Tech 4 O AS1O- Alti Ski Watch (Orange)

When I received this watch the display would not lite so I called the tech service number and they decided that the battery was bad. They said that they would send a new battery but meanwhile I decided to remove the battery and read it's voltage. When I opened the back I found an extra screw floating around inside the watch, it must have shorted out the battery. Also, while putting the back on I noticed that the O-ring that seals the watch was very difficult to keep in place and I was concerned about it's water-tightness. I called them back, reported the problems and asked for a replacement. They said to send it back and they would replace it but wouldn't pay for shipping back to them.

A week after they received the watch I had not got the replacement, so I called and they said that the replacement was going out that day. Another week passed so I called them again and they said that it was going out today! I did receive the watch 4 days after the last call.

Now, about the watch. Previously, I owned a Suunto Vector for 6 years but it finally gave up after much abuse (highly recommended). I decided to look to see what else was available. The Tech4O was less than half the price and didn't look like a hockey puck sitting on my wrist so I thought I'd give it a try. I've been wearing it for about a month now and it's pretty easy to use and functions well. I am a cyclist as well as a climber and skier, and have been using it to keep track of the climbing that I do on my rides. I can't speak to its accuracy, on the rides that I've done, it says I've climbed more than I expected. It is also very nice for back-country skiing as it gives the rate of assent and decent. As far as durability, we'll see.

Update - March 21, 2008

What do they mean by "Water Resistant"? When I see "water resistant" on a watch I'd think that it isn't for scuba diving but I'd think that it would be able to withstand a dunk in water?!? From the owner's manual:

"Digital Watches are water resistant, they are not waterproof. Damage resulting from excessive exposure to water, heat or cold is not covered under this warranty."

Well, I went for a swim in a hot spring with this watch on and the next thing I know there is water in the display and it is done, just throw it in the garbage. Also, from the owner's manual:

"Normal wear, and damage due to the abrasion, melting, misuse, alteration, and abuse (including any disassemble) are not covered by this warranty."

I guess that this is just not the watch for me, I'm probably not their intended customer because the watches I own get some abuse. So, I'm amending my previous review to one star. Now, I'll go buy a Suunto.