Vintage Timex SSQ Digital Liquid Crystal Display Wristwatch
Jewelry (Watch) · Timex (formerly Waterbury Clock Company), an American watch manufacturer known for affordable, mass-market durability since 1854.
Pattern: SSQ (Solid State Quartz) Digital, First Generation LCD Series
Type
Jewelry (Watch)
Maker
Timex (formerly Waterbury Clock Company), an American watch manufacturer known for affordable, mass-market durability since 1854.
Material
Stainless steel case and bracelet; electronic internal components including quartz crystal and LCD panel. This item is not solid silver.
Dimensions
Approximate case width 34-36mm; weight approximately 75-85 grams including bracelet.
Description
A classic example of the early digital watch revolution, this Timex SSQ features a monochromatic LCD display and a sleek, industrial stainless steel body. Its retro-future design captures the transition from mechanical to solid-state horology.
Key Features
Early LCD technology; integrated bracelet; hooded lugs; 'TIMEX' branding integrated into the glass crystal.
Material & Composition
Stainless steel case and bracelet; electronic internal components including quartz crystal and LCD panel. This item is not solid silver.
Finish & Decoration
Brushed and polished stainless steel finish; minimalist 'Space Age' aesthetic with a hooded lug design and integrated link bracelet.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped 'TIMEX' on the crystal and bracelet clasp. Case back likely stamped 'Base Metal Bezel, Stainless Steel Back' or 'All Stainless Steel'.
Construction Details
Machine-manufactured; die-struck steel links; multi-part assembly with a snap-on or screw-down case back and friction-pin bracelet links.
Functional Features
Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) showing hours and minutes; side push-button for setting time or activating back-light.
Handle & Grip Details
Adjustable tri-fold clasp on a tapered stainless steel link bracelet; original factory-fitted integration.
Craftsmanship Details
Standard industrial mass-production; die-pressed links and machine-brushed finishing typical of high-volume American brands of the era.
Authentication Indicators
Correct period-specific font for Timex logo; appropriate wear patterns for age; heavy machine-pressed clasp consistent with 1970s mass production.
Origin & Manufacturing
USA/Hong Kong/Taiwan; likely assembled in East Asia using Timex's globalized manufacturing facilities common in the 1970s.
Era & Period
Late 1970s; historical context of the 'Quartz Crisis' when digital technology disrupted traditional mechanical watchmaking.
Age Estimate
Circa 1976-1979 based on the early LCD display format and SSQ branding era.
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of technology during the 20th century, moving high-tech digital displays from scientific tools to consumer fashion.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. Visible surface scratches on the steel bracelet and case; display appears inactive, possibly requiring battery replacement or damaged by leakage.
Value Estimate
Market value $20 - $70 USD depending on functional state and display clarity; 'as-is' non-working condition sits at the lower end.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft cloth and mild soapy water; avoid silver polish as this is steel; professional battery replacement recommended to avoid damaging the gasket.
Similar Pieces
Casio early LCD models, Seiko 0634, and Pulsar P3 (which used LED instead of LCD); Timex models feel lighter due to hollow-link bracelets compared to Seiko.
Interesting Facts
The Timex SSQ line was one of the first affordable digital watches available to the American public, competing against much more expensive Pulsar models.