Why do soldiers wear their watches "backwards"?

Soldiers have good reasons to wear their watches on the inside of their wrists for practical reasons or to stay tactically smart.

Here are some other reasons that justify the “why” behind soldiers wearing their watches backwards:

1. Avoiding Reflections: Soldiers, especially those in special operations, wear their watches backwards (upside down) so that the shiny part of the watch doesn't reflect sunlight. This way, they can avoid giving away their position to enemy snipers or lookouts and stay one step ahead in their missions.
2. Safety: Wearing the watch on the inside of the wrist provides better protection from bumps and bruises, reducing the risk of the watch's face cracking. Soldiers might encounter hard surfaces, and to avoid breaking the watch's glass, it is safe for them to wear it upside down.
3. Checking Time Quickly: Soldiers need to check the time often during missions. But, due to the load of critical operations, they have less time to waste. Wearing the watch inside the wrist allows them to do it quickly and quietly without making any noise or movements that might give away their presence. In active situations, quickly checking the time without turning the arm reduces the soldier's exposure to potential threats.
4. Easy Weapon Handling: Wearing the watch inside the wrist is more comfortable when soldiers handle their weapons. It doesn't get in the way or cause any problems. When aiming a weapon, having the watch on the inside helps avoid unnecessary movement in time-sensitive missions.
5. Staying Hidden: In military life, maintaining light discipline (the concealment from the observation of the enemy in the air and on the ground) is crucial. Keeping the watch face hidden helps achieve this.

In short, wearing their watches backward helps soldiers be safer, effective, and stay hidden during important military tasks.