Garmin has long been the leader in GPS watches for runners and other athletes, and the company shows its knack for innovation and line expansion by introducing the Approach S1 golf GPS watch. Unlike the many-featured, color-screen golf GPS handhelds on the market (Garmin makes those too), the Approach S1 keeps things simple. Its monochrome display shows distance to the front, back, and center of the green from anywhere on the course, and has a few other features, such as a shot distance tracker and odometer. I grew to like what the Approach S1 offers. Read on for the full review.
ProsConvenient - distance information always with you on your wrist.
Reasonable cost ($249 - $255)
Free (with product lifetime updates) 16,500+ U.S. and Canadian golf course database.
Also serves as a normal watch (shows time and date).
ConsSome golfers prefer not to wear a watch while they play.
Doesn't show hole overviews or distances to hazards.
DescriptionFree golf course database and updates, with 16,500+ U.S. and Canadian courses. No subscription required.
Shows distance to front, back, and center of the green from anywhere on the course.
Can measure individual shot distance.
Odometer measures walking distance.
Dimensions: 1.8" x 2.7" x 0.6" (4.5 x 6.9 x 1.4 cm). Weight - 1.8 ounces.
Display size: 1" x 1". Display - monochrome LCD.
Battery: rechargeable lithium-ion, with 8-hour life in GPS mode, 3-week life in watch mode.
Waterproof.
Legal under the rules of golf.
