Q Timex Chronograph 40mm Watch Review (TW2V42700ZV and TW2V42800ZV)

In the continuing series of watches that have been purchased to test with the new StrapHabit TQ18 straps for Q Timex, I've also bought two Q Timex 40mm Chronographs. These were the most difficult to obtain of all of the Timex watches I've purchased, but for good reason, as they're also my favorites.

Both have been out of stock on the Timex website every time that I've checked in recent months. I signed up for notifications but never received any. Finally, I was able to purchase each on Amazon at different times. I had to wait 1-2 months to receive both, but they did eventually arrive.

First Impressions:

These watches look cool. If you can get over them not being mechanical watches, they have a lot of charm. It feels like you are wearing a vintage racing chronograph, without any of the expense or complication of buying one.

The crystal dome height is quite high, giving a lot of distortion.

Additionally, the polished hands and applied markers give the dials a bit of sparkle. I expected the white portions of both dials to be pure white, but actually, they are more of a cream color.

 

Q Timex Chronograph Details:

The chronograph features the charming angular case language of the other Q Timex watches. It is the only model to feature a fixed bezel, however. The black tachymeter scale with polished text and markers looks decidedly appropriate on such a vintage-styled watch.

Many people dislike watches with 4:30 date windows. I find a date very useful on quartz "everyday" type watch, and they are color-matched to both dials. They blend in enough not to bother me at all. I think it's the best location for the date on this dial.

 

Wearing the Q Timex Chronograph:

The legibility of both dial colors is not great. The polished hands tend to blend into the alternating colors of the dial, and they are also rather thin.

Additionally, the lume is very weak and thin. It is not useful in most cases.

Beyond that, the dials look good. I like the recessed subdials, and a panda or reverse panda chronograph almost always looks good. I appreciate the symmetric layout and orientation of the text.

Like the other models, the crown is a bit difficult to grip. It's less critical on a quartz watch that continues running after you stop wearing it, however. The pump pushers on the chronograph are quite easy to operate.

The dimensions also make them very wearable. 40mm is a sweet spot, for making it feel like a substantial racing chronograph on your wrist, without being overwhelming. 

 

Q Timex Chronograph Original and Replacement Straps:

The leather straps on these watches are the nicest of any of the Q Timex original straps that I've tried. The leather is a bit stiff but appears to be of nice quality. They arrive with a charming worn look already present. The colors chosen look nice with each dial color as well. 

 

A stainless steel bracelet is also an option on the black dial version. I have not seen one in person, but it looks to be much nicer than the bracelet that comes with the Q Timex 38mm Reissue, or the M79 Automatic. The design appears different than that of the Three Time Zone Chronograph but is likely similar quality.

As I've mentioned, 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! We currently have the versions listed below. Scroll down to the end of the article to see more photos.

FKM Rubber
Beads of Rice
Hybrid Leather
Hybrid Sailcloth

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:

Timex does not state who makes the movement in the Chronograph, but the sticker on the back says that it's made in Japan. It's likely a Seiko chronograph based on the dial layout and operation.

It features a smooth sweeping second hand, lap timer function, and date. It does not feature a mechanical snap to zero like a Seiko Meca-Quartz movement. The 24-hour subdial can be useful on an automatic watch where you frequently need to set the time and date. This watch is quartz, however, to I find it less useful.

For the price, it's a completely appropriate movement. Assuming that it is made by Seiko, it should be quite reliable also.

Conclusion:

I've really enjoyed wearing both versions. The biggest problem is choosing which one is my favorite. I could see the black dial filling in for my Heuer Autavia Viceroy in cases where I don't want to wear an expensive vintage watch. The Q Timex Chronographs offer a lot of charm and style for the price (if you can get one).

It offers a similar value proposition, and level of fun (and difficulty to obtain) as the Moonswatch, albeit in a very different package. You can also click here for a comparison review!

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 Chronograph 40mm
Reference Number: TW2V42700ZV (Black), TW2V42800ZV (White) 
MSRP: $199
Diameter: 40mm
Height: 46mm
Thickness: 13.5mm
Lug Width: 18mm
Weight: 76g
Movement: Quartz Chronograph
Water Resistance: 50m
Crystal: Mineral
Crown:  Push-pull
Bezel: Tachymeter
Strap/Bracelet: Leather  (StrapHabit TQ18 straps also shown)

 

See different looks and purchase StrapHabit Straps for Q Timex (View all here):

TQ18 FKM Rubber:

TQ18 Sailcloth and Leather Hybrid:

 

TQ18 Beads of Rice Bracelets:

 TQ18 Sailcloth and Rubber Hybrid: