The Suunto X6HR is much more than a watch - it is a PC-compatible multi-functional state-of-the-art package.

Vying for a leading place in the market cornered by Casio with their G-Shock range of watches is Suunto's X6HR, the latest "wristop computer", a durable sports watch that does more than you could ever need a watch to do.

Featuring, among other things, a compass, barometer and altimeter (not to mention the ability to tell the time), the X6HR is also compatible with PC software and a heart-rate monitor, both of which are included in the pack.

One feature of this watch that drew my attention, although I never had the opportunity to fully test it, was the barometer, which, according to the manual, can be set to alert the wearer in the event of a sudden drop in pressure that would signal an oncoming storm. If reliable, such a device could be very handy when out on patrol, if you're trying to decide whether to harbour up in your present location or push on for another hour.

The watch itself seems fairly sturdy, although I wasn't able to test it under the most trying conditions that it might encounter in the field. It's slightly less bulky than a G-Shock and doesn't weigh significantly more than any other watch on the market.

The mineral crystal glass screen should take a lot of punishment and won't scratch easily.

The purchase price will certainly bring many back down to earth though, at roughly $985 the X6HR is not for the casual user and is much more expensive than the average G-Shock.

Justification for this price tag can be found in the enormous list of features, but few would have a need for all that's offered.

As far as gadgets go, this one is right up there, with some new technologies and great concepts - the computer cable connecting the X6HR to a PC by clipping onto the surface of the watch so as not to breach the waterproof shell with a plug hole.

Anyone would love to be the first kid on their block to own one, if they can afford it.

- Pte John Wellfare

Win an X6HR

The service newspapers have a Suunto X6HR to give away. All you have to do is list five features of the X6HR and mail to:

Suunto Watch Giveaway
Service newspapers
R8-LG-037
Department of Defence
ACT 2600

Don't forget to include your name and contact details. Entries close March 31, 2004.

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