Watch Review: Timex GMT Waterbury

It is no easy feat to find a solid GMT watch on a tight budget. The Rolex GMT Master II has defined the classic bicolor bezel design for decades and you will be hard-pressed to find a decent watch with a similar look for under $200. Enter the Timex GMT Waterbury, the little quartz watch that punches above its weight.

Three elements made me really enjoy this watch. Firstly, it’s simply a handsomely designed piece at 39mm. The brushed metal navy blue dial is really well executed, the gold trim is smart, and the bezel and case look pretty sharp from most angles though don’t expect amazing finishing up close. Secondly the unidirectional bezel functions quite well in tandem with the GMT button at the 2 o’clock position. Setting the GMT hand and turning the bezel to check a 2nd or 3rd time zone is quite easy. Thirdly, the simple leather strap and 100m water resistance make this a very wearable go anywhere do anything sort of watch. Since it’s quartz you don’t have to worry about accuracy or winding, the strap has a signed buckle and is quite comfy, and the solid water resistance means you don’t have to baby it.

It currently retails for $189 but you can find it for less if you dig around. It’s a hefty price for a Timex to be fair (you can get a nice Weekender for $30) but a good price for a classy-looking quartz GMT. My only criticism is that the bezel has a bit of back-play in its rotation, but at this price point it’s not such a big deal. The bezel action itself is pretty nice. Overall I’d say this is one of my favorite pieces Timex has ever made. It is one of the best options for scratching that GMT itch with a sturdy, affordable, and handsome offering from an underrated brand.