When preparing for deployment, readiness starts long before the mission. Every piece of gear must function as intended—reliably, consistently, and without compromise. That includes your tactical tools, boots, protective equipment, and timepiece. The key to long-term performance? Maintenance.
From desert environments to high-altitude operations, deployment conditions are unpredictable. Your gear has to withstand temperature extremes, impact, dust, moisture, and daily wear. By following a few proven strategies, you can keep your equipment mission-ready and ensure your watch and kit perform under pressure.
Cleaning Your Gear
The first step in long-term gear reliability is cleanliness. Sweat, dust, and mud are constant in field environments and can accelerate wear or lead to failure.
Tips:
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Use a soft brush or cloth to clear dirt from boots, vests, and equipment
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For heavier grime, gently scrub with a cloth dampened with mild soap and warm water
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Avoid bleach or harsh cleaners that degrade fabric, stitching, or metal finishes
Drying and Conditioning
After cleaning, always allow gear to dry fully before stowing it. Trapped moisture can lead to mildew, rust, or weakening of textile fibres.
Tips:
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Pat gear dry with a towel and let it air-dry away from direct heat
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Condition leather items to prevent cracking in arid or freezing conditions
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Never pack wet gear in sealed containers—allow airflow to preserve integrity
Protecting from the Elements
Field conditions are harsh, and exposure to sun, heat, or extreme cold can degrade gear. Protection extends service life and performance.
Tips:
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Store gear in cool, dry spaces during transit and downtime
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Use padded containers for tools and optics to protect from impact or compression
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Keep metal items away from salt water or high-humidity environments whenever possible
Timepiece Maintenance: Your Silent Mission Partner
A rugged, dependable watch is more than a convenience—it’s a critical operational tool. Marathon watches are built for harsh environments, but like all high-performance gear, they benefit from proper care.
Recommended Maintenance:
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Wipe your watch with a microfibre cloth after exposure to sweat, dust, or salt
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Check that crown is tight before water exposure
- For automatic watches, use a watch winder, as opposed to hand winding, if your watch is not worn daily
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Replace quartz batteries on schedule (every 3-4 years) to avoid potential leakage or power failure
Trusted models for deployment readiness:
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Marathon General Purpose Quartz (GPQ) – 34mm: Lightweight and field-ready for daily wear
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Marathon GSAR Automatic Dive Watch – 41mm: Built for underwater and extreme environments
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Marathon Pilot’s Navigator with Date – 41mm: Ideal for airborne operations and altitude transitions
Storing Your Gear
The final step in deployment prep is safe, strategic storage. Proper packing helps maintain structure, reduces damage, and ensures you're ready to move at a moment’s notice.
Tips:
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Use breathable containers for boots, gloves, and textiles
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Store timepieces in cushioned watch cases or hard-sided containers to prevent scratches and shock damage
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Avoid stacking gear under heavy loads that can crush or deform precision tools
Your Mission Depends on Your Gear
Every item you pack for deployment has to earn its place—and your timepiece is no exception. Whether you're navigating terrain, timing operations, or simply staying synced with your team, a Marathon watch is built to perform in the most demanding conditions.
Since 1941, Marathon has supplied military-grade watches to armed forces around the world, combining Swiss precision with field-tested durability. From Arctic operations to desert deployments, these watches are mission-proven and built for endurance.
Explore Mission-Ready Watches
Whether you're preparing for your first deployment or your next one, equip yourself with a watch that reflects your level of preparation. Choose performance-tested, military-trusted timepieces designed to operate without fail.
Browse the full Marathon watch lineup and find the model built to serve alongside you—because when the mission matters, your watch should too.
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