Re: [Paddlewise] Watches

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I use a Suunto X6.  The altimeter/barometer functions are very  
accurate, can be locked to avoid drift, allow log tracking,
and can be set to alarm when rise or drop exceeds set interval amount.

There have been some reports that earlier versions of this watch had  
display glitches,
and that battery replacement has caused a few units to lock and require  
returning.
Suunto handles these via their Carlsbad, CA facility, though many  
retailers (EMS, REI,
others, will usually replace the units under warranty with new...your  
mileage may vary).

The less expensive Vector model has the same accuracy, though the ease
of operation, intuitive display, etc. of the X6 make it worth the money.
If you're into the gear geek thing, you can download logs from the  
watch to
PC (via supplied cable and software/Macs can use a usb to serial  
adapter and
Virtual PC),  adjust watch settings and prefs all at once, and link to  
Suunto's
website to other users...

Mostly, I find the X6 reliable, well thought out, and unfailingly  
accurate;
a recent issue of Backpacker magazine reviewed and rated an array
of these watches...and many were not as accurate or as handy as one
might hope or assume. The Suunto watch reviewed was not the X6, but
the Altimeter functions are the same.

(no commercial affiliation with Suunto or retailers of this product).

-Will

On Friday, May 9, 2003, at 10:53 AM, Joyce, Thomas F. wrote:

> I wear a diving watch for all outdoor purposes.  When I come down from  
> a hike at altitude (anything above 8,000 ft), a small amount of  
> condensation accumulates under the glass.  It eventually disperses  
> (perhaps after weeks), with no apparent effect on accuracy.  Does  
> anyone have a recommendation for a good watch that does not do this?   
> Being able to submerge in shallow water 20 - 30 ft) is essential.   
> What I'm really looking for in addition is the ability to withstand  
> the altitude change (say, up to 15,000) without that condensation.
>
> Thanks.
>
> P.S.  The cost of the watch should be less than the cost of my last  
> kayak.
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