This is my second Fossil watch and have to say I’m really quite pleased with this one as well. This model is from the “Decker” range, the AM4384 Black silicon Strap Date watch.
Fossil “Decker” silicon strap watch AM4384
This is an Analogue/Quartz model and it certainly has good presence on the wrist. A good solid build in Stainless Steel, polished sides with mat lug upper surfaces plus a neat black fixed bezel top with white minute markings. The dial is black and the hands broad white luminous painted with a black center seconds hand topped with a white dot marker. The minutes are noted by use of white luminous batons and the date window is @3 with black background and white date numbers. Whilst the flat crystal is not specified as anti-reflective, it IS remarkably clear and scores VERY highly in the clarity stakes.
I also note the center seconds and and white dot pretty well match up with the markers on the dial – something that many more expensive watches should, but often don’t manage, which is nice to see. I like that.
Checking the dimensions of this model it’s 43mm diameter (ex crown), 13mm depth, weighs 92gms with strap and interestingly it’s one of those models that looks “neat” on the wrist – a really good trick if it can be achieved – as here! Well done Fossil.
All in all an excellent dial design for optimum clarity, reminiscent of my Laco and a very practical style that’s increasingly finding its way into my watch collection.
The back as usual with Fossil is a flat polished mirror like stainless steel finish and because it’s flat it doesn’t travel on the wrist.
The usual Fossil clean stainless screw back. Note the quick release strap.
The lovely flexible silicon strap with brushed stainless buckle is a delight to wear – a feature I noted on the “Machine Ana Digital” model I already own. The watch is marked on the dial (and the back) as 10ATM (100ft) Water Resistant and the back also sports the Model Number and Serial code.
Brushed stainless steel buckle with Fossil logo.
Time setting – To alter the date pull out the large crown to position 2 and move in either direction to set the date to the day PRIOR to the one you wish to set. Then pull the crown out to position 3 and turn anti-clockwise to move the date to the correct date and then continue to the correct time. I note the crown does not “click” into any position, but simply moves, which is a little disconcerting – but it seems to function OK.
Flat back comfort comfortable and a perfect size.
In conclusion I would comment this is a very fine watch and indeed it puts others to shame with it’s overall finish, build quality and design. I would further comment and say I’m very impressed with quite a number of Fossil watches over the past couple of years as they’re making a habit of producing models that are very attractive, a slightly butch look but without being ostentatious or silly. Not only a fashion watch as some might say and to me Fossil are pretty serious watch maker now.
To sum up this watch in one word I’d have to say “quality”. It is a seriously good watch, especially for the money.
An early digital Expedition Timex is featured in this post, dated around 1998 (80 M745) in pretty decent all round condition. The digital display is clear and basically as good as the day it was bought. Classed as a Chronograph model the features are more or less what you get in the current Expedition models.
1998 Timex Expedition digital display normal daylight.
Digital display wise – Standard view is along the lower part, hours, minutes and seconds plus an AM/PM indicator and the upper part shows Day, Month and Date. Using the lower left pusher or “mode”, this changes the display in turn to Chronograph (with slit/lap timing), Alarm, Timer (100hrs) and 2nd Time Zone, in that order. This model also features a 12/24hr display option and an Hourly Chime. It has a night light (Indiglo) using the top left pusher which is on as long as the pusher is pressed. All setting is done using the lower right pusher and the top right pusher selects Alarm on or off etc. So quite familiar really to anyone used to using these digital display watches. Note in the images shown here the display shows grey background and black numerals when light is not being reflected off it, however its almost fluorescent when the light strikes at some angles and then appears very high contrast green background with black numerals.
Timex digital display in reflecting light – gives fluorescent contrast
In most conditions it’s pretty good though as most of these, the top data can be slightly over-shadowed by the black surround of the watch face. Still featured on some current watches, though I note many now have a visible face area wider than the numerals, so avoiding any possibility of shadows.
It’s a very neat watch at 39mm diameter and only 9mm depth, so a good bit smaller than current Expedition models. It has spring bars so you can fit any standard strap to it, though it actually measures a slightly non standard, but gettable, 19mm width. I have a Timex “E” quick wrap strap fitted and it is perfect and comfortable.
Timex Expedition on the wrist – very neat.
In a dark almost black resin case, light grey bezel with printed pusher data, the back has a stainless steel plate secured by 4 x corner screws and has it has 100m Water Resistance.
1998 v 2012/13 – watches are getting bigger.
Some of the older Timex models like this one, for me, are often nicer to wear than the present offerings. Only 15 years before the current stuff (an age in electronics of course) the displays funnily enough tended to be neater, as are the watches which were smaller and slimmer and yet managed to portray the excitement of the new Digital age without bulk or large knurled or knobbly bits here and there. They were and still are science fiction in a way, because they’re ground breaking and the core function and the attraction of the watch is not obscured by too much over the top and perhaps unnecessary Dr Who extravagance. Note this model has a battery life of around 6.5 years.
I might yet add more to my digital collection, though perhaps it could be more appropriate to call it my Timex collection, as I seem to be acquiring more of these by the week! Whatever – I’m sure it won’t be the last!
UPDATE – 4th August 2014
Started to get a little erratic this morning and I decided to check out and hopefully replace the battery – assuming this was the problem. Removed the 4 back screws and realized this was a different style of module that I am used to. The centre part is a round cover which is actually clipped on to the very large CR2016 battery! The cover is held down by 3 screws to the module board. Simply removed these and un-clipped the battery from the cover once it was in my hand. Replaced the battery by clipping the cover over it, then dropped the cover and battery assembly on to the board, lining up the 3 screw holes and screwed it back in place. Writing on the cover says to “press this” to reset after battery change, referring I think to small metal contact on the module. However on turning the watch over I saw that the digits were indicating fine, so skipped that instruction. Replaced the back of the watch and set the time data. All functions are working perfectly now including the back light, which actually was the first problem I saw prior to replacing the battery. Instead of lighting, it indicated code and altered the time setting to 12:00. This I suspected was the lack of power – hence the battery change today. It took me about 10 minutes start to finish.
Sorry I didn’t think to take photographs, but suffice to say it was very easy to manage.
WARNING – always remember that often CR2016 batteries and most of them these days tend to come in blister packs – AND there is a small sticker on the negative side of the battery. Make sure you remove it before fitting to the watch – otherwise it won’t connect and you will spend a while wondering why the watch doesn’t work!
And yes, most of us who manage our own battery changes know this – of course we do – BUT it is VERY easy to forget!
A friend of mine appeared the other day with a new watch they’d got as a fun addition to their main birthday gift and was keen to show it off to me.
This is a disc watch that shows the passage of time not with conventional hands but uses flat discs instead. Not that this is a particularly new concept as I have a few myself including some vintage models, but this one is a sort of retro/modernist model and I show it to you today basically for one particular reason which I’ll share at the end of the review.
Disc watch from Zuricht – and the time is 1:54 and 31 seconds.
I’ve seen a few disc watches round and some are better than others. Some are also cheaper than others, though in this case (so far at any rate) this does not mean they are any less of a functioning disc watch. This model from Zuricht (via Amazon) is not a bad looking watch, it slips so well under a cuff and here’s the first good point – because the display is offset to the right and if like me you wear your watch on the left wrist it is perfect. So many other disc watches have the display at the top or even to the left and are not so easy to read quickly – here just a glimpse from under the shirt cuff and there it is.
On the wrist – looks good with display at right side of case.
The watch itself is neat at 43mm wide (45mm top to bottom) and only 8.9mm depth, so is really slim to wear. The entire watch is in black gloss finish steel and the case top is slightly curved as is the large clear plastic face. The time window is 15mm x 18mm so is a good size to enable a decent view.
The bracelet is black finish stainless steel and fully adjustable. For smaller wrists, adjusting is by way of split pins, which can be pushed out of each segment and these can be removed to reduce the overall size. These should be pushed out from the solid end of the pin – and when replacing push in from the split end and usually have to be tapped in with a protected face small hammer or similar. It sounds a little more difficult than it is, but is quite easy to manage with a bit of care and common sense. Your local watchman will do it in a few minutes. The bracelet is a fairly standard fold over clasp with a double push button clasp which works very well.
The watch back is plain stainless steel and a snap fit. There is no mention of Water Resistance, but as with most snap fittings I would NOT recommend using it in water. If it doesn’t say – it isn’t – in other words don’t shower when wearing it!
Solid stainless fold over adjustable segment bracelet.
As to the function if the watch, I’ve found it to be excellent. The display shows 3 discs which are colored white with black numbers and the outer Hours disc has larger numbers than the inner Minute disc, which graduate in size down to the continually rotating Seconds disc, which is more or less in the center of the watch. Although the discs have no graduations, it is actually unnecessary as it is very easy to read the time accurately. All the discs rotate, the most obvious being the Seconds which ticks round constantly, the others of course rotate, but much slower.
Accuracy wise it’s apparently a Japanese Quartz movement and is as good as most quartz models with mechanical indicators – such as hands or discs.
Quality –
Whilst the case, bracelet and general look of this model is actually very good, there are some issues regarding the discs. First is the printing of the numbers which could be better and second is what appears to be evidence of dust on the discs. The first issue is just plain careless and the second shows to me that assembly of the watch is maybe not done in ideal conditions. I would suspect that final Quality Control is the buyer! There is a 1 year Guarantee however and if you get one where the issues are more serious or if concern to you, I would think a return would be a replacement as the repair.
Some evidence of dust on the discs and the print quality could be better.
But that said, overall I’ve got to say that I am pretty pleased with this watch at such a low cost, especially when considered against a similar looking model such as the Nixon Rotolog retailing at over £200 versus £15 for this model. Of course there will be quality differences, but I have to confess I see nothing that would stop me from buying this over the more expensive one.
What would I like to have seen? Maybe a back light for night use or perhaps luminous discs or numerals – but there again these extras cost money and not essential.
So to conclude, this watch basically does what it shows and does it very well and at low cost. Quality Control is another matter, but without another sitting beside it I’m unable to gauge one against the other. What I can say is that this particular one certainly looks good and should the worst happen and it die a death sooner rather than later – so what?
However it has to be said that I have no reason whatsoever to suppose that it will not give many years of service.
Whilst over the years I’ve liked the multifunction models, it’s a fact that my favorite style is probably still the conventional “Dress” watch. The one overriding word that says it all for me is “elegance” and my choice would always be for a slim cased model that can in turn show off a truly “elegance” with simplicity of dial and case, in fact an “ensemble” of complimentary features that simply work. And I do not mean “minimalist” even thought this seems to be the modern way of expressing this, I tend to find those offerings both bland and unexciting, certainly not elegant.
Frederique Constant Automatic Slim case
So having had a look round at the currently available slim and elegant models this is the first of a few that caught my eye. The Frederique Constant of Geneve Automatic slim cased model above. A nice sized 40mm diameter case at only 9mm thick, with a sapphire crystal, 30m Water Resistance, FC-306 25 jewel Automatic movement, in a Yellow Gold plated case. I think this dial face though simple also has an elegance (note it is slightly bowed, not flat), nice gold applied stick hour markers, beautifully shaped gold hands and a neat sized date window @3. The onion crown is a nice touch and perfectly sized and overall a classic dress watch I’d say and mid priced too for this class of watch.
As you can see for a dress function there is absolutely no need for an overly “busy” face with sub-dials and extraneous features. It’s about elegance.
It’s also interesting to note that to find a Quartz watch that can be described as truly elegant is not easy. I show the same maker here as an example – this is the Frederique Constant Quartz version of an almost but not quite similar model.
Frederique Constant Quartz slim Gents.
Now it looks fine of course, but that “elegance” of the previous version is, for me at any rate, just not there. This model is slightly smaller at 37mm diameter and is actually thinner, being an ultra-thin 5mm with a sunray silver dial, stick hands, and sapphire crystal. The case has that double stepped bezel top that for me doesn’t have the style of the first. The gold hands are not “quite” as well shaped and the marker @3 is chopped almost in half, plus that “bowed” look to the dial just isn’t the same. All that said of course, it is still a very nice watch (and perhaps the image does it an injustice) but the first one is my personal and more expensive choice (£1750 to £750 for the quartz).
However an interesting point about models without seconds hands, is that it’s not easy to see at a glance if the watch is mechanical or quartz. So if you are with friends that are mechanical nuts, then you might just get away with it. 😉
Rotary Originals Quartz
Another quartz offering is this model from The Originals collection from Rotary – and not a bad looking watch it is too. PVD Gold plated case is very slim at 5.7mm and a diameter of 43mm including crown and a nicely patterned champagne dial face plus neat contrasting black stick hands and printed numerals. Crystal is Sapphirite (a sapphire coated mineral glass). Simple case design with the “bar” lugs from another age and a quality leather strap. A pretty good dress watch and at a low/mid price of around £150 – £220. I understand the “Originals” series feature Swiss Quartz movements. Overall it seems a pretty decent dress watch for the money.
For me the above Rotary whilst a nice dress watch loses out on the elegance stakes for various reasons. The black stick hands in this context are just that, pointers, and the printed numeral here are rather bland. The whole comes across as more plain than elegant, though in reality as opposed to the image, it does look a class watch. At the price of course it has to be worth a look.
Stuhrling Original Ascot Quartz
Another stick hands dress watch comes from the Stuhrling stable. The Stuhrling Original Ascot Quartz, which is an even lower priced model than the Rotary at around £56.00. This is 38mm diameter and only 5,5mm depth, so is a very thin watch indeed, with a Krysterna Crystal, white face, printed hour batons, 10M Water Resistance and a Swiss movement, represents very good value. However in looks it comes across as just simple or even minimalist and with no hint of any elegance at all, so falls short as a dress watch for me personally. Nice enough watch, but not for me.
Skagen UltraSlim 858xlgld
I mentioned minimalist at the start and this is such a model. The Skagen 858xlgld – whilst a dress watch I suppose it has this Danish design minimal look which frankly does absolutely nothing for me. Flat gold hands are positively inelegant and the flat featureless dial and printed hour batons just add to that barren look. The case at 39mm diameter and only 5mm depth is fine, but I find this a non starter in the elegance stakes, though for a cheap dress watch at £50 – can’t be bad.
Dugena Classic
This watch from Dugena Classic range is a better affair than the above and even though it has stick hands, it does have a certain elegance about it overall. It has a two tiered dial face and applied gold numeral batons, nicely shaped gold case at 38mm diameter and just 6mm depth, so is slim too. Mineral glass crystal. It also has a very good quality quartz movement of Swiss/German origin and a price point well below it’s quality (around £70.00). An excellent dress watch and with a touch of elegance perhaps.
Piaget Alto Plano
Well here’s a watch that’s close to home for me as I actually own two of this maker. One vintage and one modern. And now we have to be talking elegance. This is the Piaget Alto Plano ultra slim model (current) and although this model has a sub dial for seconds @10 (mine is at@4) it is one of the few dress watches with a seconds feature that looks both different and yet retains a certain elegance too. Stick hands here don’t look wrong in this setting and neither do the printed baton markers. They blend together very well indeed as I mentioned at the start – the “ensemble” or combination of elements is superb. Again you have, as the Frederique Constant Auto mode,l this slightly bowed dial face that just looks right. This particular model is 38mm diameter and just 4.1mm depth is incredibly thin, an 18ct pink gold and subtly shaped elegant case (even the automatic is only 5.25mm depth), though as you can guess this is not a cheap model but pretty expensive at around $13,00o. You better believe it, this sort of elegance costs!
Of course there are many, many more dress style watches out there and if I look long enough I’d probably find quite a few more, that would suit my own particular requirements and opinion. But suffice to say, there are literally dozens around. And this is very encouraging, especially in this modern day obsession for big, sometimes clumsy, over featured, extravagant models that seem to proliferate now. The fact that the “classic” dress watch is still available, says to me that with a bit of luck others may enjoy the feeling of wearing such wonderful watches, well into the future – and that has to be good.
But a word of caution – I’ve found over the years and confirmed it yet again – that true elegance = expensive!
You may recall I got myself a Timex Digital Compass model T467619 recently, which I like immensely by the way and the only negative thing on it, if being very picky, is the fact that it has a bespoke strap. And you may also know from my posts that this is a feature that always niggles me. Why they can’t simply have a conventional strap and spring lugs I do not know, because after a few years use when the strap goes and the problems of trying to get that particular strap or bracelet can be difficult and expensive too.
However recently I managed to find within Timex’s enormous product range, another Digital Compass model, which this time has a simple, conventional strap fixing to lug spring bars. The T42761
Timex Digital Compass on strap – T41261
This and the previous T42761 are a sensible size (I wish Digital Compass models from Casio and others would take note) and also light weight, both being a resin material. This one is the neatest at 43mm diameter and 12.4mm depth against the other at B 45mm x 13.6mm.
The T42761 (right A) Digital Compass smaller and lighter than T42761 (left B)
Both have large digital displays when compared to the case size AND they are super easy to read, though slightly different. The left one has fractionally thicker digital & taller numbers in comparison to the other, though both are perfectly fine to read. The digital operation of functions is similar, though the left model scores here for UK users as it can alter the Date/Day to Day/Date – whereas this new one cannot.
Compass reads headings and bearings of 12 o’clock position.
The largest difference function wise is in the Digital Compass operation.
My previous model indicates North and South with small block markers which appear just outside that outer black dial ring AND gives the Heading and Bearing of the 12 o’clock position. It also display the data for 20 seconds.
My new purchase does not indicate North or South, indicating only the Heading and Bearing of the 12 o’clock position and only displays this for 10 seconds – I find this quite short to fully take in what I’m seeing, though you can of course just press the button again.
Note that the T42761 (my new one) has 4 side case buttons, the Indiglo button being on the top of the case @6. I also note that the other model allows you to have a + and – adjustment when setting, whereas the new one only has a + setting (the button @4 o’clock). However the numbers change very rapidly so not much of an issue. They are both very easy to use.
On the wrist – a sensible size and WITH a compass!
The final difference is of course the strap arrangement, the new one having the conventional strap. It means easy replacement if it breaks, wears or just happens you don’t like it – you can fit your choice of strap. You can also sit the watch flat on a table or in a display box, but you can also sit it upright on the lugs @6 and use it as an alarm clock on a bedside table for example. And that’s quite useful if you don’t wear the watch at night and you can’t do that with my previous model.
I also find that this new one feels cheaper and although lighter in weight at 47g against 50g, it’s not because of that, but just a feeling there’s maybe a quality change. No real evidence for this as both watches are very, very good, and I do realize this is all very personal and maybe overly picky. But that’s what makes us buy different models and versions I suppose – what suits you may not suit me.
Now I have them both – which one do I like best?
Difficult to say, though I do prefer the fact my previous one indicated North/South + bearings etc. and that it can adjust to display Day then Date. Of course I like the strap on the latest one, but that’s the only plus actually and even that has it’s limitations as an issue.
My solution?
I bought a spare Timex strap for it – today! 🙂
A trio of Timex – and I like them all!
This an image of my three new Timex models from largest to smallest – Vibration chrono (center), Compass 1 (left) and latest compass 2 (right) And I like them all!
If you’ve ever trawled through the so called Military watches around today, it’s quite amazing the weird, wonderful, often silly but sometimes really quite innovative designs that crop up from time to time. It’s fertile ground for all sorts of wonderful designs good and bad and quite often it’s the lesser known manufacturers that come up with maybe the most innovative ones. There are however a few models around that are worthy of a second look.
Humvee recon Olive Digital
Not the first to use the name, this one is actually from the named folks themselves – the Humvee Recon – in Olive.
Been around for a few years though this is the first time I’ve come across it myself. And it certainly looks the part with its rugged shock proof stainless steel case with added rubber protection, oversize digital display and very tough looking 28.23mm nylon fabric fast-wrap strap. The Olive Green and black combination always a winner when thinking military and I understand it also comes in a dark slate color too.
Four push buttons control the functions and setting etc on the side of the case, though there is no protection against accidental use, so difficult to say how they’ll be, unless tried out on the wrist for a time.
Specification wise it’s also not at all bad with Time, Date, Countdown Timer, 3 x Alarms and a Stopwatch with a 20 lap recorder. If that wasn’t enough it also has a 22 city World Timer for good measure (with DST option). A 50m Water resistance and according to the spec it has a “scratch resistant” face, but I don’t think this means it has a Sapphire Crystal or it would say so categorically.
The large display is divided in to 3 sections to give separation of the data shown and the LCD uses a matrix layout with black figures contrasting against the grey dial background.
Dimensions are – Case width: 38.44mm, Case Depth: 14.55mm. Weight is just 60 gms.
The lug to lug dimension is not quoted but it actually looks rather big at around 65mm maybe, which is very substantial, especially for smaller wrists. Could well be it’s downfall for me personally, but until I see it on my wrist, difficult to say.
With very strong competition in this sector, the Humvee is sensibly priced it and it’s also being offered at discounted prices here and there, so maybe it’s worth more than a look.
But that top to bottom size being so large could be the killer, certainly as far as I am concerned.
Note –
Since finding this model I’ve discovered that there are a few other Humvee models around such as the Zulu range, which are conventional analogue dial military style watches which appear very much like the true Military Specification watches. They feature Tritium light technology for perfect vision in the dark and seem very well priced. They feature Japanese Miyota 2035 quartz movements and 100m Water Resistance.
I’ve also seen an analogue Field series which feature day and date windows and the more conventional luminous coatings for night use.
A quick search on Google will certainly flag these up if anyone’s interested. You will also find the Timex Humvee which is something else again!
This week I’m wearing an unusual model from Fossil – the Black Fossil Machine Chronograph Alarm FS4682. And no it’s not a military watch though it does look like one, as it has that black dark stealthy look about it that says it’s maybe not a dress watch – or is it? The feature that attracted me was actually the Analogue/Digital display, which for those regular readers should know by now is a format that I particularly like.
Fossil Machine Black Alarm FS4682 Ana/Digi Watch
It’s one of those watches that draws comment if seen by friends and I have to admit I like wearing it.
One of the unusual and fascinating aspects of this model is it’s large digital display, which features a “permanent” green luminescent Matrix display in addition to analogue hands. The display actually reminds me of my Breitling Aerospace in that it has a luminescence that tends to pick up or reflect any ambient light and is visible in most day situations.
45mm diameter but only 13mm depth – means a neat fit.
I had some concerns at the time that 45 mm diameter could be too large for me, but owing to it’s relatively small depth at 13mm, it actually fits my 170mm wrist very well indeed. It sits flat against the wrist and easily slips under a shirt cuff and it’s very comfortable with the extremely flexible rubber strap and flush fitting black stainless buckle. The case is black Ion Plated solid Stainless Steel with a wide matte black heavily knurled bezel and a flat non-reflective crystal. The black case body (only noticeable at the sides) has a gentle gloss though the lugs are a brushed matte finish.
Military look Fossil
I already mentioned the strap and whilst it looks like “steel bracelet links” it’s actually made of black rubber, the inner surface of which, against the wrist, is actually smooth and very comfortable with a conventional buckle which is rather neatly figured. It has a full screw back in mirror finish stainless steel with the Fossil logo, model number and a quoted Water Resistance of 5 atm or 50m.
On each side of the case are 4 x black textured push buttons that operate the digital functions and a large knurled center crown adjusts the analogue hands. Interesting to note the buttons are set slightly straight compared to the case shape and as a consequence are much easier to operate than most.
Fossil with flexible rubber strap & black IP solid steel case
The watch face features conventional analogue hour and minute hands, which are quoted I recall by Fossil as “hi visibility” orange tipped and an orange center seconds hand. Now whilst these do show very well against the matte dial black background in good light, they are not quite so good in low light. The hour baton markers are silver colored.
Personally I would have preferred a white color for both the hour and minute hands and hour markers – from my experience so far, it would be clearer, certainly in low light. Note there are no luminous features on this watch at all – though this is not uncommon on ana/digi models.
The large digital Matrix display shows Hours, Minutes, Seconds, Day and Date and as independent of the analogue settings can be used as a 2nd Time zone if preferred. The display normally shows a slight luminescent green color and is quite clear to read in most daylight situations. It can also be back lit (EL) using the top left button B and changes to a blue color (see image below) for a few seconds for low light and night time use.
EL Back- light turns green to blue – quite effective for night use.
For me I might prefer it to be just a little brighter, but I wear glasses and am getting older – so perhaps this is more my problem!
The standard digital functions on this model are scrolled through using button A (lower left) and in order of – Time/Day/Date, Alarm and Stopwatch, then Time/calendar setting.
As the Date seems to set correctly for odd months it obviously is an auto-calendar, though I don’t know the final date (perhaps 2099?). There is also a PM indicator on 12 hour format, but using button C (upper right) you can toggle either 12/24 hour time.
The Alarm function can be set for Alarm, Chime or both. The alarm sounds a double beep, though as these days I can’t hear it so good, same for the hourly Chime, so I have to leave opinion to others – My wife always hears it!
The stopwatch has standard functions with stop/split (you can measure multiple split times) and reset, works great. This is is a digital stopwatch only – the hands are not involved.
As said when in normal Time/Day/Date view the button A (lower left) scrolls in sequence to Alarm and Stopwatch, then continues to Time setting and the Seconds flash. The setting sequence is Seconds, Hour, Minute, Month, Date and weekday. If you adjust with button C (upper right) it then progresses to Hours and so on – pretty normal stuff. It’s quite logical and reasonably intuitive once you’ve tried it a few times. I would note that the standard Instruction booklet that’s included does NOT actually cover this model, so there are no Digital settings instructions. You have to download a supplementary set for it – called Ana-Digi QFL133SB. I provide a link HERE.
This trend for NOT including specific model instructions with the watch I find quite annoying as not everyone has internet access.
Overall though this is a really smart looking watch with a surprisingly good digital display in reasonable light. It’s slim enough to fit most wrist sizes and very OK as a dress watch. If you like the “military” look then it’s OK for that too, with the IP black stainless steel case and black rubber strap (note- the strap is 24mm wide with quick release bars at lugs). The build quality too is pretty good, dial, hands and case and the Matrix display a bit of a revelation and it’s available at a reasonable cost.
Any downsides? –
Well for me maybe the loss of analog clarity in low light which could be better. Also the lack of a model specific instructions with the watch is disappointing. Also note this model has 3 batteries! and it would be useful to have instructions as to which powers what, to enable changing when required.
Overall: – an excellent watch for the money and I’m very pleased with it.
I’m not too familiar with the Fossil name, though not just a fashion company it seems. They have quite a history of watch acquisition and now manufacture in their own right apparently. They both import and manufacture in Switzerland and China and distribute in USA, Germany and Asia. In 2012 they bought the well known company Skagen and in 2013 started an upscale Swiss range – Fossil Twist which they both design and make. Some other brands are associated with them such as Adidas.
How to display, two different ways.
My last image shows it with the Timex Expedition just as a comparison. Two totally different displays, yet both looking good.
Note1 – You can see a range of Fossil watches available in the UK – HERE Note 2 –This model comes with 3 batteries. As shown in the image – the 1st (recessed) is for the analog time, the 2nd (bottom) is the Digital movement and the 3rd to the left is for the EL back light. Remember the analog and digital are independent of each other (hence the Dual Time function).
Note 3– This model comes with a standard 2 years Warranty. However more importantly there is also a Lifetime (limited) Warranty on the movement, hands and dial and if sent for repairs here in the UK, Fossil will require a copy of the proof of purchase or stamped and dated warranty.
Addendum – unfortunately the Ana/Digi model FS4682 is no longer available, which is a pity as it is one of the best Fossil models I’ve come across in a long time.
Well this is about as far as I go on my search around the Digital watch models, as the one I’ve found is said to be the the best of the best. In fact I’m told this is THE modern Classic – the Casio G-Shock DW-5600E-1V model with the 3229 module.
Casio G-Shock DW5600E-1V Module 3229
Arguably the best designed Digital Watch of it’s time, this particular design first appeared in 1996. This DW5600E version is also about as simple as a G-Shock can be and inside has a set of “sensible” every day use functions and features. Such as the commendable 200m water resistance, a multifunction Alarm, a Countdown Timer and a Stopwatch. Note this one features Module 3229, which has the Auto-Calendar to 2099 (previously to 2039)
Other details are as follows –
The Countdown Timer can be set for any duration from one second up to 24 hours, in one-second increments; optional auto-repeat function.
The Stopwatch: 1/100th second, which measures net time, split time, and first – and second-place times; rolls over at 24 hours.
One Alarm but unusually in addition to the hour and minute, a month and/or date may optionally be set, so the alarm will only sound during the specified month or on the specified day of the month. Actually a very useful reminder, if like me you forget the Dentist appointment.
There is also an Hourly Chime option.
Backlight is provided by the Illuminator, which is an Electroluminescent type, which shows blue/green to light the whole display at any time, though excels in low light situations or at night.
The Battery is a Lithium CR2016 and should last around 2 years in normal operation.
As a G-Shock it has the shock resistant design and in fact is intended to survive a 10-meter fall. This DW5006E version has a Polymer composite-case and a flat steel back panel (4 screws) and is light weight in comparison with older models. Because of the neat flat back, lower profile and relatively small dimensions, it also sits better on the wrist.
Water Resistance is an excellent 200m, so this model has no issues under water!
G-Shock – special strap means it can’t sit upright. Note small smooth recessed pushers.
The DW5600 series has a classic shape with it’s square/rectangular 43.6mm wide case in tough black Polymer and matching flexible rubber strap. Interestingly when you first strap it on, it suddenly dawns on you that it’s actually one tough watch, but amazingly comfortable. It’s also rather compact for a Casio G-Shock – which HAS to be a good thing and for once suits me VERY well! In fact the case depth is a neat 12.6 mm, so it wears nice and flat on the wrist and slips easily under a shirt cuff.
So no Solar power, no World Time, no Compass, Altimeter, Thermometer or Barometer here – but a classic WYSIWYG (What You See Is What You Get) kind of watch that is not only refreshing, but it’s also darned good. A case of less is more, you could say.
Slim profile fits the smaller wrist.
A well protected mineral glass sits above a good contrast Casio digital display. In normal or Timekeeping mode it shows the Time (Hours, Minutes & Seconds – in 12hr or 24hr format), the Date, Day and Month. Note that the Date and Month are contained in a small outlined area of the display and when in Countdown Timer or Stopwatch modes, this area changes to and shows the current time – I think this is a really useful feature. Not so clever for UK users is the fact that you can’t reverse the Date/Day format to Day/Date (we Brits like to know what Day it is first, rather than the Date – I mean who cares about the Date!).
The functions as with most digital watches are operated by the use of pushers or buttons on the sides of the case and here there are 4, two on the right and two on the left. There is always a compromise with these as to protection, that is, to make sure they can be used easily and have protection from inadvertent use. Usually this is done either with a recess in the case body and/or small shoulder lugs either side of the pusher.
But in this model it’s achieved by the case shaping and on this model the top left SET pusher is virtually flush with the case and is really difficult to operate easily.
This is doubly tricky as it’s the most difficult pusher to reach for a left wrist wearer who is right handed. Also as each of the pushers are really rather small I already find it tricky to “find” the night light for example (bottom right) especially in the dark and end up fumbling around with my (small) fingers searching for it. The case has many hollows and bumps so one recess or bump feels much like any other. Another point is the pushers are small, round and smooth and for me I would prefer some texture on the surface.
As a consequence setting or selecting the functions is not as easy as I would like. Also if I was being picky the sequence of operation of the functions is not as intuitive, for example, as a Timex. An example would be in the setting of the time, where the right pushers don’t act as up and down buttons when setting figures, but only the the upper pusher is used and it only increases numbers – you can’t dial down the numbers.
However these niggles aside I still like this model – mostly as it has very few gimmicks and it can be worn on large or small wrists and it’s comfortable. The Display has good contrast and is large enough to read easily (when on the wrist) and it shows a lot of information in one glance. It has Timers that can be set in various options AND you can read the current time when using these. It has beep Alarms and and the dial can flash at the same time when these are activated. It’s very tough but at the same time it’s a sensible size.
As folks tell me, it’s a G-Shock Classic sure enough and design wise I agree with some but not all of the hype and for me there are reservations – and of course the question always has to be –
Does it work for me?
Now bearing in mind that I have just acquired a Timex T49854J, it may be interesting to have a quick comparison here and now and decide, from a practical point of view, which one I personally prefer.
Case/body style – Timex wins – conventional strap means ease of replacement AND it allows the watch to sit off the wrist on a bedside cabinet for example, upright on it’s lugs. The pushers are larger and very much easier to use and whilst they don’t have physical protection I have not yet had an accidental push. The night light is very easy to find as it’s the largest pusher on the right center of the case, where the crown would normally be.
Casio v Timex – a personal choice.
Display – Timex wins – the display is much larger and easily readable from a distance and even easier when upright. (the Casio has to sit on it’s side, so this fact and owing to the slightly recessed face, at 6 feet I can’t read it).
Functions – Timex wins – They both sport a similar range of functions, Multifunction Alarms, Chronograph, Countdown Timer, Hour chime etc. though the Timex does have some additional functions and options. But basically the Timex is easier to use and more intuitive. Pushers are larger, textured surfaces, easier to use and the setting procedures are both quicker and simpler to manage. Also the Timex has the option to set DAY/DATE format for the UK users whereas the Casio doesn’t. Also the upper and lower right pushers can alter the digits up and down, so setting times etc. is much quicker. In short the Timex function program wise, is in my opinion more user intuitive than Casio.
Alarms – Timex wins (for me) – Though this is personal and purely as this Timex has a Vibration Alarm option. It can have vibration and/or beeps and as I can’t hear the beeps any more – a Vibration Alarm wins every time. It’s also useful when the watch is off the wrist and on a bedside cabinet. Sitting upright on the case lugs (which the Casio can’t do) when the Alarm sounds it also vibrates against the surface it’s on (just like a cellphone) and is easily audible even for me. On the wrist of course it’s fine as the vibrations are easily felt.
Nightlight – Illuminator v Indiglo. Not much to choose between them – I would guess the Timex is slightly brighter and it’s larger of course, but both are good.
Water Resistance – Casio wins – but the winning is moot – 200m against 100m – let’s face it both are very good.
The practical choice – Timex T49854J Expedition, Vibration, Chronograph.
So all in all as a personal preference it has to be the Timex basically as I have no issues with it at all. And this is rare I can tell you! It IS a little thicker though unlikely I’d wear either watch in a dress situation. After all the Timex is advertised as an Expedition watch, so fair comment.
The Timex just manages to suit my average wrist and it is the easiest by far to use practically, be it Functions, Pushers, Display, Alarm and that conventional standard fitting strap wins every time.
So whilst it’s the Timex for me by a short head, I have to say I like them both and I consider them great buys.
Still been looking at Compass watches and whilst I have NOT really been interested in all digital ones, preferring analogue/digital, this inexpensive Digital Timex just happened to cross my path by chance, as a friend appeared on my doorstep the other day with his new purchase. I was very impressed and surprised with it’s relatively small and compact size and just had to have a closer look.
This is the Timex expedition T427619J Compass Chronograph and not one I’d seen before, though I understand it is available in the UK.
Timex Expedition T42761 Digital Compass Chronograph.
What attracts me is FIRST – A familiar Timex light colored digital display, similar though not identical to the previous posted model (T49854 ) that appears to show excellent contrast again – so I should be able to read it and SECOND – the fact that this model sports a Digital Compass. Timex use a compass sensor from Precision Navigation inc. who are leaders in the provision of compact magnetometers with high reliability and accuracy and affordable cost.
On first glance it has the typical “outdoor” Timex looks and appears well specified without being silly. Size wise it is very promising indeed – though as with all these “outdoor” watches the size has to consider the buttons set into the sides of the case – in this instance the total diameter is 45mm including buttons and with a neat depth of only 13.5mm, this is one of the smallest Digital Compass watches I’ve yet seen (analogue or digital). It has a bi-directional click-able bezel with compass heading markings on it, a 22mm leather calfskin strap with buckle (but unfortunately a bespoke fitting), a 330ft Water Resistance or 10ATM specification (swimming pool is OK, but not scuba-diving), Acrylic Glass and a digital display showing Day/Date Month, Time and seconds. It also has 3 Alarm functions each optionally can set for Daily, Week Days or Weekends, optional Hour Chime, 100-hour Chronograph, 3 x Time Zones, 24-hour Count down Timer and “occasion” reminder alarms. It even has a Customizable mode set where you can “hide” unwanted modes. This model, after all that, is not over-functioned as it omits a Thermometer, Altitude or Barometer – in other words this is not a (T)ABC watch – but a C watch. Don’t you just love the abbreviations!
It also has a tiny “bubble” level above 12, a useful touch when calibrating any 2 axis Digital Compass. The more horizontal during calibration, the less errors you build in. Whist it’s not the needle variety this compass uses the little block/dots system in common with other Digital Compass models including Casio, Barigo, Techtrail, Highlander and Pyle, so should be interesting to see how this one performs. However bear in mind these in-watch magnetic field sensors at this price range do have limitations and can be affected by many factors, so don’t expect pinpoint accuracy.
In Compass mode display shows heading in degrees, at the 12 position. North shown with the single dot marker
Note – my photograph above does not show too clearly the virtual dot compass markers – one denotes the North and the trio only just visible above the South marker on the bezel (they are actually very clear).
Talking of accuracy the compass of course should be calibrated before you first use it to get the best out of it. As usual you should try this in your location and away from influencing factors (beside your car for example) and if doing this at home keep it away from the computer and so on. Same system and procedure as used by most of these 2 x axis compass sensors, use the Mode button to bring up Compass, press any right hand button (except the centre one) hold the watch flat (here the little bubble/level comes into it’s own) and rotate the watch clockwise for 2 complete revolutions. Note as the strap of this model has a stiff curve at the case end it really can’t be laid down flat on it’s back – I usually sit the watch on top of a spray can and rotate the can. In the field however keep it flat as possible with a steady hand and you turning yourself around on the spot does it. (if you’re on the medication I’m on this might cause you a problem!!!).
There is a dot indicator on the dial that goes clockwise around the dial – when turning (each revolution for at least 15 seconds) try and keep that dot pointing in the same direction during your turn – quite tricky I know but do just that and you’re OK. Otherwise and I kid you not, the calibration will not be as accurate as it can be. When completed, press Done and the Declination option shows – and if you know it where you’re located, then set it with the right hand buttons, then press Done. It doesn’t take decimal points so the nearest whole number will suffice.
Wrist wise very comfortable – looks larger courtesy of non standard case/strap fusion.
So what’s it like to wear? Well as it’s only 45gms you hardly know it’s there and it’s compact enough not to snag on anything. I find the leather strap both flexible and comfortable and the watch sits as well on the wrist as it can, bearing in mind the strap/case non standard fitting. The display as said is clear and easy to read and the compass view shows the heading of the 12 position on the watch. So if your pointing NNE, that’s what it shows along at the top of the dial with the bearing in degrees in larger numbers below. I also found it has a slightly faster response to change than the Wenger, a slight turn in your direction and the heading change is noted and displayed immediately. However the Wenger Nomad does have an LED heading display that you can see brilliantly in poor light as against the Timex typical LCD display which simply disappears. Here I note Timex appears to infer that the Indiglo light if ON during Compass operation may compromise accuracy, so not the best for night use (unless you have a torch). Note too that the compass only displays for 20 seconds at a time, but you can just press the upper or lower button and it reads again almost immediately.
But overall compass wise I really like it – it’s fast, responsive, clear to read and understand. In fact I’m agreeably surprised.
Note – It may take some practice using the buttons, as they are so well recessed and protected, they’re quite awkward to press. Though I’m getting used to that fact now and finding more success with it as I go along – but it’s easy for the button NOT to action, when you think it has.
Leather strap is nice quality & buckle sits flat.
All the other features and functions seem to work quite efficiently in the Timex style, though as with most of the Alarm based ones, I can’t hear the beep alarms (though my wife can, just fine!) and whilst that’s my problem, I do wish these were louder. As usual each function and option in turn shows up with each press of the Mode button. If you delay on any one however, the display reverts back to the basic Time display.
In conclusion I have to say and despite little niggles, the major one being the strap fitting (why not a simple lug fitting!), I like this model and for me it manages the compass function surprisingly well
Addendum –
My last image shows the Wenger Nomad beside the Timex and whilst they appear similar size, the Timex is half the weight at 45 gms and is only 13.5mm depth, so a much neater fit wearing on the wrist. As with most Digital displays it can show lots of information simultaneously and here the Timex shows the Time (hours, minutes and seconds) plus the Day, Date and Month. The Wenger to keep the dial nice and clear have only the Time showing, though a press of the appropriate button and a bright LED digital Time, Date and so on, or of course Compass Bearings, will show in large numerals behind the hands (my previous post refers).
The Timex also has an extremely clear display to read and considerably better than a great number of similar looking displays on the market.
Comparison Wenger v Timex – Wenger heavier and thicker.
Note – On the screwed stainless back it shows a 100m Water Resistance, the model number is a a small sticker and it also indicates by stamp the Battery type – which is a CR 1620.
I’ve mentioned the strap a few times and should qualify my comments. Why digital watch manufacturers insist so many times, especially when resin cases are used, to fuse, add, meld and whatever else you call it, a totally bespoke strap fitting to that case is beyond me. So often being almost part of the case it means the watch will not fit snug against the wrist, owing to the case/strap fitting.
In fact look at the image of the Wenger and the Timex to the right here and it shows the problem – the effective size between fixed lugs is 45mm for the Wenger but owing to that silly strap fitting it’s slightly more then 55mm for the Timex and it is actually a smaller watch!
And of course once the strap starts to wear and I find for whatever reason these always wear more than conventional straps, you have to purchase that “special fitting strap” from the watch manufacturer, often at inflated prices. And that’s IF you can still source one especially as these models alter and change with every new appearance.
The last watch I reviewed from Timex was and should be the “norm” – it had a Standard watch lug strap fitting. If they’d simply used it’s case for this watch – problem solved!
Maybe I should start a campaign for Standard strap fitting/lugs on ALL watches. Maybe a new feature coming up!
Update –
With the strap issue becoming an obsession I have to note that Timex have another model – the T49688 which has a standard lug and strap arrangement and also features a Digital Compass.
Digital Compass with standard strap (not confined to Timex)
It is slightly different in operation in that there is no actual North indication on the watch dial. Rather it reads in degrees the heading of the 12 position of the watch only. The model featured here of course does that too but also it indicates with a digital block marker North and South which is immediately reassuring. BUT it has that standard strap which is a plus in it’s favor so I might not discount it from my compass choice . . . 😉
The other day I had to get up at a silly hour to catch an early flight and rather trust to luck waking in time, found my old Vibralite 3 alarm watch, set the alarm and was rewarded with a vibrating wrist at 5am. And this got me to thinking – What a coincidence as I’m looking to update/replace my old Casio digital as well as the Vibralite. Now I can kill two birds at the same time and try source a replacement. As before I’ll concentrate on SIZE and CLARITY plus this time a VIBRATION alarm. Why vibration? I can’t hear the little beeps watches have as alarms – but vibrations no problem.
So what I need is – A maximum 45mm diameter x 15mm depth and preferably under both figures. And this time I don’t rule out a digital display as long as I can read it!
And in the event it wasn’t too difficult and I found this Timex Expedition Vibration Alarm Chronograph – Model T49854J.
Timex Expedition Vibration Alarm T49854J
Good looking adventure outdoor style watch with grey/green colored resin case with black bezel and a green/black nylon fabric strap with flat grey metal buckle. Excellent clarity digital display under a Sapphire crystal, with black numerals on grey/green background with good contrast and size. At 48gms this model is VERY light indeed and the watch case at 45mm diameter (including buttons) and 15mm depth is just on the size limits for me, but OK. The strap is a neat thin and flexible nylon dual layered fabric type with “melt” sealed holes to prevent fraying. Unlike many Casio style watches that often have special strap fittings, this has a standard 22mm width strap fixing to standard watch lugs. A very good feature in my opinion. The buckle is nicely profiled in that it lies flat and flush against the strap – one of the neatest I’ve seen.
Two good size push buttons on the left for “Set/Done” and “Mode/Next” and on the right 3 push buttons. Center one (largest) is the Indiglo nightlight, which is really quite good and the other two for “Start/Split” for Chronograph and “Stop/Reset” – all pretty straight forward. The back is a 4 screwed stainless steel back with a Water resistance to 330ft or 100m, so swimming pools OK, but No scuba diving. (if confused – see HERE).
On the wrist it’s very good though size wise right on my maximum and it feels light and very comfortable.
45mm (incl buttons) x 15mm still fits my small 170mm wrist though any bigger?
The excellent display shows in normal view the Time as Hours, Minutes, Seconds, Day of the week, Month and Date. It also shows if any Alarm is set – so pretty comprehensive. I like the fact the Hours & Minutes figures are around 9mm high, which makes them very easy to see even at 6 or 7 feet away (I use a very scientific test – I get in the bath in the evening, the watch is on the window ledge some 7 feet away – if I can read it – it’s a PASS!). This one is 10 out of 10!
Easy view display with large numbers.
So what about functions?
Time functions are as stated above and you can set 12/24hr indication, the order of month/date to suit (excellent for UK users), 3 Time Zones, Chronograph 100hr with split, laps with numbering etc, 3 Alarms, Hydration Alarm plus an odd set of “occasion” alarms with preset descriptions such as Birthday etc. Plus a Count Down timer. Alarm settings have various options such as Daily, Week Days or Weekends. The Timer has an option to either stop after it’s alarm goes or to reset and start again – a useful option. Another nice touch is that once a Timer has started, say for 30 minutes, just above the countdown, the original time period 30 is shown.
I also notice that on my wake up call Alarm I can set options to Vibration, followed by Beep and a flashing the Indiglo lit dial. (note it will only beep on the Timer setting, which in fairness is OK as the watch is advertised as an ALARM vibration model ). Also this advanced Indiglo feature includes a clever night-mode feature and when set, any button will activate the night light. As the watch name indicates, Alarms can be set to vibrate and/or beep. Oddly the instructions don’t cover this setting (and some others) though in reality it’s quite simple. By the way the instructions come hidden in the base of the plastic holder the watch is mounted on within the box supplied – it is very easily missed in the excitement of getting your new watch!
I noted whilst researching this watch the omission in the Instructions re’ Vibration has confused some folks as to how to set the Vibration feature – so here’s a quick rundown –
It’s basically a continuation of the initial “time” setting.
With Time display showing, press SET/DONE button (top left) until it shows HOLD, then you can let it go, then follow the instructions by pressing MODE/NEXT (bottom left) to view all the settable options in turn – such as the Hour, Minutes, Seconds, Month, Day, Year. Now the Instructions appear to stop at the Year, then they vaguely mention further Options. – Well just keep pressing MODE/NEXT button and these extra options will show. Each press on the MODE/NEXT push button shows yet another Option, like 12/24hr option and Month/Date format (I always change this to the more familiar UK option of Day/Month), then Vibration/Combo/Beep, Hourly Chime, Button Beep and so on. Actually it’s quite intuitive.
Once you get to the option you wish to set or change, simply press one of the upper or lower right hand pushers to up or down or change format to suit (ignore the center right button, it’s purely for the Indiglo light). After setting or changing any option simply press the SET/DONE button again and that’s it. And it’s not only the Vibration alarm that is missing from the instructions, there a quite a few other options available for customization.
So as said, super simple – once you’re into the setting mode, simply press Mode/Next to go through the quite long list of options, setting times, dates and things and those other settable options along the way.
Actually one of the things I DO like about this watch is the ease of setting and operating any of the functions. It is both intuitive and quick – a point other Makers should maybe try and emulate.
Looking at this model in comparison cosmetically with other watches it looks pretty good – here shown against the old Casio on the center right – and my reason for updating in the first place, it does show how watches in general have grown in size today. This image also illustrates that this particular digital display on the Timex is very clear and certainly as easy to read as an analogue.
Good clear display, shows well against others.
So in conclusion I have to admit to being very pleased with this Timex. So far it’s all pros with this model, though time will tell no doubt.
But I think they’ve got the display just about right – it is large, clear and easy to read and a big improvement on many of the digital display watches I’ve seen in my trawl of alternatives.
The menu system is intuitive in that the “Set” button means just that – from there you can set everything.
The push buttons are large and easy to use and don’t appear to get pushed accidentally either.
It’s comfortable to wear and you can get it wet without worries – and you can see it at night.
I personally like this version with the muted green/black color scheme and I DO like the conventional strap and fitting, something that Casio and many others making ABC watches would be well advised to take note of. This business of “special straps & bracelet fittings” is a nonsense and in my view a cynical little after sales money spinner. But in this case full marks to Timex, when this one does wear or fray eventually and in my experience this type usually do, sooner or later, it’s a simple matter to replace it with a strap of your choice. The battery is a a standard CR2032 and it’s even stamped on the watch back as a reminder.
The Timex T49854J does what it says very well, simply and at low cost – it is not an expensive watch – perhaps a lesson for some others out there. In essence a VERY practical watch and good to wear.
Watch space 
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