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Suunto Vector Altimeter Watch

Suunto Vector Altimeter Watch description

Since it's introduction in 1998, the Suunto Vector wristop computer has acted as the altimeter, barometer, electronic compass, and digital logbook for everyone from mountaineers to the Marines. The Vector keeps track of almost everything for you. It is the very tiny instrument panel that could be the key to backcountry survival. This year's Vector adds degree numbers and cardinal half points to the compass bezel, allowing users to make more accurate readings in the field. The Vector's altimeter enables users to track ascent and descent rates, as well as the number of runs skied in a day. This information can be very helpful when determining if you can bag one more descent at the end of a long tour. The watch's barometer allows you to track weather changes and automatically records atmospheric pressure over 4 days in 6hr intervals. Being able to track incoming storms is key when deciding how to prepare for a day of skiing or climbing.

Bottom Line: The Vector should sit shotgun on every backcountry excursion.

I have had my Vector watch for about 2 years now and I have had nothing go wrong. The watch is worth its weight in goal if you are in mountain climbing, sailing, or you just want a great watch. After 2 years the watch has gone through alot of abuse and still keeps going. For all of these people who say that they are hard to figure out, then I have the answer.... Read the directions

I've had my Suunto Vector for a couple of months and found it fun and great to use. It's the first altimeter I've owned and was initially concerned it would be frustratingly complex to operate. In fact I've found the opposite. The 4 button system is highly intuitive, as is adjusting settings and calibrating the compass and altitude readings. I used the watch on a recent trek in Nepal and really enjoyed following the altitude and temperature changes moving between 300 and 5300 metres and plus 30 to minus 15 degrees C, and it was also simple and useful to check our daily altitude gains stayed within safe limits. You must note though that the thermometer takes the reading of your skin/arm temperature and must be located away from your body (such as attached to your pack) to give an accurate ambient temperature.