Austen Erblat

The son and grandson of watchmakers, Austen became interested in watches in high school, while working part-time at his father and grandfather's shop in South Florida. After college and over a decade working in journalism, he developed a passion for watches, growing his collection from a G-Shock and a Seiko SKX173 to over a dozen watches. A sucker for simple and classic designs, dive watches, or the occasional unique dial, his collection is modest and budget-minded, save an Omega "Pre-Bond" Seamaster 200m his father gifted him. When he's not working as a full-time journalist or playing drums in his band, he's cuddling with his cat Sox or hiking the mountains of Colorado where he lives with his fiancé.

Timex Standard Review: An Ultra-Affordable, Versatile Watch Short On Charm

Those searching for affordable alternatives to popular luxury watches seldom find themselves coming up short on options. While Timex has doubtless occupied the consciousness of any watch buyer on a budget for decades, it’s only in the last few years that it appears to be leaning into its past, along with that of iconic brands like Rolex and Omega. However, if you’re interested in a sleek, simple, easy-to-read watch for under $100 and are okay with some lack of originality or charm, the Timex 40mm Standard is worth your attention.