Carabiner Watches

by Neil Rosenfeld

A carabiner watch, or clip on watch is a type of watch that clips on to the wearer. A carabiner is a mechanism that is usually a spring-loaded clip that secures the watch to a belt, chain, backpack or any other type of loop that will fit.

Mountain climbers know the benefits of the carabiner. If you have ever seen the gear that a mountain climber uses, then you have seen a carabiner. This is a metal loop with a spring opening that only opens in one direction. The opening only allows the climber to hook up the rope by pushing in the opening, which snaps shut to secure the rope. The climber can't risk the carabiner opening and allowing the rope to fall out. His life depends on this.

While such security may seem excessive in a watch, it can be extremely useful. Knowing that you can't lose your time piece accidentally can be critical to certain people. For example, nurses and doctors usually wind up clipping a regular watch to their uniform for taking pulses. With a carabiner, they only have to clip it onto a belt loop, or chain around the neck. Emergency Medical Technicians (EMT's) will also find these watches of use in emergencies.

In recent years, carabiners have found popularity among others as well. They are available with new features such as a variety of colors, materials and accessories. They now can be found complete with compasses, built-in lights and fashion colors.

Carabiners are available in inexpensive plastic all the way up to polished aluminum. They are available in a range of prices so everyone from school age children to sportsmen will find them affordable. Just clip one on and you're ready for anything without losing your watch.


The author is webmaster at a site that carries Smith & Wesson Carabiner watches.