How to use a Wrist Watch as a Compass

This old wilderness training trick comes in handy if you happen to get lost in the woods or need to get your bearings for some reason. As long as your wristwatch is equipped with a traditional clock face and hands, it is relatively easy to use it to find your way home again.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Point the hour hand in the direction of the sun. This will provide the anchor for developing an accurate compass reading, as all further steps play off this first bit of orientation.

2. Imagine a line that runs from the midway point between the hour hand and the Twelve to the opposite side of the watch face. This line will serve as your north-south line and allow you to form a sense of direction from your current location.

3. Use the time of day and the position of the sun to determine which end of the line is north and which is south. Keep in mind the sun sets in the west and rises in the east. Once you have defined the north-south line completely, it is easy to determine the east-west line and use the watch to move in any direction you choose.

Tips & Warnings

• This approach works only if you happen to be in the Northern Hemisphere. If you are in the southern hemisphere, point the Twelve at the sun rather than the hour hand.
• Double-check your bearings before moving off in any direction, just to make sure you followed the formula correctly. This will make it much easier keep up with your movements and hopefully find your way to help.