Why CIA Paramilitary Officers Wear the Timex Ironman

In the world of CIA paramilitary operations, a watch isn’t just a timepiece—it’s a tool, a statement, and sometimes, a statement of solidarity. Operators in the Special Activities Center (SAC)—recruited from the ranks of Army Rangers, Navy SEALs, and Marine Raiders—carry over a deep-rooted watch culture from their military backgrounds. While Rolex, Breitling, and Panerai might be on their wrists stateside, in the field, practicality takes precedence.

One example? The Timex Ironman.

During deployments, CIA Paramilitary Officers (PMOOs) have been known to wear Timex Ironman watches to match their local partner forces, creating an unspoken bond of trust and mutual respect.

While these officers may own high-end mechanical watches, the decision to wear a simple, reliable digital tool watch in combat zones underscores a fundamental truth—sometimes, the most effective gear is the least flashy.

The Glomar Explorer: A Strap with a Mission

But whether it’s a high-end dive watch or a Timex Ironman, a watch is only as good as the strap that keeps it secure. Enter the Glomar Explorer Hook-and-Loop Strap—a premium upgrade inspired by one of the CIA’s boldest covert missions.

Named after the USNS Hughes Glomar Explorer, a deep-sea recovery vessel used to secretly retrieve a sunken Soviet submarine in 1974, this strap embodies clandestine operations, rugged reliability, and purpose-built design.

Mission-Ready Design

• Ultra-thin matte weave nylon – Built for durability without bulk.
• 316L stainless steel buckle – Tough, secure, and engraved with “use your tools.”
• Snug strap keeper – Prevents the velcro from coming loose during movement.
• Color Options – Black, OG Green, and Admiralty Grey.
• Two Sizes – Standard (6.5”–8”) and Short (5.5”–6.5”).

Find Out More in this article by Watches of Espionage!