In a world filled with watches designed to impress rather than perform, few stand out for their authentic toughness and functionality. The Marathon 41mm GSAR Type II Diver’s Automatic is one of those rare pieces — a dive watch born from a genuine need for reliability under extreme conditions, not from a designer’s imagination.
Crafted to serve military divers, search-and-rescue professionals, and everyday adventurers, this Marathon timepiece isn’t just a nod to ruggedness — it’s the real thing. Whether you’re plunging into the depths, hiking across rough terrain, or simply looking for a mechanical watch that you can trust absolutely, the GSAR Type II is built to deliver, day after day, mission after mission.
Designed With Purpose, Built to Endure
The GSAR — an acronym for Government Search and Rescue — has a rich history within Marathon’s lineup. These watches are more than just professional-grade equipment; they are a reflection of decades spent outfitting the military with precision instruments that could be trusted in life-or-death situations.
The Marathon 41mm GSAR Type II Diver’s Automatic represents a refinement of this legacy. It keeps everything that made the original GSAR a trusted tool — including the rugged build and unparalleled legibility — but introduces a few small updates for even greater comfort and wearability.
At 41mm, the case hits the sweet spot for many wrists: substantial enough to command respect, but not so large that it feels clunky. Crafted from 316L stainless steel, the case is built to resist corrosion, impacts, and temperature fluctuations, all while maintaining an ergonomic profile that sits securely and comfortably even during extended wear.
The knurled screw-down crown, solid bezel clicks, and thick sapphire crystal all speak to Marathon’s obsession with durability. And with a water resistance rating of 300 meters, this is a true diver’s watch — not just a watch that happens to look like one.
Dialed for Maximum Readability
For a dive watch — especially one designed with professional use in mind — readability isn’t optional; it’s essential. The GSAR Type II’s dial is a masterclass in clear, quick time-telling.
Large Arabic numerals and bold, luminous hands dominate the high-contrast black dial, ensuring legibility even when seconds matter. Around the perimeter, tritium gas tubes provide constant low-light visibility — an advantage over traditional lume, which needs external light to charge. Tritium glows steadily for decades, making this watch an ideal companion for night operations, deep dives, or early morning expeditions.
At 12 o’clock, the distinct orange marker makes orientation instantaneous, helping divers and adventurers alike to stay aware without losing precious seconds deciphering the dial. The overall design isn’t flashy or fussy — it’s simple because simplicity works.
Swiss Engineering Under the Surface
Powering the Marathon 41mm GSAR Type II Diver’s Automatic is a Swiss-made Sellita SW200-1 automatic movement, a proven workhorse known for its durability and accuracy.
The movement offers a 38-hour power reserve, hacking seconds (essential for precise time synchronization), and a smooth sweep of the second hand that mechanical watch lovers will appreciate.
Mechanical movements offer a unique peace of mind for adventurers — no reliance on batteries, just the tried-and-true relationship between movement and power. As long as you’re moving, your GSAR Type II is ticking, faithfully marking each second of your journey.
And for those few moments when life requires total stillness, the generous power reserve keeps the watch running smoothly even when you’re catching your breath.
A Watch for More Than Just Divers
Although the GSAR Type II was built with divers and rescue professionals in mind, it’s a timepiece that wears well far beyond the water’s edge.
- Explorers and travelers will appreciate the rugged build and dependable mechanical movement.
- First responders and military personnel will recognize the no-nonsense functionality that makes it perfect for duty wear.
- Collectors and enthusiasts will be drawn to its real-world pedigree and authentic military connection.
- Everyday adventurers will find comfort in its reliability — a watch that demands no special treatment but rewards with lasting service.
The GSAR Type II is not designed to impress at a boardroom meeting (though it could) — it’s designed to serve you on a trail, in the water, or wherever life’s next unpredictable moment might take you.
Heritage You Can Wear
Part of the unique charm of owning a Marathon watch like the GSAR Type II is knowing you’re wearing a piece of authentic heritage.
Marathon has been supplying timepieces to the military since the 1940s. Every decision made in the creation of this watch — from its robust case to its luminous markers — is informed by that long-standing relationship with real-world users who can’t afford to compromise on quality.
Wearing the GSAR Type II isn’t about wearing a status symbol — it’s about wearing a statement of capability, endurance, and respect for the craftsmanship that survives where others fall short.