Compass direction using a watch

Finding North using a watch: A watch can be used to find North. This approach works more accurately the further your latitude is away from the equator. Also, the most accurate results are obtained when your watch is set to true local time (that is, the watch reads 12:00 when the sun is directly overhead - Depending on the time of year, local standard time can vary up to an hour from local time. Local daylight savings time can vary as much as 2 hours.)

A standard watch (one with a 12 hour dial) can be used to determine North using the procedure listed below:

• Direction w/ Conventional Watch [1]

Specialized 24 Hour Watch with Compass Card Dial

Direction Finding with a 24 Hour Watch

A more direct reading approach can be had using a 24 hour watch. The hour hand is pointed directly at the sun. North is indicated opposite the local noon position (In the Northern Hemisphere). The photo to the left shows a specialized 24 hour watch optimized for finding directions using the sun.

• See Astrocompass for related information