Luminox celebrates 35 years: the revival of legendary military watches

When talking about durable watches, Luminox is the brand that should come to mind first. Robust, light and extremely resistant thanks to CARBONOX carbon composite housings. These watches are not just a fashion accessory, but a real tool for adventurers and military personnel. If even Bear Grylls is wearing one, you know it's serious business. And the most legendary partnership? No doubt the one with the US Navy SEALs.

It is to celebrate the 35th anniversary Luminox revived three of its most iconic models. Yes, those who have tested themselves in sea, air and land. Let's delve into this nostalgic yet technologically advanced adventure…

Luminox & Navy SEALs

In 1992, Commander Nick North of the Navy SEALs came across a brand new brand at the Utah Winter Fair. He probably did not expect that this meeting would lead to watches that would become legendary. Luminox was only three years old at the time, but already showed potential. Two years later, they jointly released the first Navy SEAL watch, which passed all possible military tests and remains synonymous with reliability today.

Nick North recalls: “Luminox was very new when I came across them. I asked them to provide samples of the original 3001 model for testing, and they agreed.” The rest is history.

Of course, one might wonder what drew North to Luminox instead of established brands. The answer is simple: accuracy, night visibility and depth resistance. Of all the brands tested by the Navy SEALs, Luminox is the only one that survived all the tests. Yes, even the oven and freezer weren't too much of a challenge for those hours.

Luminox's Light Technology (LLT) is one of the key factors that convinced the Navy SEALs. Unlike other watches that rely on external light sources for charging, the LLT stays lit for up to 25 years with its micro gas light tubes. Forget dimming – this clock will shine through the nights, no matter what your adventures.

Three legendary models

Heritage SEA XS.3001.H.SET

This watch pays tribute to the original Navy SEAL model from 1994. Updates include a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, shorter LLT markers for better visibility, and an improved ETA F06.412 quartz movement for accuracy and a long battery life (7 years). With a 43 mm black CARBONOX case and a red “30” marking on the bezel, commemorating 30 years since its original release, this watch is a real treat for nostalgics and adventurers alike.

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Heritage AIR XA.6442.H.SET

The F-117 NIGHTHAWK® x Skunk Works® 6442.H Pilot's Watch is a reissue of the nearly 25-year-old F-117 NIGHTHAWK® Stealth series. Created for military pilots, the watch features the Skunk Works® logo on the bottom of the dial, which glows at night with Super-LumiNova. With a 44mm black CARBONOX case and a black Kevlar strap, this watch is the right choice for pilots and frequent flyers.

Heritage LAND XL.8825.H.SET

Designed in collaboration with former Swiss military officer Andre Micheli, the RECON Point Man 8825.H offers unique features such as cardinal points on the inner bezel, a tachymeter for pacing, and kilometer and mile markers. The watch with a 45 mm CARBONOX case and a yellow second hand is the right choice for those who lead patrols through hostile territories.

Prices and availability

These watches from The Heritage Collection is available for between $545 and $645 on the official Luminox website. So if you're looking for a watch that will last another 35 years, this is it Luminox the right choice for you.

It is a story of innovation, reliability and partnership that has stood the test of time and extreme conditions. Luminox has proven once again that technology and heritage can go hand in hand, all with a slight touch of nostalgia and plenty of adventurous spirit.