Timex has built a reputation for affordable, reliable watches with a touch of Americana charm. While many associate the brand with rugged field watches or casual digital classics like the Ironman, one of the most surprising success stories of the last decade has been the revival of the Timex Marlin. Originally a dress watch line from the 1960s, the Marlin collection was resurrected in 2017 with hand-wound and automatic models. Now, Timex is expanding that family once again with a pair of new quartz models: the Marlin Quartz 34mm, available in two variants — the TW2Y37800 (gold-tone with green dial) and TW2Y37600 (stainless steel with silver dial).

These new releases bring mid-century style into the present day, combining vintage proportions with a reliable quartz movement. At 34mm, they are unapologetically classic in size, perfect for those who appreciate understated wrist presence. Let’s take a closer look at what makes these new Marlin Quartz models a compelling addition to the lineup.

A Duo of Dress Watches

Timex is presenting these new Marlin Quartz releases as a kind of vintage dress watch duo. Both models are built around the same foundation — a compact 34mm case with a domed acrylic crystal, a slim profile on the wrist, and a period-correct crocodile grain leather strap. Where they diverge is in the finishing.

The TW2Y37800 leans into warmth and richness, pairing a gold-tone case with a deep green satin dial and matching gold indices, finished off with a brown leather strap that feels straight out of the 1960s. Its sibling, the TW2Y37600, takes the more restrained path: a polished stainless steel case framing a silver dial that almost glows white in certain light, set against the timeless pairing of a black leather strap. Side by side, they feel like two interpretations of the same mid-century spirit — one bold, one classic.

Case & Crystal: Retro Proportions

One of the defining features of these watches is the case size. At 34mm in diameter and 10mm thick, the case dimensions are faithful to the mid-century originals. For modern buyers accustomed to larger 39–42mm cases, this may seem small, but on the wrist it wears elegantly and comfortably. The modest sizing gives these Marlins a genuine vintage feel that larger reissues often miss.

Both models use polished stainless steel cases — the difference lies in the finish. The TW2Y37600 is left in natural steel, giving it a cool, understated look, while the TW2Y37800 is plated in a warm gold tone that plays beautifully against its green dial.

Protecting the dial is a domed acrylic crystal, another throwback feature. Unlike sapphire, acrylic is prone to scratches, but it has a unique warmth and distortion that enhances the vintage aesthetic. Minor scratches can easily be polished out with a dab of Polywatch.

With 30 meters of water resistance, these Marlins can handle occasional splashes or rain. This is in line with their role as dress watches — they’re best suited for the office, dinner, or events where refinement is the goal.

Dial & Hands: Vintage Elegance in Two Flavors

Both models keep the dial clean and balanced with applied indices and a simple stick handset. There’s no date window breaking up the design, which allows the layout to stay pure and uncluttered in a way that feels true to the 1960s inspiration.

On the TW2Y37600, the silver-tone dial catches the light with a soft satin finish. Combined with the stainless steel case and black strap, it comes across as the quintessential mid-century dress watch — versatile enough for the office, refined enough for formal wear, and discreet in its overall presence.

The TW2Y37800, on the other hand, offers a bolder take on the same formula. Its deep green dial is paired with a warm gold-tone case and gold indices, a combination that feels more daring yet still elegant. The brown strap ties the whole look together, complementing the case finish while giving the watch a touch of character for those who want vintage styling with a bit more personality.

Movement: Quartz Reliability

Inside both models is a battery-powered quartz movement, offering reliable and maintenance-free timekeeping. While you may gravitate towards mechanical versions of the Marlin, there’s something to be said for the practicality of quartz. These watches will run for years with little more than an occasional battery change, making them hassle-free everyday companions.

Quartz also allows Timex to keep the price accessible. Whereas automatic Marlin models typically retail in the €250–€300 range, the quartz versions come in lower, making them an excellent entry point for those curious about vintage-inspired watches without a big investment.

Crocodile Grain Leather Straps

Both watches are paired with a crocodile-grain leather strap, measuring 18mm in width. The TW2Y37600 comes with black leather, while the TW2Y37800 opts for brown. These straps are equipped with quick-release spring bars, allowing for easy swaps without tools. For those who enjoy changing up their look, this is a welcome feature.

The leather itself is sourced responsibly through the Leather Working Group (LWG), ensuring more sustainable and ethical practices in production.

Final Thoughts: A Vintage Pair for the Modern Collector

With the new Marlin Quartz 34mm models, Timex has delivered a pair of elegant, vintage-inspired dress watches that punch well above their price point. The design is faithful to the Marlins of the 1960s, right down to the 34mm case size and domed acrylic crystal.

Collectors now have the choice between two personalities: the stainless steel silver dial version (TW2Y37600) for timeless elegance, and the gold-tone green dial version (TW2Y37800) for something with a bit more flair. Either way, you’re getting a watch that captures the essence of vintage dress watches, but with the everyday reliability of quartz.

Specifications

• Case Diameter: 34mm
• Case Thickness: 10mm
• Case Material: Stainless steel (natural or gold-tone)
• Crystal: Domed acrylic
• Dial Options: Silver-tone (TW2Y37600) or green satin-finish (TW2Y37800)
• Indices & Hands: Applied markers, stick hands
• Strap: 18mm crocodile-grain leather, quick-release
• Movement: Quartz (battery: SR626SW)
• Water Resistance: 30m (3 ATM)