by Brent Robillard
To boldy go
When you first encounter the Micromilspec Space Force, the impression is unmistakably one of purpose. There’s a restrained seriousness to it—an almost military austerity—but it’s balanced by subtle thematic details that make this a watch tied to its namesake in more than branding alone. I had the opportunity to spend time with the model on the textured rubber strap, though the Space Force is also offered on a steel bracelet and on leather. Whichever way you choose to wear it, the design feels intentionally integrated and complete.
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Key Features of the Micromilspec Space Force
First Impressions
The case dimensions sit in that modern sweet spot: 42mm across, 12mm tall, with a lug-to-lug of 50.3mm. On paper, the numbers suggest presence, but the way the ‘lugs’ drop down and the strap integration flows into the case makes it a watch that wears flatter and more comfortably than expected. On wrist, the Space Force feels like it was designed for long hours of wear—mission-ready, but without sacrificing ergonomics.
The brushed 316L stainless steel case is cleanly executed, with a satin finish that resists glare and enhances the utilitarian character. The chamfered crown guards add a measure of protection, while the screw-down crown reinforces the tool watch credentials. With a water resistance rating of 200 metres (20 bar), the Space Force isn’t afraid of field work—land, sea, or space-adjacent.
The Dial and Details
This is where the Space Force name really comes alive. The matte black dial is anchored by the Space Force Delta insignia, and around it, stars and orbital motifs pay tribute to the unit emblems that inspired the design. It’s not subtle but unmistakably thematic—neither over-stylized nor gimmicky.
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Look closer and you’ll notice the laser-engraved dial ring with the unit motto, Semper Supra (“Always Above”), circling the watch like a hidden message for those who take the time to discover it. The hands are especially distinctive, shaped to echo the plume of a rocket launch. It’s a small touch, but it ties the whole concept together.
Despite the design flourishes, legibility remains strong. The matte dial reduces reflections, the hands are easily distinguishable at a glance, and the overall layout feels well-balanced.
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The Strap
Our review piece came on the textured rubber strap, which integrates neatly into the case for a one-size-fits-all approach at a 20mm width. It feels durable and well-suited to active wear, while the integration prevents the kind of awkward strap gap that can sometimes plague military-style designs. I imagine the steel bracelet option would amplify the toolish, mission-ready aesthetic, while leather would dress the piece up just enough for more formal settings.
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Movement and Mechanics
Inside, Micromilspec has fitted the Swiss-made Sellita SW200-1 in Elaboré (Spécial) grade. Already a respected workhorse calibre, it’s been further adjusted and paired with a custom Micromilspec rotor. Running at 28,800 vibrations per hour (4 Hz) with a 38-hour power reserve, it’s a reliable choice that suits the ethos of the watch. With 26 jewels and a rated accuracy of ±7 seconds per day, you’re looking at performance that’s dependable under a variety of conditions.
Exclusivity and Ordering
Micromilspec takes a unique approach to availability. The Space Force isn’t something you can simply order year-round. Instead, the brand opens its books once a year on August 29th, with production capped at 200 pieces annually. Orders are divided between retailers and private customers, and the final production quantity is determined by demand during that window. In other words, if you want one, you need to plan ahead.
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Specs
| Case | 316L Stainless Steel 42mm Diameter 50.3mm Lug to Lug 12mm Thick 20mm Lug Width Screw Down Crown & Display Case Back Unidirectional Steel Bezel 200m Water Resistance |
| Dial & Crystal | Curved Sapphire Crystal Matte Insignia Dial Applied Indices Plume Hands Super-LumiNova® |
| Movement | Sellita SW200-1 (Elaboré Grade) Regulate to ±7 secs/day 26 Jewels 28 800bph 38-Hour Power Reserve |
| Strap | Stainless Steel Bracelet Integrated Rubber Strap Leather Strap |
Micromilspec Space Force
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Final Thoughts
The Micromilspec Space Force is more than just a watch with a clever name. It manages to weave in narrative details—the insignia, the starfield dial, the motto, the rocket-plume hands—without ever tipping into novelty territory. What you get instead is a solidly built, Swiss-made tool watch that honours its theme while standing firmly on its own merits.
From its robust 200-metre water resistance and domed sapphire crystal to its Swiss heart and annual production run, the Space Force offers both substance and exclusivity. It’s a watch for those who want their wristwear to carry a story, but also to deliver on every functional front.
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Pricing & Availability
The Micromilspec Space Force is available on a ‘made to order’ basis for $2395 CAD on rubber, $2465 CAD on leather, and $2520 CAD on the bracelet. Visit the website to register your interest.
About the author
Brent Robillard is a writer, educator, craftsman, and watch enthusiast. He is the author of four novels. You can follow him on Instagram.
Off The Cuff articles are full-length, hands-on reviews of the watch in question and represent the opinion of the author only. All photos are original, unless specified otherwise. If you would like to have your watch reviewed on this site, contact us here.
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I discovered Micromilspec here when you reviewed the Field Testing Unit. It’s definitely a brand to watch. I like this piece even more.
I met the brand at last year’s Toronto Timepiece Show. They were a great discovery. Cheers!
Brent, I really enjoyed how you highlighted the balance between purpose and detail in this piece. The Space Force watch clearly isn’t just about aesthetics — it’s about function, legibility, and engineering discipline. As someone learning horology on a tight budget, I’ve been trying to approach the craft with that same old-school ethic: building for use, for longevity, for the stories these tools carry. Your reviews remind me that even in a modern context, that philosophy is still alive — and it’s the standard I hope to keep working toward.
I always appreciate your feedback, Nathan. Mitchell Wien, of Marathon, told us in an interview once that a watch’s primary purpose is to tell the time. Can’t argue with that. Cheers!
Man, I absolutely love Micromilspec watches, but I can’t afford one for now
Someday… Cheers!