful “shock” with a barometer

About the operation of the sensor [in modern models]

By switching the watch to barometer mode, within a second you can see the measurement result on the screen.
The reading interval is every 5 seconds for 3 minutes, then every 2 minutes.
If you do not perform any operations for an hour, the watch will automatically return to current time mode after an hour.
The differential pressure indicator displays the difference between the current atmospheric pressure value and the value obtained from the previous measurement.
The atmospheric pressure differential indicator displays values in the range of ±10 hPa [0.3 inHg]. Art.] in increments of 1 hPa [0.03 inHg. Art.].
If there is a sudden change in atmospheric pressure, an audible alarm will sound and the pressure change indicator will flash on the screen. This way you can monitor changes in atmospheric pressure and adjust your plans for the current day.

To display the current atmospheric pressure as accurately as possible, it is advisable to calibrate

Calibration

is the process of correcting sensor performance with conditionally ideal data from another device/source.

The principle is quite simple: we take another device [the accuracy of which you are sure of], read the data from it, and enter this data in the calibration mode in our watch [manual method]. This process must occur in one physical place, at the same time and under the same conditions. After this, we exit the calibration mode and see the initial pressure value that we set earlier.

The process is similar for all Casio watches, but if you have any questions or problems, check the instructions for your model [or write to us, we will definitely help].

Now about the calibration frequency.

The manufacturer calibrates all sensors after the watch is assembled, so no calibration is required immediately after purchase. Over time, measurement error can increase, resulting in incorrect readings. If you think that the sensor data is incorrect or doubt its correctness, then the calibration process will not hurt.

GWN-Q1000 - marine series, where the barometer will help predict changes in the weather

Sequence of actions for measuring atmospheric pressure.

So, we have calibrated the sensor, now we can start measuring. We remind you that the process is described for the latest ProTrek PRG-600 series [module 5497]. For other Casio models, the sequence of actions may be different, but the principle remains the same.

Note

: In new watch models, the manufacturer claims higher measurement speed and improved accuracy [a future sensor update will likely be even more accurate]. This does not mean that old sensors are bad. It's just that new models have this kind of improvement.

Using button B we enter barometer mode. The BARO indicator will appear on the screen, indicating that pressure measurement has begun.

To restart the measurement process, you need to press button A.
The barometric pressure graph displays successive pressure measurements over a 2-hour period.

Using a graph you can make a weather forecast
. As mentioned above, an increase in pressure corresponds to an improvement in the weather, and a drop in pressure corresponds to its deterioration.

With sudden pressure surges
, the schedule may be interrupted. After the pressure stabilizes, the schedule will return to normal mode.
If a segment [or segments] of the graph is empty
, then either the pressure is outside the acceptable range [260 hPa - 1100 hPa or 7.65 -32.45 inHg. post], or the sensor is faulty and requires a trip to the service center.

To enable differential pressure display,

you need to press the D button in barometer mode. Below is an example of an indicator of a difference of about -5 hPa (-0.15 inHg).

The watch has a pressure change indicator, which can be turned off if desired. The indicator itself has 4 different positions: a sharp decrease in atmospheric pressure, a sharp increase in atmospheric pressure, an increase in atmospheric pressure with a forecast for a decrease, and a decrease in atmospheric pressure with a forecast for an increase.
When the indicator is on, the watch measures atmospheric pressure every 2 minutes [regardless of the mode it is in].

GWN-1000 is another “sailors” where the importance of the barometer is not exaggerated

Conclusion

The barometer in a Casio watch can be a useful tool because it can accurately predict the weather for the near future. If the sensor shows incorrect data, or you doubt the correctness of its operation, compare the values obtained with professional instruments. If the differences are minor, you can be calm. If they differ greatly, do a calibration.

PS Do you have anything to add? Write in the comments, let's improve the article together.

About the author
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yamakot

I like to understand all the intricacies of Japanese watches. I actively support the idea “real shockproof G-Shocks should be digital”, but I do not give up on ana-digi. News, reviews, lookbooks - I contribute to the popularization of Casio watch products in the Russian-speaking segment of the Internet.

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Quick tips for choosing and using watches

If you do not want to change the battery in your watch, purchase models with solar panels.
For a more accurate temperature measurement, remove the watch for 10-15 minutes, otherwise your body temperature will affect the accuracy of the readings.
If you are not going to swim in your watch, then you can use models with water resistance of 30-50 meters.
Most modern fishing watches measure atmospheric pressure in hPa. Keep this in mind, since to get the mmHg readings, you need to multiply the hPa readings by 0.75.

The purpose of the barometer

The main task of a barometer is to measure atmospheric pressure, which allows you to predict changes in weather conditions. Agree, this is a very useful function when you are traveling or fishing, where almost everything depends on the weather. In addition, pressure measurements are often necessary for weather-sensitive people who react sharply to weather changes. This gives them the opportunity to prepare in advance for changes in their health, and in some cases even take the necessary medications on time.