A watch compass either senses Earth’s magnetic field or, on some models, estimates direction from GPS movement. To read it, first identify what the display marks as north and what it shows as your heading or bearing; then use the watch’s instructions to point it and follow the direction you want. The method and display vary by model, so the watch manual takes precedence.
What a watch compass measures
There is no single design used by every compass watch. Some watches use GPS tracking to estimate the direction you are moving. Garmin says its GPS compass may not work correctly when you are stationary or moving slowly; for its GPS compass, the wearer needs to move at approximately two to three miles per hour for the watch to determine facing direction. These are Garmin-specific details, not a general speed requirement for all watches. Garmin explains the two compass approaches.
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Other watches use an electronic sensor to measure magnetic fields. Garmin describes its three-axis electronic compass as tilt compensated: the watch can be held at different angles and still provide a reading. Garmin recommends the electronic compass when stationary or moving slowly. That description applies to Garmin’s documented system, and other watches may behave differently.
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A heading is the direction the watch is pointing or, on a GPS-based display, the direction you are traveling. A bearing is the direction toward a destination or the direction you intend to follow. A watch may show both, but the symbols and layout depend on the model.
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Identify north, heading, and bearing
Suunto’s Core 2 guide describes two moving segments that point north, a fine line at the 12 o’clock mark that indicates the heading, and a numerical heading value. Its bearing-tracking feature helps relate the current heading to a selected direction. Other models may use different symbols or show the information in another way, so check the legend and instructions for your watch. Suunto Core 2 compass instructions.
Take a reading
Casio’s module 3515 guide says to enter Compass mode, keep the watch level, and point the 12 o’clock mark toward the object you want to locate. If prompted, move your arm in a figure eight. The display then gives direction information, including a bearing and bearing angle. This is the procedure for that module, not a universal sequence; use the corresponding manual for your watch. Casio module 3515 guide.
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How to follow a bearing with a compass bezel
A bearing lets you maintain a chosen direction rather than merely see which way the watch currently points. On the Suunto Core 2, the guide’s bezel method is to hold the watch horizontally, point the north indication in the direction of travel, and rotate the bezel until its north mark aligns with the moving north segment. Continue in the indicated direction while keeping the marks aligned. This is a model-specific technique; follow your own watch’s bezel instructions if its markings or operation differ. Suunto Core 2 bearing and bezel instructions.
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Magnetic north, true north, and map directions
Magnetic north—the reference used by most magnetic compass readings—is not the same as geographic true north. A map or route may use a different north reference, so check the watch’s setting before comparing its display with a map bearing.
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Casio says its module 3515 normally indicates magnetic north and can be configured for true north by setting the local magnetic declination direction and angle. Garmin documents options for true, magnetic, grid, and user-defined north references. The names and setup steps vary, so consult the relevant watch manual and use the reference appropriate to your map or route. Casio’s declination guidance and Garmin’s north-reference settings.
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Movement and sensing method
A GPS-based compass estimates direction from movement, so it may be unreliable while you are stopped or moving too slowly. A magnetic sensor can provide a reading while stationary, but it measures the local magnetic field rather than GPS travel direction. Know which method your watch is using before interpreting an unexpected display.
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Calibration and magnetic interference
Calibration steps depend on the watch. Garmin says its compass calibrates automatically, but manual calibration may help when readings are inaccurate. Garmin advises doing this outdoors, away from vehicles, buildings, and overhead power lines. Casio’s module 3515 guide uses a figure-eight arm motion when prompted and calls for bearing calibration if the prompt remains. Follow the procedure for your model rather than applying another manufacturer’s steps. Garmin calibration guidance; Casio module 3515 instructions.
Different north references
Two readings can disagree because the watches—or the watch and map—use different north references. Check whether each is set to magnetic, true, grid, or another reference before treating the difference as a sensor problem.
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