In Review: Timex x Pan Am Waterbury

Over the summer, we brought you word of a new Timex x Pan Am collaboration that saw two new watches produced (you can read about that here). Since then, we’ve been spending some time with the day-date version, and have the full hands-on review ready for you.

As you would expect for the Timex x Pan Am Waterbury, the Pan Am logo features prominently. It’s there on the dial (at 6 o’clock), the crown, the case back, as well as two medallions on the strap that recreate the look of a riveted strap you’d expect to see on a flieger-style watch.

On the wrist, the Timex x Pan Am Waterbury wears much like its 42mm case spec would indicate. In another style of watch, the larger case would feel out of place (at least, to my tastes these days), but for a flight-oriented watch, it works. Back when pilots actually needed to use these as a tool in flight, a large case meant a large dial, which usually translated into a watch that was easier to read.

Given the relative sizing, it is a surprise that the handset wasn’t made a little bit larger. If these had been fully-lumed, then the size would be spot on. Since they’re lume-filled, though, the eye catches the painted surface more readily, so it makes them appear smaller than they actually are.

With the Pan Am logo showing up on the watch, the Timex x Pan Am Waterbury manages to feel vintage without feeling old (which this style sometimes can, given its roots going back to mid-century). The electric blue dial enlivens it, and the included goodies are sure to delight the Pan Am collector. And even if you’re not so into Pan Am, the price tag of $179 feels agreeable if you’re just looking for a dependable pilot’s watch. It’s currently out of stock, but they have a waitlist setup that you can add yourself to so you can be notified when it comes back. timex.com