deck watch

noun

1. (on a ship) a precision watch used on deck for navigational purposes to avoid disturbing the chronometer.

Word History and Origins

Origin of deck watch¹

First recorded in 1855–60

Example Sentences

"After you with the deck watch," I said to the Snotty who was using it.

From Project Gutenberg

Small boat with two enlisted men approaching, sir, called out the deck watch of the big battleship Long Island.

From Project Gutenberg

Only one officer at a time kept deck watch, and only one engineer officer down below.

From Project Gutenberg

It was still Rainey's deck-watch, and at any moment Carlsen might relinquish the wheel back to him as soon as the girl got tired.

From Project Gutenberg

We were called up one evening by the deck-watch to see for ourselves a “ball of fire floating up and down above the ice-field.”

From Project Gutenberg