deck watch

American  

noun

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

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Etymology

Origin of deck watch

First recorded in 1855–60

Example Sentences

Formerly, before an officer was allowed to stand a deck watch under way, he had to have two years at sea in addition to his four years' training at the Naval Academy.

From Time Magazine Archive

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

From The Battleship Boys at Sea Two Apprentices in Uncle Sam's Navy by Patchin, Frank Gee

The navigating officer has to stand regular deck watch with the others while at anchor, and the executive is expected to be on board during the day and have charge of everything in general.

From The Story of a Strange Career Being the Autobiography of a Convict; an Authentic Document by Anonymous

There did not appear to be overmuch sense in keeping this deck watch.

From The Submarine Boys and the Spies Dodging the Sharks of the Deep by Durham, Victor G.

Whew! what a stream of cold air comes rushing down the hatchway, as it opens to let in the deck watch, glad enough to get below again out of the cold and wet!

From Harper's Young People, March 16, 1880 An Illustrated Weekly by Various