Text and photos by Corey Herscu
As an avid watch collector, nothing makes me more nostalgic than the TIMEX brand. I recall, at around the age of 11, receiving my first "Indigo Ironman Triathalon" watch. It was the most popular at the time (the implementation of the new discernible blue light, rather than the standard low yellow hue) and, using a strong velcro wristband, allowed for full customization; I absolutely loved it and wore it religiously. However, as times change, so do brands and their products; such is the case for TIMEX.
With the Intelligent Quartz lineup, TIMEX is confidently stating "we're still here". They've reinvigorated their designs from the ground up, implementing a level of sophistication and complexity not generally expected from their value-focused brand. Not to say this is a bad thing, more a like a welcome change.
Some notable specs of the Intelligent Quartz Linear Indicator Chronograph include:
- German engineering
- Italian design
- 6-hand proprietary movement
- Independent motors and microprocessors
- Four hour chronograph
- Linear indicator for minute sub-dial
- Tachymeter function
- 2nd time-zone function
- Stainless steel casing
- Genuine leather strap
- QUICK-DATE® Feature
- Water resistant to100m
- Case width: 47mm
- Lug width: 22mm
I've been wearing the watch for almost a week now and have garnered stares from many people. Not because it is anything over-the-top or sparkly, but rather because people are used to a certain "look" with TIMEX and while that look still exists (although it's been greatly updated), the bold new style for the Intelligent Quartz lineup (comes in four different colorways) adds some savoir-faire to what seemed like a dated brand.
My favorite part of the watch, however, isn't its look; no, no... it's actually the pricing.
TIMEX was very smart to put it on the market for $225, a number that places them directly in the middle of low-end and high-end watches - the perfect positioning for a brand that needs its "street cred" reinvigorated.
Consumers on the market for a chronograph, but who are on a strict a budget, won't scoff at the price - as a matter of fact, they might nod their head in acceptance and give it a second look. That's what happenrf when I was first introduced to it.
You can learn more about this watch and others' from TIMEX via their website here