Hamilton · Khaki Navy BeLOWZERO 1000m Auto
The model in detail
Meet the watch
On Mark Watney's wrist in The Martian is a watch rated to 1,000 metres underwater. The story sends him into a very different environment, which makes for a neat bit of prop irony. Hamilton explicitly identifies the Khaki Navy BeLOWZERO H78585333 as the screen model worn by Matt Damon's character in the 2015 film.
This reference has a black PVD-coated steel case, domed sapphire crystal and helium escape valve. It measures 46 mm across and 16.7 mm thick, with a stated 100 bar water-resistance rating. Those are serious dive-watch figures, but for daily wear the more useful test is to try it under a cuff and assess the weight and fit of the large case.
An automatic ETA 2826-2 inside has a stated 42-hour power reserve. Its rotor replenishes energy as the wrist moves; left aside for several days, the watch will stop. A mechanical movement and substantial water resistance do not make it suitable for an expedition to Mars: the film used an existing Earthbound model.
Details and limitations
Do not confuse the screen-worn H78585333 with the BeLOWZERO H78505330 associated with the 2020 film Tenet. The materials, reference and movement differ. A similar name and black silhouette do not mean that the two films show the same watch.
Hamilton lists H78585333 as a past-collection model unavailable to order online. If seeking one today, verify the exact reference, condition of the coating and water-resistance after servicing. The original 100 bar factory rating is not a current test result for an individual pre-owned watch.