Some time ago on an old podcast episode, we declared Timex to be our “new darling.” Since then the affordable brand has continued its strategy of releasing cool collaborations and vintage-inspired watches at affordable prices. This latest model, the Timex Todd Snyder MK-1 Sky King, stopped a lot of watch enthusiasts in their tracks yesterday with its Porsche-Design-IWC-ish styling and sub-$200 pricing. And rightfully so … it’s the first Timex collaboration with Todd Snyder that has actually tempted me. I’m sure it has something to do with the pilot watch aesthetic, which they expertly pulled off.
The Timex Todd Snyder MK-1 Sky King takes a lot of its base architecture from the standard Timex MK-1 Chronograph, which we reviewed here. Lightweight aluminum is used for the case, you get a reliable quartz movement, and the sizing leads the watch to work well on a range of straps. This time, Timex has oriented the sub-registers in a 12-9-6 format, much like the pilot’s chronographs coming from brands like IWC. This combination paired with little design elements like the triangle marker at 12 are undeniably pilot-y. But Timex and Todd Snyder both seem to refer to it as a field watch in their promo materials.
While we don’t know much about the quartz movement inside, one thing I hope for is the surprise jumping-hour functionality we found last time we reviewed the MK-1 chronograph. That would take the whole pilot watch thing to the next level with a valuable travel-ready feature. The Timex Todd Snyder MK-1 Sky King can be had with either a Black or “Blaze Orange” dial and when I look at the two, I just wish their date wheels would’ve been swapped (black numerals on white for the orange dial, white numerals on black for the black dial). But the worst part about this watch is … no INDIGLO®. Come on guys!
Timex Todd Snyder MK-1 Sky King Specs
- Case Diameter: 42mm
- Lug Width: 20mm
- Water Resistance: 50m
- Case Material: Aluminum
- Movement: Timex Quartz
- Crystal: Domed Acrylic
- Strap: Canvas & Leather Recycled Fabric
- Price: $178
Overall I’d say the Timex Todd Snyder MK-1 Sky King is an excellent release from the two brands. Sure, there are a couple of things I’d change but at this price, it can still make for a fun, spontaneous purchase. To me, the black dial is the winner and I’m starting to feel like stock won’t last long. The MK-1 Sky King is available now from both Timex and Todd Snyder.
Co-Founder & Senior Editor
Michael Peñate is an American writer, photographer, and podcaster based in Seattle, Washington. His work typically focuses on the passage of time and the tools we use to connect with that very journey. From aviation to music and travel, his interests span a multitude of disciplines that often intersect with the world of watches – and the obsessive culture behind collecting them.
Yeah I’m not really feeling much of the field watch vibes on these. I agree that they’re more pilot-like. Maybe also a bit divey due to the circle and rectangle indices?? Curious mix of stuff going on. But I like it. It’s weird. Keep up the weird, Timex!