Pricing at $3,000 to $7,000, the iconic Cartier Tank has been one of the watch fan’s favorites for a long time, and understandably so! The history and design attached to the watch are simply like a holy grail for the watch enthusiast.
Having said that, not many of us are able to splurge on watches at that price range, and sadly, many opted for fake Cartier Tank watches instead.
I do not support fake watches at all and highly discourage anyone from buying them. But I understand one wants a cool classy watch to replace this hole in our hearts. Well, let me introduce this $20 watch from Casio that may be, the cheapest Cartier Tank alternative ever.
This post & “Ashley Tee” YouTube channel contains affiliate links, meaning, I recommend products and/or services I’ve used or know well and may receive a commission if you purchase them too (at no additional cost to you).
Rectangular Watches – Something Really Classy About It, Don’t You Think? source: www.wristenthusiast.com
$20 CARTIER TANK AFFORDABLE ALTERNATIVE –
CASIO LTP-V007L-7B1UDF
$20 Cartier Tank Inspired Design
It’s ridiculously cheap. This is why I am firmly against counterfeit watches, as you don’t need to spend a lot to wear a watch. Additionally, you are getting a Casio, a brand that almost every watch enthusiast can appreciate.
It’s only about $20!
Good build quality
When I first unboxed it, I was pleasantly surprised by its substantial-good weight. I initially was expecting a plastic toy watch kind of weight seeing its size, so I’m really glad that this feels substantial and solid.
not a plastic toy watch kind of weight, definitely
Original Design
Arguably, the Seiko Tank may be a better alternative for The Cartier Tank, I would argue that this Casio is like a baby between Reverso & the Tank.
On a first glance, it looks like a homage to the tank, but due to the lugs and case design, it gives off slight JLC’s reverso vibes.
For those who dislike copycat homage watches, this watch is a good choice since it doesn’t look exactly like the Tank. Baby of Cartier Tank + JLC Reverso
So, this might be a plus for you. But if you prefer a more accurate tank design, consider these Seiko Tanks.
The watch’s main attention grabber is of course, its dial – the roman numerals with minute markers, on a lovely silver sunburst dial. So, with this Casio, you’re definitely getting some inspiration from the Cartier Tank. This is just a really classy watch.
Perfect for small wrists
This could be an advantage if you’re a woman or don’t mind wearing a small watch if you have a small wrist. So, for all you ladies out there, this could be your go-to watch.
Case Width: 22m
Lug to lug: 31mm
Thickness: 7.5mm
Lug width: 14mm
Leather strap tapers down from 14mm to 12mm
Might be TOO SMALL for men
I think the biggest con for this watch is also its small size. Unfortunately, Casio only produced this watch for ladies as part of their LTP line. However, men with smaller wrists can still wear it or try changing the strap to a non-tapering one to increase its wrist presence.
My Honest Thoughts
I have no regrets purchasing this watch and although on the first day, it felt weird wearing it because I simply wasn’t used to wearing a feminine small watch.
But today is only the day 2 of wearing this, and I already got used to it and I LOVE IT. If you’re a lady looking for a Cartier Tank alternative, this watch is a no-brainer.
And for the guys out there, you can always get this for your girlfriend or wife and get themselves into this unhealthy watch hobby of yours 🙂
But seriously though, this watch is so worth it, and I highly recommend it.
The Hamilton Intra-Matic Chronograph H is a standout in the world of affordable Swiss chronographs, blending 1960s-inspired design with modern reliability. Priced at around $1,400 (RM 6,262), it offers exceptional value compared to pricier Swiss competitors. In this Hamilton Intra-Matic Chronograph H review, we explore its vintage charm, manual-wind movement, and why it’s a top pick for enthusiasts seeking a versatile, stylish timepiece. Having worn it for over a year, I’ll share personal insights on its design, comfort, and performance.
Why the Hamilton Intra-Matic Chronograph H Stands Out
The Hamilton Intra-Matic Chronograph H is a compelling choice for those seeking an affordable Swiss chronograph without compromising quality. At $1,400—often discounted from its $2,145 RRP—it delivers craftsmanship that rivals watches twice its price. Its hand-wound H-51 movement boasts a 60-hour power reserve, a rarity in this price range, ensuring reliability for daily wear. The watch’s vintage-inspired design, reminiscent of Hamilton’s 1960s Chronograph A, appeals to collectors who value heritage.
Design and Aesthetics: A Nod to the 1960s
The Intra-Matic Chronograph H is a vintage-inspired chronograph that channels the elegance of the 1960s. Its 40mm polished stainless steel case features a sleek, rounded profile, housing a striking panda dial—white with black sub-dials or vice versa, depending on the variant. The tachymeter scale on the bezel adds a sporty touch, while the Roman numeral hour markers and feuille hands evoke classic dress watches. The sapphire crystal ensures durability and clarity, a step up from mineral glass in cheaper models. Drawing inspiration from Hamilton’s Chronograph A and B models, this watch feels like a modern homage to the brand’s golden era. Its sunburst dial catches the light beautifully, making it a conversation starter among watch enthusiasts.
Hamilton’s first chronograph watches Source: www.hamiltonchronicles.comFrom this image, you can see that Hamilton kept most of the design elements from the hour hands to the hour markers. source: www.theeclecticum.com
Manual Wind Movement: The H-51 Experience
Brand: Hamilton Model: Intra-Matic Chronograph H
Reference: H38429110 (Panda Dial with Mesh Bracelet)
Case size: 40mm
Lug width: 20mm
Lug to lug: 49mm
Thickness: 14.3mm
Case material: Stainless steel
Crystal: Box-shaped sapphire crystal with double anti-reflective coating
No Hamilton Intra-Matic 40mm review is complete without diving into its wearability. Measuring 40mm in diameter and 14.3mm thick, this vintage-inspired chronograph has a bold presence, especially on my 150mm (5.9-inch) wrist. Its highly polished case and shiny mesh bracelet—optional over the leather strap—make it anything but subtle. This watch isn’t trying to blend in; it demands attention with its gleaming finish and box-shaped sapphire crystal, which adds a retro charm.
At 40mm wide with 20mm lugs, this vintage-inspired chronograph feels bold on my 150mm (6-inch) wrist—honestly, a bit too big. It’s heavier than I’d prefer, and the mesh bracelet feels stiff at first. Yet, there’s a certain gravitas to it that I adore, especially for a $1,400 Swiss watch. It’s not the most comfortable, but its commanding presence makes it worth it. The watch shines as a statement piece, whether paired with a dress or jeans. For larger wrists, it’s perfectly proportioned, but even on my smaller one, I love how it stands out. The Hamilton Intra-Matic Chronograph H proves you don’t need a big wrist to enjoy a watch with big personality.
on my female wrist of 150mm more on that in my video herewell-balanced looking dial taken from my YouTube video hereThe decision to keep the tachymeter in the same color with the central dial instead of making it black like the auto version is another great touch.The watch is highly polished all around, keeping with the vintage design.
Pros and Cons of the Hamilton Intra-Matic Chronograph H
Here’s a quick breakdown of the watch’s strengths and weaknesses:
Pros:
Exceptional value as an affordable Swiss chronograph at $1,400.
Stunning vintage-inspired design with a versatile panda dial.
Reliable H-51 manual-wind movement with a 60-hour power reserve.
Comfortable 40mm case suitable for various wrist sizes (thanks to the lug-to-lug)
High-quality sapphire crystal and polished finishing.
Cons:
Manual winding may not suit those seeking convenience.
Pricier than other Hamilton models (e.g., Khaki Field at ~$600).
Might be too big for smaller wrists
nothing beats the feeling of unboxing your new watch
Where to Buy Hamilton Intra-Matic Chronograph H
Affiliate Links (sometimes there are GOOD discounts!)
Final Thoughts: Is the Intra-Matic Chronograph H Worth It?
In this Hamilton Intra-Matic Chronograph H review, we’ve seen why this watch shines as a vintage-inspired chronograph. Its blend of 1960s aesthetics, Swiss craftsmanship, and a robust H-51 movement makes it a standout at $1,400.
While manual winding requires commitment, the tactile joy and silent operation are rewarding for enthusiasts. Its 40mm size and versatile design suit nearly any occasion, from boardrooms to casual outings.
After wearing it for over a year, I can confirm its durability and timeless appeal. If you’re seeking an affordable Swiss chronograph that feels premium, the Intra-Matic Chronograph H is hard to beat. Share your thoughts or experiences with this watch in the comments below!
Discover the captivating history of Hamilton watches, where craftsmanship and legacy intertwine. From their meaningful role in World War I to their iconic presence in Hollywood movies, Hamilton has left an enduring mark. Let’s start a journey through the remarkable heritage of this beloved brand, appreciating its timeless appeal and enduring craftsmanship. Get ready to be captivated by the stories that have made Hamilton watches a favorite among enthusiasts worldwide.
The Watch of Railroad Accuracy
The Hamilton Watch Company was founded in 1892 in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, USA. Hamilton made a name for itself during the early days of American railroads. They supplied accurate watches that were crucial in preventing accidents by synchronizing timing on the rails. Thanks to Hamilton, the trains ran like clockwork, keeping people and goods moving safely and efficiently across the country. Earned them the title of: The Watch of Railroad Accuracy.
World War 1: Trench Watches
Hamilton used to make pocket watches, but during World War 1, they had to switch it up and create what’s called trench watches. These watches were basically modified pocket watches that soldiers could strap onto their wrists. They were more practical for war since you wouldn’t want to be fumbling around with a pocket watch when you’re trying to hold a gun. Trench watches were a mix between pocket watches and wristwatches. By making these watches for the military, Hamilton became known as a trusted supplier of reliable timepieces.
In 1918, Hamilton was commissioned to make watches for US Airmail pilots. During the final months of the First World War, US Army pilots started delivering mail by plane. At that time, pilots needed wristwatches for navigation, calculating fuel consumption or air speed, and timekeeping.
As Sylvain Dolla, the current president of Hamilton Watches, said, “Aviation also needs prevision, which is why Hamilton started timing the skies in 1918.”
While timekeeping in aviation has been replaced by electronics today, Hamilton watches are still worn by pilots worldwide.
Pilots receiving Hamilton Watches Source: hamiltonwatch.com
World War 2: Chronometers & Field Watches
Hamilton stopped making watches for the public from 1942-1945 and focused on supplying the US military with over a million watches during World War 2. The US Navy was one of Hamilton’s main customers and they received over 10,000 marine chronometers during the war years.
US Marine Chronometer Source: hamiltonwatch.comHamilton Khaki Navy Pioneer (inspired by WW2’s Chronometer design) Source: hamiltonwatch.com
Besides chronometers, Hamilton also produced a series of field watches for the US military. These watches were designed to meet the rigorous demands of military use, with features such as luminous hands and markers for easy reading in low light, a hacking feature that stopped the second hand when the crown was pulled out to synchronize time, and a rugged build to withstand rough conditions.
WW2 US Military Watches by Hamilton Source: hamiltonwatch.com
Hamilton’s Khaki Collection
Hamilton’s Khaki collection of watches first emerged in the 1940s as a line of military timepieces designed to be tough, precise, and reliable. These watches quickly earned a reputation for their excellent quality, durability, and accuracy. As time passed, the Khaki line expanded to include land, air, and sea watches to cater to different activities.
Khaki Field (Land)
The Khaki Field watches are designed for land-based activities and feature rugged, durable designs that can withstand tough conditions. They typically have large, easy-to-read dials with bold Arabic numerals and luminous hands for increased visibility in low-light situations.
Hamilton 1966 Military Watch “Khaki Field” Source: revolutionwatch.comCurrent Hamilton ‘Khaki Field’ Source: hamiltonwatch.com
The Khaki Aviation models are designed for pilots and aviation enthusiasts. They often feature large, easy-to-read dials with multiple time zone displays, chronograph functions, and other features useful for aviation.
Some iconic designs include the Hamilton Khaki Pilot Pioneer Mechanical. The original version was produced in the 1970s and was a popular choice among military pilots. It featured a 36mm stainless steel case, black dial with white Arabic numerals, and luminous hands and markers for increased visibility. The modern reissue of this watch was released in 2018 and features a similar design with updated materials and technologies, including a 33mm stainless steel case and a hand-wound mechanical movement.
1970s Hamilton Pilot Pioneer Mechanical2018 Hamilton Pilot Pioneer MechanicalSource: hamiltonwatch.com
Another iconic model is Hamilton’s Model 23, a pocket watch designed during WWII for use by the US military. Its accurate timekeeping and durability made it a popular choice for pilots. Today, the Model 23 serves as the inspiration for the Hamilton Aviation Khaki Pilot Pioneer (yes, the same name as the previous) watch, which pays homage to the original design while incorporating modern features and materials.
Hamilton’s WW2 Model 23 Source: thepocketwatchguy.comModern Khaki Aviation Pilot Pioneer Source: hamiltonwatch.com
The Khaki Navy watches are designed for water-based activities and are suitable for diving and other water sports. They often feature water resistance to at least 200 meters, rotating bezels for timing dives, and other features for use in aquatic environments.
One example of a vintage Hamilton watches under the Khaki Navy lineup that has a modern reissue is the Hamilton Khaki Navy Frogman. The original vintage model was introduced in the 1940s and was designed for use by US Navy underwater demolition teams during World War II. The modern reissue, the Hamilton Khaki Navy Frogman Auto, was introduced in 2016 and features a water resistance of up to 300 meters, 80-hour power reserve, a rotating bezel for timing dives, and an automatic movement.
1940s World War II Hamilton Frogman source: wannabuyawatch.comModern Hamilton Khaki Navy Frogman source: hamiltonwatch.com
Over the years, Hamilton has continued to update and improve their Khaki Collection – introducing new models and features such as sapphire crystal, automatic movements, and chronograph functions. Today, in particular, Hamilton’s field watches remain popular among watch collectors and enthusiasts for their rugged style and functional design.
World’s First Electric Watch in 1957
Hamilton Electric 500
The Hamilton Electric 500 watch was the world’s first electric watch, introduced in 1957. The electric movement used a battery-powered balance wheel and was a revolutionary development in watchmaking at the time. The original Hamilton Electric watch was produced in a variety of styles and was highly popular throughout the 1960s.
World’s First Electric Watch: Hamilton Electric 500 source: hodinkee.com
Hamilton Ventura
One of the most iconic models of the Hamilton Electric watch was the Ventura, which featured a distinctive shield-shaped case and was famously worn by Elvis Presley in the movie “Blue Hawaii.” The Ventura line was reintroduced in the 1990s and has since become a popular modern watch model.
Elvis Presley with Hamilton Ventura source: hamiltonwatch.com1957 Hamilton VenturaCurrent Modern Hamilton Venturasource: hamiltonwatch.com
An electric watch uses a battery to power a small electromagnet that drives the watch’s movement. A quartz watch also uses a battery, but it uses the vibrations of a tiny quartz crystal to keep time. Quartz watches were able to be made smaller and more accurate than electric watches, which made them more popular. In addition, the quartz crystal is more reliable than the mechanical parts in an electric watch, which can wear out over time. This is why quartz watches eventually became the standard for accurate timekeeping.
Hamilton Becoming ‘Swiss-Made’
In 1974, Hamilton was bought by the SSIH, which is now called the Swiss Swatch Group. Even though it was part of a new group, Hamilton kept its reputation for making quality and accurate watches from its home headquarters in America.
The Swatch Group
However, in 2003, Hamilton moved its headquarters and production facilities to Biel, Switzerland, which is known for its watchmaking for brands like Rolex & Omega. This move helped Hamilton to add the “Swiss made” quality mark to each of its watches produced in the new location.
Another SWATCH’s acquired brand: OMEGA’s factory in Biel, Switzerland source: omegawatches.com
Today, Hamilton is considered a Swiss watch brand because its watches are designed and put together in Switzerland, and most of them use Swiss-made movements. But even though it’s technically a Swiss brand, Hamilton still has connections to its American heritage. Its design inspiration and association with Hollywood movies reflect this unique identity.
So, although Hamilton is now a Swiss watch brand, its rich history and character show its roots in both the United States and Switzerland.
As a self-proclaimed cheapskate who can never justify spending more than 10 bucks on a leather watch strap, I’ve always been curious about the art of leatherworking.
So when I heard about Yogyakarta’s reputation for leather crafting, I knew I had to dip my toes and try it out for myself. That’s how I found myself signing up for a leather making workshop for beginners at Kaula Leather Workshop, eager to satisfy my long-held curiosity and finally experience the thrill of making my very own leather watch strap.
Kaula Leather Workshop, Yogyakarta
The Workshop: Chill Vibes and Knowledgeable Teacher
Easy enough to find the workshop – thanks to the signboardUpon arriving at the workshop, I was struck by the relaxed vibe of the place. It even has a pool!
GETTING STARTED
Before we arrived at the workshop, I had already let them know that I wanted to make a leather watch strap and that my sweet husband wanted to make a leather purse for me. When we arrived, I showed the teacher the watch strap sample that I had in mind, while my husband chose a design from their purse collection.
The teacher was so friendly and knowledgeable, and he quickly helped me cut the calf skin to the perfect size for my 20mm black leather watch strap. I was making the strap for my husband’s Hamilton Intra Matic Chronograph H watch.
The teacher helped us cut the calf skin according to correct sizes
FUN PART: PAINTING
As I brushed on the black paint onto the leather, I felt my excitement building up as the leather watch strap began to take form. It took a few layers of paint to achieve the deep black shade that I was going for.
Circle, circle, straightDrying – the most time consuming part
BONUS: MAKING A KEYCHAIN & BRACELET
While waiting for the paint to dry, the teacher suggested making a keychain and bracelet as a bonus activity, which turned out to be a fun way to pass the time.
FINISHING TOUCHES
When the paint had dried, I noticed that the color wasn’t as black as I had hoped. The teacher advised me to brush another layer of polish, which helped to darken it.
Painted another layer of polish of some kind, to make it shinier and darker
After the teacher did some stitching on the strap, I then punched some holes, put some glue, sanded the edges, and applied wax to give it a smooth finish. Putting on the buckle was a bit challenging, but with some adjustments, I was able to complete the watch strap.
Cut it precisely to make sure both upper and lower straps are of same widthPut on some gluePunched some holesGrooved/Indented it out
FINISHED PRODUCTS
The entire process took a while, as my husband was also making a leather purse for me at the same time, but the end result was worth the wait. I felt proud of the finished product and can’t wait to show it off. It was a fantastic learning experience, and it gave me a newfound appreciation for the art of leatherworking.
Finished product!My husband’s handcrafted purse for me!Our Finished Products.
CONCLUSION
PRICE – 20mm Watch Strap: 350 000 IDR or USD 23 Big Purse: 625 000 IDR or USD 40
I won’t lie, the workshop wasn’t exactly cheap, but for almost 7 hours of creating something with my own two hands, I’d say it was worth it. There’s just something special about being able to proudly wear a watch strap that I crafted myself.
In conclusion, I highly recommend checking out Kaula Leather Workshop if you’re interested in trying your hand at making leather goods. It’s a great opportunity to learn a new skill and gain a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship that goes into creating beautiful leather items.
In the realm of fashion, Daniel Wellington has undeniably made its mark, captivating the hearts of many, especially in women’s fashion. However, let’s take a step back and explore an alternative that deserves recognition especially in the world of timepiece: CASIO.
Casio is a well-known brand in the world of watches, and it’s easy to see why. From sporty and rugged to sophisticated and elegant, the brand offers a wide range of styles and designs to choose from. Moreover, their focus on durability, reliability, and affordability sets them apart from other watch brands, making them the perfect choice for anyone in the market for a new watch.
CASIO MTP-VT01D-1B and LTP-VT01D-1B
I first bought these pair of watches to my parents 2 years ago. The two watches, MTP-VT01D-1B and LTP-VT01D-1B, were budget-friendly at only US$42 each and offered good-quality and stylish minimalistic design.
Both watches have thickness of 8mm, Japanese quartz movements, and 30m water resistance. The men’s version has a case diameter of 40mm with 20mm lug width whereas the women’s version has 34mm case diameter with 16mm lug width. Both has acrylic crystal sitting on top.
Women’s version as seen on my 150mm wrist
WAY BETTER ALTERNATIVE THAN DANIEL WELLINGTON’S WATCHES (or any fashion watch brands, really)
Let me be upfront, these watches aren’t mindblowing or anything like that. With that kind of budget, you get what is minimal and perhaps a lil’ bit more.
Although the acrylic crystal is a downside, as you can see, my mom’s watch is so scratched up and the only thing that made me feel better is that she wears it very often. 😀 She is very bothered with those scratches however, so I planned to get a Polywatch to help her buff up those scratches. No problem at all. Hey, no complain at all for the price I paid.
My mom wears this so often that it was so scratched up 🙂
Daniel Wellington Alternative (please don’t buy DW watch, just don’t)
You have a simple and easy-to-read display, making it perfect for those who prefer a minimalist style, or even someone who is seeking a Daniel Wellington look alike watch.
A typical Daniel Wellington watch will cost you USD 275, while this only cost you USD 42. Needless to say, with that pinch of money, you get a bank for your buck. Afterall, it’s a Casio.
This is USD 275. From Daniel Wellington, a brand which does not produce good quality watches.
VERDICT
In conclusion, I highly recommend these two watches from Casio as they are stylish, reliable, and affordable, making them the perfect gift for couples especially now that Valentine’s Day is arriving. Available in a variety of leather strap options and colors, the MTP-VT01D-1B and LTP-VT01D-1B are worth considering for anyone in the market for a new minimalistic watch.
For other recommended budget watches for gifts: read here
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.
Prefer the coke version for its complementary look with the second hand
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.
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.
Transparent Case Back 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.
My Trip to Mount Merapi, Yogyakarta, Indonesia.
‘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.
Black plastic part underneath the bezel making it look ‘cheap’
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.
Better bracelet in Timex Q GMT 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.
Timex M79 on my 150mm wrist
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.
