The Garmin Approach J1 is the first GPS golf watch created specifically with junior golfers in mind, focusing on learning, enjoyment, and steady improvement. Unlike adult golf watches adapted for smaller wrists, the Approach J1 is purpose-built to suit younger players, combining a lightweight, comfortable design with features that encourage confidence and good habits on the course.
From teeing off at age-appropriate distances to tracking scores and pace of play, this junior-friendly GPS watch helps young golfers understand the game while keeping it fun and accessible. Whether they're just starting out or developing their skills, the Approach J1 provides the right balance of guidance and simplicity to support long-term progress.
The slim, lightweight build is paired with a ComfortFit fabric band that sits securely on the wrist. Designed to stay comfortable throughout a full round, the watch won't interfere with the swing or distract the golfer during play.
With forward tee locations available on more than 43,000 golf courses worldwide, each hole is scaled to suit a junior golfer's distance and ability. This helps create a more enjoyable experience while promoting realistic expectations and better course management.
A simple visual pace-of-play timer helps juniors keep up with the recommended speed of the game. This feature encourages good etiquette and awareness on the course without adding pressure.
Fun celebratory animations appear on the watch to recognise achievements and improvements. These positive reinforcements help motivate junior golfers and keep them engaged as they develop their skills.
Club suggestions are based on the clubs in the golfer's bag, helping juniors make quicker decisions and play with confidence. This feature supports learning while keeping the round moving smoothly.
Personal Par allows par values to be adjusted to match the golfer's current ability. This helps set achievable goals, build confidence, and track progress in a meaningful way.
The display focuses only on the most important information, making it easier for junior golfers to understand and use. A simplified interface removes unnecessary distractions and helps young players stay focused on the game.
The Approach J1 comes preloaded with over 43,000 golf courses from around the world. Juniors can step onto familiar courses or play new ones with instant GPS access straight from the watch.
Scores can be recorded directly on the watch after each hole. This encourages responsibility and helps junior golfers learn how to keep score properly during a round.
Learning-focused features can be turned off as the golfer develops. This allows the Approach J1 to grow with the player, adapting from beginner-friendly guidance to a more traditional GPS experience.
With a 5 ATM water rating, the Approach J1 is built to handle rain, splashes, and everyday use. Juniors can keep playing comfortably whatever the weather brings.
Enjoy up to 15 hours of battery life in GPS mode, providing enough power for a full day on the course without worry.
Sync with the Garmin Golf app to review scorecards, track personal par, and monitor pace-of-play times. This connected experience helps juniors and parents see progress and stay engaged with development over time.
| SPECIFICATION | DETAILS |
|---|---|
| Strap Material | Elastic fabric hook and loop |
| Lens Material | Chemically strengthened glass |
| Bezel Material | Anodised aluminium |
| Quick Release Bands | Yes (20 mm, industry standard) |
| Physical Size | 43 × 43 × 11.4 mm Fits wrists 115-195 mm |
| Weight | 29 g |
| Display Resolution | 390 × 390 pixels |
| Battery Type | Lithium-ion |
| Battery Life | Watch mode: up to 10 days GPS mode: up to 15 hours |
| Charging Method | Garmin proprietary plug charger |
| Memory / History | 4 GB |
| FEATURE | AVAILABLE |
|---|---|
| 43,000+ Preloaded Courses | Yes |
| Front / Middle / Back Distances | Yes |
| Layups & Doglegs | Yes |
| Shot Distance Measurement | Yes |
| Digital Scorecard | Yes |
| Stat Tracking | Yes |
| Garmin AutoShot | Yes |
| Green View with Manual Pin | Yes |
| Hazards & Targets | Yes |
| Handicap Scoring | Yes |
| Tournament Legal | Yes |
| FEATURE | AVAILABLE |
|---|---|
| Time / Date | Yes |
| GPS Time Sync | Yes |
| Automatic Daylight Saving | Yes |
| Alarm Clock | Yes |
| Timer | Yes |
| Stopwatch | Yes |
| Sunrise / Sunset Times | Yes |
| SENSOR | AVAILABLE |
|---|---|
| GPS | Yes |
| GLONASS | Yes |
| GALILEO | Yes |
| Compass | Yes |
| Gyroscope | Yes |
| Accelerometer | Yes |
| Ambient Light Sensor | Yes |
| FEATURE | DETAILS |
|---|---|
| Connectivity | Bluetooth |
| Smartphone Compatibility | iPhone, Android |