Uniqlo polo shirts, Nike Killshots, and Levi’s jeans. Add a Timex Weekender to the equation and you have what people call the “basic outfit”. The Timex Weekender holds that title not only in the horology world but also in the fashion industry. Some would even call it a “meme watch” due to its popularity. But there’s nothing wrong with being basic. In fact, it has its own merits — it’s cheap and perfect for the starter who hasn’t yet discovered what he wants or needs in a watch.
Read on to find out why the Timex Weekender is highly recommended for those who are just starting their collection.
Timex Weekender: What Makes it the Perfect Starter Watch
1. It is very affordable.
Typically, beginner watch collectors are conscious of the cost and the Timex Weekender checks out when it comes to affordability. This makes the Weekender a good entry point, as other expensive watches can discourage beginners. Apart from that, models from this brand are also easy to find unlike those from luxury brands which require you to sign up for the waitlist and wait for months before getting the watch.
2. It is versatile.
The Timex Weekender is often compared with a chameleon, and for a good reason. Like the reptile, this timepiece can be worn during various occasions — from sports events to semi-formal meetings. This is thanks to the easy-to-read dial that comes in neutral colours like white and navy blue.
Apart from that, it is a breeze to customise your own once you start to develop a particular taste in watches. For instance, these watches come with lugs that are easy to slip a band into. You can keep it straightforward and simple, or you can transform it into something loud and extravagant.
3. The Indiglo feature is handy.
If there’s one thing Timex watches are known for, it is the Indiglo Light-Up dial. It has become a defining feature of the brand. Basically, the Indiglo feature lights up the whole dial. This is something unique to the brand, as many watches just apply lume to the hour markers or just the hands. Indeed, this feature is very useful if you need to tell the time in low-light places like the cinema.
4. It requires low maintenance.
Last but not least, the Timex Weekender is easy to care for since it is a quartz watch. Unlike mechanical watches, these don’t need periodic maintenance aside from the battery replacement. Another plus is that you’ll get to save a lot of money from expensive repair services.
Best Starter Timex Weekender Models
Have I already convinced you that the Timex Weekender is one of the best watches to get if you’re just starting out? If yes, then here are a few Timex Weekender models that you should check out to start your exciting watch collection journey.
1. Timex Weekender 38
Timex Weekender 38 specs:
- Case material: Low lead brass
- Case dimension: 38mm
- Movement: Quartz
- Power reserve: n/a
- Water resistance: 30m
The Timex Weekender 38 is the most basic of Timex models. Timex produces the Weekender line in a plethora of sizes and designs, but the 38mm version is the most common. So if you want something that’s a one-size-fits-all kind of watch, this is your best bet.
Let’s start with the size. As you might have guessed from its name, it features a 38mm case. This size is in the “Goldilocks zone” as it can fit a lot of different wrist sizes. It’s not too humongous like dive watches and not too tiny like vintage dress watches. It’s just right and you can never go wrong with this size.
Meanwhile, the hour markers are written legibly in Arabic numerals. And just below the 12-hour format are the markers for the 24-hour time. Other than those, only the Timex logo and the Indiglo text can be found on the dial. In all honesty, it looks like a cleaner version of the Seiko SNK series or the Hamilton Khaki Field.
All things considered, the Timex Weekender 38 is perfect for folks who want a no-frills timepiece that can fit any situation. This also makes it a great gift idea for someone who doesn’t have a strong preference for a watch style, as its style appeals to many. With its price, you can never go wrong with it.
2. Timex Weekender 40
Timex Weekender 40 specs:
- Case material: Low lead brass
- Case dimension: 40mm
- Movement: Quartz
- Power reserve: n/a
- Water resistance: 30m
The Timex Weekender 40 can be considered as the bigger brother of the Weekender 38. Browsing through the specs, the only difference between these two models is the case dimension. The Weekender 40 is larger by 2mm and although the size difference might look small on paper, people with muscular wrists will notice and appreciate the upgrade.
Like the Weekender 38, this American beauty is military-inspired, which is evident in its clean dial and 24-hour layout. It also uses slip-thru straps, which means you can easily change them without using any tools. That also means that you can instantly transform the look of your watch from a mild solid-coloured band to a patterned one. This is an excellent feature if you’re the type who loves expressing your mood through your style.
For an extremely affordable watch, the Timex Weekender 40 is robust. Its case can handle up to 30m of water resistance. Typically, a 30m water resistance rating can handle a few splashes. But we don’t recommend swimming with it, though, as it is only splash-proof and not water-proof.
The Timex Weekender 40 is built to last you for years. No doubt that this model is one of the best everyday watches in its price range.
3. Timex Weekender Chrono
Timex Weekender Chrono specs:
- Case material: Low lead brass
- Case dimension: 40mm
- Movement: Quartz
- Power reserve: n/a
- Water resistance: 30m
If the time-only format of the previous models doesn’t appeal to you, then consider the Timex Weekender Chrono. It has the same military vibe that the base models have but with an extra function: the chronograph. And although it is more complicated, it is still easy to use and read.
As expected, its dial is high quality. The surface is smooth and free from blemishes when seen up close. It also uses the same Arabic numeral font as the base Weekender models. The 24-hour markers were removed and replaced by three sub-dials. One other thing that this model has that the previous two don’t is the date window.
Expounding on the chronograph, it features small seconds and a 30-minute counter. Furthermore, this complication measures up to 1/20th of a second. You also get two extra pushers at the side of the case. The top one is for starting and stopping the chronograph, while the bottom one is for resetting. Luckily, fidgeting with these buttons is simple and easy to understand.
The Timex Weekender Chrono is one of the most budget-friendly chronographs in the market. Whether you’re after its minimalistic design or its American heritage, I’m sure this timepiece will meet your expectations.
4. Timex x Peanuts Snoopy
Timex x Peanuts Snoopy specs:
- Case material: Low lead brass
- Case dimension: 38mm
- Movement: Quartz
- Power reserve: n/a
- Water resistance: 30m
Timex sure loves collaborating with different brands and personalities. And if you’re a fan of the white fictional beagle called Snoopy, you’re in for a treat. The Timex x Peanuts Snoopy edition will surely bring a smile to any Peanuts fan.
The collaboration is obvious with the large Snoopy graphic design on the dial. In fact, it takes almost all of the space. Another amusing detail is that instead of using the normal set of minute and hour hands, we can rely on Snoopy to point to the correct time. Moreover, Snoopy’s red baseball cap matches the colour of the strap (if you don’t plan to change it). Timex also eliminated the seconds hand to lessen the clutter.
Beyond the skin, this model is similar to the Timex Weekender 38. For one, it has the same 38mm size. Apart from that, it also features the Indiglo night light and the easy-to-read Arabic numeral font.
I liked how Timex strategically placed all the easter eggs while keeping the whole dial legible. This collaboration was a playful way for Timex to bring out the child in their fans and it worked. If you grew up watching the Peanuts gang, then owning one of these will give you a nostalgic feeling.
5. Timex x Peanuts Charlie Brown
Timex x Peanuts Charlie Brown specs:
- Case material: Low lead brass
- Case dimension: 38mm
- Movement: Quartz
- Power reserve: n/a
- Water resistance: 30m
Next up is another entry to the Timex x Peanuts lineup. If Snoopy gets his own Timex Weekender model, so does his owner Charlie Brown! That being said, the Timex x Peanuts Charlie Brown is an alternative choice for the hardcore Peanuts fan.
Like the Snoopy edition, this model focuses on a Charlie Brown graphic at the centre of the dial. It also uses the character’s forelimbs as a substitute for the standard hour and minute hands. Likewise, the nylon strap used lives up to the playful mood of the whole watch. In fact, it uses the same zig-zag pattern on Charlie Brown’s shirt.
As for the features, this watch does everything the basic Weekender can. Its Indiglo light-up dial helps you keep track of time wherever you are. Furthermore, its 30m water resistance means it is resistant to splashes. Although we still recommend taking extra care not to get it soaked too much when washing hands.
For an affordable price, the Timex x Peanuts Charlie Brown watch is truly a nice choice if you intend to put a splash of playfulness to your collection. Or to give a dash of personality to your outfit.
6. Timex Weekender Chrono Oversize
Timex Weekender Chrono Oversize specs:
- Case material: Low lead brass
- Case dimension: 40mm
- Movement: Quartz
- Power reserve: n/a
- Water resistance: 30m
Another candidate for the “oversized watch” trend is the Timex Weekender Chrono Oversize. Although it is not considered humongous with its 40mm measurement, it is still one of the larger Timex Weekender models. Its size, along with the chronograph function, gives this timepiece a sportier vibe.
Its dial is comparable to its sibling, which is the Weekender 38mm chronograph. Truly, it has the same Arabic numeral hour markers and three sub-dials. Features-wise, its chronograph can measure up to 30 minutes with the sub-dial at 10 o’clock. Meanwhile, the sub-dial at 2 o’clock measures 1/20 of a second. If you’re a football coach or a track and field runner, these features can come in handy.
Like other models, this model comes with a nylon double layer slip-through strap. This makes it easy for you to change the look of our watch. Apart from that, it is also comfortable as a nylon strap offers great breathability. Furthermore, this type of strap is also easy to adjust to the right fit.
The Timex Weekender Chrono Oversize offers a great value proposition. If you’re on the hunt for a budget-friendly chronograph that can do the job while still looking great, then I urge you to consider this model.
7. Timex Weekender Women’s Floral
Timex Weekender Women’s Floral specs:
- Case material: Low lead brass
- Case dimension: 31mm
- Movement: Quartz
- Power reserve: n/a
- Water resistance: 30m
For the ladies who want something on the smaller side, take a look at the Timex Weekender Women’s Floral. To be specific, this model comes at a miniature size of 31mm. This is the smallest size available in the collection. But beyond the size, this timepiece has everything you could hope for in a Weekender watch.
Its dial bears the same 24-hour military time format and despite its significantly smaller size, it’s easy to read the time. This is thanks to the legible Arabic numeral font and uncluttered design. Moreover, it is also equipped with the Indiglo backlight technology that increases readability.
If you’re not a fan of the floral design, don’t fret. You can easily switch it up with the slip-through fabric. Alternatively, it is also compatible with quick-release straps in case you want something more formal like a leather band.
All in all, the Timex Weekender Women’s Floral packs a lot of punch in such a tiny package. It has a quartz movement that’s reliable. Apart from that, it is also durable and can last for so many years. This truly is the model to get if you’re looking for a grab-and-go watch that can handle a lot of stress.
8. Timex Weekender XL 43
Timex Weekender XL 43 specs:
- Case material: Low lead brass
- Case dimension: 43mm
- Movement: Quartz
- Power reserve: n/a
- Water resistance: 30m
If you’re serious about wanting bigger watches, wait until you see the Timex Timex Weekender XL 43. Yep, you guessed it. This thing measures a whopping 43mm in case diameter and it’s the largest a Weekender watch has seen.
As Timex said, the Weekender is all about versatility. And with that, you can easily change your watch’s look from urban explorer NATO strap to a smart casual leather band. I’m not exaggerating when I say that this watch is like a chameleon that can blend in well with different situations and moods.
In terms of the Weekender XL 43’s durability, there’s nothing to worry about. It has a water resistance rating of 30m, which means it can resist a few splashes. Furthermore, its dial is protected with scratch-resistant mineral glass. It’s a guarantee that it can handle a few bumps on the road. In addition, Timex guarantees a long-lasting battery life of up to a decade.
Value-wise, the Timex Weekender XL 43 is undoubtedly a winner. From its durability to its styling, this timepiece will surely blow anyone away whether a long-time collector or an enthusiastic beginner. This larger version of the Weekender is definitely a gift for those who want a modern look or those who have larger wrists.
9. Timex Weekender 2-Piece 40
Timex Weekender 2-Piece 40 specs:
- Case material: Brass and LLB
- Case dimension: 40mm
- Movement: Quartz
- Power reserve: n/a
- Water resistance: 30m
The Timex Weekender 2-Piece 40 strays a bit from the casual side and into the smart casual or even semi-formal category. What makes this model unique from the others is the leather band that comes with it, whereas the others come with nylon strap. In fact, this is where it got the “2-Piece” in its name as it uses the quick release system.
Apart from the minor difference, this model is just like your typical Weekender. Its dial bears the same military vibe with the 24-hour format. Furthermore, its Indiglo technology keeps the watch legible in the dark.
For the folks who want something they can wear to the office, the Timex Weekender 2-Piece 40 with its brown leather strap will suffice. This watch is truly the perfect blend of style and functionality.
Final Notes
The Timex Weekender is undeniably one of the best introductions to the hobby of watch collecting. It is a no-frills watch that will appeal to the taste of the majority. Furthermore, its price point and customisation options are a great way to explore and develop your taste in timepieces. Whether you’re a beginner or long-time collector, the Timex Weekender will always be a good call.
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Photo credit: Featured photo courtesy of Timex
