In a world where gadgets flash and beep with every notification, there's something grounding about a watch that echoes the tough, no-nonsense days of early 20th-century warfare. Timex, a name synonymous with reliable timekeeping for generations of Americans, has dusted off its roots to bring back a design that traces straight to the trenches of World War I. This isn't just any rehash—it's the TA-25-A, a fresh take on the field watches that kept soldiers on schedule amid the chaos. Born from a partnership with Avirex, a brand known for outfitting pilots with rugged jackets, this timepiece blends over a century of U.S. military heritage with subtle modern tweaks that make it wearable today.
The story starts long before Timex even existed as a brand. Back in the mid-1800s, the company operated under the name Waterbury Clock Company, churning out affordable clocks that found their way into homes across the nation. But when the Great War erupted in 1914, Waterbury shifted gears. They produced straightforward field watches for American troops—simple, durable pieces that could withstand the mud and mayhem of the battlefield. After the armistice, these designs trickled down to everyday folks, marketed under the Ingersoll label. It was practical innovation at its best, turning military necessity into civilian utility.
Image credit: Avirex/Timex
Fast forward to the 1950s, and Waterbury rebranded as Timex, a move that cemented its place in American culture. Those early military watches, though, faded into history books and collectors' cabinets. Until now. The TA-25-A isn't a pixel-perfect replica; it's an evolution that honors the original while fitting into a guy's daily routine in 2025. The first ones from World War I clocked in at about 32mm, borrowing from ladies' pocket watch cases for their compact size. This new version ups the ante to a more substantial 38mm case, offered in either a polished shiny stainless steel for that classic gleam or a brushed finish for a stealthier, battle-worn vibe.
What really sets the TA-25-A apart is how it nods to aviation heritage without overdoing it. Timex and Avirex drew inspiration from the dials inside U.S. military aircraft cockpits for the watch's hands—replacing the old spade style with something sharper and more precise. The black dial keeps things clean with straightforward Arabic numerals, easy to read at a glance whether you're checking the time during a board meeting or out on a weekend hike. And for those low-light moments, like fumbling for keys after a late-night drive, it features Indiglo technology that lights up the face with a soft glow. No fancy complications here—just reliable quartz movement powering it all, ensuring it ticks accurately without the hassle of winding.
The collaboration with Avirex adds another layer of authenticity. Famous for their leather flight jackets that have clad Air Force pilots since the brand's inception, Avirex brings that same military ethos to the table. Together, they've packaged the TA-25-A with versatility in mind. Each watch ships with two NATO straps: a tough green nylon one that screams field-ready durability, and a sleek black leather option for dressing it up a bit. Swap them out depending on the day—nylon for yard work or a fishing trip, leather for a casual dinner with the guys.
Image credit: Avirex/Timex
Priced at 33,000 Japanese yen, which shakes out to roughly $212, it's not going to break the bank for a piece with this much backstory. But here's the catch: it's exclusive to Japan for now, making it a bit of a hunt for American enthusiasts. That scarcity only amps up its appeal for collectors who appreciate the thrill of tracking down something unique. Imagine slipping this on your wrist and feeling connected to the doughboys who relied on similar watches over a hundred years ago, or the pilots who soared through skies in Avirex gear.
This isn't about chasing trends or loading up on tech—it's about owning a slice of American resilience. The TA-25-A reminds us that great design endures, evolving just enough to stay relevant while holding onto the grit that made it legendary. For anyone who's ever admired the quiet strength of military history, this watch is a subtle way to carry it forward, one tick at a time. Whether you're building a collection or just want a daily wearer with a story, it stands as a testament to Timex's enduring legacy in keeping time through America's toughest chapters.
