Timex Takes Aim at G-Shock with an Affordable Ana-Digi Ironman Watch

If you picture in your mind’s eye a 46mm ana-digi watch that’s tough as nails and designed to be run through the wringer, you’re undoubtedly picturing a G-Shock, right?

Well, it appears that Casio’s cult-favorite subbrand is getting some affordable competition from an unexpected place, as Timex has just released a new watch in its legendary Ironman line that seems like a chip off the old G-Block.

Timex

Timex Ironman Adrenaline Ana-digi

• $139 at Timex

Full of Adrenaline

The new Timex is the Ironman Adrenaline Ana-digi, and it is an absolute unit. The case measures 46.5mm across and 13mm thick and is made from durable resin with a rust- and corrosion-resistant stainless steel bezel and caseback — a similar setup to what you’ll find on some of G-Shock’s G-Steel watches.

The analog-digital display features three analog hands against a negative display LCD dial with two large rows of real estate. These digital displays show information relating to the watch’s many quartz-powered complications, which include an alarm, countdown timer, calendar, second time zone and the Ironman’s signature lap timer, complete with a 50-lap memory.

Timex

The watch can also be used strictly as an analog watch when not working out simply by holding down the pusher at 4 o’clock for five seconds. This will turn off the digital display but will keep the hour, minute and seconds hands running.

The watch boasts a rugged protected crown and 100m of water resistance — pretty essential factors for the swimming portion of the Ironman Triathlon from which it draws its name. It also features Timex’s push-button Indiglo lighting system and comes on a synthetic rubber strap.

Timex

Timex Takes on G-Shock?

I don’t know if Timex is really gunning for G-Shock with this watch, but there are some pretty clear similarities. The main ones are the steel-and-resin construction, the oversized case, and the ana-digi display. These traits, along with the general sporty and tough vibe of the Ironman Adrenaline, are all things I associate with G-Shock.

But there are some major differences, too. Most notably, Timex’s model makes no mention of any kind of special shock resistance feature, while anti-shock technology is at the core of every G-Shock watch (it’s in the name!).

Timex

The watch also lacks some of the features you’ll find on more advanced G-Shock models, like solar power and Bluetooth connectivity, though G-Shocks at this price point don’t have those features either.

That brings me to the price of the Timex Ironman Adrenaline Ana-digi. At just $139, this literal sports watch is an absolute steal. And while it may not be as tough as a G-Shock, it’s still a seriously capable watch from a beloved brand that’s available for a very fair price.

Timex

Timex Ironman Adrenaline Ana-digi

Specs

Case Size	46mm
Movement	Quartz with alarm, countdown timer and dual-time
Water Resistance	100m

• $139 at Timex

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