Is Timex a Good Brand?

Timepiece enthusiasts are always on the lookout for that functional, quality and price worthy watch to add to their collection. So I bet that you too fall into this league. A good watch brand is a must-have in this day and age of great watch brands showcasing awesome timepieces.

Timex started since 1854

Timex has continually delivered on quality and reliable timekeeping since 1854. Timex has pegged itself on the fact that what you make is as important as how you make it. 

Timex is a good watch brand. Over the years, Timex has stood as one of the most affordable watch brand alternatives available. Timex watches prices start way below the $50 mark. Timex timepieces showcase similar technology featured in the more luxurious brands which means you get quality features at an incredible price. 

Timex has engaged in tremendous mass production and marketing of their timepieces with their slogan-Takes a Licking and Keeps on Ticking-ending up as a signature and American household statement.

To back up this statement, Timex routinely put their watches to the test. The team of developers came up with real-life scenarios aimed at trying to destroy a Timex watch. A live recording of all the testing sessions took place to enhance the credibility of the whole process. The Timex took in all the destructive hits and bangs. It took the licking and did keep on ticking.

In recent years Timex has ventured into the luxury range of watches. High profile fashion brand names such as Marc Ecko, Guess and the TX Company have shown their belief in the Timex brand and have allowed them to produce and market timepieces for them.

Timex will always continue to stand as a good brand for years to come. This is based upon their ethic of producing timepieces that are not only durable but also functional and affordable.

Besides this, the customer service at Timex is incredible. The experience with their customer relations agents is one of the best in the industry. You will not hesitate to recommend them to anyone.

When looking for incredible value alongside affordability, Timex brand is one of the ideal option worth considering.

Are Timex watches made in America?

Regarded as the oldest American rooted watch company, Timex’s foundation can be traced back to the mid-19th century. The year timekeeping quality from Timex arose was in 1854.

It is a common notion that Timex watches are made by an “American” company. This can be attributed much to the fact that in recent times three of US presidents adorned Timex watches conspicuously during their terms in office. 

However, Timex bears an extensive background of international ownership, its research and development continues to be developed in the United States and Germany. Timex manufacturing takes place in offshore locations mainly in the Far East and in Switzerland.

Many a Timex watch has passed through the assembly lines at Dundee in Scotland. These bore a–Made in Great Britain–print on the base of the dial. The roots of Timex go down to several US companies that have, over time, consolidated after acquisitions and mergers. 

Some names that Timex can accredit to its existence include the Waterbury Clock Company from Waterbury, Connecticut. Waterbury Clock Company is known for its acquisition of Ingersoll & Bros. who made the iconic pocket-friendly “Dollar” or “Yankee” watches and also the Mickey Mouse and Donald Duck cartoon themed watches. After its founding in 1941, US Time went on to acquire the Waterbury Clock Company. 

Following the immense popularity of the Timex model line timepieces, US Time renamed itself to Timex. Today, it is the Timex Group USA that makes Timex watches. Timex Group USA is under the ownership of Timex Group B.V., a Netherlands-based holding company.

Are Timex watches good?

The worth of a timepiece is measured not only by its features but also by how well it keeps time and how well it is made.  

Timex watches are superb watches that are worth owning. A look at the pricing, technology, and design of these timepieces will reveal the reason Timex is a good watch brand.

As had been mentioned, Timex is an American classic whose history dates back to 1854. The Timex brand has successfully built itself upon the formula of delivering unrivaled reliability and value. The evidence of this is the level of customer trust that Timex has gained to date. You won’t see any mega campaign adverts of Timex watches as they don’t need them.

Timex has gone a notch higher by delivering to its customers the latest in terms of technology and also trends. This is the right direction, building upon past success and name recognition that Timex has enjoyed over the years.

The Timex watch brand features;

  • Indiglo Backlight, the brands signature innovation that is unseen elsewhere in the market, Casio being the only brand coming close to something similar.
  • Precise and accurate movements at a lower production cost courtesy of quartz analog movements.
  • Innovative ways that extend battery life.
  • Rigorous testing of timepieces to ensure durability and reliability.

Timex, the value for money watchmaking brand you have always wanted.

Once in a while, you admire that $1000 watch as you surf online; it is a weakness in all of us. We all desire the fine luxurious things in life, but let’s face it; not all of us have the luxury to afford such a highly-priced timepieces.

Regardless of your situation, Timex has got you covered. Timex has made its name and claimed the watch market for years. Way before other brands came into the scene; Timex had already won the hearts of many for its accurate, affordable and attractive timepieces.

With Timex, a classic, stylish and pocket-friendly timepiece worth showing off is always within reach and budget anytime.

Do Timex watches last?

Timex watches are built to live up to the slogan that the Timex brand of watches is famous for.

Timex watches will last and serve you pretty well. The standard Timex quartz can easily give you more than 10 years of timekeeping service while taking all the “licking” you can dish along the way.

It is a well-kept secret that the inexpensive movements showcased by Timex watches are based upon military technology. This technology came from the depths of the US war department at the height of WWII. During this period the main focus for US Time was the making of supplies for the war at hand.

Greatest advancement in 200 years of watchmaking

The iconic “V-conic” escapement was originally designed for use in torpedo fuses, mechanical time bombs, and artillery. The “V-conic” escapement comprised of a metal cup bearing made of Armalloy and conical balance pivots that rested upon the cup bearing. This system is highly shock-resistant in design. It is also cheap to produce in mass. It is these features that made this technology ideal for watches and munitions fuses.

As fate would have it, this technology never got patented or protected. After the war ended UST Time begun mass production of watches aimed at the local market. These watches featured the new technology and went under the new flagship “Timex” series.

Many years down the line US Time/Timex continued in the production of military-grade materials.

For the outdoor and highly active types, the Timex is a brand that will match up to your needs. The manufacturing process and the materials that go into making a Timex result in a durable timepiece. A Timex watch will go through the paces and endure the test of handling and environment.

What is Indiglo in Timex watches?

Visibility of a watch in low light conditions is imperative. Illumination is important, especially in emergency scenarios. Having a timepiece that has a powerful lighting system or mechanism is a bonus for any watch owner.

Indiglo is a Timex light producing technology where electricity is converted directly into light. This conversion of an electric current into the light is known in technical terms as electroluminescence.

This Indiglo technology differs from the usual incandescent bulb technology. The common household incandescent bulb taps into electricity which in turn produces heat, and the heat eventually produces light. Indiglo which is electroluminescence has greater levels of efficiency. There is no heat produced and conversion is immediate and direct, light from electricity.

An example of luminescence in common use is the neon light. In the neon light mechanism, electrons in the neon atoms are energized via a high voltage. When these electrons de-energize they release photons.

In the Indiglo watches, a slim panel takes on a high voltage and energizes phosphorus atoms which in turn emit light. The structure of the panel isn’t complicated at all. According to Timex, all you need to have is a thin plastic or glass layer; coat it with a transparent conductor. On to the conductor place a thin coat of phosphor. A thin plastic coat then goes over the phosphor. Finally, add another electrode to the assembly. The components that are in assembly as described are two conductors with phosphor in-between.

An alternating current of 100v to 200v passing through the conductors will energize the phosphor making it emit photons.

The batteries in Timex watches are too small to deliver either 100v or 200v. For this Timex uses the 1:100 transformers. The primary transformer coil gets a charge from a transistor that switches on and off; this, in turn, raises the charge of the secondary coil to around 150v.

What is the best Timex watch?

As you may have gathered Timex has plenty to offer. The design range of Timex watches feature sporty watches that are fun to wear and the sophisticated dress watches suited for that occasional board meeting. The many design options on offer are bound to leave you spoilt for choice.

The best Timex timepiece should have complications, features, and design that match or suit what you are looking for in a watch.

Timex has been around for over a century and during this period it has churned over 300 timepiece designs. These Timex timepieces come in various shapes, fits, strap designs and sizes.

Timex gives you a watch that is casual, functional and wearable in any scenario while telling time as required.

To help you and point you in the right Timex direction is a review and comparison of what we consider as some of the best Timex watches in the market today. Additionally, don’t forget that each one has its unique strong points and advantages. Whichever meets your fancy, you are well on your way to getting that perfect timepiece.

1. Timex Weekender (38mm Unisex Watch)

The Timex Weekender is the ultimate classic in budget watches. The variety in style and size plus the ever-relevant leather/nylon straps make the Weekender a loveable timepiece. The Weekender will match any outfit you put on. If you wish to make more of a fashion statement, the straps are interchangeable and come in a flurry of designs to match your mood.

The Timex Weekender is a must have for its;

  • Neat classic look
  • Inidiglo backlight illumination
  • Interchangeable vibrant and cool designed nylon and leather straps
  • Durability. It will serve you faithfully for years to come

2. Timex Men’s Expedition Scout 40 Watch

This Timex is your ideal functional timepiece for outdoor use. It name, Expedition Scout hints at its capabilities and what it can deliver for you in addition to just timekeeping.

The visible and conspicuously sized Arabic numerals will have you telling time without any strain as you hike away. You also get a 24-hour military time view. The rugged watch and strap design will ensure this timepiece does the job and stays with you wherever you go in all your outdoor escapades.

With over 40 variants, the Timex Men’s Expedition Scout is a must have for its;

  • Durability. It will serve you faithfully for years to come
  • Black 40 millimeter brass case with mineral glass crystal
  • Indiglo light-up watch dial; luminous hands
  • 50 meters (165 feet) water resistance ideal for brief periods of recreational swimming
  • Sturdy adjustable green 20-millimeter nylon strap that can fit up to an 8-inch sized wrist

3. Timex Weekender Minimal Dial Fairfield (Casual Blue/White/Orange/Strap) TW2P91100

I must confess, I am a sucker for everything that showcases classic minimalism. So it would be obvious that the Fairfield makes the cut here. One look at the Fairfield and you will be love struck for life. The Fairfield is a step away from the design trend associated with the Weekender Chronograph or Weekender 40.

The Fairfield showcases steel hour markers that enhance its clean minimalistic look. Another cool aspect of the Fairfield is the polished casing which echoes corporate sleekness.

There is an option of either polished steel or rose gold; I think the polished steel exudes more style. The choices of straps blow the roof off the personality that the Fairfield communicates. Showcase some class with leather straps in the office or go all out and free with the multicolored nylon strap alternatives.

The Timex Weekender Minimal Dial Fairfield is a must have for its;

  • Lightweight brass casing.
  • Comfortable easy to wear straps and great looking clasps.
  • Interchangeable straps to suit any occasion or mood.
  • Clean clear minimalistic looking dial

4. Timex Weekender Chronograph Watch (40mm)

The Timex Weekender Chronograph is your best-placed entry timepiece. I found in this watch all the fundamental qualities of timekeeping plus useful additional functionality.

Having a chronograph seems to make sense with each passing day. I have often found myself pacing or timing myself during hiking trips as well as when working out. The Weekender Chronograph not only offered the stopwatch practical functions but also didn’t dent my budget in any way.  

With over 20 variants, the Timex Weekender Chronograph 40mm is a must have for its;

  • High quality dials.
  • Sharp and clear markings on the face.
  • Indiglo lighting that enhances the great look of the face. 
  • Tan leather strapping that complements the face, though you will have to replace it after some continuous use.
  • Accurate and reliable quartz chronograph  movements

More Information

Signature collections of Timex Collaborations

Timex has partnered with brands, artists and individuals in its quest to remain relevant as a household name. These partnerships have drawn from the serious, fancy and playful elements in the entertainment as well as corporate markets.

Here are some of the notable collaborations that have made their mark on Timex as well as watch history over the years.

Timex and Peanuts

Times and Peanuts Watch collection

This collection features Peanuts-themed timepieces aimed to bring back the kiddy days. The collection showcases timepieces bearing illustrations of the Peanuts characters.

These watches will hit all your nostalgic buttons as you see Lucy, Snoopy, Linus, and Charlie Brown helping you tell the time. This collaboration has plenty of quirky designs. In some models, the arms of the characters double up as the hour and minute hands of the timepiece.

Timex, Good Company and Chinatown Market

Timex has teamed up with street wear brands based in New York delivering fun and hip designs.

Timex X Chinatown Market collaboration

The collaboration with Good Company birthed cool and noteworthy versions of the MK1 classic. The other collaboration with Chinatown Market delivered a classic smiley themed timepiece that flew off the shelves and is sold out as of now.

Timex and Todd Snyder

In yet another collaboration, Timex linked up with one of New York’s top designers, Todd Snyder. Snyder has infused a contemporary style into the classic military and diver inspired Timex watches.

The list of Timex watches from this collaboration include the Maritime Sport Watch-41mm, the iconic mod-inspired 40mm Beekman with telemeter and tachymeter scales, and the sturdy 40mm Military Inspired timepiece developed from Snyder’s and Timex Design Director, Gorgio Galii’s creative and innovative ideas.

Related Questions

Timex Ironman or Casio G-Shock?

Timex and Casio have made great advancements in technology and amongst their brands are some of the most sophisticated timepieces available in the market today.

Narrowing down to one particular watch brand between the two is probably as practical as selling ice to an Eskimo. The Ironman and G-Shock are the most acclaimed product lines from Timex and Casio respectively. These two products have transformed the timekeeping world of hikers, military, law enforcement, and sports competitors. Moreover, those looking for an affordable yet tough and durable had their wishes granted when these two brands came into the scene.

The Ironman and G-Shock both have delivered and weathered the test of time. However, G-Shock has a greater range of timepieces at various price brackets. Timex on the other hand showcase awesome pocket-friendly timepieces, a joy for any sports or outdoor enthusiast.

It is quite hard to pin it on one timepiece or the other. The Timex Ironman and Casio G-Shock are both outstanding watches that any watch nerd will die to have.  

Conclusion

Timex has stood the test of time and has continually delivered on its affordability without compromising on quality. I would gladly one Timex after another as I am sure of getting an awesome functional timepiece that will not only suit my taste but also match my budget.

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