yacht racing timer

Yachting World

• Digital Edition

Best sailing watches: 16 options for racing and cruising

• June 9, 2024

Marine Tech Editor Fox Morgan has created a short list of 16 of the best sailing watches on the market. There's a range to suit all budgets and sailing needs, from a basic time waterproof timekeeper to a top of the range smart watch. There something for everyone, from racing to cruising sailors.

The best sailing watches can offer a multitude of functions, from MOB alerts to tidal calculations and large faced race count down timers. And yet still there’s utter simplicity of a waterproof self winding timepiece.

Just as tablets and even smartphones have revolutionised how sailors use multifunction displays and instruments, so the latest smart watch technology has now firmly filtered into sailing. While we’re now familiar with using our watches to give us directions, make calls and send messages, and act as a repeater screen on our wrists ashore, so the latest sailing watches also make navigation, data and comms technology wearable afloat.

You’ll see that Garmin have several entries in our best sailing watches guide and if you’re specifically after a Garmin, we have rounded up the best of those in this guide to the best Garmin watch for yachting sailing and more .

However, the cleverest watch is not always the best watch for sailing. For racing an extremely simple and speedy to operate model may suit better. Price is not always an indicator of functionality either; even some of the least expensive sailing watches, like the Casio we showcase below, can be packed with features.

At the other end of the scale,  luxury horology brands – including Rolex, Panerai, and Omega among others – have long been closely associated with sailing, seeing it as the perfect sport to demonstrate their style, waterproof and ruggedised qualities, and accuracy.

In making our selection of the best sailing watches, we’ve chosen those with features specifically suitable for wearing aboard. That doesn’t mean, however, that they float, so be sure to do the clasp up securely and be wary of pulling off jacket sleeves in a hurry and losing your prized timepiece overboard!

Editor’s top choices at a glance

Garmin quatix 7.

Best smart sailing watch

Specifications: Apple or android smart phone compatible,  Sizes: 47mm / 51mm, Weight 70g, Battery life: up to 16 days with screen on by demand, GPS tracking, waterproof to 10 ATM

Reasons to Buy: Large easy to read face | incredible versatility for an array of lifestyle activity | healthy wellbeing and boat interactivity | customisable to suit individual needs Reasons to Avoid: Battery life not as good as the Quatix 6 if screen is always visible | bright facia can be distracting | touchscreen is pointless without the additional kit it interfaces with

Garmin’s latest sailing smartwatch includes improvements to strengthen integration with onboard electronics.

It’s a touchscreen model that can, for instance, be used to control MFD displays or Fusion audio systems, as well as Garmin autopilots.

You can also pay for things with contactless payments, but you’ll need to use an intermediary app, such as Curve if you are in the UK as British banks haven’t signed up for that function directly yet.

So let’s address the major change for the Quatix 7 over the Quatix 6, and that’s the display. Plenty of folks complained about the darkness or difficulty seeing the Quatix 6 screen, so they’ve addressed that with a much brighter lit up style of screen.  It is very bright even when turned to its dimmest setting. To save the battery from being drained unnecessarily at night, there’s a night time version of the watch screen where you can view it as a digital numeric mono display, on demand, otherwise the screen is completely blank. This brighter clearer display does come at a compromise of battery life or screen saver settings.

The extra screen size in the same outer bezel size though is really very nice. Maps and other tracking options can be easily seen.

High end Sapphire models add a new ultra-clear AMOLED touchscreen.

The watch can output directly to Strava and myfitnesspal along with other apps according to your preference. We like this watch very much indeed and it is currently the best smart sailing watch for all round functionality. Pricey though, but worth it.

Casio Lithium Quartz

Best value sailing watch

Specifications: Type: Digital | Size: 48mm

Reasons to buy: Great value | Highly functional | 2 year warranty Reasons to avoid: Lacking in design | Lacking extensive features of premium alternatives

There’s no question that when it comes to affordable innovation, Casio is right up there.

Despite being one of the lowest-priced watches in our selection, the Casio Tide Watch Orange is a highly functional piece of kit which, in addition to all the usual time, day and auto date functions also features a tide graph and lunar phase display.

More conventional sailing watch functions include a timer, stopwatch and LED might. It is water resistant to 100m/10 bars and has a 2 year warranty, all packed into a 48mm diameter, 13 mm thick case.

Ronstan Clear Start Race Timer

Best Race Sailing watch

Specifications: Type: Digital | Size 65mm

Reasons to buy: Robust design with secure strap | Extra-large | easy to press silicon buttons | Great display Reasons to avoid: Some consumers report issues with clasp/strap

With wrist, hull, mast or boom mount options, the Swiss-made Ronstan ClearStart Race Timer is aimed squarely at racing sailors.

Made by renowned rigging and hardware company Ronstan, it’s a robust design with a secure elastic strap and substantial ‘bumper’ around the digital display.

The ClearStart Race Timer’s features include extra-large, easy-press silicon buttons, a highlighted start/stop button, oversized 16 mm digits set in a 65mm rotating face and a double line display simultaneously showing the race countdown and time.

In addition, the ClearStart Race Timer offers ‘5-4-1-0’ and Match Racing start sequence programmes, making it a great choice for competitive sailors. Ruggedly constructed and built to last, this sailing watch weighs in at 92 grammes and is water-resistant to 50 metres.

Garmin MARQ Captain

Best premium sailing watch

Specifications: Type: Smart | Size: 46mm

Reasons to buy: Weather and tidal data | MOB and GPS functions | Stream boat data to your wrist Reasons to avoid: Full extent of capabilities is governed by the onboard technology it’s connected to | Premium price

Tested by: MBY Editor, Hugo Andreae

Our top priced pick comes from wearable tech-specialists, Garmin. The MARQ Captain sailing watch comes packed with marine-relevant features.

Functions include weather and tidal data for your home port, a regatta timer to pinpoint starting times, a ‘tack assist’ function to determine whether you’re on lift or a header, a man overboard button and GPS.

The full extent of its capabilities is governed by the onboard technology to which it is connected, but possibilities include streaming boat data direct to your wrist wherever you are on the boat and controlling products from the Garmin-owned Fusion range of audio systems.

Note: We may earn a commission when you buy through links on our site, at no extra cost to you. This doesn’t affect our editorial independence.

Best big screen countdown race sailing watches.

Optimum Time Series 3 sailing watch

One of the most popular sailing watches on the market

Specifications: Type: Digital | Size: 65mm

Reasons to buy: Great price | Highly functional | Easy to read Reasons to avoid: It’s really big

The popular ‘big yellow’ Optimum Time Series 3 is a lower-priced, yet highly functional racing watch. And it truly is big – far too large for my wrist at a gigantic 65mm (2.56” in) diameter and 16mm (0.62” in) thick. It’s also available in colours other than yellow – including white, blue and pink.

An advantage for racing is that this watch is easy to read at a distance thanks to its huge 16mm digits. A bracket is supplied to fix it to a mast. It also has a sync button if you miss the start gun, and can then run a repeat sequence or race timer for handicap competitions.

Robust, and water resistant to 5 ATM, with a wide elasticated strap.

Optimum Time Series 14 Rechargeable sailing watch

Best racing sailing watch

Specifications: Type: Digital | Size: 68mm

Reasons to buy: Rechargeable battery | Packed with features | Suitable for mounting Reasons to avoid: Basic design

Optimum Time’s bold coloured watches are popular among racing sailors from dinghies upwards, and the new rechargeable design makes it more sustainable for anyone who uses theirs frequently.

Featuring a 36mm diameter LCD display mounted within a bright red and black 68mm ABS case, Optimum Time’s Series 14 watch is a substantial device that is equally suited to being mounted on a mast or boom as your wrist, while the digits are large enough to allow crew to see the same timer as the skipper.

Waterproof to 5 ATM (i.e. capable of withstanding a pressure of 5 bar), the sailing watch is packed with useful features and comes complete with a bespoke USB charger clamp for convenient charging.

Timex Intelligent Quartz Yacht Racer watch

Best for Analogue race sailing watch fans

Specifications: Type: Analogue | Size 46mm

Reasons to buy: Striking analogue display | Countdown timers Reasons to avoid: Larger than average design | Complex to set up | lacks reset button | Expensive

This is a very striking analogue watch, designed to appeal specifically to racing sailors who don’t want a digital display. It features a racing countdown timers (from 5 mins, 3 mins or 1 minute), then after the start the chronometer automatically starts a race timer for up to one hour.

This is a larger than average design, at 46 mm (1.81” in) diameter and 14mm (0.55” in) thick.

However, this watch is complex to set up, as some functions require three buttons to be pressed in sequence. There is also no ‘reset’ button for anyone who misses their start sequence timer.

Ronstan Clearstart RF4055 sailing watch

Best specialist racing sailing watch

Specifications: Type: Digital | Size: 50mm

Reasons to buy: Multiple start sequence options | Match racing timer | Can sync for early/late start Reasons to avoid: Larger than average design

This sailing watch is another specialist racing design. Race mode features include multiple start sequence options, match racing timer and the ability to sync for an early or late start.

The Clearstart RF4055 is unusual in that it has a fibreglass case, which is available in striking yellow and red as well as the more subtle black. It has a 50mm (2″) diameter face, which is larger than most watches, with a 13mm (0.5″ in) digital display, and the weight is 74gm (2.61oz), though the buttons have a lower profile than some other race watches making it neater to wear on shore.

Optimum Time Series 12 sailing watch

Best audible racing sailing watch

Specifications: Type: Digital | Size: 26mm

Reasons to buy: Audible warning features | Many colour choices Reasons to avoid: No GPS or interconnectivity | Small display is hard to read in hectic moments

Another race timer with countdown time and pre-programmed start and audible warnings. Despite its more smart watch-style appearance, there is no GPS or interconnectivity, but you do get a countdown repeat option, World Sailing 5-4-1-0 start sequence pre-programmed with audible warning signals, and a sync button.

The Optimum Time Series 12 is available in many colours, but has a small 26mm (1.02” in) display, with 10mm (0.34” in) figures, which will make it hard to read in the middle of a hectic race start.

Gill Race Watch Timer

Best racing sailing watch for watersports

Specifications: Type: Digital | Size 44mm

Reasons to buy: Water-resistant to 30 metres | Carbon housing | The sleep feature preserves battery life Reasons to avoid: Basic design and functions

This striking red and black Race Watch Timer is a sailing-specific watch developed exclusively for watersports apparel company Gill. It’s water-resistant to an impressive 30 metres, with the timepiece unit encased in a reinforced carbon ABS plastic housing with a stainless steel back.

As well as telling the time, the sailing watch’s functions include a countdown with synchro, day, date and alarm. There’s a keyboard lock feature to you don’t accidentally change the settings and an electro-luminescent backlight allows the wearer to check the data day or night.

A neat sleep feature preserves and prolongs battery life in a ruggedly constructed unit designed for durability and years of trouble-free service.

Limit ProXR Countdown sailing watch

Best value racing sailing watch

Reasons to buy: Large, clear, easy to read display | Multiple design options | Dual time, stopwatch, countdown and pacer functions Reasons to avoid: Lacks features/functions of more premium competitors | Chunky

Limit has been producing watches for more than 110 years and specialises in offering a wide variety of styles at great value prices.

For a budget-friendly sailing watch option, the Limit ProXR Countdown comes with a large, clear and easily readable display and is backed by a two-year guarantee.

It also has a dual time display and stopwatch, countdown and pacer functionality. No fewer than five alarms can be set and there’s a night time illumination facility.

Available in a choice of orange/black or blue/black, the looks of this chunky 50 mm case diameter sailing watch certainly belie its low price tag.

Best Smart sailing watches

Garmin Instinct 2S Solar

Specifications: Type: Smart | Size: 40mm / 45mm / 50mm, weight 53g(2oz)

Reasons to buy: GPS positioning on charts | barometric pressure and compass | Smartphone connectivity | An incredible amount of styles and colours | A single charge lasts 14 days Reasons to avoid: Premium price without a premium design

The Instinct 2, launched in February 2022 is Garmin’s all-round watch, which they call their outdoors watch. Features that are particularly relevant to sailors include GPS positioning on charts; barometric pressure and a compass.

It has smartphone connectivity, receives emails and texts, and can control music via a phone. This watch also has an inbuilt thermometer and heart rate monitor.

The Garmin Instinct is available in no fewer than 20 different styles and colours. It’s actual diameter is 47mm (1 13/16” in) but the viewable face is 32mm (1 1/4”). The Instinct is 16mm (5/8” in) thick and weighs 53g (2 oz).

For racing sailors, it also has multiple start sequence options. We have an indepth review from long term testing of this watch coming soon.

The Garmin Instinct watch is a good alternative for anyone seeking a more moderately priced alternative to the Quatix 6.

Garmin Quatix 6 Multisport Marine Smartwatch

Specifications: Apple or android smart phone compatible,  Sizes: 47mm / 51mm, weight 82g, Battery life: up to 16 days with screen always visible, GPS tracking, waterproof to 10 ATM

Reasons to buy: Suits a multitude of water activity | Highly customisable | An incredible amount of data available on your wrist | A single charge lasts 14 days Reasons to avoid: High level of functionality is not for the technologically phobic

This watch I tested comprehensively for several weeks/months – it is a very smart design, with functions for every type of pastime on the water and off it.

Garmin is well known for superior boating instruments and they have now managed to squeeze all the data of a ten-inch chartplotter into a 1.3” inch round sailing watch. Bluetooth functionality means you can connect it to a Garmin chartplotter using the free Garmin Connect app, and to other makes of plotter using the Garmin transceiver (a $150 extra).

This allows all the features of a chartplotter to be displayed on the watch, including charts and even autopilot control to allow you to change heading or follow a GPS route – provided it is also connected through the chartplotter.

The Quatix 6 also offers more typical smartwatch functions including the ability to receive email and texts, can be used to control music on board, and monitors the user’s heart-rate.

It’s simple to switch between ‘boat display’ and ‘stylish watch’ modes, as hundreds of different watch faces that can be downloaded to customise it to the wearer’s preference, including an antique style face and even a copy of Big Ben. The Quatix 6 can also be switched between analogue and digital.

It’s overall diameter is 51mm (2” in) with a 36mm (1 5/8” in) viewable face, and it is 17mm (11/16”) thick. The Quatix 6’s weight is 83g (3oz) with the plastic strap or 156g (5.5oz) with the stainless band, which is quite a bit heavier than a conventional watch.

Best Analogue Sailing watches

Ulysse-Nardin The Ocean Race Diver

Specifications: Type: Analogue | Size: 44mm

Reasons to buy: manufacturer with a strong history in watch making | ‘green’ credentials | classy and collectible Reasons to avoid: Lacks features/functions of more sailing-specific watches | you’ll need deep pockets

Swiss watchmaker Ulysse Nardin sourced discarded fishing nets to upcycle into the base material for this watch, highlighting the 640,000 tonnes of nets that are discarded at sea each year.

In addition, 95% of components for the mechanical movement are sourced from within 30km of Ulysse Nardin’s site.

Buy The Ocean Race Diver now on ulysse-nardin.com

Spinnaker Haas Automatic

Specifications: Type: Analogue | Size: 43mm

Reasons to buy: S mart styling | easy to read day and night | electronics free | self winding Reasons to avoid: Due to self winding mechanism the watch is not as slim as a quartz movement watch which might mean that cuffs on shirts and foulies are tight.

Tested by: Professional TopSail Schooner Skipper, Phil Pryor

The joy of a traditional analogue watch is right here in this stylish all metal timepiece from Spinnaker.

Spinnaker Watches collaborated with the Marine Conservation Society to produce this limited edition model that’s a tribute to marine biologist and pioneering diver Hans Hass.

If you want to ditch the computers and keep it simple then this is definitely worth a look.

It feels reassuringly sturdy with it’s all metal band and easy to read rating bezel.

It’s waterproof to 300m and requires no batteries as this watch self winds from the motion of your hand through every day movement.

The winder unscrews to allow time, day and date adjustment and that my friends is all there is to this gorgeous watch. At least as far as the wearer is concerned. Behind that metal back is the smooth Japanese workings of a self winding watch. When it arrived in the box the watch was still and inactive. But the moment I removed it from the box it started to self wind. With just a small amount of movement, the second hand was moving.

For sailors who want to a sleek non electric time piece and for those divers who like to go under the water as well as on it.

I love this safety yellow colourway as it really stands out and is easy to read. This might not be to everyone’s taste though which is fine because the Spinnaker Hass comes in 9 different colourways.

FAQ: What makes the best sailing watch?

The ability to read the time, countdown or data in a hurry or at an angle is key, so look out for digital readouts with large numbers – some sailing watches have the ability to switch from digital to analogue readouts – and screens that can be viewed in different qualities of daylight. Backlit functions are essential for anyone heading offshore, whether racing or cruising.

A well-fitting wristband or strap with a secure clasp is vital to keep the watch on your arm. Most sailing watches have soft rubber or synthetic wristbands, which are more durable in a marine environment, and safer than steel. Rubber straps are also lighter and easier to adjust.

If you plan to use your watch for race start timing, look for programmable start sequence options, a sync button, countdowns that switch to seconds in the final stages. A loud, clear alarm or ‘beep’ function that tells you time to the gun is particularly useful, so you can keep watching your course, trim and other boats around you during the final approach to the line rather than having to glance at your wrist.

You can read more about other types of GPS enabled and waterproof fitness trackers and smart watches at YBW.com

Didn’t find what you’re looking for? Head to Amazon’s dedicated boating page for more marine products.

• SailRacer App

Milliseconds matter...

Sail the most efficient and fastest course, taking into account wind, polar and current.

High contrast screen for racing - nominated for the most prestigious award in marine electronics - DAME Design Award during METS trade show in Amsterdam.

“It’s simply exceptional. I have not seen anything better and brighter. Sturdy, visible in the sun, rugged and waterproof. Undoubtedly the best racing screen yet. SailRacer.net really knows how to craft their products.”

Simonas Steponavicius, X35 helmsman, LTU1111

Be efficiently precise

Sailracer app.

Take advantage on your competitors, improve your performance, have a perfect timing to your start by using SailRacer app.

SailRacer calculates your perfect start and tactical manoeuvres during the race based on current, wind, lay-lines and polar data.

Be the first one

Easy to guide your boat for an accurate and precise start. You will hit the starting line at the very last moment with full speed.

Know the moment

You will navigate to a mark in the most efficient manner. Take into account wind, polar and adjusted by the current effect.

Maximum precision

A few degrees can make a big difference. Push yourself to the maximum.

Try our free version

*35€ annual Premium subscribtion can be purchased in-app

Don’t limit yourself

Get wind to your mobile.

DataLinker transmits vessel’s sensors data to a mobile using Bluetooth Smart technology.

Bluetooth keeps 3G/4G internet open and is more efficient on power consumption comparing to a WiFi.

Boat without instruments ?

SailTimer Wireless Wind Instrument ™ (self powered, Bluetooth 4), a perfect combination with the SailRacer app, providing all data to get you to the finish line faster.

Latest entries

Latest entry, how it is used.

January 29th, 2019

InkDisplay released

March 15th, 2018

Measuring tacks/jibes

July 28th, 2017

• Distance Lost (on TWD or mid COG’s axis) during tack or jibes
• Distance lost to mark
• Time of the maneuver

Our community

47m. DrGoodfart USA Fri 10:14 UTC

45m. DrGoodfart USA Fri 10:14 UTC

44m. DrGoodfart USA Fri 10:14 UTC

43m. DrGoodfart USA Fri 10:14 UTC

34m. DrGoodfart USA Fri 10:14 UTC

33m. DrGoodfart USA Fri 10:14 UTC

20m. Kenneth USA Fri 10:14 UTC

results in last day

Wind instrument is offline

Wind speed 5.4kn recorder 8 months ago. Winners in last hour: 1/1 Totally played 835670 times

SailRacer.net wind game is all about tacking in the right moment. Wind is real from our office in Kaunas, Lithuania.

• © 2010-2019
• Privacy policy
• Terms of use

Time and Distance

The ProStart has revolutionized how competitive sailors start races. As well as providing a simple way to measure distance-to-line, the ProStart shows speed and course over ground in a compact, distraction-free, easy-to-use instrument.

The Best Start Line Tool Ever

The ProStart, is specifically designed, from the ground up, to give you the easiest, most accurate distance to line measurements ever.

Setting the line is as simple as telling your crew to press the boat button as you sail by the RC and then the pin button as you sail by the pin.

Once you’ve pinged both ends of the line, the ProStart uses the latest WAAS-augmented GPS technology to spit out an accurate distance to line measurement twice a second.

Sailing World called the ProStart "Possibly the greatest electronic racing gadget of this decade,” and Practical Sailor gave it their prestigious Editor's Choice award.

Speed and Course Over Ground

Ten seconds after your start, the ProStart automatically switches to showing your speed over ground (GPS speed) and course over ground. The accuracy and responsiveness of the speed measurements make the ProStart an unparalleled tool for optimizing your speed.

Since COG and SOG describe your course over the bottom (where the marks are anchored) the ProStart is also an extremely powerful tool for determining the influence of current on your performance. When you cross a tideline, the numbers on the ProStart jump and you can instantly see how favorable the new current is.

No distractions.

Our number one goal in designing the ProStart was to make sure that the product would never undermine your crew’s performance with unnecessary distractions during the pre-start.  The front surface of the ProStart is reserved for the three most important start-related buttons: the pin, boat and gun buttons. The large size of these buttons makes them easy to press, even with gloved hands and easy to find in the midst of chaos. Big numbers make the instrument easy to read with a quick glance and helps you keep your attention focused outside the boat.

COUNTDOWN TIMER

With the ProStart, when you hear or see any type of start signal it’s the always the same drill: just hit the GUN button. If the timer isn’t running, it will start. If the timer is running it will sync.

Synced to the wrong signal? No problem; the ProStart lets you independently adjust the number of minutes on the timer while the seconds keep on rolling.

MAXIMUM SPEED RECALL

Recall your session’s absolute maximum and best 10 second average speeds with the click of a single clearly-marked button.

GPS DATA LOGGING

In addition to providing you real-time, on-the-water data, the ProStart constantly records your speed, heading and position to keep a running log of your most recent 30 hours of sailing. Once you get back to shore you can download this data to your Mac or PC and create race replay animations.

The ProStart has been tested to IPX-8, the most rigorous industrial water-resistance standard. This means that you can count on the ProStart to survive wipeout after epic wipeout.

MOUNT THE PROSTART ANYWHERE

Each ProStart comes packaged with a mounting cradle that can be bolted to the ProStart Mast Mounting Bracket or directly to a bulkhead. The cradle is also compatible with any bracket designed for the Tacktick Micro Compass.

Displays heading, speed and wind shift indicator, updated twice a second. Each wind shift indicator bar graph segment represents 2.5° of deviation from the initial tack angle.

Displays timer, distance-to-line and distance-to-line bar graph, updated twice a second. Each distance-to-line bar graph segment represents 10m.

Ready to race?

JavaScript seems to be disabled in your browser. For the best experience on our site, be sure to turn on Javascript in your browser.

• My Wish List
• Compare Products
• Create an Account
• Dealer Locator
• 2025 SAILBOAT HARDWARE CATALOGUE

Sailing Watches & Race Timer

Use them anywhere.

The most popular sailing watch in the world just got better. Ronstan’s ClearStart™ race timer and watches are completely updated with bold new styling and true sailing functionality. Besides the fresh new look they feature large buttons, easy to read displays and advanced intuitive programming designed specifically with the racing sailor in mind. Developed with input from some of the world’s top sailors, ClearStart™ watches and timers are sure to set the standard for years to come. If you’re looking for a simple competitive edge, the difference is ClearStart™.

RACE MODE FEATURES - SAILING WATCHES & RACE TIMER

• Multiple Start Sequence options – World Sailing 5,4,1,0, match racing, user set
• SYNChronisation function – auto-correction if you start the countdown early or late
• Multi-line display – Start Sequences + Time
• Loud intuitive lead-up and start sound signals
• Count down repeat or count down and up options (for elapsed race time)
• Separate fast access Race and Time mode scrolling
• Water resistant to 5 ATM (50m/150ft) – double gasket seals.

STANDARD FEATURES - SAILING WATCHES & RACE TIMER

• Time, hours/minutes/seconds – 12 or 24hr format
• Month/Day or Day/Month format
• Daily alarm
• Chronograph - Including hours and time of the day
• Luminescent backlight
• Battery saving mode – light can be turned off
• Shock resistant.

Clearstart™ RACE TIMER

Rf4050 (black, red, white).

• 65mm (2 9/16") diameter face
• Oversized 16mm (5/8") digit display
• Rotating face
• Wrist/Hull/Mast/Boom mount options
• 30mm (1 1/8") wide stretch Nylon band with security loop
• Flush fit buckle
• Dual batteries
• Extra-large easy-press silicon buttons – highlighted Start/Stop button
• Weight 92g (3.3oz)

CLEARSTART™ Race Timer

Clearstart™ sailing watch

Rf4055 (red, grey) / rf4055a (black, grey) / rf4055b (blue, grey).

• Durable, ultra-clear mineral crystal lens
• Comfortable and secure silicon band
• Glass fibre reinforced case
• 50mm (2") diameter face
• Oversized 13mm (1/2") digit display
• Textured easy-find buttons
• Stainless steel buckle with silicon band retainer
• Stainless steel back
• Weight 73 (2.6oz)

CLEARSTART™ SAILING WATCHES

Clearstart™ 40MM sailing watch

Rf4054 (red) / rf4054a (black) / rf4054b (blue).

• 40mm (1 9/16") diameter face
• Oversized 10mm (3/8") digit display
• Weight 50 (1.8oz)

LARGE QUICK VIEW DISPLAYS The entire ClearStart™ range features oversized digit displays for easy viewing. The Race Timer presents huge 16mm (5/8") numbers that can be easily viewed by the crew when mounted on the boom or mast base. The 50mm Sailing Watch display is only slightly smaller with 13mm (1/2") digits which can be quickly viewed at a glance without taking your hand off the helm, and the compact 40mm Sailing Watch still has impressive 10mm (3/8") digits.

RACE SEQUENCE RESYNCHRONISATION All racing sailors know how hard it can be to get the watch going at the exact second the start sequence is commenced. With the handy SYNC function, you can quickly resynchronise the ClearStart™ to the official race time. A simple press of a button allows you to drop down to the next minute, allowing you to get your starting sequence back in perfect SYNC at the next opportunity.

PRE-PROGRAMED RACE SEQUENCE SOUNDS

The intuitive ClearStart™ sound signals let you know exactly where you are in the start sequence without looking at the display. Pre-programmed with World Sailing 5-4-1-0 and match racing start sequences, it can also be programmed for other count down sequences by the user. Sound signals can be turned off if desired.

END OF SEQUENCE - COUNT DOWN OR COUNT UP Depending on the user’s preference, the watch can be set up to repeat the count down at the end of the sequence for general recall restarts, or to start counting up to track elapsed time.

MULTI-LINE DISPLAY WITH REAL TIME No need to switch between count down and time modes because the actual time is displayed below the countdown time on the new multi-line ClearStart™ display.

DAILY LIFE FUNCTIONALITY From waking up for work to working out, a ClearStart™ watch is also great for everyday activities. Standard modes include 12 or 24 hour time format, date in day/month or month/day format, daily alarm and chronograph (stop watch).

LUMINESCENT BACKLIGHT Bright, full-face electroluminescent backlighting is easy to read at night and can be turned on temporarily for a quick view.

WATER AND SHOCK RESISTANT Designed to survive the rigours of competitive sailing, ClearStart™ watches and timers are water resistant rated at 5ATM and highly shock resistant. Watch housings are moulded in rugged fibre reinforced resin, with a resiliant and super-comfortable silicon band.

How to use Ronstan ClearStart™ Race Timer and Watches

Learn the basics of your ClearStart™ and troubleshoot common issues. 0:00 – Turning on your watch 0:35 – Buttons, icons and digital displays 1:45 – How to set the time and datee 3:50 – Changing between time and race mode 4:33 – Troubleshooting

Need some advice?

Official Sponsors of the Australian Sailing Team

• Best Sellers
• Shop By Color
• New Arrivals
• Black Rubber Straps
• Blue Rubber Straps
• Orange Rubber Straps
• Shop by Material
• Shop by Rolex Model >
• Rolex | Rubber Straps
• Rolex | Leather Straps
• Sea-Dweller
• Explorer II
• Yacht-Master
• Oyster Perpetual
• CUSTOM TUDOR WATCH STRAPS
• CUSTOM PANERAI WATCH STRAPS
• Shop by Lug Size
• 20MM Straps
• Leather Watch Straps
• 21MM Straps
• Rubber Watch Straps
• 22MM Straps
• Nylon Watch Straps

• WATCH ROLLS
• WATCH BOXES
• SPRING BARS

UNLOCK EXCLUSIVE ACCESS

Join our community for exclusive product drops, valuable watch news, and reviews only for subscribers.

All You Need to Know about Regatta Timers in Sailing Watches

With the passion for watches often connected to the spirit of history and tradition, it naturally makes sense to link such emotion to one of the oldest forms of human and mechanical competition - competitive sailing. Thought to date back to the Netherlands in the 17th century, sailing races (collectively called a regatta) are steeped in tradition including the start sequences that generated the need for a yacht timer.

Starting a Race

Unlike an auto race, or even a foot race, a sailboat can neither stand still on a starting grid nor can it accelerate quickly from a stop.

Instead, yachts will be in motion well before the starting line. One could think of it like a foot race where you are allowed to get a running start. The key to a proper start is crossing the starting line as soon as the starting signal sounds (but not before) and while moving as fast as possible on a good heading.

Unique Needs of a Sailing Watch

The starting procedure of a sailing race involves a series of flags and horns, but in essence, it is a 5-minute countdown (in some rarer instances 10 minutes). For that reason, most regatta timers have timing countdowns of five minutes or increments of five.

Here is the breakdown of a start:

5 minutes to start: A flag and horn to signal the start of the countdown. Engage your regatta timer on a five minute countdown.

4 minutes to start: A second flag and horn sounds. This is both a second timing reminder as well as a flag displaying starting rules of the race. If one didn’t start their 5-minute countdown, they can begin a 4-minute countdown now.

1 minute to start: Flag change and final preparatory signal.

0 minutes to start: Starting flag and signal. 

As a member of a sailing crew is likely extremely busy both positioning for a start as well as navigating around other yachts, most regatta timers are designed with high visibility in mind. Looking at both current production and vintage timers, you are likely to see high-visibility color combinations.

Why the Yachtmaster II

Unlike the standard  Yachtmaster , the Yachtmaster II features a unique regatta timing movement which improves upon the process. Our team covered the process of setting a Yachtmaster II in a  previous article .

What makes the Yachtmaster II unique is the “sync” button. Let’s use the 5-minute starting process described above as an example.

5 minutes to start: Let’s say that the designated timer on the boat was currently adjusting a sheet at the time of the signal. By the time they hit the start button on the timer, 10 seconds has elapsed. With a traditional regatta timer, your options are limited and most likely they would just try to mentally adjust the offset.  However with a Yachtmaster II, they can synchronize at the 4-minute mark.

4 minutes to start: The second horn sounds. The wearer presses the sync button, and the YM II jumps  to the nearest minute, thereby putting their yacht on the exact countdown time as the race director.

1 minute to start: They are still in sync.

0 minutes to start: You cross the starting line right as the starting horn sounds.

I Don’t Own a Boat, Do I Still Need a Regatta Timer?

If you’re expecting us to talk you out of a watch purchase, you are clearly in the wrong place. If you need a practical use, we might recommend timing a steak on the grill and thinking about 400+ years of nautical heritage. But first you have to decide: steel or two-tone?

Leave a comment

Please note, comments must be approved before they are published

This site is protected by hCaptcha and the hCaptcha Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

You may also like View all

Everest Bands

• Clothing, Shoes & Jewelry
• Wrist Watches

Image Unavailable

• To view this video download Flash Player

Citizen Men's Promaster Sailhawk Eco-Drive Watch, Yacht Racing Timer, Chronograph, Polyurethane Strap, Dual-Time, Analog/ Digital Times, Luminous Hands and Markers

Return this item for free.

We offer easy, convenient returns with at least one free return option: no shipping charges. All returns must comply with our returns policy.

• Go to Your Orders to start the return
• Select your preferred free shipping option
• Drop off and leave!

Purchase options and add-ons

About this item.

• This Promaster Sailhawk timepiece isn’t just stylish, however — it is packed with features like the ability to give the time in 30 cities worldwide, a yacht racing timer, split lap time, a 99-minute countdown timer, and two different alarms.
• Sustainably powered by any light, with our Eco-Drive technology this watch never needs a battery.
• Silver-Tone Stainless Steel Case with Orange Polyurethane Strap
• Retractable Hands and Mineral Crystal
• 200 Meters Water Resistant and 5 Year Limited Warranty

Additional Information

Enjoy fast, free delivery, exclusive deals, and award-winning movies & TV shows with Prime Try Prime and start saving today with fast, free delivery

Amazon Prime includes:

Fast, FREE Delivery is available to Prime members. To join, select "Try Amazon Prime and start saving today with Fast, FREE Delivery" below the Add to Cart button.

• Cardmembers earn 5% Back at Amazon.com with a Prime Credit Card.
• Unlimited Free Two-Day Delivery
• Streaming of thousands of movies and TV shows with limited ads on Prime Video.
• A Kindle book to borrow for free each month - with no due dates
• Listen to over 2 million songs and hundreds of playlists
• Unlimited photo storage with anywhere access

Important:  Your credit card will NOT be charged when you start your free trial or if you cancel during the trial period. If you're happy with Amazon Prime, do nothing. At the end of the free trial, your membership will automatically upgrade to a monthly membership.

Buy new: #buybox .a-accordion .a-accordion-active .a-price[data-a-size=l].reinventPriceAccordionT2 .a-price-whole { font-size: 28px !important; } #buybox .a-accordion .a-accordion-active .a-price[data-a-size=l].reinventPriceAccordionT2 .a-price-fraction, #buybox .a-accordion .a-accordion-active .a-price[data-a-size=l].reinventPriceAccordionT2 .a-price-symbol { top: -0.75em; font-size: 13px; } $311.62 $ 311 . 62 Join Prime (function(f) {var _np=(window.P._namespace(""));if(_np.guardFatal){_np.guardFatal(f)(_np);}else{f(_np);}}(function(P) { P.when('ready').execute("npa-prime-signup-ingress", () => { P.load.js("https://d1nruqhae353qc.cloudfront.net/primesignup/widget.js"); }); })); to get FREE delivery Thursday, November 21 Ships from: Amazon.com Sold by: Amazon.com

2 year watch protection plan.

• No Additional Cost: You pay nothing for repairs – parts, labor, and shipping included.
• Coverage: Plan starts on the date of purchase. Covers broken watchband, movement failures, cracked crystal, bezel damage and more. Includes a 1-time refurbishment.
• Easy Claims Process: File a claim anytime online or by phone. Most claims approved within minutes. If we can’t repair it, we’ll send you an Amazon e-gift card for the purchase price of your covered product or replace it.
• Product Eligibility: Plan must be purchased with a product or within 30 days of the product purchase. Pre-existing conditions are not covered.
• Terms & Details: More information about this protection plan is available within the “Product guides and documents” section. Simply click “User Guide” for more info. Terms & Conditions will be available in Your Orders on Amazon. Asurion will also email your plan confirmation with Terms & Conditions to the address associated with your Amazon account within 24 hours of purchase.

3 Year Watch Protection Plan

Asurion complete protect: one plan covers all eligible past and future purchases on amazon.

• Buy a lot of stuff on Amazon? Tons of items eligible for coverage, from the latest tech like Laptops, Game Consoles, TVs, Phones, and Cameras to major appliances, sporting goods, tools, toys, personal care, furniture, and more.
• Accidents Happen. That’s why for your portable products we cover accidental damage from handling such as drops, spills and cracked screens. We also cover electrical and mechanical malfunctions, power surges, and wear and tear.
• Past and Future Purchases covered. 30 days after you are enrolled, all eligible past purchases (up to 1 year prior to enrollment) and future eligible purchases made on Amazon will be covered by your plan as long as you are enrolled.
• Fast, easy claims. Frustration-Free claims, with most filed in minutes. We will fix it, replace it, or reimburse you with an Amazon e-gift card for the purchase price of your product (excluding tax). File at Asurion.com/amazon.
• No Hidden Fees. For just $16.99 a month + tax you’re covered for up to $5,000 in claims per 12-month period. *THIS PROGRAM IS MONTH-TO-MONTH AND WILL CONTINUE UNTIL CANCELED* Coverage for all products ends 30 days after the plan is canceled. Cancel any time.

Save with Used - Very Good #buybox .a-accordion .a-accordion-active .a-price[data-a-size=l].reinventPriceAccordionT2 .a-price-whole { font-size: 28px !important; } #buybox .a-accordion .a-accordion-active .a-price[data-a-size=l].reinventPriceAccordionT2 .a-price-fraction, #buybox .a-accordion .a-accordion-active .a-price[data-a-size=l].reinventPriceAccordionT2 .a-price-symbol { top: -0.75em; font-size: 13px; } $277.73 $ 277 . 73 Join Prime (function(f) {var _np=(window.P._namespace(""));if(_np.guardFatal){_np.guardFatal(f)(_np);}else{f(_np);}}(function(P) { P.when('ready').execute("npa-prime-signup-ingress", () => { P.load.js("https://d1nruqhae353qc.cloudfront.net/primesignup/widget.js"); }); })); to get FREE delivery Friday, November 22 Ships from: Amazon Sold by: Amazon Resale

Add to your order.

Buy it with

Similar items that may deliver to you quickly

Videos for this product

Click to play video

Sailhawk video citizen

Citizen Watch Group

Citizen Eco Drive Video

Eco Drive How it Works

Looking for specific info, product specifications, watch information.

Product details

• Package Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 6.22 x 5.2 x 4.09 inches; 1.15 Pounds
• Item model number ‏ : ‎ JR4061-00F
• Department ‏ : ‎ mens
• Batteries ‏ : ‎ 1 Lithium Ion batteries required. (included)
• Date First Available ‏ : ‎ November 15, 2023
• Manufacturer ‏ : ‎ Citizen
• ASIN ‏ : ‎ B082XX7KQ4
• Country of Origin ‏ : ‎ Japan
• #972 in Men's Wrist Watches

From the manufacturer

AN ASPIRATIONAL ADVENTURE

Promaster sea.

Embodying the spirit of adventure in the air, on land or at sea, Promaster watches live up to the values of functionality, durability, and safety while respecting the planet it’s designed to explore.

Switches Location; Shows World Time in 30 Cities

Dual Time (Second Time Zone)

2 Digital Displays Show Multiple Features

A Yacht Racing Timer, A 99-minute Countdown Timer, Two Separate Alarms, Split Lap TImes

Water Resistacne to 200 Meters

1/100 Second Chronograph Measures up to 24 Hours

24-Hour Hand

Luminous Hands and Markers

THE DETAILS

OWN YOUR STYLE- DISCOVER MORE

CITIZEN PARTNERSHIPS

Disney Alliance

The official timepiece partner of Disney parks, runDisney sponsorship, events and more.

Everybody Solar

Everybody Solar, works to protect the environment and strengthen U.S. communities through solar-energy projects.

American Forests

American Forests is a pathfinder for creating healthy forests from coast to coast, leading the way for creating healthy and resilient forests.

Save The Beyond

Global adventurers on the front lines of the environmental battle share their stories in an effort to shine a light on destruction of the environment.

How long is the coverage on my Citizen Watch?

Your Citizen Watch comes with a five-year, limited coverage. When you register your watch online or through our My Citizen App, you will receive an additional coverage year free, for a total of six years coverage.

How do I set my watch?

If you know your model number, go to our brand website and search or browse for your model. When you're on the product page, the setting instructions are listed at the bottom of the "features" section.

How do I get a manual for my watch?

Setting instructions can be accessed through our website and our My Citizen App (available for iOS and Android). To obtain the instructions specific to your watch, you will need to provide the Movement Caliber Number on your watch's caseback.

Can I buy a replacement strap or links for my watch?

Straps, bracelets and links may be available for certain Citizen watch models. To find out if a replacement strap or part is available for your Citizen Watch, please visit our new self-service portal.

Product guides and documents

Top brand: citizen, customer reviews.

• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 5 star 64% 14% 7% 5% 10% 64%
• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 4 star 64% 14% 7% 5% 10% 14%
• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 3 star 64% 14% 7% 5% 10% 7%
• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 2 star 64% 14% 7% 5% 10% 5%
• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 1 star 64% 14% 7% 5% 10% 10%

Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.

To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.

Customers say

Customers like the appearance, quality, and comfort of the watch. They mention it looks and feels good, is an excellent sporty watch, and resistant up to 200 meters. Some are satisfied with the features and comfort. However, some customers have reported issues with the ease of setup and time setting. They mention there are virtually no instructions and the watch is complicated to operate. Customers also dislike the size. Opinions differ on the value for money.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Customers like the appearance of the watch. They mention it's a really good-looking watch and feels good.

"...Would recommend this watch for all of your everyday needs and is very sharp looking ...." Read more

"I love the looks of the watch . I’m glad it’s an Eco drive.It was very difficult to set up, however...." Read more

"This is a really good looking watch packed with a nice feature set, hence, the busy face.Set up is arduous requiring time and patience...." Read more

"...Oh, it also tells time.It's a very attractive watch and the eco-drive is also wonderful...." Read more

Customers are satisfied with the watch quality. They mention it's an excellent sporty watch for running errands around town or going to the gym. Some say it's resistant up to 200 meters and a great watch for water sports.

" Excellent sporty watch for running errands around town or going to the gym." Read more

"This is a nice watch with lots of features. The watch is very accurate over time...." Read more

"The watch is fine and, thanks to various videos (not Citizen's), was fairly easy to set up. The watch looks great...." Read more

" Great watch . I wish the watch band was an inch longer" Read more

Customers are satisfied with the watch's features. They mention it has nice styling and functionality.

"This is a nice watch with lots of features . The watch is very accurate over time...." Read more

"This is a really good looking watch packed with a nice feature set , hence, the busy face.Set up is arduous requiring time and patience...." Read more

"This watch has a lot of great features all bundled up into one watch...." Read more

"...Other than that., it keeps perfect time. The features in the watch are nice .I have waited along to own Citizen watch...." Read more

Customers find the watch comfortable to wear. They mention it has a great fit.

"This watch is very accurate and is comfortable to wear not as heavy as some of my other watches...." Read more

"...Great for traveling across time zones, comfortable to wear ...." Read more

"Great watch for the price, very confortable " Read more

"Great fit and comfortable to wear . Glad that I choose the orange over the blue" Read more

Customers have mixed opinions about the value for money of the watch. Some mention it's a great value in a quality watch, while others say it looks like a very cheap watch and comes in a cheap box.

"...Feature set = robust for the price (4)Subjective overall rating = (3)" Read more

" Came in a cheap cardboard box , looked used. Very hard to set time!" Read more

"Good watch. Good price ." Read more

" Horrible watch ...." Read more

Customers find the watch difficult to set up. They mention there are virtually no instructions, and it's complicated to operate.

"...I’m glad it’s an Eco drive.It was very difficult to set up , however. And the watchto.com with a manual on how to set up to watch." Read more

"... Set up is arduous requiring time and patience. You can't just turn the crown to set the time...." Read more

"...Very heavy, there are virtually no instructions , even with the app and videos......" Read more

"... Not hard at all to set up the master reset works well when first getting watch to start on. After that very easy to do." Read more

Customers have negative opinions about the time setting of the watch. They mention it's very difficult to set the time, cluttered, and often you can't read the time at your first attempt. They also say it's possible to set the time and date, but the chronometer was off by 2 minutes.

"...The LCD screens are near impossible to read practically ...." Read more

"...the dial is complex and cluttered, and often you can't read the time at your first attempt." Read more

"...The watch also has a countdown timer , chronograph, two alarms, etc...." Read more

"...Dislikes - very difficult to set the time .. required several hours of watching youtube tutorial videos and even then ended up having to go to a..." Read more

Customers are dissatisfied with the size of the watch. They mention it's very small, the strap is too short, and the display features are too small.

"Looks and feels good! I just wish the strap in longer , too short for me other than that great timepiece , I get a lot of compliments about it ." Read more

"...in color, design and aesthetics were there-just the size was so disappointing . I had to return the watch as I thought I'd never really wear it...." Read more

"...this watch, could not even figure out how to set the time, display features are too small , had to use a magnifying glass and even then, could not..." Read more

" Strap was too short ." Read more

Reviews with images

Orange is better

• Sort by reviews type Top reviews Most recent Top reviews

Top reviews from the United States

There was a problem filtering reviews right now. please try again later..

Top reviews from other countries

• Amazon Newsletter
• About Amazon
• Accessibility
• Sustainability
• Press Center
• Investor Relations
• Amazon Devices
• Amazon Science
• Sell on Amazon
• Sell apps on Amazon
• Supply to Amazon
• Protect & Build Your Brand
• Become an Affiliate
• Become a Delivery Driver
• Start a Package Delivery Business
• Advertise Your Products
• Self-Publish with Us
• Become an Amazon Hub Partner
• › See More Ways to Make Money
• Amazon Visa
• Amazon Store Card
• Amazon Secured Card
• Amazon Business Card
• Shop with Points
• Credit Card Marketplace
• Reload Your Balance
• Amazon Currency Converter
• Your Account
• Your Orders
• Shipping Rates & Policies
• Amazon Prime
• Returns & Replacements
• Manage Your Content and Devices
• Recalls and Product Safety Alerts
• Registry & Gift List

• Conditions of Use
• Privacy Notice
• Consumer Health Data Privacy Disclosure
• Your Ads Privacy Choices

• Christopher Ward
• Grand Seiko

Yachting Timers & Watches

At worn&wound we’ve long been fascinated by watches that were designed specifically for individual sporting events. This is part of a series on these unique timepieces.

Yacht timers – also referred to as regatta timers, yachting chronographs, or sailing watches – are watches specially designed and made for the countdown to the start of a sailing race. As you can imagine, starting a race on water, with entrants powered by the wind, is not as easy as lining up on a grid, Formula 1 style, or lined up like sprinters at a track meet, waiting for the starting gun. As we just saw in the recent America’s Cup races in San Francisco, the yachts (we use the term loosely in the case of the America’s Cup boats) are already at speed as they approach the starting line. The trick for the skipper is to NOT cross the starting line before the starting gun goes off. If they do, they’re penalized quite heavily (how and how much depends on the rules in effect for the specific race).

So some sort of a count-down timer is useful to the pilot and tactician. Horns signal the start of the countdown period and a skipper can start his yacht timer by the audible signal. He then has an on board measurement of progress to the start of the race, and can sail his yacht accordingly – hopefully to reach the starting line, at speed, just as the starting gun sounds.

Over the decades there have been numerous yacht timers and specialized chronographs produced by the world’s watch companies. Perhaps the most well-known yachting timer today is the Rolex YachtMaster, but there are others, past and present. Current and recent pieces include those from Tutima, Alpina, Atlantic, Omega, Panerai, and IWC, as well as electronic offerings from TAG Heuer, Suunto, Tissot and others.

But the vintage timepieces – the regatta timers of old – are what really get our juices flowing. Sailing chronographs like the Heuer Autavia Skipper, the Regate (sold under three different brand names – Aquastar, Heuer, and Tissot), Heuer’s Yacht Timer (both wrist-mounted and stopwatch form factor), the Breitling Chronomat and SuperOcean (both in regatta timing trim), the Memosail (two are on eBay as we write this), Lemania’s self-branded Regatta Yacht Timer in handheld stopwatch format, and the wonderfully busy Wakmann.

Regatta timers have various ways of indicating the countdown time. There’s typically a multi-colored or numbered disc rotating beneath the dial with the colors or numerals showing through windows similar to a date disc. Five vari-colored dots – usually blue followed by red (Alpina, Regate), numerals against colored backgrounds (Memosail), or a separate chrono hand coupled with colored zones on the watch’s bezel (Tutima, Bretling, Heuer) or indicating time remaining to the start via a separate scale within the dial (Rolex).

Heuer’s Autavia Skipper was part of the legendary Autavia line in the 1970s. It featured the Autavia’s classic tonneau shaped case, a red, white, and blue countdown sub-dial at 3 o’clock, a small seconds at 10 o’clock, and date at 6. Chrono pushers were in the classic locations at 2 and 4, but the crown was positioned at 9 o’clock. The watch featured a 60 minute rotating bezel, and examples are often see with a blue dial & bezel combination.

Heuer’s Yacht Timer from the 1960s came in both a wrist-mounted version and a handheld stopwatch form factor. Color-wise, regatta timer dials are never shy, and the Heuer is no exception. This watch was basically a fifteen or thirty minute stopwatch (there were at least two versions) with a multi-colored dial formatted and printed for the countdown function.

Aquastar’s Regate, also branded and sold as Heuer, Tissot and other brands such as “Racing”  in the early 1980s, used a Lemania movement with a classic five-dot/ window format, with a tri-colored rotating disc beneath the dial. five windows for five minutes, and once the timing started the colored wheel would progressively show thru the windows, changing them one at a time from blue to red to white (or silver).

In the 1960s and early 1970s, Breitling produced watches in regatta timing trim in both the Chronomat and SuperOcean lines. The Chronomat featured a center mounted minute with a multi-colored inner chapter ring. The SuperOcean used the center-mounted totalizing hand with a multi-colored bezel. These black-cased watches featured Venus 178 or 188 movements, modified to handle the unique needs of a yachting chronograph.

Lemania’s self-branded Regatta Yacht Timer is another handheld stopwatch format timer. The timing function is the familiar series of five windows with a colored disc beneath, but with the letters S-T-A-R-T replacing the third color (similar to the Memosail).

The Wakmann , yet another 1970s piece, looks almost too nice to have been a working watch. To us, it looks more like a dress watch for the Yacht Club awards banquet (but then, so does the current Rolex Yachtmaster II). The timer’s motor is a Lemania Caliber 1341 automatic with hour sub-dial at 6 o’clock and running seconds at 9 o’clock. Countdown chrono minutes and seconds are indicated by center mounted hands with orange tips. The display has a lot going on, with a date window at 3 o’clock, a white stationary chapter ring with days of the month, a multi-colored chapter ring with days of the week (moveable via a secondary crown at 10 o’clock – line it up with the correct day of the week for the current month), and a third multi-colored chapter ring outside the first two, this one with 15 countdown minutes in the first quadrant and a tachymeter over the following three quadrants. We’d be concerned about reading this in the heat of racing battle. That said, we love this watch for its center minutes totalizer, its unique display of day of the week and month, and it’s cool 1970s cushion styling.

With ultra-modern quartz-based timers available (TAG Heuer produced what was effectively a dedicated smartwatch, specifically to be worn by members of the America’s Cup Team Oracle, which relayed real-time data stream of boat performance to each crew member), and the inevitably harsh conditions of sailboat racing, these wonderful vintage racers have probably seen their heyday (one can’t imagine a skipper actually wearing a Rolex Yachtmaster II in a modern race). But their unique styling, and sheer mechanical timing abilities are works of wonder in any age. We’d wear one, even if it’s only to sail our desk into next week.

by Ed Estlow

special thanks to our friends at analogshift.com for lending us the Wakmann

and Francesco B for use of his Racing Regatta images

• Information
• About the Blog
• About Worn & Wound
• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Service
• Editorial Policy

Privacy Overview

• Canada (EN)
• Canada (FR)
• Mexico (ES)

ENJOY 20% OFF* MEN'S & WOMEN'S WATCHES

Prices as shown; no code needed.

20% off MSRP is automatically reflected in pricing on the product page.

*Limited exclusions; New Arrivals, Limited Editions, Attesa Collection, Eco-Drive One Collection, Series8 Collection, and The Citizen Collection, are not eligible for discounts. CZ Smart excluded, as promotions and discounts differ for CZ Smart Touchscreen and Hybrid Smartwatches.

Pricing and product assortment on Citizenwatch.com may vary from retail, department, or specialty stores.

FREE PROMASTER 35TH PATAGONIA JACKET WITH ANY PROMASTER 35TH ANNIVERSARY WATCH PURCHASE*

While supplies last; no code needed.

*Free gift automatically applied to qualifying carts. Applies to watch models: NB6026-56L, JY8146-54E and JV1008-63E. One size only (men's large). Retail value $149. One free gift per order, cannot be applied to previous purchases. Offer valid on Citizenwatch.com only through 12/22/24, 11:59PM PT. Subject to change or cancellation without notice. Not replaceable if lost or stolen.

FREE SHIPPING & RETURNS

Enjoy free UPS shipping within the U.S. and free returns. Please allow up to two business days for order processing. Orders over $850 will ship signature required.

We stand by the quality and craftsmanship of our products with our 30-day money-back guarantee, and a 5-year limited warranty.

COMPLIMENTARY WATCH SIZING

We are also pleased to offer complimentary watch bracelet sizing services with your Citizenwatch.com purchase; please allow an extra 1-2 business days for order processing, prior to shipping, as sizing occurs on demand by one of our expert technicians.

• Create Account

Write a review

Drag files here or browse (Supported files: jpg, png) Add more Files Please select only JPEG or PNG files

How we use your information: By submitting your review you agree to our Privacy Policy & Terms and Conditions

There was an error submiting your review. Please try again later.

Your review has been submitted. We appreciate your feedback.

Writing guidelines

We want to publish your review, so please:

• Keep your review focused on the product.
• Avoid writing about customer service, contact us instead if you have issues requiring immediate attention.
• Refrain from mentioning competitors or the specific price you paid for the product.
• Do not include any personally identifiable information, such as full names.

Product Description

Feel the adrenaline rush from the ocean with the new Sailhawk yacht timer from CITIZEN® Eco-Drive featuring world time in 30 cities, 1/100th-second chronograph measuring up to 24 hours and yacht racing timer. With a stainless steel case and bracelet, the Sailhawk features a dark blue dial, 99-minute countdown timer, interchangeable analog/digital times, bi-directional rotating bezel and water resistance up to 100 meters. Featuring our Eco-Drive technology – powered by light, any light. Never needs a battery. Caliber number C660.

5 Year limited warranty

Free Shipping on all orders

Download Setting Instruction   (PDF)

Available At Our Citizen Flagship Store New York

(no purchase required to reserve; an associate will reach out to confirm availability.), preferred method of contact.

One of our associates will be in touch with you soon.

Visit Our CITIZEN Flagship Store New York

605 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY

(212) 658-1518

STORE HOURS

Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday: 10AM to 7PM

Thursday, Friday, Saturday: 10AM to 8PM

Sunday: 11AM to 7PM

You may also like

Product details, movement technology.

• Powered by any light source, continuously and sustainably, eliminating the need to replace watch batteries.

Band Length (mm)

Case width (mm).

• Stainless Steel

Case Material

• Silver-Tone
• Anti-Reflective Mineral Crystal
• Impact and shatter resistant - anti-reflective coating deflects light
• Fold Over Clasp with Push Buttons
• Luminous Hands and Markers

Water-Resistance

• WR100/10Bar/333ft [Swimming, Showering & Snorkeling]

Additional Functions

• Yacht Racing Timer
• World Time in 30 Cities
• 1/100 Second Chronograph Measures up to 24 Hours
• Split Lap Time
• Dual Time (Second Time Zone)
• 99-Minute Countdown Timer
• One Touch Interchangeable Analog/Digital Times
• Retractable Hands
• Digital Backlight Display
• Daylight Savings Time Indicator
• Universal Coordinated Time (UTC) Display
• Most Helpful
• Highest to Lowest Rating
• Lowest to Highest Rating
• Most Recent

A Great Watch

A Great Watch. the bezel has scratched over 5 years. but I love the chronograph style. I do travel and love the 24 hr time zones.

too heavy a wrist watch to be worn daily, it tires. scratches the bezel very easily.

Building a purposeful, powerful, and sustainable future.

From the birth of its Eco-Drive light technology to today, Citizen looks for ways to support and celebrate the planet.

Remove Product?

Privacy and cookies.

We value your privacy. We use cookies on our website to enhance your experience, serve personalized content, and analyze our traffic, in accordance with our privacy policy. By continuing, you consent to our use of cookies.