I have a Ronstan Clear Start racing watch. One of the buttons quit functioning, so I emailed Ronstan and asked for help. Very shortly after that email I received a replacement watch.

This is the kind of support that deserves recognition.

If you are looking for a racing watch, the Ronstan Clear Start is highly recommended.

Sorry, but I have to disagree. More specifically, I have a problem with the Optimum Time version, which looks exactly like the Ronstan one. I have had several, and the seal failed on all of them. Same for several friends - granted, the supplier replaced them, as if they were too used to doing so. Not good to find yourself without a watch once or twice per season though, although I suppose you could always run a two watch strategy...

I have tried many dinghy watches, some up to £75. I like a gadget as much as the next man, but I have settled on a cheap Casio Sea Pathfinder - £25 and indestructible.

Just for a change, rather than replace the battery after several years usage, I went for a more expensive 'treat' last time round. It lasted two days before I cracked the watch face. Back to the Casio...

No, I don't work for them. I just wish the big Ronstan / Optimum watch would get its seals sorted out.

Three years ago I bought a $10 watch from Sprawl Mart for sailing. I figured it'd be toast in a couple of weeks. It still works, blows me away. And now I realize I've just dealt this watch a death sentance. <img src="http://www.catsailor.com/forums/images/graemlins/crazy.gif" alt="" />

My Clear Start lasted 5 years before one of the buttons popped out and this was with some ROUGH use.

Doug