Marathon Jeep Rubicon GSAR Automatic

Tool Watch or Rugged Icon

Words by: Hourstriker Staff
May 8, 2024
For those who crave a watch that goes beyond aesthetics, the new Marathon Jeep Rubicon GSAR Automatic is a timepiece built for purpose. This collaboration between two iconic brands - Marathon, a company with a rich history of supplying reliable gear to the military, and Jeep, a symbol of rugged capability - results in a watch that's as tough as it is functional.

The Jeep Rubicon GSAR is the latest addition to Marathon's popular Search and Rescue (SAR) dive watch series. First introduced in the 1990s to meet the exacting standards of the Canadian government, the SAR line has become a trusted tool for military and search and rescue professionals. The Jeep Rubicon GSAR stays true to this heritage, offering a blend of functionality and durability that's equally at home on a mountain rescue or navigating the urban jungle.

Courtesy of Marathon


While the technical specifications of the watch will be covered in detail in the second part of this article, a first glance reveals a timepiece designed to withstand the elements. The watch features a brushed 316L stainless steel case that measures 41mm in diameter. A unidirectional dive bezel with a 60-minute scale tops the case, allowing for precise timing during dives. The caseback is adorned with the Jeep brand's motto, "Go Anywhere, Do Anything," a fitting inscription for this all-terrain watch.

The dial of the Jeep Rubicon GSAR is designed for exceptional legibility, a critical feature for a tool watch. Marathon achieves this through a combination of clear indices and hands, all coated with a combination of tritium gas tubes and MaraGlo luminescent material. These elements ensure the watch face remains brightly illuminated in low-light conditions, essential for underwater operations or nighttime emergencies.

A closer look at the dial reveals subtle design cues that pay homage to Jeep's heritage. The red line bisecting the dial at the 12 o'clock position is a reimagined version of the redline indicator found on Jeep dashboards, a detail that will surely delight Jeep enthusiasts. The font used for the numerals also draws inspiration from the Jeep Wrangler 1941 Limited Edition, adding another touch of Jeep authenticity.

Courtesy of Marathon


The Marathon Jeep Rubicon GSAR is powered by a Swiss-made Sellita SW200-1 automatic movement, a well-respected and reliable workhorse known for its accuracy and robustness. With 26 jewels, it ensures smooth operation and reduced friction within the watch's mechanical components. An Incabloc shock absorber adds an extra layer of protection, safeguarding the movement from impacts, making it ideal for active individuals and professionals who work in demanding environments.

As a member of Marathon's Search and Rescue (SAR) dive watch series, the Jeep Rubicon GSAR is engineered for extreme conditions. Its water resistance rating of 30 ATM (300 meters) far exceeds the needs of recreational divers and ensures peace of mind in demanding aquatic environments. The case, crafted from marine-grade 316L stainless steel, provides exceptional corrosion resistance and strength, while the screw-down crown ensures watertightness and prevents accidental adjustments.

Courtesy of Marathon


A scratch-resistant sapphire crystal protects the watch's dial. Sapphire is renowned for its toughness, making it an ideal choice to withstand scratches and abrasions that might occur during outdoor adventures or professional use.

The Marathon Jeep Rubicon GSAR prioritizes functionality in every aspect of its design. The 60-minute unidirectional dive bezel features fully-hashed markings that provide clear timing intervals for divers or for anyone who needs to track elapsed time precisely. The bezel's knurled edge offers a secure grip, even with wet or gloved hands.

The Jeep Rubicon GSAR comes equipped with a three-piece OD Green rubber strap kit, perfectly complementing the watch's rugged aesthetic. This strap material offers exceptional water and sweat resistance, making it a practical choice for demanding environments. The tang buckle ensures a secure fit and allows for easy adjustments.

Courtesy of Marathon


When visibility matters, the Marathon Jeep Rubicon GSAR delivers. The watch's use of tritium gas tubes and MaraGlo luminescent material ensure legibility under the most challenging lighting conditions. Tritium gas tubes provide a constant glow, requiring no exposure to external light sources, while the MaraGlo elements offer additional brightness, especially after being charged by light. This combination of technologies ensures continuous illumination, a critical feature for search and rescue operations, night diving, or even navigating a dimly lit campsite.

Several subtle design elements throughout the watch seamlessly incorporate Jeep's heritage, adding to the timepiece's unique appeal. The Jeep brand's classic seven-slot grille is engraved on the side of the case, a testament to the shared utilitarian roots of both brands. The Willys star, an emblem of Jeep's World War II legacy, features prominently on the knurled crown, adding a touch of historical significance to the watch.

Courtesy of Marathon


Every detail of the Marathon Jeep Rubicon GSAR speaks to its commitment to craftsmanship. The watch's brushed stainless steel finish exudes a sense of purposefulness, while the engraved caseback proudly bears the motto "Go Anywhere, Do Anything." The inscription "Since 1941" subtly acknowledges the long-standing history of both Jeep and Marathon. Moreover, each timepiece is individually serialized, emphasizing its uniqueness.

The Marathon Jeep Rubicon GSAR Automatic watch transcends the boundaries of a mere timepiece. It's a testament to the enduring partnership between two iconic brands with a shared dedication to building tools that meet the highest standards of performance and durability. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, a Jeep aficionado, or simply someone who values a watch that's built to last, the Jeep Rubicon GSAR deserves a closer look.
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