Swiss Army Wrist Watches

Swiss Army Watches FAQ

Q. How do I know if I have a real Swiss Army® Brand Watch?
A. Only an authentic Swiss Army Brand Watch has the words "Swiss Army" printed right on the dial. -SA

Q. How do I know when the battery needs changing?
A. In select models, the battery end-of-life indicator signals that the battery should be replaced within two or three days. When the battery is low, the second hand stands still for 2-4 seconds, then speeds up to the correct time. This indication will last for approximately one week, then the watch hands stand still. -SA

Q. How do I change the battery?
A. Bring the watch to your local Authorized Service Center or send it directly to Swiss Army Brands, Inc. -SA

Q. What are the benefits of a hardened mineral crystal versus a sapphire crystal?
A. Hardened mineral crystals are hardened to 450 vickers. Swiss Army exceeds the industry standards by manufacturing crystals to 900 vickers. Sapphire crystals are manufactured to a hardness of 1200 vickers. Sapphire crystals are virtually scratch-proof - only a diamond can penetrate their surfaces. -SA

Q. What is an automatic movement?
A. The movement is driven by an oscillating weight called the rotor. The movements of the arm cause the rotor to swing and this winds the mainspring automatically. No batteries required. -SA

Q. What is meant by the "jewels" in a watch movement?
A. Synthetic rubies, also known as jewels, are used to increase the wear resistance of a watch movement's moving parts. -SA

Q. What is a quartz movement?
A. The movement power is provided by a miniature battery, eliminating the need to wind the watch. Quartz movements provide time measurement accurate to within a few seconds per year. All Swiss Army Watches are equipped with quartz movements (with the exception of the Officer's Automatic). -SA

Q. What is a ratchet bezel?
A. The bezel is the frame that surrounds the crystal. The unidirectional rotating bezel, also known as a ratchet bezel, is used for measuring elapsed time. -SA

Q. How water-resistant are Swiss Army Watches?
A. Most models are rated to withstand water pressure up to 330 feet (there are some exceptions). In contrast to the term "waterproof," water resistance is not a permanent condition; it must be maintained. The crown must be fully recessed and parts such as the crystal, case, and push buttons must remain intact for the watch to stay water-resistant. -SA