The main function of the outer segments is related to the
compass mode, where a division into 36 segments is necessary due to the 360 degree scale of a
compass....in the time mode, the segments show the advancement of seconds....because the number of seconds differs from the number of degrees...it is impossible for the segments to be consecutively lit up...they now light up or extinguish...thereby marking the passing of every second...once you get the hang of the on and off sequenceical movement of the segments..... seconds are very easy to determine or go into the chrono mode to get a direct font readout of seconds.....also the watch is ok for swimming..
Cheers
Neil
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 | Compass |  | Compasses are sensitive, absolutely crucial instruments to precision navigation. The earth's magnetic field, inclination, and your longitude and latitude all influence the horizontal plane of a compass needle. As a result, compasses are balanced for different geographical zones. Suunto Compasses overcome this limitation to traditional compasses by using a simple 'Two Zone System'. With a Suunto Compass, the only 'balancing zones' are the northern and southern hemispheres. In addition to this innovation, certain Suunto Compasses come equipped with useful features like luminous needles and marks, centimeter/inch scales, magnifying glasses, clinometers, sighting notches, and more. | |  |
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