Since the release of the immensely popular Q Timex Reissue in 2019, Timex has not ceased to rejoice. Indeed, it is no surprise that these reissues have been so incredibly popular, considering that Timex is a cultural cornerstone adorning the wrists of millions from generation to generation. I believe there are very few readers who have not had a Timex on their wrist at some point, whether it be an Indiglo, Ironman, Weekender, or classic dress watches of past decades. Once Timex began releasing Q reissues, those dusty corners of our hippocampus stirred, childhood memories rushed in, and nostalgia took hold. If the original Q reissue didn't appeal to you and you're looking for something more classic and versatile, then the Q Timex 1978 Reissue Day-Date might be just what you need.
In the case of the latest Timex reissue, the 1978 Day-Date, these quartz sports watches are sold at an affordable price of $169.
To be fair, at a price of $169, there are many quartz watches available on the market, but Timex stands out with a long and rich brand history, excellent quality for its price, and a luxurious nostalgic aesthetic. Unlike many other vintage reissues on the market, these watches truly look as if you found them at a local store counter in 1978.
The diameter of the Day-Date 1978 watch is a period-appropriate 37 mm, and the classic cushion-shaped case of the 1970s features a polished surface and beveled edges. The vintage vibe is unmistakable. At the top of the case is an acrylic crystal with a high domed surface, maintaining a warm vintage charm. The size and shape of the watch are suitable for a wide range of wrist sizes and are certainly suitable for any gender.
If the case and crystal speak of the 1970s, the dial simply screams it. The silver dial features vertical stripes reminiscent of the linen dials of watches popular in that era. The texture allows the dial to be dynamic in light and provides great visual interest. However, the downside of the dial is that the polished silver markers and hands can get lost in certain lighting, making it difficult to read the time.
The Q Timex 1978 Reissue Day-Date, as the name suggests, also features a day and date function. In mechanical watches, this feature is disliked by many due to the extra time required to set the date and day after the watch stops. However, as clearly indicated by Timex above the “6 o’clock” mark on the dial, these are quartz watches, so this issue will not be as relevant. Nevertheless, I am sure some people would prefer a time-only version, and it's hard to disagree with that.
Speaking of the quartz movement, another feature worth noting about Timex watches that aligns with the brand’s philosophy - ease of wear and maintenance - is the coin-slot battery hatch. Of course, it's a small thing, but it means that many people are much more likely to actually replace the battery rather than shove the watch in a shoebox under the bed and forget about them for several years until the battery corrodes and ruins the watch…
Timex has fitted the 1978 Day-Date with a black leather strap that looks attractive and complements the watch's style. But considering the watch is priced at $169, one should not expect it to feel like a custom-made supple leather strap. With a lug width of 20 mm and neutral tones, these watches are meant to be experimented with different straps. I can imagine how great they would look on a NATO strap or a whiskey-colored leather strap with minimal stitching. Timex uses quick-release spring bars, so changing the look should be simple and fast.
When the original Q Timex was released in 2019, I was not among those who eagerly sought to get their hands on them, simply because the aesthetics did not appeal to me. But 1978 is just right. I see them as a great option for wearing on the go, looking equally good with jeans and a t-shirt or under a blazer cuff. It's also the kind of watch I would gladly recommend to friends and family looking for attractive, reliable, and well-made quartz watches that remind them of the past. I can't imagine Timex slowing down the release of these watches anytime soon, so if the 1978 Day-Date model isn't quite to your taste, wait a few months and keep your fingers crossed for a model that evokes nostalgia for you.
Q Timex Reissue 1978 Day-Date is sold for $169.