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Timex Reworked Its Best Affordable Field Watch and Made It Better

The revised MK1 follows in the footsteps of a 1980s classic.

Timex MK1 watchTimex

By Jack Seemer

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In the ’80s TV show MacGyver, the title hero famously eschewed a firearm, instead relying on intelligence, creativity and one very cheap watch. But who said cheap meant second-rate?

The no-frills Timex Camper, worn by Richard Dean Anderson’s character until the early 1990s, was a civilian version of the MIL-W-46374 issued to US servicemen after World War II.

Timex MK1 watch
Since the ’80s, Timex has brought back the Camper in various ways, including this 30th anniversary edition in 2016.
Timex

Early versions of the watch had a lightweight resin case; clear, easy-to-read dial; and, despite its entry-level price tag, an automatic movement — a fact that has turned the Camper into something of a cult classic among collectors who might otherwise scoff at an entry-level Timex.

It is also the inspiration for the brand’s reworked MK1 field watch, now available in 36mm and 40mm sizes, both with a stainless-steel cases and 50 meters of water resistance. All collectors are welcome.

Timex MK1 40mm automatic field watch
The new MK1 comes in two sizes, 36mm and 40mm. The latter includes an automatic movement.
Timex

Down to the last detail

While both sizes look nearly identical due to their black dials, brushed steel cases and olive-green straps, variations varying in scope separate the two watches.

The 40mm edition, for example, is powered by a Miyota mechanical automatic movement, a trait it proudly wears by way of an exhibition caseback.

Timex MK1 watch
The 40mm dial proudly reads “automatic” for its movement, which is partially visible with an exhibition caseback.
Timex

The dial also reads “automatic” instead of “mechanical” (as found on the 36mm edition), and its arrow indices coolly match the Camper watch of yesteryear.

The 36mm MK1 doesn’t boast the same automatic movement as its larger counterpart, but the inclusion of a mechanical movement preserves its battery-free makeup and elevates the watch beyond the typical quartz fare.

Timex MK1 watch
The 36mm edition does not come with an automatic Miyota, however, a mechanical movement keeps it battery-free.
Timex

Interestingly, Timex also decided to vary the indices and straps between the two sizes.

On the smaller watch, blocks replace the arrows, while a slip-through strap keeps things true to the vintage military aesthetic; the 40mm edition instead comes with a two-piece strap fashioned from Cordura and leather (that’s also available in tan).

Pricing and availability

Both Timex MK1 watches are available now, starting at $229.

Collectors who prefer MacGyver’s taste in watches also have the option of the quart-powered MK1 Resin, a dead ringer for the early Camper, albeit boldly reissued in bright yellow and orange.

Timex MK1 watch
The MK1 Resin is a summer-friendly version that costs just $79.
Timex

The MK1 Resin costs just $79 and even carries the period-correct italicized Timex logo — a subtle reminder that even when the hands go in a circle, time always moves forward.

timex watch on a blurred backgroundTimex

Timex MK1 Automatic 40mm

The Timex MK1 is modeled after the MIL-W-46374 issued to US servicemen after World War II. Now available in two sizes, both with stainless-steel cases, only the 40mm version boasts an automatic movement, proudly displayed with an exhibition caseback. The larger size also carries a two-layer strap fashioned from Cordura and leather.

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