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All the features seemed to work as advertised, though the temperature only works well when you aren't wearing the watch.I had two reasons for the low review. I rarely could figure out how to do anything other then switch screens on this watch without the manual.
I will not put more money into it. Second, the band sucks.
I've owned other feature full watches before and this was the hardest to use. After the 2nd time it broke I threw it to the back of the drawer in digest.
The watch looks great and has all the features I wanted in a sleek size (for the features it has at least). First, the user interface seems overly complicated.
The first two years I had it the band broke twice and it uses a custom band so you have to pay $$ to get another one, just to have it break again.
The product manual is poorly written, which is odd because the Finns have great language skills.So, although I like the watch, the on-going maintenance issues make it less than highly recommended. And band replacement is far too difficult compared to other watches. However, the strap breaks too soon compared to other watches. Also, the back is difficult to remove (over the years) compared to other watches (a 1 Yuan coin seems to be the best fit for the slot on the back).The alarm is useless as it simply cannot be heard. I bought this in the Fall of 2003 to be able to have a quick compass/elevation check on unfamiliar trails. It handles those tasks well. A slightly shorter replacement pin (or slightly bending a replacement pin to make it shorter) may be the only practical solution to a replacement problem if you're trying to do this in the field.
I'm reluctant to shell out the $120 for a new band because all I need is a new clasp. The only problem I've had it the strap, rather the clasp keeping the watch band closed. I've had this watch for four years and it's taken a real beating across the world. I've dropped it on tile, concrete, and asphalt from heights up to 10 feet and it still works fine. It's gotten to the point where a mere movement of my hand will spring it open leaving the watch dangling at an odd angle.
The durability of the strap is very poor and Suunto must know it since it is only under warranty for 1 year as opposed to 2 year warranty for the watch. The overall durability of the watch is decent but not rugged enough for intensive outdoor use, and within 1-2 years the strap breaks without any cause (the strap is mostly plastic pierced with holes on all versions- stainless steel or titanium). I haven't found yet whether non-Suunto straps can be adjusted on it.The decision is yours whether it is worth the money. I owned several of these. The watch is works fine for hiking etc. Strap replacement by Suunto out of warranty is almost $100 so you'd better find a better strap after breaking the first time.
I'm going to ensure that it will fit my watch and purchase one for next time. After about 18 months the battery went dead. Like some other reviewers have noted, the watch does take a little getting used to in mastering the buttons, but it becomes easy with use. This is the only concern that I have ever had with the watch. It has been a great Watch.
I noticed today that a battery replacement kit is offered on Amazon for about $9. Keep the instruction book handy at first. I initially wanted one of the cheaper, simpler Suuntos, but found this one discounted so for just a little bit more and have never regretted purchasing it instead. I have owned my Observer since late 2005. The watch looks good too, it has a nice contrast of the stainless and black band and its not too big and does not look very much like a Dive watch or a GPS on your arm.
The battery is supposed to be owner changeable, but I messed up the back trying to get it off and had to send it back for replacement.
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