Horological Meandering

in technical terms it is 'generic', like most military or tool watches are 'generic'. but that is a misnomer tech term...a military tool 'generic' watch is rare (getting less so) among real watches with auto movements in that it is 'real'. hence the popularity of rolex subs over time.

of course, this military/tool thing has caught on, and so wannabes have proliferated up the yinyang. some, like the invicta subs, when using the NH35 movement, are remarkably good for the price. but they have the flourishes which make them just homage watches.

so in fact, this 'generic' watch, the maratac, which you slighted for that quality, is a rare true prince of a piece. i suppose my prejudice is showing, as i pretty much only get true military or military grade timepieces. from damasko to ollech & wajs, seiko skx divers which the predecessors of which were some of the preferential pieces for Nam personnel/rangers/etc. 

i have wanted this piece for a long time and appreciated your very xlnt review (chiding aside) for bringing up the actual mil DNA of the piece. i do recall the name associated with watches, but did not realize this was made to mil standards which would allow it to be used by personnel, which it sounds like it is. the earlier version, with the 8200 miyota, had no hacking, so i do not know if that prevented its use as a private purchase authorized for mil use. of course the original seikos often preferred in Vietnam had no hacking or winding, but were as durable as an AK-47, and darn accurate too. 

so thanks for the review, and never underestimate the rarity or value of a true tool watch. they stand out so much, and will generate much better conversation, than a tag aqua racer, omega planet or even a rolex sub.

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