Timex Ironman Watch – Rugged 30 Edition

8.7
8.7 score
[Editors rating (8.7)] = (Gearweare.net) score (8.7)/10

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Editor rating: 8.7 / 10
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Editor’s Conclusion
The Timex Ironman Watch is a practical device that is affordable, durable, and intuitive. It has basic functions but is, unfortunately, missing a pedometer. On the bright side, it has the ability to recall up to 30 laps and is water-resistant up to 100 meters.

It is ideal for travel, everyday use, and work. The simple design goes with everything and doesn’t call too much attention. The biggest complaint about this watch is that at times, the screen is difficult to see without pressing the Indiglo button. However, that will only affect you in low-light situations or if you have bad eyes.

If I haven’t scared you off yet by mentioning these two minor disadvantages, you’ll be in for a treat if you keep reading.
Timex Ironman Watch – Rugged 30 Edition Review Facts
Editor's Pros & Cons
Pros

Long-lasting and durable

Intuitive format

Low-profile design

Water-resistant up to 330 feet

Affordable

Cons

Difficult to read in low light

Not a lot of features

Key Features

Comfort

First, let’s discuss the size and width of the watch, and then we will discuss how it feels on the wrist. The case width is 44mm with a height of 15mm. The strap is 20mm and fits up to an eight-inch wrist. Considering the average wrist size of a man is 7.25”, it should fit most people.

There are 4 buttons that do not stick out too far, meaning they are not likely to catch on clothing or rub you in an uncomfortable spot. The wrist strap is made from resin and doesn’t rip out your arm hair as you adjust it. There are multiple size settings and the watch is very comfortable overall. You’ll hardly even notice you’re wearing it because it weighs only 1.6 ounces.

Features

If you are looking for a fitness watch or a product that will track your every movement, this is not the watch for you. It does have a few built-in sports features, but not an excessive amount. This chronograph watch can count up to 99 laps and remember up to 30 laps. Unfortunately, there is no pedometer or heart rate monitor.

You can easily access the stopwatch, timer, calendar, and alarms. For forgetful people, you’ll be happy to know that you can set up to fifteen reminders. There is a customizable menu that allows you to choose what features you wish to see on the screen. You can also get rid of features that you do not use. You can display the time in military or standard time. Additionally, you can set the watch for two different time zones.

The negative display makes this a great-looking watch. However, it can be difficult to see if you have bad eyes or if you are in dim conditions. There is an Indiglo button you can press to light up the numbers on the watch. With one press, it will stay lit up for about three to five seconds. If you need the illumination for longer, you need to hold the button down for more time.

Looking down at the watch, you’ll see five buttons. The four buttons that surround the face of the watch are: mode, set/recall, Indiglo, stop/reset. Under the time display is a start/split button.

Durability

One of the best features of this outdoor watch is that you do not need to remember to take it off before diving into a body of water. It is water-resistant up to 330 feet. This means that you can wear it swimming, in the shower, snorkeling, and more. Even with this great water rating, I wouldn’t recommend it for a scuba diver. The water resistance at those depths is likely too intense for the Ironman.

As with most products, try to remember to rinse it off after wearing it in saltwater or chlorine. Rinse it with simple tap water and dry it off, if you want. This will help to keep it looking good and functioning seamlessly.

The strap is made from a durable resin material. The lens is acrylic and the hardware is made from stainless steel. You can choose from two slightly different color combinations.

Blackout is black on black on black or you can choose black with yellow accents. Perhaps the most impressive feature is that the battery of this watch can last for up to ten years. Of course, that depends on how you use it.

Value

As I said, the Timex Ironman may be lacking a few features, but considering the comfort and durability of this watch, it’s well worth its already low price. It comes with a one-year warranty.

However, depending on where you purchase it, if you do return it you will need to pay the shipping yourself. For some people, this is a deal-breaker. I doubt you’ll be returning it unless you have an issue reading the display.

Comparison to Similar Watches

It’s an age-old debate. Casio or Timex? Since the ‘80s, these two brands have been neck and neck. The Casio G-Shock is a close cousin (dare I say sibling?) of the Timex Ironman. They are priced very similarly and even look similar. Some people say that the Casio band is slightly softer and has a better wrist feel. However, the Casio can only record 1 lap while the Timex can record 30. Both display screens are fairly easy to read, except for in low-light situations.

The Timex Ironman 100 is also commonly considered by many people when looking at this model. It’s very similar to the 30, but with a little bit more of everything. It can recall up to 100 laps, hence the name. You can also customize up to five alarms, instead of three on the 30. Other than that, it is slightly more expensive but maintains the same sleek look.

Verdict

When it comes down to it, if you’re looking for a watch with minimal features that is reliable, durable, and comfortable, this is a great choice.

It’s ideal for swimmers and runners who want to time their laps but not ideal for people looking to hit a step goal each day. It’s perfect for traveling because you don’t need to take it off to get in the water, it isn’t too flashy, and it can support a second-time zone.

Whether it will be your everyday watch or just something you wear when you want to spend less time peeking at your phone screen, it’s a great watch. Has it actually earned the title of “Ironman?”..... I think not, but it is pretty dang durable.