Sailing Watch for Dinghy Racing Reviews – 2023

Optimum Time Sailing Watch

Optimum Time have several variations of their Sailing Watch, but they all share these common features:

• Water-resistant to 5 ATM with shock-resistant construction.

• Features the time, a calendar, and a time of day alarm.

• A count-up (from zero) timer.

• Programmed countdown timer with an alarm, including a pre-programmed 5,4,1,0 ISAF, 3 min or 1 min starts sequences with audible warning signals (which can be silenced, if preferred). There’s also a sequence repeat option.

• The incredibly useful sync button synchronises your countdown to the race control timer, so you won’t miss the gun.

Optimum Time – Series 3

The original and iconic ‘big yellow timer’, is still the top choice for competitors around the world today. This jumbo timer is much larger than your average watch with big buttons, making it easier to use during your start sequence. The elastic wrist strap is easy to fit over your sailing kit, or you can attach it to your buoyancy aid or the mast.

You’ll spot many of these Sailing Watches on the wrists (or mast or boom) of competitors at any Open Meeting sailing race event. By far one of the most popular sailing watches for dinghy racing.

Optimum Time – Series 14

All the functionality of the series 3 timers, and it also comes with a rechargeable battery, vibration alarm, and higher-spec screen. This is a sailing competitor’s best friend. It can be strapped to a mast or you can comfortably wear it over your sailing kit.

Ronstan Clear Start Sailing Watch

Ronstan Clear Start Sailing Watch

Ronstan’s ClearStart™ race timer and watches combine contemporary styling with true sailing functionality. They feature large buttons, easy to read displays and advanced intuitive programming designed specifically with the racing sailor in mind.

Key Features

• Countdown repeat or Countdown and up options (for elapsed race time).
• Multiple Start Sequence options – e.g. World Sailing 5,4,1,0 or User Set
• Synchronisation function – resynchronise if you start the countdown early or late
• Multi-line display – Start Sequences + Time
• Chronograph – Including hours and time of the day
• Choice of colours: Red, Black, Blue

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Gill Stealth Timer Sailing Watch

Gill Stealth Timer Sailing Watch

Gill’s most technical timer to date, the Stealth Timer has been expertly designed with a digital compass mode which includes a Course Shift feature.

Key Features

• Carbon reinforced ABS plastic construction with a stainless steel case back.
• Electro luminescent backlight..
• 4 Countdown modes including a Vibrate function.
• Compass function, allowing for course change detection.  (Only useful if the Timer is mounted on the boat rather than on the wrist)
• Stopwatch timer.
• The Stealth Racer Watch is engineered with a carbon reinforced ABS plastic construction with a stainless steel case back.
• Water-resistant to 50m. Shock and impact resistant

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Raymarine TackTick Micro Compass and Timer

TackTick Micro Compass and Timer

A bit of a “curve ball” to suggest a Compass on a review of Sailing Watches. However the Raymarine TackTick Compass also includes a countdown timer so that you can nail the start of your race.  Definitely worth considering as you get the added bonus of the compass feature to help you detect windshifts. Especially useful on open water where transit sights to shoreline objects are not possible.

Key Features

• Coundown timer from user set start.
• Synchronise button
• Electronic Compass with Tactic mode to help detect windshifts.
• Power by means of a small solar panel integrated into the unit greatly increases battery life
• Automatic shutdown when the device does not detect movement for 7 minutes

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Essential Features to Look for in a Sailing Watch for Dinghy Racing

If you are a dinghy racer, you know that having a reliable sailing watch can make all the difference in winning races. A sailing watch is an essential tool for monitoring your time, distance, speed, and other critical factors that impact your performance on the water. In this blog post, we will discuss the essential features to look for in a sailing watch for dinghy racing.

Water Resistance

The first and most crucial feature to look for in a sailing watch for dinghy racing is water resistance. You need a watch that can withstand the harsh conditions of sailing, including splashes, spray, and even immersion in water. Make sure the watch you choose is rated at least 50 meters or more for water resistance.

Timer

A timer is another critical feature to look for in a sailing watch. A countdown timer can help you track the start of a race, so you know when to cross the start line. A timer that can also be set to count up can be used to track the duration of the race or the time remaining in a particular leg of the race.

Durability and Shock Resistance

Dinghy racing can be tough on gear, and your sailing watch is no exception. Look for a watch that is built to withstand shock and impact, so it can handle the rough conditions of dinghy racing. A watch with a durable case and scratch-resistant screen can also help ensure your watch lasts as long as possible.

Easy to Read Display

Finally, look for a sailing watch with an easy-to-read display. A watch with a large, clear display that is easy to read in bright sunlight can be incredibly helpful when racing. Some watches may also have backlit displays, making them easier to read in low light conditions.

In conclusion, a reliable sailing watch is an essential tool for dinghy racing. When looking for a sailing watch, make sure it has features such as water resistance, timer, durability and shock resistance, and an easy-to-read display. With these features, you will be well-equipped to tackle the challenges of dinghy racing and will be nailing those starts.