Dispatch #2: Two Jobs, Two Watches
Most people think choosing a watch is about style. On the frontline, it’s usually about practicality.
Today’s submission comes from an ambulance worker who is preparing to join the prison service once their pre-employment checks are complete. Their watch collection reflects the demands of both roles, with each watch earning its place for very different reasons.
Rather than sticking with one watch for everything, they found that different environments called for different tools.
For ambulance work, they wear a Garmin Venu 3S.
Before that, their daily watch was a Casio G-Shock, chosen for its toughness. But after spending more time treating patients, they realised its chunky case could accidentally catch or mark the delicate skin of vulnerable patients while providing care.
It wasn’t a criticism of the G-Shock—quite the opposite. It simply wasn’t the best tool for that particular environment.
After researching alternatives, they settled on the Garmin Venu 3S.
Away from work, they’re highly active, so the Garmin’s fitness tracking, GPS and long battery life made it an easy choice. Around ten days of battery life with typical use—or around five days when regularly using GPS—means it’s ready for both shifts and training without constantly reaching for a charger.
If all goes to plan, though, another change is coming.
Once they move into the prison service, the G-Shock will return to their wrist.
Prison work presents different challenges. Ruggedness, simplicity and durability become much higher priorities, making the G-Shock a natural fit for the role.
It’s a reminder that there isn’t a single “perfect” watch for blue light workers. The best watch is often the one that suits the job you’re doing.
This story perfectly captures what Watches of Blue Light is all about. Behind every watch is a decision, an experience, or a lesson learned on the frontline.
What about you?
Do you wear a different watch depending on your role, or have you found one watch that does it all?
If you’d like your watch and story featured on Watches of Blue Light, send us a photo along with a few details about what you wear, what you do, and why you chose it. Every watch has a story—we’d love to tell yours.