Just 6 months after its initial release, one of Timex’s best watches is (in theory) about to get better. Flush with subtle upgrades, the new Timex Q Three Time Zone Chronograph takes the elegant styling of the previous model and triples down on utility, visibility, and everyday appeal.
Aimed at buyers seeking the “thrill of the open road,” this travel-minded timepiece might just be the perfect globetrotting companion.
Timex Releases Q Triple Time Zone Chronograph
At least, that’s how it appears on paper. And off of that paper leaps several facts: a $219 entry point, four trims, a quartz-powered chronograph, and a flattened mineral crystal. But as the name would indicate, the main selling point lies in the three-zone time tracking.
Here’s how it works: In addition to the traditional three-hand setup, this Q comes with a “second hour hand which can be set independently to track 2 different time zones.” A third can then be worked out using the rotating top ring in conjunction with either of the hour hands.
This leads to a tradeoff from the previous Q Chronograph. Gone is the tachymeter bezel, in favor of the more traditional dive-style outer ring. And for daily use, I’d argue that this actually offers a bit more versatility.
These bezels are generally used as passive timers for laundry, cooking, or other tasks, and pairing this with the chronograph will allow users to time two events at once.
But Wait, There’s More
In keeping with the dive-styling, Timex swapped out the baton indices for applied circles at the hour markers, each with a generous application of lume. There’s also a lume pip on the outer ring, and each hand has a shape that’s readily discernable in the dark.
One of my minor complaints with the previous gen involved the leather band; 18 mm feels a bit narrow for a watch of this size, though the case’s angular narrowing to the lugs reduces the visual impact.
Timex has stuck with the same measurement but subbed synthetic rubber for the leather. This is a significant upgrade from a water/sweat resistance and durability standpoint, but user preferences may vary.
And speaking of water resistance, this is probably the Q’s weakest point — 50M is fine for daily use, dishwashing, and even a quick dip in the pool.
But for anything involving depth or pressure, you’ll want to leave the Q on the sidelines.
Looks Like Another Hit From Timex
The value proposition is very high: A chronograph, GMT hand, rotating bezel, date window, solid lume, and a well-executed and classic design, all for a price tag of just $219 ($239 for the metal bracelet).
While I haven’t laid hands on the production version yet, this latest Q has the potential to be among the best affordable, feature-rich combos of 2023.
