Wrist-tastic

Suunto announce their new computer watch - the M9

Suunto has produced what they claim is their most technical, stylish and sophisticated wristop computer yet: the Suunto M9.

Incorporating the smallest, lightest GPS technology available, the Suunto M9 is a mobile, lightweight race navigation computer, or 'Personal Sailing Instrument', offering yachtsmen instant access to invaluable information whenever they are navigating the seas, including speed, distance, headers, lift etc.

Providing data previously obtainable only through on-board electronics, the M9 allows every sailor to accurately follow the performance of his vessel, as well as giving him access to tactical on board data, whatever the size of his boat.

Weighing just 75g, as well as the GPS function (which has 500 waypoints with 50 reversible routes) the M9 includes a watch, barometer, thermometer, altimeter, and 3D compass, all enclosed in a streamlined plastic casing and strap, providing the strength, comfort and longevity required in the harsh, unforgiving conditions of the mariner's world.

In a racing situation, the M9 provides tactical information to help you achieve the perfect start and course, allowing you to improve your performance and potentially sail faster. It tells you the best tack to take, the speed needed to cross the starting line, and it calculates which side of the course to take, identifying laylines, and displaying your ETA at each mark, all by measuring wind direction and the location of the marks. A new bias can be calculated anytime by updating changed wind direction. And throughout the race, the M9 silently learns and logs the course as you are sailing, detecting reach and up-wind legs, for later review.

While cruising, it gives your position and shows you the best course to take to your destination, while the barometer facility forecasts changes in the weather. And don't forget the quick access Man Overboard-feature which could make all the difference in a life-and-death situation.

Link the M9 to your PC, using Suunto's new Sail Manager software, and all the information automatically collected during your sailing session can be downloaded, bringing a new dimension to training, racing and navigation. You can also use Speed Polar Data to review a whole series of races.

Suunto's website, SuuntoSports.com, accessed via the M9, is a forum for all mariners to exchange information. From it you can download Admiralty charts to help with plotting your next course or reviewing your last one, or compare performance and tactics with other M9 users to improve your sailing overall.

The M9's rechargeable battery will last about four hours in racing mode, two to three weeks while off-shore sailing, or up to 18 months if used solely as a watch. It retails at £500.