Marathon has introduced a limited edition Anthracite Stainless Steel Pilot’s Navigator to mark the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 2026.
The watch gives one of Marathon’s most recognizable military-derived designs a series of American-themed details, while keeping the practical Pilot’s Navigator format intact.
A Navigator with deep military roots
Although Marathon is a Canadian brand, its connection to the United States military is central to this release.
The Pilot’s Navigator was developed in partnership with Kelly Air Force Base in San Antonio in 1986, and Marathon has long supplied MIL-SPEC watches to the Department of Defense and multiple branches of the U.S. military.
Anthracite steel and flag-coded details
The 41mm case is made from anthracite stainless steel with a black ion-plated finish, giving the watch a darker look than the standard Navigator models.
Marathon ties the case color to the line “the twilight’s last gleaming” from the national anthem, while the single red tritium tube at 12 o’clock nods to “the rockets’ red glare.”
Just below 12 o’clock, the dial carries a 1776 stamp encircled by stars, a clear reference to the early American flag commonly associated with Betsy Ross.
A display back first for Marathon
This edition also introduces a notable first for the brand, as it is Marathon’s first watch fitted with a display caseback.
Through it, the wearer can see the Sellita SW200 automatic movement that powers the watch.
The screw-down crown helps deliver 100 meters of water resistance, while the bidirectional 12-hour bezel keeps the Navigator useful as a simple second-time-zone tool.
Limited to 250 pieces at $1,776
The caseback includes patriotic engravings, including “In God We Trust,” and the crown is engraved with a star.
Even the strap joins the theme, using bison leather in a nod to America’s national mammal.
Marathon will produce 250 examples of the Anthracite Stainless Steel Pilot’s Navigator, with orders open through official Marathon channels and shipping expected around July 4.
The retail price is $1,776, making the watch a very deliberate anniversary piece for collectors drawn to Marathon’s military history and functional pilot-watch design.
