Garmin introduces tactix 8 Cerakote Edition with rugged ceramic finish

Garmin has unveiled the tactix 8 Cerakote Edition in Singapore, expanding its tactical smartwatch range with a premium ceramic-based finish designed for durability in demanding environments. The new model builds on the tactix 8 platform and is positioned as a high-end option for military professionals, outdoor enthusiasts and users who require advanced navigation, performance tracking and tactical tools in a single device.

The smartwatch features a 1.4-inch AMOLED display protected by a sapphire lens and framed by a titanium bezel. It also includes a built-in LED flashlight to improve visibility in low-light conditions. Garmin states that the tactix 8 Cerakote Edition delivers up to 29 days of battery life in smartwatch mode, supporting extended use without frequent charging during long missions or outdoor expeditions.

The watch is housed in a 51 mm case and is offered in two finishes, slate grey and olive drab. Both variants are aimed at users who prioritise durability as well as a distinctive, utilitarian aesthetic. The tactix 8 Cerakote Edition is positioned as a premium expression of Garmin’s tactical wearable lineup, combining hardened materials with advanced smartwatch capabilities.

Ceramic coating designed for durability and individuality

A key differentiator of the tactix 8 Cerakote Edition is its ceramic-polymer coating, which is widely used in applications that demand resistance to abrasion, corrosion and chemical exposure. The Cerakote finish is applied through a spray process and then baked to cure the coating, creating a hardened surface intended to withstand prolonged use in harsh conditions.

Beyond protection, the coating is designed to give each watch a slightly unique appearance. As the device is worn over time, the finish is expected to develop subtle variations that enhance its rugged character. This approach reflects the tactix range’s emphasis on functional equipment that is meant to be used extensively in real-world environments rather than preserved as a purely cosmetic accessory.

By introducing Cerakote as a finishing option, Garmin is seeking to differentiate the tactix 8 Cerakote Edition from other tactical smartwatches through both materials and aesthetics, while retaining the same core hardware platform. The result is a device that blends advanced electronics with a coating more commonly associated with military and industrial equipment.

Tactical, performance and navigation capabilities in one device

The tactix 8 Cerakote Edition includes Garmin’s full suite of tactical features. These include a rucking activity profile that allows users to input pack weight, as well as a jumpmaster mode that supports high altitude high opening, high altitude low opening and static jump tracking. Users can also display two coordinate systems, such as MGRS and latitude and longitude, on a single screen using dual-position GPS formatting.

Additional tactical tools include Stealth Mode, which disables wireless communications while continuing to track distance travelled and biometric data without recording location information. The watch is compatible with night vision goggles and comes preloaded with the Applied Ballistics Ultralight solver, offering advanced aiming calculations for long-range marksmanship.

On the performance side, the smartwatch supports diving to depths of up to 40 metres and includes modes for both scuba and apnea diving. Training features cover strength training plans, sport-specific workouts and real-time stamina tracking. Health monitoring functions operate around the clock and include Body Battery energy monitoring, Pulse Ox and advanced sleep and nap detection to provide deeper insight into recovery and overall wellbeing.

Navigation remains a core focus of the tactix line. The tactix 8 Cerakote Edition supports TopoActive maps with terrain contours, along with maps for golf courses and ski resorts worldwide. Aviation features allow users to navigate directly to locations or waypoints from a global aeronautical database, or activate routing to the nearest airport. Positioning accuracy is enhanced through multi-band GPS with SatIQ technology, supported by a 3-axis compass, gyroscope and barometric altimeter.

When paired with a compatible Apple or Android smartphone, the smartwatch enables phone calls directly from the wrist through its built-in speaker and microphone, alongside smart notifications. It also supports contactless payments via Garmin Pay, extending its functionality beyond tactical and training scenarios into everyday use.

Availability and pricing

Garmin has confirmed that the tactix 8 Cerakote Edition will be available in Singapore from 3 February 2026. The smartwatch carries a suggested retail price of S$2,249 and will be sold through Garmin Brand Stores, major online marketplaces, the Garmin online store, Takashimaya and selected authorised retailers.

With this release, Garmin continues to position the tactix series as its most specialised smartwatch range, targeting users who require a combination of durability, advanced navigation and tactical functionality. The Cerakote Edition adds a premium material finish to an already feature-rich platform, reinforcing Garmin’s focus on wearables designed for extreme and professional use cases rather than general lifestyle tracking.