How the Navy SEALS Helped Turn Luminox into a Wristwear Icon

Sic parvis magna.

“Greatness from small beginnings.”

It started with an idea, as so many great things do. A mission to conceive a superior watch that would represent the elite to the fullest and become a mainstay both at the Naval Special Warfare Center in Coronado and in some of the most treacherous environments out there. A timepiece to become synonymous with the spirit, determination, and expertise of those who don’t expect anything to ever come easy. In short, a watch suitable for a Navy SEAL.

Although the genesis for such a watch was clear in the mind of Chief Nick North, the visionary Assistant Officer to the Development, Test, and Evaluation (RDT&E) unit for the Navy SEALs on that fateful day in 1992, the brand that could execute the demands was still to be determined. Until he came face-to-face with the Luminox team at the Outdoor Retailer Show in Reno, Nevada.

After a great deal of innovation and the further development of what soon became Luminox’s bread and butter– the self-powered tritium lume which allowed for ultimate visibility for up to 25 years in any conditions, the Original Navy SEAL 3000 series was a go, and the field watch industry felt a massive shift.

Surprisingly lightweight but never overbuilt. Rugged, yet engineered with precision to perfection. Tough and timeless.

With its legendary CARBONOX™ case and slick uni-directional rotating bezel, this operational ally is unmistakable to those in the field and out. Also, a hit with athletes and adventure-seeking Americans, the 200mm dive capability lets the wearer explore the depths of what’s possible without worrying if their watch can keep up.


The series has continued to evolve over the last three decades, and so has the deep-rooted connection between the brand and the unit that put it firmly on the map. Always in the middle of the action, operating as bright as the ALWAYS VISIBLE tagline that emblazons its lineup.

Today, Luminox not only has expanded its SEALs-related series, but they’ve also created collections for the US Coast Guard, NYPD, and US Air Force as well as such adventure luminaries such as Scott Cassell and Bear Grylls.


Firmly entrenched at May’s GOVX Gives Back Matching Partner, Luminox has pledged to match donations on behalf of the military and first responder non-profit, Folds of Honor. As an added bonus, each time you order up a wrist warrior from their powerfully patriotic VOLITION AMERICA series an even greater contribution goes towards their vital mission.

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