- Garmin drops new tactix 8 Cerakote Edition
- The ultra-premium adventure watch now gets a new baked-on rugged coating
- It's being released at the same time as new golfing equipment, including a watch for juniors
Garmin has introduced a new version of its tactix 8 smartwatch, now featuring a Cerakote ceramic coating that enhances its durability. Priced at $1,599.99 / £1,379.99 / AU$2,799, this 51mm watch is slightly more expensive than the standard model, which retails for $1,399.99 / £1,279.99 / AU$2,449.
The Cerakote coating is applied through a process where it is sprayed onto each smartwatch and then baked to cure, resulting in a unique look that improves with wear. Despite the new coating, the tactix 8 retains all the features of its non-Cerakote counterpart, including a 1.4-inch AMOLED display, a green LED flashlight, and comprehensive GPS functionalities like TopoActive maps and SatIQ GPS connectivity.
This tactical watch includes features such as a low-light Stealth Mode, a 'kill switch' for data security, and an Applied Ballistics solver, which provides environmental data for shooting accuracy. Additionally, Garmin Pay, call capabilities, activity and sleep tracking, race predictions, and an impressive 29-day battery life make the tactix 8 a formidable competitor among civilian smartwatches.
New golf gear: Garmin Approach J1
Alongside the tactix 8 Cerakote Edition, Garmin has launched a new range of golf equipment, including the Garmin Approach J1, designed specifically for junior golfers. Weighing only 29g and featuring a 1.2-inch screen, this watch offers up to 10 days of battery life and is water-resistant for light rain and wind.
The Approach J1 provides tee-off guidance, club selection assistance, and serves as a general activity-tracking smartwatch, priced at $299.99 / £309.99 / AU$499. Garmin has also introduced the Approach G82, a handheld golf unit for those preferring not to wear a watch.