Do you ever get bummed that you can’t read your watch with your night vision goggles on? Suunto points the way through the darkness with its new Alpha Stealth watch. It underwent intensive stress-testing to achieve its MIL-STD-810 military specification and features a kit heavily oriented toward survivability.
In addition to its red-light mode for night vision compatibility, the Alpha Stealth is water-resistant to 30 meters, tested against shock and temperature hazards, and has a 12-month battery life in time mode.
The message from Suunto is clear: It’s time to get dirty.
Suunto Alpha Stealth Construction
“Suunto has a long history of building durable wearables designed for tactical use and outdoor functionality,” Heikki Norta, Suunto’s president, says. The Alpha Stealth builds on the company’s tradition of utility.
Designed for military, tactical, survival enthusiasts, and hunters, Suunto calls the watch’s construction robust. Since the watch has survived the process of its performance testing, we can assume that’s valid vocabulary.
Suunto subjected the Alpha Stealth to tests under MIL-STD-810H protocol. For instance, in its extreme temperature test, the watch survived induced conditions as hot as 160°F and as cold as -50 degrees F. Worried about climate change? At least your watch won’t be.
Other tests included shock and vibration resistance, and long-term submersion scenarios. The watch keeps water out at up to 30 meters or 100 feet of depth. The bezel is aluminum, with a composite case and strap. For all its grunt and durability, the unit weighs a scant 67 grams.
Alpha Stealth Features and MSRP
Also for handling extreme situations, the watch includes a barometer, altimeter, and compass. A depth meter for snorkeling is effective down to 10 meters. It also displays weather conditions and temperature, including sunrise and sunset times. And a storm alarm helps any backcountry traveler stay safe and dry.
But if you do find yourself boondocked with the sun going down, don’t worry. Whip out your night vision goggles and switch the Alpha Stealth to red light. You’ll illuminate the dark and count the hours till dawn, all while you go about your nocturnal affairs.
Check the new Alpha Stealth out at Suunto’s website. It costs MSRP $300 — night vision goggles not included.
