Watches are more than accessories—they’re essential tools for the modern adventurer, military professional, and anyone who thrives on precision. For me, watches have always been a fascination, rooted in a career where knowing the exact time could mean the difference between success and failure. It’s no surprise that my love for timepieces has led me to a soft spot for tritium-illuminated watches. Traser, a brand born from military necessity and Swiss ingenuity, stands out as one of the best in the field.

The Origins of Tactical Illumination

Traser’s brand story starts in 1989 when mb-microtec, the Swiss inventor of self-illuminating Trigalight technology, delivered its first military-grade timepiece to the U.S. Army. Unlike glow-in-the-dark paints that need light exposure to charge, Trigalight uses tritium gas tubes to provide continuous low-light (or no-light) visibility. For a soldier in pitch-black conditions, these glowing markers aren’t just helpful—they can be lifesaving. Traser’s innovation didn’t stop there. The brand has continued to refine its craft, producing rugged, reliable watches that thrive in the harshest environments.

The backbone of Traser’s designs is functionality. Their watches are purpose-built to withstand abuse while maintaining accuracy and readability. Over the years, Traser has expanded its lineup to cater to diverse needs, from tactical missions to deep-sea dives.

The Lineup: Built for Every Adventure

One of Traser’s strengths is its variety. Whether you’re on a battlefield, scaling mountains, or just navigating the urban jungle, there’s a Traser watch for you.

  • P96 Outdoor Pioneer: This lightweight and rugged watch is designed for adventurers. Its glass-fiber-reinforced polymer case makes it durable without being cumbersome. With 200 meters of water resistance and Trigalight tubes on the hands and indices, it’s an ideal companion for the outdoors.

Traser P96

  • P99 T Tactical: A personal favorite, the P99 boasts a titanium case and a bi-directional bezel, perfect for tactical timing. Its slate-grey dial, encased in anti-reflective sapphire, is as legible as it is stylish. This 46mm powerhouse can handle extreme conditions while keeping perfect time, thanks to its 200 meters of water resistance and Swiss quartz movement.
The P99 in titanium shows off its signed crown and flat sapphire crystal. Photo by the author.
  • P67 SuperSub Automatic: Divers and thrill-seekers alike will love the P67. With 500 meters of water resistance and a helium release valve, this automatic watch is engineered for underwater challenges. Its stainless-steel case and sapphire crystal ensure durability, while Trigalight illumination guarantees visibility in the deepest depths.
Traser SuperSub
Traser P67 SuperSub on a rubber strap. Ready to handle the deepest dives. Photo by the author.

Why Traser?

Beyond their tough specs and military roots, Traser watches bring peace of mind. You know your timepiece will work when you need it most—whether you’re timing a pulse under dim red lights or synchronizing a mission. They’re built to endure, much like the people who rely on them.

Great Holiday Gift Idea

With the holidays quickly approaching, a Traser watch is a surefire hit for the adventurer or gear enthusiast in your life. And here’s some good news: Traser is offering an exclusive 20% discount for SOFREP readers. Use the code SOFREP20 at checkout to snag a deal on a watch that’s ready to tackle any mission—or just look good doing it.

Whether you’re strapping on a P99 to hit the range or taking the P67 for a dive, Traser delivers unmatched performance and reliability. Don’t just take my word for it—check them out today, and don’t forget to use that promo code!