Timex Expedition Scout Review

Updated October 18, 2020

A good quality outdoor watch doesn’t have to break the bank, and the Timex Expedition Scout is a perfect example of that principle.

A Timex field watch is the perfect gift for the outdoors enthusiast, or as a present to yourself. Not just for adventurers either, the Timex Expedition Field watch remains a popular choice for many, with a classic look and durable workmanship.

Backed by the Timex name, known for making quality watches, the scout watch has enough features to use every day, without overwhelming you with functions you don’t need.

There are also several varieties of sizes and strap designs for the Timex Expedition field watch, making it easy to choose one that’s right for you.

Let’s take a deeper look at the Timex field watch.

Design

The Expedition Scout has a basic design, with a round watch face in an analog style. There are different colors from which to choose for the watch face, and the hand colors vary along with the watch face color. 

The watch has hour, minute and second hands, with large Arabic numbers from 1-12, and a smaller 24-hour version just inside the larger numbers. There’s a discreet date window at 3 o’clock.

The second hand is actually shaped like an arrow, making it easy to read and to follow if you’re using it as a timer. The hour and minute hands look like swords.

It also features the iconic Indiglo backlight, a popular feature of Timex watches for many years. With a push of the crown, the electroluminescent technology illuminates the entire watch face, allowing you to read the time in low light settings or at night.

There are a few different sizes from which to choose, starting with the women’s timepiece, or one suited for those who want a smaller watch, measuring 1.02 inches (26 millimeters) in diameter.  

Others range from 1.46-1.69 inches (37 to 43 millimeters) in diameter, with several choices in between. That gives you some nice options depending how big you like your watch.

The classic look can be modified by choosing from different watch bands, from leather to durable fabric. 

There are actually three types of bands for the Expedition Scout – a nylon bracelet, a leather bracelet, and a nylon bracelet with leather trims. There are also several fabric versions of the Mossy Oak Camo design.

Of note, the watch does have an audible and noticeable tick, if that type of noise happens to bother wearers. 

Comfort and Versatility

The watch itself is relatively thin, and not very heavy, making it easy to wear.  Since you can choose from among different sizes, you can pick the size you like. And with the option of different bands, it can be worn in different situations. 

While the overall look of this watch isn’t overly dressy, if you choose a leather band, there’s no reason you can’t wear it with a suit and tie. Or, pick a fabric band for a more sporty look, or camo for the true outdoor enthusiast.

The case is covered with mineral crystal glass, which provides some scratch resistance. And with minimal water resistance, you don’t have to worry about it getting wet.

For the purpose of this Timex Expedition Review, we’ll look at the 1.57 inch (40 millimeter) men’s watch, with an army green fabric band.

Specifications

Material:
Gray brass case
Size:
1.57 inches in diameter X 0.39 of an inch thick
Movement:
Quartz
Case Diameter:
1.57 inches
Watch Strap:
Fabric
Battery Life:
Up to 5 years

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Black watch face, white numbers and hands, with a yellow second hand that stands out.
  • Indiglo backlight.
  • Luminous hands.
  • Scratch-resistant mineral glass.

Cons

  • Water resistant to only 165 feet (50 meters), meaning it can handle minimal time in water, like recreational swimming, but it can’t be used for diving or snorkeling.
  • Basic functionality of just time and date.

Movement

The quartz movement ensures this watch keeps accurate time, and since it’s battery operated, you have to wind your watch. 

It’s easy to set with the Timex QuickDate® feature. Pull out the crown to set the time, or pull it out halfway to adjust the date.

Water Resistance

The Scout is water resistant to 164 feet (50 meters), so you can swim with it, but it’s not suitable for long periods of time in the water and definitely not suitable for extreme water sports or diving. 

It’s important to ensure the crown is pushed all the way in before getting the watch wet.

Instead, this watch is for those who like a basic timepiece that looks good, and with a durable brass metal case, it’s rugged enough for some outdoor adventures. 

You don’t have to worry about getting caught in the rain or taking a quick dip in a mountain stream. 

If you do plan to use it for outdoor activities, you may want to choose a fabric band instead of a leather one. Fabric is better suited for getting wet and drying quickly, and you won’t have to worry about ruining the leather by scratching it or getting it wet.

Warranty

Timex Expedition reviews should include warranty information, as this watch has the typical Timex coverage. 

Timex provides a one year international warranty against manufacturing defects, starting from the original purchase date. There are some conditions to note, because warranty service is only honored on watches purchased directly from authorized retailers. 

While repairs done during the warranty period are at no charge, there may be a handling fee.

It’s important to keep a proof of purchase for your Timex Expedition, as you’ll have to show a receipt that includes the date, item purchased, and the retailer. Without a proof of purchase, your repair will be considered out of warranty and you’ll have to pay.

Warranty also doesn’t cover defects after the one-year period, or damages done from accidents, tampering, or repair services done by someone other than Timex. The warranty also won’t cover a broken strap or a dead battery.

Customer Reviews

In general, the Timex Expedition Scout watch has positive customer reviews. If you’re looking for a basic watch that gives you 12 and 24-hour readings, with a date window and accurate Quartz movement, this may be the watch for you.

You can choose from among several sizes and band styles, and different colored watch faces and bands, allowing you to personalize the look. As with all Timex watches, the Indiglo feature is a popular one, allowing you to read the time in any kind of lighting.

For an inexpensive, basic watch with a classic design, the Timex Expedition delivers.

Our Verdict

This is your watch if you just need the basic hour, minute, second, and date features, with a bonus for the ability to read in 24-hour or military time. There aren’t a bunch of fancy functions, but you do get the Indiglo backlight that makes it easy to see in any light condition.

The watch also has basic water resistance and scratch resistance, making it durable enough for most wearers. 

Since you can choose among different sizes, colors and band styles and colors, it’s also easy to personalize it for every wearer.