The display is in reverse format, that means the background is in black, and the alpha numeric characters are in silver and white. Adjusting the contrast in the Suunto concealed menu will help, however, still not as sharp as the typical black letter on bright background. No negligence of Suunto, but simply the way the style is.

The buttons are responsive and easy to press. To navigate through the menus, the “Mode” button and the “View” button have to be pressed in various combination to get what you need. It may appear complicated initially, but when you understand the rational structure, it is relatively easy to remember. Give yourself a few days to get used to it.

Compliments: Very accurate ABC. I compare their readings using the actual ABC instruments. The accuracy is incredible and is better than the Casio Pathfinder in the dirt! The storm alarms responds to the atmosphere pressure change accurately also. The electronic compass is awesome. Once you set the course, the bearing indicator would show an arrow and directional text (right and left), to guide you to the correct course, which is a great feature. User installable batteries which is great to save a lot of cash down the road.

Problems: The directional rotation ring is difficult to move. For those who have finger nails, you should use them, if you chew your finger nails, best of luck. The alarm is a bit gentle and hard to hear sometimes. A similar problem as the Pathfinder. I wish they can make it higher. The wrist strap looks cheap. The illuminator is a bit poor too.

Ideas: This watch has gained a lot of negative reps as a result of poor quality control in its manufacturer plant in China. It’s been a lot of issues and reported problem. After doing a bit of research, it seems that Suunto has finally repaired the hardware and software glitches. Whenever you buy this watch, make sure the serial number starts from “918xxxxxx” onward. My own is “944″ and so far it’s great. You should email the seller, to make sure they send you the new version as mentioned above, your new watch won’t spend most of its life going back and forth in the shipping and delivery trucks.

Joshua Lidenberg values fine wristop computers for many years now. Everyone who likes to spend time in the mother nature needs a great outdoor instrument like Suunto Core and especially the prime of the line Suunto Core All Black