I've reviewed the Q Timex before (you can read that review here), and it's the watch that led us to develop the StrapHabit TQ18 Q Timex straps. Because of the release of our new TQ18 Oyster bracelet in black, I wanted an all-black Q, so I picked up the TW2U61600.
If you'd like to see how the Q compares to the very similar, but more expensive Timex M79 Automatic, be sure to read the comparison here.
First Impressions:
The Timex website didn't have any all-black models available, so I purchased the watch pre-owned from The Watch Preserve. When it arrived, it was already on a StrapHabit TQ18 strap (talk about full-circle)!
The Q Timex has a lot of charm, especially if you like vintage styling, and the blacked-out treatment gives it a stealthier, more modern edge. The hour hand, with its large circular section and pointed tip, still looks a bit cheeky and makes the watch easy to read. It looks especially tough on the black bracelet.
Q Timex 38mm All-Black Details:
Being a reissue of a vintage watch, the Q Timex has a distinctly retro aesthetic. The 38mm case size and domed acrylic crystal add to this. On the TW2U61600, the case, bezel, dial, and bracelet are all black, for a monochrome look that sets it apart from the more colorful "Pepsi"-style versions in the lineup.
The finishing isn't extremely sharp or precise, but it's nice for the price, with a mix of brushed and polished surfaces that still reads well under the black finish. While the markers are not applied, the printing is crisp, and the bordered day and date window adds a nice framed detail to the dial.
Wearing the Q Timex 38mm All-Black:
Legibility is quite good on all Q models, and the matte black dial makes it a little better on this one. The watch also wears comfortably due to its small size and thin profile. The hands are outlined in black. I like the clean look, but it makes the second hand difficult to spot.
The 12-hour bezel provides a "cheap GMT" feature, allowing you to track a second time zone (in black and dark gray on this variant). There are no clicks, and it is a friction fit, but the rotation is smooth. It's a bit hard to grip because it's so flat, but it's not a timing bezel anyway.
The lume isn't as bright as something like a Seiko, but it's better than many budget watches, and bright enough to read throughout the night.
Q Timex Original Bracelet and Replacement Straps:
The TW2U61600 comes on a black stainless steel bracelet, the same design as the silver bracelet found on other Q Timex models. It gives the watch a classy, retro look, and it's quite thin. The flip clasp feels a bit flimsy but is very compact. These are known for pulling arm hair, which is one reason StrapHabit offers a replacement.
StrapHabit TQ18 Q Timex straps and bracelets flare out to meet the case, then taper back down at the buckle. As mentioned, I'm wearing this watch on our new TQ18 Oyster bracelet in black. It keeps the all-black look of the original but trades the woven design for a solid, all-brushed Oyster style with a deployant clasp, safety latch, and dual push buttons. It feels far more substantial than the stock bracelet, and it doesn't pull arm hair. You can also add a quick-adjust clasp to adjust the fit on the fly.
For a more casual or active setup, the black TQ18 FKM rubber strap is a great match. It's soft, comfortable, and keeps the stealthy look while giving the Q a sportier vibe. Black, white, or gray look great on it.
Of course, I'm highly biased, but I feel they make the Q feel like a higher-end watch and make it much more enjoyable to wear! Scroll down to the end of the article to purchase. You can also view our Guide to Choosing a Watch Strap.
The Movement:
The Q Timex is available with a number of different movements, but this quartz version is powered by a Seiko PC33 with a day and date function. It's an appropriate movement for the price and should be quite reliable. One minor annoyance is that there is no quickset for the day, only for the date. The crown is a bit difficult to grip, and setting the day requires rotating back and forth past midnight a few times. Luckily, this is less of a concern, as you typically don't need to adjust the day on a quartz watch anyway.
When the time does come, battery changes will be quick and easy, thanks to an external cover you can open with a coin. This one died shortly after I got it, and swapping in the 377 cell took little longer than finding a coin and cracking open the battery package.
Conclusion:
If you like the Q but want something a little more understated, the all-black TW2U61600 is one of the most versatile versions in the lineup. At $189, it offers a lot of charm and style for the money.
If you'd like to learn about some other great watches under $500, you can read the StrapHabit Top 10 list or view other reviews of watches under $500.
Specifications:
Name: Q Timex Reissue 38mm Stainless Steel Bracelet Watch
Reference Number: TW2U61600
MSRP: $189
Diameter: 38mm
Height: 43.4mm
Thickness: 11.5mm
Lug Width: 18mm
Weight: Approx. 94g with bracelet (estimate)
Movement: Seiko quartz PC33
Water Resistance: 50m
Crystal: Acrylic
Crown: Push-pull
Bezel: Friction
Strap: Black stainless steel bracelet (StrapHabit TQ18 straps also shown)
Shop the Straps in This Review (View all Q Timex straps here):
TQ18 Oyster Style Bracelet:
TQ18 FKM Rubber:
