Rusty S. 08.02.21
Keep an eye on the time, whatever the time
New from Suunto is their Core Alpha Stealth watch. Made in Finland, this watch is geared towards the serious hunter or outdoor enthusiast. Featuring an NVG-compatible Red light mode, the watch is MIL-STD-810 Certified. That means it is “ruggedized” and thoroughly tested against shock, debris, dust, immersion, salt fog, vibration, extreme pressure changes and so on. The NVG compatibility seems to be from a red backlight illumination mode, not a true IR mode. For navigation purposes, the Core Alpha Stealth also features a compass with bearing lock. It does not have GPS-connectivity, which is a consideration some military units have had to make, being that their movements have been traceable in the recent past due to their personnel’s personal GPS-enabled electronic devices. The Core Alpha Stealth has 12 months of function from a CR2032 battery, already in many range bags as a popular power source for sights and other tactical electronics.
Per Suunto:
Suunto Core Alpha Stealth packs key military features with robust construction and a strong (Berry compliant) textile strap. This non-connected and mission ready watch has a red light mode for night vision goggle compatibility and comes with an Altimeter, Barometer, Weather Insights and Compass. It is made in Finland and tested to military standards (MIL- STD-810) to take you through the toughest terrain and conditions.
KEY PRODUCT HIGHLIGHTS
- Red light mode (night vision goggle friendly) •
- Berry compliant textile strap
- No geolocation (NOT a connected watch, no BT or GPS)
- CR2032 battery powered, no recharging
- MIL-STD-810 certified
For hunters, and even speargun hunters, the Core Alpha Stealth has a immersion depth of 10 meters, as well as sunrise/sunset times, an altimeter, and barometer. This author has used Suunto Core watches extensively in the past, and has found them to be robust, well built pieces of gear.