Typically for these reviews, I give a little intro story about why I decided to obtain the subject watch. In the case of the Q Timex, I've liked them for a while, but I also noticed that there was a lack of replacement strap options for them. I decided to buy one with a rubber strap to check it out and see if StrapHabit could develop one.
If you haven't already checked them out, we recently released the StrapHabit TQ18 Q Timex straps! Once we decided to move ahead with the project, I purchased a few more variants of the Q Timex to confirm fitment including another quartz with a bracelet. Those reviews are coming soon (and will be found here), but I'll review the two quartz versions shown here first.
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:
These watches have a lot of charm, especially if you like vintage styling. The hour hand with the large circular section and pointed tip looks a bit cheeky, and also makes it easy to read.
Q Timex 38mm Quartz Details:
Being that it is a reissue of a vintage watch, the Q Timex has a distinctly retro aesthetic. This is aided by the 38mm case size, and domed plexiglass crystal.
The finishing is not extremely sharp or precise, but is nice for the price of the watch, with brushed top surfaces, and polished sides.
The hands are polished. While the markers are not applied, the printing is crisp, and an attractive white border around the day and date looks nice.
Wearing the Q Timex 38mm Quartz:
Legibility is quite good, and these watches wear quite comfortably due to their small size and low weight.
The 12-hour bezel provides a "cheap GMT" feature, allowing wearers to track a second time zone. There are no clicks, and it is a friction fit, but the rotation is smooth. It's a bit hard to grip due to how flat it is, but it's not a timing bezel anyway.
The lume is not as bright as something like a Seiko, but is better than many budget watches, especially considering that the application looks a bit thin.
Q Timex Original and Replacement Straps:
Timex does not state what type of rubber that its straps are made from, but I believe that the one on the Q is silicone. It's formed in a Tropical Style, and is lightweight and comfortable, if a bit flimsy. It gives the Q more of a casual, beach vibe.
Most of the current Q Timex Quartz models currently for sale come with some form of stainless steel bracelet, however. It gives it more of a classy, retro look, and is also quite thin. The flip clasp feels a bit flimsy but is very compact. I expected the bracelet to pull my arm hair, and, well...it does. Other than that, a nice option, if a bit inexpensive feeling.
One of the key aspects of all of the Q Timex original straps is their shape. The Q Timex watches all have 18mm lug widths, but fairly thick lugs and square cases. Thus, you can fit a standard 18mm strap to one, but it won't look quite right. This is where StrapHabit TQ18 Q Timex straps come in! They offer a higher quality aftermarket option in a variety of colors! Scroll down to the end of the article to see more photos.
Of course, I'm highly biased, but I feel that they make the Q feel like a more high-end watch, and make it much more enjoyable to wear!
The Movement:
The Q Timex is available with a number of different movements, but the quartz variants here are powered by a Seiko PC33. It includes 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 it 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 that can be opened with a coin.
Conclusion:
Especially when compared to something like a Swatch Moonswatch, the $179 MSRP of the Q Timex makes it seem like a good value. Plus, although certain versions are sometimes sold out, they are available online and are much easier to get than the Moonswatch.
Timex has been making strides to appeal more to watch collectors in recent years, and the Q Timex line is the best example of this. They seem to be committed to it as well, and they continue to release new versions. If you're looking for a tasteful and affordable everyday, watch, they are worth a look!
Specifications:
Name: Q Timex 38mm Synthetic Rubber Strap Watch / Stainless Steel Bracelet Watch
Reference Number: TW2V32100ZV, TW2U60900ZV
MSRP: $179
Diameter: 38mm
Height: 43.4mm
Thickness: 12.4mm
Lug Width: 18mm
Weight: 64g (with rubber strap), 94g (with stainless steel bracelet)
Movement: Seiko quartz PC33
Water Resistance: 50m
Crystal: Acrylic
Crown: Push-pull
Bezel: Friction
Strap: Silicone (StrapHabit TQ18 straps also shown)
See different looks and purchase StrapHabit (View all here):
TQ18 Beads of Rice Bracelets:
TQ18 FKM Rubber:
TQ18 Sailcloth and Leather Hybrid:
TQ18 Hybrid Sailcloth and Rubber Watch Straps:
