Timex Celebrates 170 Years of Watchmaking Excellence

Timex 170th anniversary

By Brandon Jacob

American watchmaking brand Timex is celebrating its 170th anniversary this year, honoring its rich heritage and legacy of crafting durable timepieces.

“2024 marks a huge milestone for Timex, as we celebrate 170 years of simply great watchmaking,” said Shari Fabiani, CMO of Timex Group, in a statement. “While our legacy is rich with passion and craftsmanship, wearing a Timex is not just about the tangible item. A Timex does more than just tell time; it tells your story, and when you look down on your wrist, let it be a reminder to make time yours.”

Founded in 1854, Timex was first established as the Waterbury Clock Company. Challenging the status quo of the time, the company sought to bring timekeeping off the shelves and mantels of the elite and make it accessible to everyone.

Utilizing the innovation of brass movements and mass assembly lines, Timex introduced its first dollar pocket watch in 1901, followed by its first wristwatch in 1914, a development that led to the “watch that made the dollar famous.”

In 1967, Timex launched a dedicated women’s timepiece range, making watches an essential accessory for all women. The US brand continued to innovate by introducing the first sports watch in 1984 and inventing the first smartwatch certified by NASA, which was sent into outer space in 1994.

Recently, Timex became the world’s first circular watch brand with the launch of its take-back and resale program designed to ensure no watches end up in landfills. Through this program, Timex invites consumers to send back any pre-used watch, from any brand, to be upcycled into new products or refurbished for sale on the Timex ReWound site.

“When designing these collections, I draw inspiration from our history while seamlessly incorporating aspects of contemporary trends and innovations,” said Giorgio Galli, global creative director of Timex Group, in a statement. “The outcome is a series of styles that remain timeless, staying true to the brand’s DNA and serving as essential elements of the Timex legacy.”