The Q Timex NASA Watch is the one everyone is talking about. This timepiece is a tribute to the Apollo 17 mission, the last time humans walked on the moon in 1972. It combines a retro 1970s style with special space details, like a glowing moon on the dial and a famous photo of Earth on the back. Priced affordably between $239 and $259, it offers a unique mix of history and style that is hard to find elsewhere. Whether you love space or just want a cool, vintage-looking watch, this piece delivers big value without a big price tag.
What Is the Q Timex NASA Watch?
The Q Timex NASA Watch is a modern version of a classic 1970s design, created to honor the historic Apollo 17 lunar mission. It is not just a tool to tell time; it is a wearable piece of history that celebrates human exploration. The watch features a black dial with special sub-dials and a caseback that displays the iconic “Blue Marble” photo taken by astronauts.
It comes in two main versions: one with a stainless steel bracelet and one with a black leather strap. Both models share the same 40mm case size and internal movement, so the choice depends on your personal style. This watch has become popular because it makes space history accessible to everyone, not just collectors with huge budgets.
Design and Aesthetics: A Nod to the Moon
The design of the Q Timex NASA Watch is heavily inspired by the famous “Moonwatch” styles of the past, but it has its own unique charm. The most striking feature is the heavily domed acrylic crystal that sits over the dial, giving it a soft, vintage look that catches the light beautifully.
The Dial and Luminous Moon
The black dial is clean and easy to read, featuring silver-tone hands and markers that glow in the dark. The standout detail is the sub-dial at the 6 o’clock position, which shows the day of the week. Inside this sub-dial is a luminous moon graphic that glows brightly at night, mimicking the real moon in the sky.
There is also a date window at the 3 o’clock position and a 24-hour day/night indicator at 9 o’clock with sun and moon illustrations. These details make the dial busy but balanced, offering a lot of visual interest without being confusing. The ornamental tachymeter bezel adds a sporty touch, even though it is mostly for style rather than complex calculations.
The “Blue Marble” Caseback
When you flip the watch over, you are greeted by one of its most special features: the Blue Marble caseback. This is a full-color image of the Earth photograph taken by the Apollo 17 crew in December 1972. It serves as a constant reminder of our planet’s beauty and the incredible journey of the astronauts who captured it. This detail turns a simple watch into a meaningful conversation starter.
Performance and Features You Can Count On
Inside the Q Timex NASA Watch beats a reliable Japanese quartz movement, ensuring accurate timekeeping with very little maintenance. The specific battery used is the SR920SW, which is a common type that is easy and cheap to replace when the time comes.
Movement and Accuracy
Quartz movements are known for their precision, and this watch is no exception. You do not need to wind it or worry about it losing time like some mechanical watches. It simply keeps ticking accurately month after month, making it a hassle-free choice for daily wear.
Water Resistance and Durability
The watch has a water resistance rating of 50 meters (or 5 bar). This means it can handle rain, hand washing, and accidental splashes without any issues. However, it is not designed for swimming, diving, or showering, so you should take it off before getting into the water.
The case is made of stainless steel with a brushed finish, which helps hide small scratches from daily use. The acrylic crystal, while prone to scratching more than glass, adds to the vintage aesthetic and can be polished if it gets marked up over time.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Movement | Japanese Quartz |
| Battery | SR920SW |
| Water Resistance | 50 Meters (5 Bar) |
| Crystal | Domed Acrylic |
| Case Material | Stainless Steel |
| Case Diameter | 40 mm |
| Case Thickness | 13.5 mm |
| Lug Width | 18 mm |
Pricing and Value: Is It Worth It?
One of the biggest reasons people are talking about the Q Timex NASA Watch is its incredible value for money. As of 2026, the official prices on the Timex website are very competitive compared to other space-themed watches.
Official Pricing Breakdown
The price varies slightly depending on the strap you choose and your region. In the United States, the stainless steel bracelet version is priced at $259, while the leather strap version is $239. In Europe, the prices are approximately €249 and €229 respectively.
| Model | Strap Type | US Price | EU Price | UK Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TW2Y56700 | Stainless Steel Bracelet | $259 | €249 | £220 (approx) |
| TW2Y56800 | Black Leather Strap | $239 | €229 | £200 |
These prices include the unique design elements and the historical tribute, making it a bargain. You get a watch with a story, a domed crystal, and a special caseback for under $260, which is rare in today’s market.
Comfort and Wearability
Wearing the Q Timex NASA Watch feels comfortable for most people thanks to its well-proportioned size. The 40mm case diameter is a “sweet spot” that fits both smaller and larger wrists without looking too big or too small.
Dimensions and Fit
The case is 13.5mm thick, which allows it to slide easily under a shirt cuff. The lug-to-lug distance is 46.3mm, meaning the watch sits neatly within the boundaries of your wrist without hanging over the edges. The 18mm lug width is a standard size, making it very easy to find replacement straps if you want to change the look later.
Bracelet vs. Leather
The stainless steel bracelet version features a deployant clasp, which is a folding mechanism that makes putting the watch on and taking it off very secure and easy. The links are brushed and taper slightly for a refined look. The leather strap version uses a traditional buckle and is made of natural black leather that softens and molds to your wrist over time. Both options are comfortable for all-day wear.
Who Is This Watch For?
The Q Timex NASA Watch is designed for a wide range of people, from watch beginners to seasoned collectors. It is perfect for anyone who appreciates history, design, or space exploration.
- Space Enthusiasts: If you love NASA and the Apollo missions, this watch is a direct tribute to the final moon landing.
- Vintage Style Lovers: The 1970s design, domed crystal, and retro font appeal to those who miss the style of the past.
- First-Time Watch Buyers: It is an affordable entry point into owning a branded, well-designed watch with unique features.
- Gift Givers: With its meaningful story and attractive packaging, it makes an excellent gift for birthdays or graduations.
It is not a luxury status symbol, but rather a fun, honest watch for people who want to express their personality.
The Good and The Bad
To give you a complete picture, here is an honest look at the strengths and weaknesses of the Q Timex NASA Watch.
What Makes It Great
The design is undeniably cool, especially the glowing moon graphic that surprises people when the lights go out. The connection to the Apollo 17 mission gives it a soul that many modern watches lack. The price is also a major plus, offering high perceived value for under $260. Additionally, the 18mm lug width makes it very easy to customize with different straps from brands like StrapHabit.
Areas for Improvement
The acrylic crystal is softer than sapphire or mineral glass, so it can scratch more easily if you are rough with your hands. The 50-meter water resistance is basic, meaning you cannot swim with it, which might be a dealbreaker for some. Also, the leather strap version comes with a standard buckle instead of a deployant clasp, which some users feel is a small step down in convenience compared to the bracelet version.
Despite these minor points, the pros far outweigh the cons for a watch in this price range.
Where to Buy and Warranty Details
The safest place to buy the Q Timex NASA Watch is directly from the official Timex website or authorized retailers like Nordstrom and trusted watch shops. Buying from official sources ensures you receive a genuine product with full warranty support.
Warranty Coverage
Timex typically offers a 1-year warranty against manufacturer defects for this watch. However, some authorized dealers in specific regions, such as Europe or specialized watch retailers, may offer an extended 2-year warranty. It is always a good idea to check the specific terms with the seller at the time of purchase.
Model Numbers to Know
When searching for the watch, use these model numbers to ensure you get the exact version you want:
- TW2Y56700: Stainless Steel Bracelet Model
- TW2Y56800: Black Leather Strap Model
Limitations & Unknowns
While most features are well-documented, specific long-term durability data on the acrylic crystal over several years of heavy use is limited. Additionally, warranty terms can vary by region and retailer, so verifying the exact duration with your local seller is recommended.
The Q Timex NASA Watch is a standout piece that proves you don’t need to spend a fortune to own something special. It captures the spirit of exploration and the style of the 1970s in a package that is ready for your wrist today.
