Militado ML17 Review – A No-Nonsense Field Watch with Real Military Character

The Militado ML17 is a compact field watch that draws directly from classic military timepieces, particularly those associated with the Dirty Dozen lineage. At around $50 before tax, it sits firmly in the budget category, yet its specification set suggests a level of intent that goes beyond simple cost-cutting. In this segment of the market, small differences in execution often matter more than raw specifications. Stainless steel construction, a screw-down crown and caseback, and 100 metres of water resistance are not typical givens at this price.

Rather than chasing decorative flourishes, the ML17 focuses on proportion, legibility, and everyday robustness. On the wrist, it presents itself as a practical tool first and a design object second. The result is a watch that feels considered and purposeful—one that understands the role of a modern field watch and executes it with restraint.

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Design & Case

The ML17 uses a rectangular cushion-style stainless steel case measuring 36 mm wide, 10.6 mm thick, with a 41.6 mm lug-to-lug. These compact dimensions make it immediately comfortable, particularly for smaller wrists, while the bold dial layout prevents it from feeling undersized on larger wrists.

The case finish is entirely horizontally brushed, executed finely enough to catch the light almost like a soft polish. Along the upper edge, a polished bevel adds a subtle layer of refinement without compromising the utilitarian character. Lug width is a standard 20 mm, keeping strap options broad and practical. The design language here will feel familiar to anyone drawn to military-field watches with a comparable visual identity.

At 3 o’clock, a 5 mm signed screw-down crown sits slightly recessed into the case flank. This integration reinforces the vintage military feel while offering protection during wear. Combined with the screw-down caseback, the case construction supports a 100 m water resistance rating, well suited to daily outdoor use.

Movement & Crown

Powering the Militado ML17 is the Miyota GL12 quartz movement, a slim caliber commonly used in minimalist and retro-inspired designs. It operates at one tick per second, with a stated accuracy of ±20 seconds per month and an estimated battery life of around three years.

The movement is a three-hand configuration with no date, an intentional choice that complements the clean, legible field-watch dial. There are no complications to manage, keeping operation simple and focused.

Despite its modest 5 mm diameter, the crown is notably grippy thanks to its bead-blasted texture. Unscrewing the crown is easy, and once pulled out, time-setting offers clear tactile feedback. The action feels controlled and precise, aligning well with the watch’s tool-oriented intent.

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Bezel

The Militado ML17 does not feature a bezel, remaining faithful to traditional field watch design. The absence of a rotating or fixed bezel keeps the case profile clean and uncluttered, allowing the focus to remain on the dial and crystal.

This design decision reinforces the ML17’s purpose as a straightforward time-only instrument rather than a timing tool. It also contributes to the watch’s compact feel on the wrist, with nothing extending beyond the case edges or adding visual bulk.

In use, the lack of a bezel enhances clarity and balance, underscoring the watch’s military-inspired roots and prioritisation of legibility over additional functionality.

Strap

Instead of a bracelet, the ML17 is supplied on a one-piece fabric pass-through strap. The strap features a black base with a central beige stripe, delivering a subtle military aesthetic that complements the overall design.

The material feels durable yet flexible, sitting comfortably on the wrist during extended wear. A single wide canvas keeper secures the excess strap without adding unnecessary bulk. The clasp is simple, brushed, and unbranded, aligning neatly with the utilitarian theme.

Thanks to standard spring bars, strap changes are straightforward. The ML17 adapts easily to alternatives such as vintage tan leather, distressed brown leather, or even a black rally strap, allowing its character to shift without disrupting visual balance.

Crystal & Dial

Dominating the profile is a tall box-style K1 mineral crystal with an anti-reflective coating. Rising straight from the bezelless case, it gives the watch an unmistakably old-school silhouette while maintaining modern usability. Under certain lighting, subtle blue and violet hues appear from the AR treatment.

Beneath the crystal sits a matte black dial with fully printed elements. A crisp white minute track runs around the perimeter, punctuated by beige lume pips at five-minute intervals. Bold Arabic numerals from 1 to 11 are paired with a triangle at 12, alternating between beige and white for visual balance.

Branding is minimal, limited to a small crow’s foot emblem beneath 12 o’clock. The handset features polished outlines filled with beige lume, complemented by a slim chrome seconds hand. In low light, the printed lume delivers a long-lasting glow in mixed green and blue tones.

Summary

The Militado ML17 succeeds by staying true to its field-watch brief. Compact, legible, and robust, it combines stainless steel construction, a reliable Japanese quartz movement, and 100 m water resistance at a notably accessible price point.

While the K1 mineral crystal may stand out as a compromise for some, it is balanced by strong lume performance, thoughtful case finishing, and disciplined design choices. For those seeking a straightforward field watch with vintage military character and everyday practicality, the ML17 offers a coherent and convincing package. For a wider view of how this watch compares within the brand, you may want to revisit our other Militado reviews.

Specifications – Militado ML17

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