Timex Quartz Water Resistant Wristwatch with Expansion Band
Watches/Jewelry · Timex Group USA, Inc. (formerly Waterbury Clock Company). A mass-market American brand established in 1854, known for durability and 'taking a licking and keep on ticking.'
Pattern: Standard Timex Easy Reader or Dress series; non-specific collection name, mass-produced.
Type
Watches/Jewelry
Maker
Timex Group USA, Inc. (formerly Waterbury Clock Company). A mass-market American brand established in 1854, known for durability and 'taking a licking and keep on ticking.'
Material
Base metal case (likely chrome-plated brass) and stainless steel expansion band. This item is not solid silver and unlikely to contain silver content.
Dimensions
Case diameter approximately 35-38mm; weight approximately 50-70 grams. Typical men's or unisex mid-sized watch proportions.
Description
A classic, functional Timex wristwatch featuring a clean analog face with high-contrast Arabic numerals. The piece emphasizes legibility and ease of use, characteristic of the Easy Reader lineage. It is mounted on a flexible expansion band common in everyday mid-market timepieces.
Key Features
Timex branding, date complication, Arabic numeral indices, and a 'twist-fix' style stainless steel stretch band.
Material & Composition
Base metal case (likely chrome-plated brass) and stainless steel expansion band. This item is not solid silver and unlikely to contain silver content.
Finish & Decoration
Polished chrome or steel finish; white or cream dial with black Arabic numerals and a date window at 3 o'clock. Utilitarian, mid-century modern aesthetic.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Labeled 'TIMEX' and 'WATER RESISTANT' on dial. Caseback likely stamped 'Stainless Steel Back' and 'Base Metal Bezel.' No silver hallmarks present.
Construction Details
Machine-manufactured. Die-struck case, mineral or acrylic crystal, mass-produced quartz movement, and a linked mechanical expansion bracelet.
Functional Features
Analog timekeeping, date function, water resistance, and an elastic expansion band for slip-on wear without a clasp.
Handle & Grip Details
Includes a knurled metal crown at the 3 o'clock position for adjusting time and date; stainless steel expansion bracelet.
Craftsmanship Details
Industrial quality; precision machine-tooling for the case and movement. Built for reliability and cost-efficiency rather than artisan silversmithing.
Authentication Indicators
Standard Timex dial printing and case construction consistent with mass-market production; lack of precious metal hallmarks confirms it is a base-metal accessory.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely manufactured in the Philippines, China, or Hong Kong using Japanese or Swiss quartz movements, as per Timex standard global assembly.
Era & Period
Modern/Late 20th Century (Post-1970 Quartz Revolution) with traditional mid-century design cues.
Age Estimate
Circa 1990-2010. Based on the dial font, 'Water Resistant' text, and style of the expansion band.
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of timekeeping during the quartz era, shifting watches from luxury items to reliable, everyday tools for the general public.
Condition Notes
Good. Visible surface scratches on the bezel and crystal. Minor tarnish or wear to the plating on the expansion band links. Dial appears clean.
Value Estimate
Market value ranges from $10 to $30 USD depending on functional state. Minimal intrinsic metal value.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid heavy water exposure despite 'Water Resistant' rating; clean crystal with a soft cloth; replace battery every 2-3 years; clean band links with a soft brush to remove skin oils.
Similar Pieces
Casio MQ24, Seiko 5 (Automatic), or various Hamilton 'clean dial' watches. Key difference is the movement type (Quartz) and use of non-precious metals.
Interesting Facts
Timex introduced the Easy Reader in 1977; it became one of the most recognizable watch designs in the world due to its simplicity and affordable pricing.