85 Years of Precision: The Legacy and Endurance of Marathon Watch Company

Since 1939, the Marathon Watch Company has built its reputation on precision, durability, and service. From its roots as a family-operated Canadian business to its current role as an official watch contractor for allied military forces, Marathon’s story is one of unwavering purpose: to create timepieces that meet—and exceed—the demands of those who rely on them the most.

As we mark 85 years of continuous innovation and craftsmanship, we look back on the history that shaped the company—and the people who wear our watches in service, in daily life, and across generations.

A Heritage Forged in Purpose

Marathon was founded in 1939 by Morris Wein in Montreal. At the time, the world was shifting rapidly, and so too were the demands placed on timekeeping equipment. During World War II, Marathon began supplying timepieces and timing instruments to the Allied Forces—a relationship that laid the groundwork for a long-standing legacy of military-grade watchmaking.

That legacy continues today. Marathon is of the few remaining watch contractors supplying the U.S. Government. Our watches are used across multiple branches of service and by NATO-aligned forces around the world.

Built to Last—Because Lives Depend on It

What makes a Marathon watch different? It’s not just the materials, although we’re uncompromising in that respect. It isn’t just the Swiss-made movements, nor the tritium gas tube illumination that ensures 24-hour readability (without the need for charging). It’s the purpose behind the design: every case, crystal, bezel, and movement must perform reliably in the harshest conditions.

From the decks of naval vessels to high-desert deployments, to search-and-rescue dives, a Marathon watch is engineered to meet real operational standards—not imagined ones.

Take it from a service member who have been with us for decades:

“Back in 2001 when Marathon didn't sell to the public yet, I made a special request to buy a Navigator for my work in law enforcement. I still have that watch. Since then, I’ve picked up a 1990 Steel Navigator, a 2001 Field Watch, the first run of the SAR, a 2008 issued GSAR from my time in the Canadian Navy, and more. I guess you could say I’ve been a bit of a Marathon fanboy for some 25 years.”

His story is not unique. Time and again, Marathon owners return. Not because they must, but because their first Marathon watch became a trusted tool—and still performs as intended, years or decades later.

Swiss Precision, Canadian Spirit

All Marathon watches are made in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland, a region known globally for its horological excellence. Each watch is crafted to meet or exceed MIL-SPEC standards. But Marathon is proudly Canadian, and that heritage is never far from our identity.

As one customer puts it:

“Love this company. The history, quality and grit—unequalled. Proud owner of a Steel Navigator, and in my eyes, it’s the perfect summary of what a watch should be. The most concise and easy-to-read dial in the business. Being Canadian is icing on the cake.”

That blend of Canadian resilience and Swiss precision continues to define our approach to design. We don’t chase trends. We don’t compromise for cost. We build for purpose, reliability and quality.

A Watch for Every Generation—and Every Mission

The utility of a Marathon watch goes beyond the battlefield or tactical setting. For many, it’s a everyday carry piece that earns its place over time. And for others, it becomes a symbol of responsibility and care, passed from one generation to the next.

One father shared this about gifting a Marathon to his son:

“I bought a Marathon watch for my son for his 17th birthday. As he approaches university, I wanted him to understand the value of managing time—especially during exams, where digital tools are often banned. He absolutely loves it. This is a gift that will last and last. I’d never buy another timepiece from anyone else again.”

Watches like the Marathon General Purpose Mechanical or our Composite Navigators are perfect examples of this long-lasting utility. Lightweight, durable, and MIL-SPEC certified, these watches represent practical tools built for decades of use.

85 Years—and Still Moving Forward

Marathon’s commitment to innovation has never wavered. The introduction of the GSAR Automatic Dive Watch, designed for professional Search and Rescue divers, and the Stainless Steel Navigator Pilot’s Watch, capable of withstanding rapid pressure changes and high-altitude operations, are perfect examples of how we continue to meet the evolving demands of modern missions.

At our core, we remain focused on delivering reliability when it matters most.

Trusted by Professionals. Worn by Those Who Demand the Best.

When we talk about performance under pressure, we’re not speaking metaphorically. Our watches are worn by special operations units, law enforcement agencies, naval personnel, and emergency responders—individuals who operate in real-world conditions where timing and precision cannot be left to chance.

But our watches are also found on the wrists of students, explorers, aviators, and professionals—people who want more than aesthetics. They want accountability, legacy, and excellence in engineering.

A Thank You to Our Community

As we celebrate this 85-year milestone, we extend our sincere gratitude to the service members, collectors, outdoor professionals, and everyday wearers who continue to place their trust in Marathon.

This isn’t just a celebration of our past—it’s a renewed commitment to our future.

To quote one longtime fan:

“An exceptional product. An exceptional company. Thank you, and congratulations on 85 years of raising standards.”

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