Airline Pilot William “Whip” Whitaker Sr. (Denzel Washington) walks to work in style i.e. with a slick Timex watch on his wrist after a night of fun in Flight (2012).
THE EDC TIMEX WATCH: AN ABRIDGED HISTORY
“You got your Timex piece at Gallantry, too? My man.”
The origin story for Timex begins in 1854, with the establishment of the Waterbury Clock Company (founded by Connecticut brass manufacturers Benedict and Burnham, this manufacturing firm produced lower-priced watches that could compete with the high-end European models of the era), the first of three (along with the Waterbury Watch Company and Robert H. Ingersoll and Brothers) notable 19th-century American clock and watch manufacturers that would eventually become the Timex brand that we know and love today.
Cut to 1914. If not for Waterbury having the good fortune of supplying Ingersoll, the Timex story would have come to abrupt end right this instant. However, as we know, this was the year World War I, the “war to end all wars”, broke out. Almost overnight, wristwatches were everywhere. Who had time to dig through their pockets in the heat of battle? Not soldiers.
Two decades later and the companies that would eventually become Timex come to another crossroads, The Great Depression. In the nick of time, Disney saves the day. Mickey Mouse watches and clocks become the company’s first-ever million-dollar line, debuting in 1933 at the Chicago World’s Fair.
Shipbuilder Thomas Olsen and engineer Joakim Lehmkuhl, both of whom fled Norway for the United States after the German invasion of their country in 1940, purchase the nearly bankrupt Waterbury Clock Company (hoping to aid the allied war effort by producing bomb and artillery fuses that utilized clockwork mechanisms) and form Timex, Inc. in 1941. When World War II ends in 1945, Olsen, the majority shareholder, returns to Norway. Meanwhile, while Lehmkuhl remains in the United States to run the company. Not long thereafter, Lehmkuhl, having converted the Timex plant to one able to mass produce inexpensive, dependable timekeeping devices (including wristwatches), becomes known as the “Henry Ford of the Watch Industry”.
1950. The first proper Timex watch appears. The heads of the United States Time Corporation (the umbrella organization for Timex, Inc.) devote themselves entirely to lowering costs as much as possible. Thanks to clever manufacturing practices and previous wartime innovations, the Timex watch becomes the least expensive watch on the market. Things are on the up and up.
The early 1960’s. One out of every three watches that gets sold is a Timex. By the end of the decade, Timex watches account for half of U.S. watch sales. In a 1969 no-brainer move, the United States Time Corporation becomes the Timex Corporation. After all, who doesn’t want to celebrate the sweet smell of success with a well-deserved name change?
By the 1970’s, however, the dark ages of the early 1910’s appear to be making an unwanted return. Cheap mechanical watches from new Asian companies hit the scene and the “Quartz Crisis” (i.e. the dark ages for the domestic watch industry) begins. Even Timex, literally known for its affordable products, feels the heat to such an extreme that it forays into the home computer industry (with predictably disastrous results). Thousands of employees are laid off. Plants are closed. It’s a grim picture. That being said, and if the company’s history is any indication, it’s never wise to count out Timex.
It’s morning again in America in the 1980’s. Timex decides to returns to its roots, its bread and butter - affordable, strong timepieces. The decision pays off in spades. Before long, Timex is pairing its production of watches that are fashionable, sporty, and colorful with increased investment in advertising. Timex sports watches (all priced under $75) become so popular that Timex even brings back its iconic “takes a licking and keeps on ticking” ad campaign with a wink-wink, tongue-in-cheek series of commercials. By the end of the decade, Timex once again has nearly half the U.S. mass-market watch market on lock. Suffice to say, Timex was back for good.
We come full circle in our current year, 2021. Is it any wonder that Timex, undoubtedly the most famous American watchmaker, renowned for its durable, low-cost timepieces, continues to maintain an active presence in more than ninety countries after 167 years?
We think not.
GALLANTRY WISDOM FOR THE GALLANTRY MAN
There’s a great lesson to be learned from the history of Timex. It’s a lesson that’s applicable across disciplines and it’s a lesson that really sums up much of what synthesizes the ethos of Gallantry and the modern-day popularity of EDC altogether, and that is that timeless American ingenuity always prevails.
After astonishing success in the 1960’s, Timex hit a wall during the Quartz Crisis of the 1970’s. However, it was the company’s decision to play to its greatest strength – producing functional, tough, and reasonably priced timepieces that saved it and breathed brand new life into its legacy. The instant Timex stopped trying to reinvent the wheel (so to speak) in order to remain true to the authentic vision and mission that brought the watch manufacturer wild success in the first place was the second Timex took its game to a whole new level.
It would have behooved the antagonist of Len Wiseman’s 2007 Live Free or Die Hard, Internet terrorist Thomas Gabriel (Timothy Olyphant), intent on taking control of America’s computer infrastructure, to have instilled this lesson. Upon discovering the identity of his nemesis, John McClane (Bruce Willis), Gabriel calls McClane “a Timex watch in a digital age” as if it’s an insult. It’s a major miscalculation.
SPOILER ALERT: By the end of the flick, Gabriel’s been blown to a million pieces while American hero McClane has managed to save the day for the fourth friccin’ time.
The message couldn’t be more crystal clear. The Gallantry Man always – ALWAYS - comes out on top.
“You bet your ass I’m a Timex watch in a digital age.”
“You bet your ass I’m a Timex watch in a digital age.”FINDING THE PERFECT TIMEX FOR YOU
The one true constant that has remained over the Timex’s various phases and rebrands is its dedication to providing the simplest, most affordable watches to everyone. The following styles are some of Timex’s most well reputed watches still being bought and thrown on wrists everywhere…
THE WATERBURY TRADITIONAL AUTOMATIC WATCH FROM TIMEX
We carry EDC fire that is The Waterbury Traditional Automatic 39MM Leather Strap Watch from Timex for a reason. When the Waterbury Clock Company was established in 1854, it flipped the three century-old watch industry script, stamping its watch gears out of metal rather than carving them from wood. It’s no wonder why Detroit’s automakers were inspired by the Waterbury Clock Company’s assembly lines when the automobile entered our cultural lexicon.
Waterbury Traditional Automatic 39mm Leather Strap Watch
$259.00
[tab-section data-sc-active-background="#ffffff" data-sc-other-background="#ffffff" data-sc-color="#555555"][tab title="Details"] This new release from Timex features the iconic Waterbury Watch Company logo on the dial, crown and sweeping second hand, which bears the stylized W. Each watch displays attention to craftsmanship and detail, with finely-finished… read more
Waterbury Traditional Automatic 39mm Leather Strap Watch
$259.00
[tab-section data-sc-active-background="#ffffff" data-sc-other-background="#ffffff" data-sc-color="#555555"][tab title="Details"] This new release from Timex features the iconic Waterbury Watch Company logo on the dial, crown and sweeping second hand, which bears the stylized W. Each watch displays attention to craftsmanship and detail, with finely-finished… read more
THE STANDARD CHRONOGRAPH WATCH FROM TIMEX
By 1901, Timex was making watches for just one dollar (that would be thirty-five bucks today). The timepieces were so popular, even the legendary Mark Twain himself had two in his EDC collection. It’s pretty amazing what just a little ingenuity and two metal bars welded to the sides of the brand’s smallest model can still accomplish.
The Standard watches from Timex are the watchmaker’s casual watch. Refined EDC that constantly exceeds expectations. Timex pays careful attention to detail and takes design cues from the past while creating new variations that are perfect for today’s everyday carry enthusiast. That’s why, as of today, we are proudly carrying even more of the best Timex EDC watch styles, including three new variants of The Standard Chronograph.
A casual way to wear a classic chronograph, the careful attention to detail allows the Timex Standard to shine as one of our most refined everyday watches. Designed with versatility in mind, this chronograph brings together classic elements with modern materials and easily interchangeable straps. The chronograph dial and black fabric strap complement the silver-tone case and traditional oversized crown, a nod to our original wrist watch.
SPECIFICATIONS
- INDIGLO® Light-Up Watch Dial
- 24 Hour Watch
- Chronograph Watch
- Date Window
- Water Resistant to 30 Meters
- INDIGLO® Night-Light with Night-Mode
- Chronograph Measures to 1/20th Second
- Date Feature
- Case Width: 41 mm
- Case Material: Low Lead Brass
- Band Color: Black
- Buckle/Clasp: Buckle
- Case Color: Black
- Case Finish: Brushed
- Crystal/Lens: Mineral Glass
- Dial Color: Black
- Watch Movement: Quartz Analog
- Water Resistance: 30 meters
Available with Leather or Fabric Strap, in White or Black Watch Face
Timex Standard Chronograph 41MM Watch
$109.00
[tab-section data-sc-active-background="#ffffff" data-sc-other-background="#ffffff" data-sc-color="#555555"][tab title="Details"] Up your style with this classic chronograph from Timex. Designed with versatility in mind, this chronograph brings together classic elements with modern materials and easily interchangeable straps. The chronograph dial and black fabric strap complement… read more
Timex Standard Chronograph 41MM Watch
$109.00
[tab-section data-sc-active-background="#ffffff" data-sc-other-background="#ffffff" data-sc-color="#555555"][tab title="Details"] Up your style with this classic chronograph from Timex. Designed with versatility in mind, this chronograph brings together classic elements with modern materials and easily interchangeable straps. The chronograph dial and brown leather strap complement the… read more
Timex Standard Chronograph 41MM Watch
$109.00
[tab-section data-sc-active-background="#ffffff" data-sc-other-background="#ffffff" data-sc-color="#555555"][tab title="Details"] Up your style with this classic chronograph from Timex. Designed with versatility in mind, this chronograph brings together classic elements with modern materials and easily interchangeable straps. The chronograph dial and brown hybrid fabric and… read more
THE Q TIMEX REISSUE WATCH FROM TIMEX
The series that redefined precision and reshaped watches for a new generation, as wound brass springs were replaced by counting the vibration of a quartz crystal, giving way to newfound flexibility per the shape and size of a mechanical movement for Timex’s designers.
Are you ready for some even more good news? We thought so, which is why we’re absolutely pumped to inform you that not only is the piping hot red/white/blue Q Timex Reissue back in stock, but also that we are now carrying the brand spanking new Q Timex Falcon Eye Reissue.
Let the good EDC times roll, Gallantry Man!
First conceived in in 1979, a period that we have to come to regard as the era of the “Quartz Crisis,” the Q Timex diver was an innovative timepiece upon its debut. It is our good fortune that Timex has resurrected the original wristwatch, recreating every detail, including the authentic design of the stainless steel adjustable bracelet, luminescent hands, and convenient battery hatch. The diver-inspired 50-meter water-resistant watch also comes with a rotating top ring, domed acrylic crystal, day and date window, and modern quartz movement. With a patriotic face and a true ‘70’s soul, this retro timepiece is ready for its time in the EDC modern mission sun.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Re-release of the original 1979 diver-inspired Q Timex
- Iconic "Pepsi" dial
- Stainless steel 38mm case
- Quartz movement
- Day and date window
- Battery hatch
- 18mm adjustable bracelet
- Acrylic lens
- Rotating top ring
- 50-meter water-resistance
- Luminescent hands
Available in White/Red/Blue, Gold/Blue/Black, Black/Red, Blue/Red
Q Timex Reissue Watch
$179.00
[tab-section data-sc-active-background="#ffffff" data-sc-other-background="#ffffff" data-sc-color="#555555"][tab title="Details"] In the 1970s, wristwatches started to transition from complex mechanical functions to the revolutionary quartz movements. Created in a period known as the “Quartz Crisis,” the Q Timex diver was an innovative timepiece in 1979. Timex… read more
Q Timex Reissue Watch
$189.00
[tab-section data-sc-active-background="#ffffff" data-sc-other-background="#ffffff" data-sc-color="#555555"][tab title="Details"] In the 1970s, wristwatches started to transition from complex mechanical functions to the revolutionary quartz movements. Created in a period known as the “Quartz Crisis,” the Q Timex diver was an innovative timepiece in 1979. Timex… read more
Q Timex Reissue Watch
$189.00
[tab-section data-sc-active-background="#ffffff" data-sc-other-background="#ffffff" data-sc-color="#555555"][tab title="Details"] In the 1970s, wristwatches started to transition from complex mechanical functions to the revolutionary quartz movements. Created in a period known as the “Quartz Crisis,” the Q Timex diver was an innovative timepiece in 1979. Timex… read more
Q Timex Reissue Watch
$179.00
[tab-section data-sc-active-background="#ffffff" data-sc-other-background="#ffffff" data-sc-color="#555555"][tab title="Details"] In the 1970s, wristwatches started to transition from complex mechanical functions to the revolutionary quartz movements. Created in a period known as the “Quartz Crisis,” the Q Timex diver was an innovative timepiece in 1979. Timex… read more
THE Q TIMEX REISSUE FALCON EYE 38MM STAINLESS STEEL BRACELET WATCH FROM TIMEX
Following on the heels of the Q Timex 1979 reissue, the Q Timex Falcon Eye adds some two-tone refinement to the Q Timex series. Reissued for today, Timex recreated every detail – a period-correct woven stainless-steel bracelet, functional battery hatch, two-tone case, luminescent paint and a striated electric-blue dial. The result is a refined watch with a retro design updated for a whole new generation (the inside components have been completely reimagined) that nevertheless retains absolutely every ounce of soul, spirit, and character from the era that inspired it (i.e. a functional battery hatch and retro case shape).
With a stunning electric-blue dial, woven stainless-steel bracelet, and sporty-yet-refined wrist presence, the Falcon Eye packs the soul and style you want while delivering the on-wrist practicality you need.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Adjustable Stainless Steel Bracelet
- Day & Date Window
- Stainless Steel Watch Case
- Water Resistant to 50 Meters
- Case Width: 38 mm
- Case Material: Stainless Steel
- Band Color: Stainless Steel
- Buckle/Clasp: Clasp (Self-Adjust)
- Case Color: Stainless Steel
- Case Finish: Brushed/Polished
- Crystal/Lens: Acrylic
- Dial Color: Blue
- Water Resistance: 50 meters
- Top Ring Color: Gold-Tone
- Top Ring Material: Stainless Steel
Available in Stainless-Steel/Blue/Gold-Tone
Q Timex Reissue Falcon Eye Watch
$179.00
[tab-section data-sc-active-background="#ffffff" data-sc-other-background="#ffffff" data-sc-color="#555555"][tab title="Details"] Following on the heels of their Q Timex 1979 reissue, the Q Timex Falcon Eye adds some two-tone refinement to the Q Timex series. Reissued for today, we recreated every detail – a period-correct woven… read more
THE AMERICAN DOCUMENTS COLLECTION FROM TIMEX
Like the first Timex mantel clocks of 1854, the made in the U.S.A watches that comprise the American Documents® collection, drop forged in US-sourced stainless steel by auto parts manufacturers prior to being assembled in Timex’s Connecticut Headquarters, are a testament to American imagination and initiative.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Made in USA
- American stainless steel 41mm case
- Gold-plated Swiss Quartz analog movement
- 20mm leather strap
- 30-meter water-resistance
- “Aged Waterbury Brass” case back coin and crown insert
- Inspired by Timex’s 1854 stamped brass clocks
- Cherry wood box with hand-rubbed natural finish
- Magnetic closure and brass hinges secure watch inside box
Timex American Documents Watch
$495.00
[tab-section data-sc-active-background="#ffffff" data-sc-other-background="#ffffff" data-sc-color="#555555"][tab title="Details"] Echoing the mantel clocks Timex built well over a century ago, the American Documents timepiece blends American brilliance with the precision found in European design. Made in the USA, this wristwatch is built from US-sourced… read more
JUST IN TIME…
“I love the message ‘Take your life seriously.’”
– Charlie Hunnam, 2019
“I love the message ‘Take your life seriously.’”Sons of Anarchy star Charlie Hunnam is your classic Gallantry Man. He puts his money where his mouth is. How do you know? Well, he rocks his EDC Timex piece even when he’s not on call (see the photo above, where he takes a casual stroll with his bro, Triple Frontier co-star Oscar Isaac).
Yeah, Hunnam is a man who definitely takes his life seriously, letting the world know “You’re damn right I wear a no-frills Timex that gets the job done. I’m about that Gallantry EDC life and I won’t ever apologize for it.”
With timeless design, legendary quality, and superb craftsmanship, can you blame Hunnam for taking his work home with him? We know we can’t (no, seriously though).
There’s a reason Timex is still getting after it nearly one hundred and seventy years after its initial inception. When your watches are created using American hide, resilient woven fabric, and durable metals, and then quality-tested for 24 hours before leaving their watchmaker's hands, cool dudes are going to want in.
Get some!
STREAMING THE EDC TIMEX WATCH
U.S. Army Delta Force veteran William "Ironhead" Miller (Charlie Hunnam) flashes his EDC Timex as he prepares to steal $75 million from a South American drug lord with his newly reunited former special ops team in J.C. Chandor’s Triple Frontier (2019).
Triple Frontier Writer/Director J.C. Chandor must be a fan of EDC Timex watches because both Tom “Redfly” Davis (Ben Affleck) and William “Ironhead” Miller (Charlie Hunnam) wear one on their person throughout the entire pulse-pounding 2019 Action flick. The movie is an ideal evening watch for the Gallantry Man, a smart thriller that highlights a group of EDC enthusiasts relying upon their self-determination, training, and skills to survive a dangerous mission, rediscovering a deep sense of belonging, brotherhood, and community that they had previously lost sight of along the way.
Stream the flick on Netflix right here.
*Fun Fact: To prepare for the film, the cast trained with SEAL team members and a Delta Force operative.
“I know this might be a weird time to bring this up, guys, but have you checked out Gallantry? Best site on the Internet. And its weekly newsletter The Dispatch is sick.”
“I know this might be a weird time to bring this up, guys, but have you checked out Gallantry? Best site on the Internet. And its weekly newsletter The Dispatch is sick.”
“You looking at my Timex, bro? Get your own EDC.”
