I did something impulsive and bought myself a Timex M79 watch. I’ve been wearing it for a week now, and I wanted to share my honest thoughts with you.
I’m still undecided about it and plan to give it more time before making a final judgment.
But for now, let’s dive into my initial impressions of the Timex M79 during this first week. Curious to know if it’s worth it? Keep reading to find out!
PRICE
I managed to get this item for USD 140, which was a HUGE discount from its retail price of USD 289.
WHAT I LIKE ABOUT MY TIMEX M79
THE AESTHETICS & DESIGN LANGUAGE
I particularly love the eye-catching metallic colors on the bezel especially comparing it with the faded look of the Q Timex. While the Batman bezel is a popular choice, I prefer the Coke bezel for its vibrant color and complementary look with the red second hand. I found it to be more striking than the subdued Batman version.
I also like the matte black color of this M79 watch. The blue-ish color on some quartz models doesn’t match well with the bezel in my opinion. I appreciate the applied lume hour markers, black day/date window, stamped crown, transparent case back, Timex logo, and the ‘Mercedes Hour Hand’, which resembles the design of Rolex watches.
Source: Random Rob’s Youtube
Some may criticize Timex for copying Rolex, but as a beginner watch enthusiast on a budget, I appreciate that they are trying to do their own thing and made changes such as the letter T instead of copying exactly.
Overall, I love the look of this watch. All the design elements fit nicely and create a handsome appearance.
Source: hypebeast.com
ANGULAR CASE SHAPE DESIGN (same as Timex Q)
I have a preference for angular case design with a combination of polish and brushed finish, such as the Tissot PRX, AP Royal Oak, Patek Philippe Nautilus, Vacheron Constantin Overseas, and the Seiko 5 SNKK45. I especially like this design with an integrated bracelet.
The only issue I have with these designs is the size, which appears too big for my small wrist (150mm). The salesperson suggested I go with the smaller quartz version, but I still ended up with the mechanical M79 for its better value proposition despite it looking slightly big on my wrist. I didn’t like the colors on the quartz version
BRACELET’S LOOK
The third thing I love about this watch is its bracelet design. Although some may worry about it pulling hair, I personally haven’t experienced that issue. Perhaps it’s because I have little hair on my wrist. Regardless, the bracelet is visually appealing.
SOME COMPLAINT ABOUT THESE TIMEX M79,
BUT I DO NOT MIND IT
BEZEL FEEL
The bezel has mixed reviews, with some finding it to be the weakest part of the watch and others finding it to be sturdy. My first impression was that it feels tactile and loud, which I like.
‘CHEAP’ MIYOTA 8205 MOVEMENT
The cheap movement is a common complaint among some people. They feel it’s too cheap and not worth the retail price, and also call it ugly and noisy. I, personally, don’t mind it, knowing what I’m paying for. However, I understand where these complaints are coming from, especially for those paying full price.
My only issue is the flimsy feeling when adjusting the day and date, as it almost seems like I might break it. On the positive side, winding the watch feels responsive and tactile.
I DISLIKE THESE ABOUT MY TIMEX M79:
50M WATER RESISTANCE
READ THIS IF YOU ARE NEW TO WATCHES:
A 50m water resistance rating DOESN’T allow for diving, only light swimming and water activities.
During my holiday in Yogyakarta, I brought new watch with me but I end up not wearing any watches during a jeep water trail ride near a volcano due to lack of faith in its 50m rating.
Maybe it could handle, but I still did not want to test it because after all, it’s a newly bought watch. I just wished for 100m water resistance for more confidence in testing it.
‘CONSTRUCTION’ UNDERNEATH THE BEZEL
The Timex cost-cutting shows here – this black, plastic-looking part under the bezel. It lacks the silver finish and comes across as cheap. This is a really weak point of the watch, in my opinion.
FLIMSY BRACELET
The bracelet is a source of complaints among users. While it doesn’t tug my hair, I find it difficult to wear and at times, irritating. This may be due to my small wrist and the slippery material of the bracelet. I avoid wearing this watch when I’m in a hurry for fear of it slipping off. The lug and case design also make it difficult to find alternative bracelet/strap options. For those who dislike the bracelet, the GMT version has a better one.
Source: ablogtowatch.com
ACRYLIC CRYSTAL
Timex, I get that you’re trying to make a faithful reproduction of the 1979 watch, but not everything has to stay the same. Updating the movement to mechanical is a step forward, so why not upgrade the crystal too? An acrylic, domed crystal is just not up to snuff.
In just a weeks, I’ve already bumped this thick (14.4mm) watch several times and, unfortunately, put scratches on it. I know some folks don’t mind a little wear and tear, but I don’t want a brand new watch to be marred with scratches. An older watch, sure, but a new one? No, thanks.
VERDICT
Despite the inclination of negative aspects in this review, I still believe that the watch is a good purchase due to the substantial discount offered. Thus, my conclusion is, if you can get it at a discounted price, go for it, otherwise it’s not worth it.
AFFILIATE LINKS
Timex M79 Coke Ver.
Timex M79 Batman Ver.
Timex Q 38 mm
Timex Q GMT (recommended)
