Timex is no stranger to digging into its archives and reviving some of the brand’s more experimental moments. The latest to get the reissue treatment is the Q Timex 1975 Enigma, a modern take on a quirky vintage model that leaned into optical illusion and space-age styling. The original Enigma was all about mystery — a watch that played with perception by making its hands appear to float above the dial. Now, nearly 50 years later, this playful concept returns with updated construction and a faithful nod to the past.

A Bit of History

Back in 1975, Timex was already a household name, known for producing affordable, reliable watches that could “take a licking and keep on ticking.” But the Enigma was something different — a more artistic, design-forward piece that quietly experimented with form and perception. While it didn’t become a mainstream hit, it earned a cult following for its optical trickery and has remained a curiosity in Timex’s back catalog ever since. This reissue is the first time the Enigma returns in nearly five decades, faithfully recreating that original look while subtly improving the materials and construction.

Optical Illusion Reborn

At the heart of the Enigma’s charm is its visual sleight of hand. The hands themselves are standard quartz hands painted to match the dial — blending almost invisibly into the background. Only the white and blue tips stand out, giving the illusion that they’re floating. A dot painted on the underside of the domed acrylic crystal cleverly conceals the central mechanism, adding to the mystery. It’s a subtle and clever visual trick, and quite unlike anything else in Timex’s current lineup.

This detail is executed best in the TW2Y34500 variant, which pairs a black dial with black hands tipped in white and blue for just the right amount of contrast. The design is more than just a gimmick — it captures the experimental spirit of 1970s watchmaking, while also offering something genuinely different in the under-$250 category.

Case, Strap, and Wearability

The case is a compact 37mm in diameter, with an elongated cushion shape that gives it a distinct retro feel. At 12mm thick, it has some presence on the wrist but remains very wearable thanks to short lugs and a classic profile. Timex gives it a mix of polished and brushed finishes for some added visual depth.

Two main strap configurations are available: a black leather strap (as seen in TW2Y34500) and a more casual fabric/NATO-style strap in green or black. The leather version leans dressier and feels truer to the original era, though some may prefer the lightweight and breathable nature of the fabric variants. Strap width is a versatile 20mm, so swapping in something custom is easy if you want to make the look your own.

Movement and Functionality

Inside, the Enigma is powered by a reliable quartz analog movement. It includes a day-date window at 3 o’clock — a practical complication that adds a bit of real-world usefulness to a very stylized piece.

The watch is water resistant to 50 meters, meaning it can handle light splashes or rain but isn’t meant for swimming or diving. The domed acrylic crystal may scratch more easily than sapphire, but it’s also true to vintage form and contributes to the unique viewing angles that help the illusion effect work so well.

Multiple Variants, One Identity

Timex has released the Enigma in several colorways and strap combos, but all share the same base design. Here’s a quick rundown:

• TW2Y34500: Black dial, black leather strap — the most classic and understated version.
• TW2Y34600: Black dial, black fabric strap for a sportier look.
• TW2Y34700: Green dial with matching green fabric strap.

All versions retail around $209 USD, with slight variations depending on the strap and retailer.

Timex has been on a roll lately — see our feature on the Q Timex 1972 World Time for another strong retro release that blends vintage style with practical specs.

Final Thoughts

The Q Timex 1975 Enigma isn’t for everyone — and that’s what makes it exciting. In a sea of safe reissues and homages, Timex went for something genuinely strange and charming. Whether you go for the leather version or opt for one of the colorful fabric straps, you’re getting a piece of wearable design history that doubles as a conversation starter. And at this price point, it’s a surprisingly easy watch to say yes to — especially if you’re a fan of vintage quirks done right.

Q Timex 1975 Enigma – Specs

• Case Size: 37 mm
• Case Thickness: 12 mm
• Case Material: Stainless Steel
• Case Finish: Brushed/Polished Silver-Tone
• Crystal: Domed Acrylic
• Movement: Quartz Analog
• Strap: Black Leather, 20 mm Lug Width
• Water Resistance: 50 meters
• Price: $209 USD