If you’re like me and you can never get enough of the whole vintage military watch thing, then Timex’s latest collaboration with Bespoke Post might be right up your alley. Based on a 1970s gem from their Viscount collection, this throwback is wrapped up in a 36mm steel case that’s just the right size for something that looks rugged without feeling cumbersome.
Let’s be real. At $159, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a true vintage field watch in working order for less than that—especially one with this kind of character. You could get similar vibes from modern watches with comparable DNA like the CWC Mellor-72, but those are way pricier. And though this piece swaps an automatic movement for a quartz one, let’s not kid ourselves. Quartz is rock-solid, and when it’s paired with that Cordura strap? Probably as nails for a daily wear watch.
The original Viscount, back in the day, was a pretty big deal in Timex’s lineup, covering everything from dive watches to field pieces. Fast forward to now, and Timex and Bespoke Post have revived a charming little model. We’re talking period-accurate details like the barrel-shaped case and military-style time dial, but with a few clever updates like orange instead of red on the second hand. The triangle markers are a shout-out to the original, just cleaned up a bit.
The strap looks like a considerable upgrade from the original too, going from a standard rubber band to a tough, military-inspired olive Cordura. Not only does it add some much-needed durability, but it also keeps the watch comfortable enough for everyday wear.
At this price point, they could’ve cut corners on the materials (hell, they did with the acrylic crystal), but that’s part of the deal when you’re trying to keep things affordable. Still, it’s hard not to feel like you’re getting away with something naughty when you look at the price.
For anyone who’s ever wanted a taste of that retro military watch aesthetic without shelling out for an inflated vintage piece or diving into the luxury end of things, this one’s pretty much a no-brainer.
The Timex x Bespoke Post Field Watch is available starting today, April 24th, for $159.
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.