There seems to be a lot of confusion and misunderstanding about what an altimeter watch is. There are a significant number of manufacturers and outdoor retailers selling them, and marketing them by other names such as GPS watch, digital compass, etc. The simplest description is that an altimeter watch is a watch that allows the wearer to measure how high you are compared to sea level (your altitude).

A few years ago there was only a limited set of altimeter watch manufacturers. These days, you have your choice from major watch brands like Nike, to many smaller ones. Quality varies from manufacturer to manufacturer and watch to watch, but generally you are safe if you stick with Suunto or High Gear. These manufacturers not only have been around the longest, but they offer the best, most personal return and refund policies. You should expect an altimeter watch to cost you from fifty to three hundred USD, depending on the feature set you are looking for.

Altimeter watches are actually small, digital barometers. They function by detecting barometric pressure and calculate altitude by employing a formula against the barometric pressure. Because this is the calculation, it is important to always calibrate altitude against known positions when the weather is changing. Calibration is easy on almost every altimeter watch, but refer to your watch guide for exact instructions.

Are you a skier, mountain biker, skydiver, or hiker? If so, an altimeter watch may be for you. Knowing your elevation can be critical for each of these activities - especially as a safety precaution.

In summary, an altimeter watch just is a watch that measures your altitude - a very useful piece of information as you get outside. Hopefully this article will gave you some things to think about when buying your next watch.

If you want to find more Altimeter Watch information, then visit Tony Berwald's site on how to choose the best Altimeter Watch for your needs.

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