Timex TW2U96700 White Dial Green Leather Strap

A Hand-Wound Revival

The Timex Marlin Hand-Wound California Dial TW2U96700 is the brand’s nod to a golden age of mid-century watchmaking. At just 34mm, the stainless steel case wears with the quiet confidence of a true vintage piece, echoing the proportions of the 1960s Marlin that inspired it. Timex deliberately stayed faithful to those roots, from the domed acrylic crystal to the slim, polished bezel that frames the dial.

The California Dial Quirk

This Marlin stands out with a California dial a half Roman, half Arabic numeral arrangement that has fascinated collectors for decades. It’s a playful, slightly rebellious detail in what is otherwise a restrained dress watch, giving it an added layer of conversation-starting intrigue. The black dial contrasts cleanly with luminous hands and hour markers, while the gold-tone accents lend warmth without drifting into ostentation.

Mechanical Heartbeat

Inside ticks a hand-wound mechanical movement, requiring a daily wind through the signed crown. It’s an intentional ritual a tactile reminder that this is no quartz convenience but a watch that thrives on interaction. The 17-jewel movement provides reliable timekeeping, and with a water resistance rating of 30 meters, the Marlin is built for daily life rather than deep dives.

Designed for the Wrist, Not the Safe

The 18mm black leather strap with contrast stitching matches the Marlin’s vintage sensibility while keeping it versatile enough for modern wardrobes. At just over 10mm thick, the case slides easily under a cuff, making it an ideal companion for both office attire and casual evenings. This is a watch designed to be worn and enjoyed, not hidden away.

Why It Matters

The Timex Marlin TW2U96700 isn’t a reissue that tries too hard it’s a faithful continuation of a beloved line that helped shape affordable mechanical watch culture in the mid-20th century. The California dial twist gives this version its own identity, ensuring it stands out in a sea of cookie-cutter dress watches.

For those who appreciate the ceremony of winding their watch, the Marlin Hand-Wound TW2U96700 delivers history, personality, and a healthy dose of charm at a size that whispers vintage authenticity. This isn’t nostalgia repackaged it’s nostalgia you can wear every day.