In 2023, Timex shook up its vintage-inspired Marlin lineup by introducing a full chronograph range — a first for the collection. This marked the debut of a quartz chronograph under the Marlin name, seamlessly blending mid-century style with modern-day functionality.

While the launch was dominated by the bold and crowd-pleasing panda dial that lit up social media feeds, a quieter, more refined option slipped under the radar: the Champagne dial with a soft rose gold tone (ref. TW2W51400).

Though often overshadowed by its flashier sibling and regularly found discounted, this subtle variant has quietly become a collector’s favorite. Fast forward to 2025, and the Champagne dial has vanished from Timex’s official site, turning it into a rare, discontinued sleeper hit worthy of rediscovery.

A New Chapter for the Marlin Legacy

The Timex Marlin draws its inspiration from the brand’s iconic dress watches of the 1960s—a golden era when Timex earned its reputation for stylish, reliable, and affordable timepieces. The 2023 Marlin Chronograph extends this heritage by introducing both the first chronograph complication and the brand’s first quartz movement in the line.

The standout piece of the launch was undoubtedly the panda dial, which quickly captured the attention, flooding social media. But alongside that crowd favorite was a much more subtle and elegant alternative — the Champagne dial with its soft rose gold tone (ref. TW2W51400). While it may not have sparked the same level of buzz, this quieter option carried its own charm and sophistication. It’s often the case that these less flashy models become sleeper hits for those who appreciate refinement over flashiness.

Quiet Luxury on the Wrist

What makes the Champagne dial truly stand out is its warm, inviting tone paired with a sunburst texture that dances subtly with light. This interplay gives the dial a luminous depth, making it feel far richer than typical flat dials found in similar price segments.

Another vintage-inspired feature is the domed acrylic crystal. While acrylic doesn’t offer the scratch resistance of sapphire, it contributes a charming softness to the watch’s overall aesthetic — a small but meaningful design choice that helps preserve the mid-century vibe. This nod to the past also sets the Marlin apart in a market flooded with modern sapphire-covered timepieces, making it a unique pick for those who appreciate a bit of nostalgic character.

Case & Movement

The Champagne dial shares the same solid foundation as the rest of the Marlin Chronograph lineup. The polished stainless steel case measures 40mm in diameter with a 13mm thickness and a 47mm lug-to-lug length. These proportions allow the watch to sit comfortably on a variety of wrist sizes without feeling bulky or overbearing. The case finishing is neat and refined, combining a subtle polish with clean lines that highlight its vintage inspiration without feeling outdated.

On the technical side, the watch runs on a quartz chronograph movement. It may not carry the prestige of mechanical calibers, but it offers accuracy and ease of use at an affordable price. The chronograph functions operate smoothly, and the watch boasts 50 meters of water resistance, providing protection against everyday splashes and rain, though it’s not designed for swimming or diving.

Understated Versatility

What really stood out with the Champagne dial was just how versatile it proved to be. Its subtle elegance makes it an easy companion for everything from casual weekends to office wear. The included leather strap pairs nicely with the dial’s warm tones. The quality is decent and even features a quick-release system, but it also responds well to strap swaps — try black or brown leather, suede, or even a vintage-style nylon for a more relaxed vibe.

Exceptional Value

When it comes to value, this model was often overlooked in favor of the bolder dial variants, which meant it was frequently discounted. While the retail price was $179, it was sometimes available for under $100 on Timex’s official site. That’s an exceptional deal for a watch offering authentic vintage styling, solid finishing, and the reliability of a trusted name like Timex.

Though it’s no longer listed on Timex’s official site, the Champagne dial Marlin Chronograph can still be found through some third-party retailers — at least for now. If this one’s on your radar, now might be the time to grab it before it quietly disappears for good.

Final Thoughts: A Watch Worth Remembering

After spending time with the Champagne dial Marlin Chronograph, it’s clear this was a missed opportunity for many collectors at launch. It doesn’t scream for attention but offers an exceptional blend of understated elegance, solid construction, and vintage charm at a wallet-friendly price.

With the model now seemingly discontinued and absent from Timex’s lineup, it’s firmly cemented as a hidden gem—a sleeper hit gaining cult status by quietly delivering what many louder watches can’t.

If you’ve had a chance to try or own this watch, I’d love to hear your thoughts. Does the subtlety of the Champagne dial speak to you more than the boldness of the panda? Or do you prefer your chronographs to stand out? Either way, this one’s worth remembering—proof that sometimes the best pieces are the ones flying just under the radar.

Want to see it in action?

Check out my full video review of the Timex Marlin Chronograph Champagne Dial on YouTube, where I go hands-on with the watch and share additional thoughts on its wearability, finish, and how it compares to the panda.