Timex is making waves again, this time with the release of its Deepwater Reef 200 Titanium Automatic. Known as a quintessential American brand with a strong reputation for budget-friendly timepieces, Timex has been on a tear lately, releasing more enthusiast-oriented watches that blend high-quality materials with surprisingly attractive designs.
The Deepwater Reef 200 Titanium Automatic continues this trend by packing in features you’d typically expect to see on watches at a much higher price point. Housed in a robust yet lightweight 41mm titanium case, it sports a sapphire crystal and a screw-down crown that ensures water resistance up to 200 meters. The design nods to classics without being derivative, which is a tough balancing act but one that Timex pulls off effectively here. Its dial layout, with elements like the cyclops date window and lumed indices, seems to take cues from Rolex and Tudor, hinting at a bit of Pelagos influence while maintaining its own distinct character.
The watch’s movement is a Cal. 8215 automatic from Miyota. Although not from Miyota’s more premium lines, this movement still offers reliable performance with a 42-hour power reserve and is a solid choice for a dive watch in this price range. The bezel, also crafted from titanium, features full Super-LumiNova treatment for outstanding visibility in low light, a feature that’s not always a given even at higher price points.
One of the standout features is the black rubber strap, designed with a modern twist. Its loopless clasp allows for a cleaner fit, letting you tuck the excess strap length underneath, which is a smart touch that makes the watch more comfortable and streamlined.
Priced at $479, the Deepwater Reef 200 Titanium Automatic slots comfortably into the entry-level dive watch category, right in Seiko territory. But with its titanium case, sapphire crystal, high-quality lume, and reliable Miyota movement, this Timex delivers an impressive value proposition, challenging even the stalwarts of the category.
In a market crowded with great options, Timex is clearly not just aiming to play catch-up; they’re setting out to lead the pack in delivering high-spec, enthusiast-approved watches at attainable prices.
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.