Pilot’s Navigator Stainless Steel Vintage Automatic - Nylon DEFSTAN - Ltd Ed 100pcs Ref. WW194029SS

The name Marathon might be unfamiliar to some, but for Canadians, Americans, and military watch enthusiasts like us, it’s a revered icon. Known among collectors as one of the few brands still producing no-nonsense, officially issued timepieces for the military, Marathon has been serving the United States and Canadian armed forces for over 70 years.

A little history: the company began in 1904 as Weinsturm Watch, later becoming Wein Brothers. In 1939, Morris Wein established Marathon Watch, providing precision timepieces across North America. By 1941, Marathon was manufacturing timing instruments for Allied Forces, a legacy now upheld by the fourth generation of the Wein family. Today, Marathon continues to merge military-grade durability with Swiss engineering, crafting instruments that epitomize quality and precision. This heritage is brilliantly reflected in their interpretation of the 1960s MIL-PRF-46374G military watch.

Marathon Pilot’s Navigator Stainless Steel Vintage Automatic - Nylon DEFSTAN - Ltd Ed 100pcs Ref. WW194029SS

In 2024, Gnomon Watches proudly teamed up with Marathon and the esteemed Wein family to reimagine their iconic Navigator series. The outcome? A remarkable vintage-inspired creation: the Navigator Stainless Steel Vintage Auto. This timepiece blends Gnomon’s signature “Midas touch” with retro design cues, drawing on the brand’s history of celebrated collaborations. Aged maxi markers and hands (without the use of gas tubes) evoke a sense of nostalgia, while a subtle ghosted, double-signed “Gnomon Watches” at the dial’s base adds an exclusive touch. Together, Gnomon and Marathon have redefined the military pilot watch, introducing a fresh yet timeless vintage aesthetic.

Marathon’s entry into the navigator watch realm began with their adherence to the MIL-PRF-46374G specifications, producing watches for the U.S. Army that have remained in service through several revisions. These specifications, among the longest-running required by the U.S. government, demanded robust features: a rotating bezel with an elapsed time ring, an electrical quartz movement with exceptional battery life, resistance to magnetic fields, water, corrosion, and high altitudes, along with a nylon strap and tritium illumination that glows for over eight hours in total darkness. The distinctive asymmetrical case and military 24-hour dial became hallmarks of military-issue watches in the 1970s, as seen in the MIL-W-50717 mil-spec models that Marathon continues to honor today.

The origins of Marathon’s Steel Navigator trace back to its debut in 1986, designed by Jean Maurice Huguenin (current Chief Watchmaker at Marathon) and Leon Wein (father of Marathon President Mitchell Wein). Created in partnership with Kelly Air Force Base, the Steel Navigator addressed a specific need: a pilot’s watch capable of withstanding extreme pressure changes at high altitudes while maintaining impeccable legibility and accuracy. Initially issued to pilots and paratroopers on missions, including deployments in Iraq and Afghanistan, around 50,000 pieces were produced. These were the first-ever quartz pilot watches made by Marathon, solidifying their role as the U.S. government’s sole supplier of pilot watches—even as a Canadian company.

Made in Switzeland, Approved by US Government

While the original watches featured a fiber shell high-impact case with a steel back to balance durability and lightweight construction, the new Marathon Navigator Stainless Steel Vintage Auto marks a significant evolution. This latest iteration, limited to just 100 pieces, introduces a full stainless steel case—an upgrade that pays homage to the earliest Navigator designs while offering modern versatility. With oversized hour markers and, for the first time, a Swiss Sellita mechanical movement, this version transforms the iconic Navigator into a hybrid field watch with timeless appeal. It’s a nod to Marathon’s military heritage while breaking new ground for enthusiasts and collectors alike.

The double-signed Navigator Series is a testament to Marathon’s commitment to modern military needs, combining enhanced engineering with Swiss precision. With improved impact resistance, altitude ratings, and a design geared for comfort, this tool watch is built to meet the rigorous demands of the military elite.

The hybrid Navigator shines as a purpose-driven tool watch with distinctive character. Its 316L stainless steel case features a unique asymmetrical shape, measuring 41mm wide, 11mm thick, and 48mm lug-to-lug. The bi-directional bezel, equipped with a black steel insert and 12-hour markings, is designed for tracking two time zones—an essential feature for field operations. Finished in a parkerized matte coating, the case nods to the original MIL-W-50717 mil-spec designs, offering both vintage aesthetics and anti-corrosion properties. True to its military roots, the dimensions ensure sturdiness and a no-nonsense functionality fit for the field.

MaraGlow™ that glows in the dark

The case profile sets the hybrid Navigator apart, blending sleek vintage charm with a bold, utilitarian design. Its asymmetrical shape incorporates a full crown guard that seamlessly extends from the lugs to the screw-down crown, ensuring 100m water resistance. This clever design adds a tactical feel, with a distinctively wider side that enhances its robust character. Viewed from the front, the watch exudes a straightforward, no-frills tool watch vibe. From above, however, the streamlined lugs and masculine contours create a striking silhouette, adding depth and uniqueness to the design.

The L-shaped lugs flow seamlessly into the case, complete with drilled holes for easy strap changes. The case back, engineered to withstand altitudes of up to 35,000 feet, meets military specifications while bearing essential government markings. Notably, Marathon has authorized the inclusion of Gnomon’s logo alongside these specifications, marking the Navigator as a genuine product of collaboration and compliance.

Altogether, the Navigator Stainless Steel Vintage Auto balances military-grade toughness with thoughtful details for collectors. Whether in the field or part of a collection, it stands as a remarkable tool watch that blends heritage, innovation, and practical functionality.

Sellita SW200-1 with Incabloc® Shock Absorber

Gnomon has chosen to apply a vintage-inspired caramel-hued MaraGlo™ lume to the hour markers, syringe-style hands, and the triangle indicator on the bezel. Even the seconds hand features a lumed tip, ensuring excellent legibility, even in complete darkness for over 24 hours. The dial is kept clean and symmetrical, with lumed geometric hour markers and no date complication at 3 o’clock to maintain a balanced design. Subtle branding enhances its understated charm, with “Marathon” and a faint “Gnomon Watches” in dark grey at the bottom of the dial, creating a ghostly, almost invisible effect that prioritizes readability while preserving exclusivity.

Powering the Navigator Vintage Auto is a robust self-winding movement, the SW200-1 by Swiss manufacturer Sellita. This enhanced version, customized for Marathon, boasts 26 jewels, a 4Hz beat rate (28,800 bph), and a power reserve of approximately 42 hours. The inclusion of this movement elevates the Navigator, blending military reliability with Swiss precision engineering.

The watch comes fitted with an upgraded 20mm nylon DEFSTAN strap (Desert tan and Black), chosen for its durability and waterproof properties. Designed to meet government-issued criteria, it stays true to the original field-watch ethos while enhancing the watch’s sporty and rugged character, making it perfect for adventures on and off the field.

Gnomon Exclusive Limited 100pcs

This inaugural collaboration between Gnomon and Marathon exemplifies meticulous craftsmanship and military-grade toughness. Each piece undergoes rigorous quality control, resulting in the Marathon Pilot Navigator Stainless Steel Vintage Auto—a timepiece that merges the legacy of military watches with refined modern features. Now equipped with a Swiss mechanical movement, the Navigator distinguishes itself from the sea of military-style tool watches, many of which lack the government approvals Marathon continues to maintain.

The all-new stainless steel Navigator, with its unique vintage-inspired design, redefines Marathon’s iconic series. Engineered for premium performance, it appeals to watch enthusiasts and collectors seeking authenticity, durability, and value. Built with purpose and precision, this collaboration stands out as a testament to Marathon’s enduring commitment to quality and innovation.

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