MICROMILSPEC US Space Force

Military equipment is traditionally defined by rigid specifications, mass production, and a utilitarian ethos that prioritizes function over form. It is rare to find equipment that bridges the gap between field-ready durability and the bespoke refinement typically associated with high-end Swiss manufacturing. Micromilspec operates in this specific niche, creating timepieces that are not merely inspired by military aesthetics but are designed in direct collaboration with the units that wear them. Based in Oslo, Norway, the brand has carved out a reputation for producing custom watches for specialized groups ranging from the Norwegian Telemark Battalion to the United States Secret Service. Usually, these watches are strictly reserved for members of those specific units, making them unobtainable for the general public. However, the release of the U.S. Space Force Civilian Edition changes that dynamic, offering a rare "declassified" opportunity to own a timepiece originally conceived for the newest branch of the American armed forces.



The genesis of this particular watch lies in a collaboration with members of the United States Space Force. As the first new military service established in the U.S. in nearly 70 years, the Space Force is currently building its own traditions and visual identity. This timepiece serves as a physical manifestation of that emerging culture. It was not a quick branding exercise; the design process spanned nearly two years and involved securing official authorization to use the branch's symbols and motto. The result is a watch that feels distinct from the sea of pilot and field watches that dominate the market. It incorporates specific design language relevant to orbital warfare and space operations without veering into the realm of science fiction novelty. It remains, at its core, a serious tool watch built to withstand significant environmental pressure while maintaining a level of finishing that stands up to scrutiny under a loupe.



Visually, the watch presents a strong, architectural profile on the wrist. The case utilizes a signature octagonal geometry that feels modern and aggressive, yet the edges are chamfered to prevent them from catching on gear or clothing. Constructed from 316L surgical-grade stainless steel, the metal work is predominantly satin-brushed. This finish is a practical choice for a military-adjacent timepiece, as it hides scratches better than a high-polish finish and reduces reflective glare in bright environments. The case measures 42 millimeters in diameter, a versatile size that offers significant wrist presence without becoming unwieldy. With a thickness of just 12 millimeters, it sits relatively low for a dive-capable tool watch, allowing it to slide easily under a cuff or a glove. The lug-to-lug distance of 50.3 millimeters ensures the watch hugs the wrist securely, balancing the head weight effectively against the bracelet or strap.



The bezel is a standout feature, utilizing a unidirectional 120-click system. Unlike standard dive bezels that often feature an insert made of aluminum or ceramic, this bezel appears to be machined from steel with recessed numerals at the ten-minute marks. The numerals are bold and legible, filled with a contrasting material to ensure readability. At the twelve o'clock position, a large triangular marker provides a quick visual reference for timing operations. The grip on the bezel is engineered for tactile feedback, allowing for operation even while wearing gloves. Protecting the dial is a domed sapphire crystal treated with an anti-reflective coating. This is a critical specification for a watch intended to be read quickly in varying lighting conditions, ensuring that the elaborate dial texture remains visible without fighting against glare.



The dial itself is where the Space Force narrative is most clearly articulated. It features a matte black base that serves as a backdrop for a series of concentric engraved lines, representing planetary orbits. This texture adds depth and visual interest, catching the light in a way that animates the face of the watch as the wrist moves. Scattered across this orbital field are stylized stars, reinforcing the celestial theme. The United States Space Force Delta logo is proudly displayed at the six o'clock position, while the MICROMILSPEC wordmark sits below the twelve o'clock marker. Surrounding the main dial is a rehaut laser-engraved with the unit motto, "SEMPER SUPRA," meaning "Always Above." This detail is subtle, visible primarily to the wearer, and serves as a constant reminder of the unit's doctrine.



Time is indicated by a set of hands that are unique to this reference. They are not the standard baton or sword hands found on off-the-shelf components. Instead, the hour and minute hands are shaped to resemble the dynamic plume of a rocket launch. They taper and flare in a way that suggests motion and propulsion, a clever integration of the branch's primary vehicle of operation into the functional elements of the watch. A date window is positioned at three o'clock, integrated unobtrusively with a black date wheel and white numerals. This color matching prevents the date complication from disrupting the symmetry of the dark dial, a detail often overlooked in lesser watches. The seconds hand features a distinctive counterweight and sweeps smoothly around the dial, ticking at a frequency that hints at the mechanical engine within.



Powering the U.S. Space Force watch is the Swiss-made Sellita SW200-1 automatic movement. This is a workhorse caliber known throughout the industry for its reliability and serviceability. It operates at 28,800 vibrations per hour (4 Hz), which provides a smooth sweep to the seconds hand and stable timekeeping performance. MICROMILSPEC has opted for the Spécial (Elaboré) grade of this movement, which allows for tighter adjustment and better average accuracy, rated here at roughly plus or minus seven seconds per day. The movement features 26 jewels to reduce friction in the gear train and offers a power reserve of approximately 38 hours. While this isn't a multi-day power reserve, it is perfectly adequate for a daily wearer. The reliability of the SW200-1 means that parts are readily available, and any competent watchmaker can service the movement decades down the line, ensuring the watch remains operational for the long haul.



The movement is visible through a sapphire exhibition caseback, a feature that allows the owner to appreciate the mechanical complexity of the machine. The rotor has been customized by MICROMILSPEC, featuring the brand's logo and specific finishing that elevates it above a standard stock rotor. The caseback also provides space for personal engraving, allowing up to 20 characters. This is a nod to the military tradition of engraving service watches with names, ranks, or dates. The steel surrounding the glass is engraved with technical specs, including the 20 ATM water resistance rating and the individual serial number of the watch. This 200-meter water resistance is achieved in part through the use of a screw-down crown, which is protected by substantial, chamfered crown guards that rise organically from the side of the case.



Securement to the wrist is handled by a seamlessly integrated system. The watch is available with a stainless steel bracelet, a leather strap, or a rubber strap. The stainless steel bracelet continues the satin-brushed finish of the case, creating a cohesive, monolithic look. The links are flat and angular, mirroring the architectural lines of the case. The integration point between the lugs is tight, with no unsightly gaps, emphasizing the custom nature of the manufacturing. The bracelet is designed to be "one size fits all," likely meaning it has a generous number of removable links and potentially a micro-adjustment system in the clasp to accommodate various wrist sizes. For those who prefer a lighter option, the rubber and leather straps are custom-molded to fit the specific lug geometry of the case, ensuring they flush perfectly against the watch head.



The experience of owning this watch extends beyond the timepiece itself. It arrives in a high-gloss piano lacquer display box that feels substantial and premium. The interior is lined with a soft-touch material to protect the watch and accessories. Inside the box, owners will find a complimentary custom military patch featuring the Space Force logo, a nice collectible that reinforces the connection to the unit. There is also a dedicated compartment for a strap-change tool and extra storage for additional straps, encouraging the owner to swap between the bracelet and straps to change the look of the watch. A premium fiber cloth, decorated with the brand's motifs, is included for keeping the crystal and case free of fingerprints.



One of the most reassuring aspects of this package is the warranty support. MICROMILSPEC offers a five-year international warranty that covers all material and manufacturing defects. The terms are refreshingly simple: if a defect exists in the movement, dial, hands, or case that is the fault of the manufacturer, they will fix or replace it. This level of support is crucial for a brand that sells primarily online, giving buyers confidence that their investment is protected. The certificate of authenticity included in the box is linked to the specific serial number of the watch, which is required for any second-hand warranty claims, adding a layer of provenance to the ownership experience.



The availability of the U.S. Space Force Civilian Edition is strictly controlled. As a "Declassified Edition," MICROMILSPEC limits production to just 25 pieces annually. This scarcity is not artificial marketing hype but a result of their production capacity, which is primarily dedicated to fulfilling orders for active military units. The manual "eye-to-hand" finishing required for each case and the rigorous quality control processes restrict the total output. This makes the watch an exceptionally rare sight in the wild. You are far less likely to run into someone wearing this than you are to see a standard luxury diver from a major Swiss house.



Pricing reflects the specialized nature of the production and the Swiss components used. The version on the stainless steel bracelet is priced at $1,815 USD. The leather strap variation comes in at $1,775 USD, while the rubber strap option is slightly more accessible at $1,725 USD. Given the specifications—Swiss automatic movement, custom engineering, 200 meters of water resistance, and the limited nature of the release—the pricing is competitive within the landscape of boutique tool watches. It offers a tangible connection to the U.S. Space Force in a package that is built to professional standards, making it a compelling option for those who value rarity and military provenance in their collection.



Case: 42mm diameter, 12mm thickness, 50.3mm lug-to-lug. Constructed from 316L surgical grade stainless steel with a satin brushed finish. Features a 120-click unidirectional bezel, screw-in crown with chamfered crown guards, and a domed sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating. Water resistant to 200m (20 bar). Sapphire exhibition caseback allows for personal engraving up to 20 characters.

Movement: Swiss made Sellita SW200-1 Spécial (Elaboré) grade automatic movement. Operates at 28,800 vph (4 Hz) with 26 jewels and a 38-hour power reserve. Adjusted by MICROMILSPEC and fitted with a custom rotor. Accuracy rating of 7 ±7 seconds per day.

Dial: Matte black dial featuring the US Space Force Delta logo with a pattern of stars and orbits. Laser engraved dial ring displays the unit motto "SEMPER SUPRA". Hands are designed to resemble the plume of a launching rocket. Date window located at 3 o'clock.

Strap: Available with an integrated 316L stainless steel bracelet, custom rubber strap, or leather strap. 20mm width with a "one size fits all" design.

Price: USD 1,815 (Stainless Steel Bracelet), USD 1,775 (Leather Strap), USD 1,725 (Rubber Strap).

Notes: Limited production "Declassified Edition" restricted to 25 pieces annually. Designed in official collaboration with the United States Space Force over a two-year period. Comes with a custom military patch and a 5-year international warranty.