EDC To Expedition | The Field Watch, Upgraded

Two masters in their fields team up to create the ultimate travel timepiece.

Watches are an essential part of EDC. In fact, one could argue that watches are the original EDC regardless of what path you take in life. There is a whole world of watches that is both exhilarating and intimidating, from the classic ’90s digital $20 watches all the way up to handmade Swiss masterpieces costing into the millions! However, not all of us have such luxury budgets, and as discerning Carryologists we often look for products that both excite us and don’t force us to remortgage. So when two powerful brands come together to collaborate on a timeless product such as a field watch, our ears prick up! 

Timex was founded in 1854 and started by making pocket watches. As centuries and decades have passed, they’ve continued to be a household name because of their high-quality products and wallet-friendly prices. When you pair that experience with the rebellious and ingenious designs of EDC masters The James Brand, founded in 2012, you have a perfect marriage.

Enter The James Brand x Timex Expedition North Field Watch. 

The field watch is one of the most versatile faces and profiles you can find on a wrist. It is designed for adventuring and working in the field while keeping you punctual for dinner with the in-laws. At 41mm this face size is easily legible without being overbearing and it’ll fit on slimmer and larger wrists alike. Aesthetically, the bead-blasted titanium case and clasps are subtle and understated, blending into your outfit like all good watches should. The titanium is not just a style consideration though; it is exceptionally strong and lightweight and makes this watch a delight to wear. You will not suffer from the fatigue sometimes associated with heavier watches.

The titanium case is complemented by a simple yet elegant classic Timex face with co-branding and a date window. All hands, indices, and numbers are painted with Super-Luminova® C3 luminescent infill so that you can tell the time whatever the hour. This handsome face is also protected by a robust sapphire crystal that is anti-reflective to increase legibility. 

This sapphire crystal can also be found on the back of the watch where it proudly displays the intricate movement. I love exhibition windows on a watch, particularly when they display such elegance as the 21 Jewel Miyota 8215 movement that powers the Expedition North. This automatic movement is reliable and will keep time consistently as long as you keep moving! I think it’s a smart choice for a field watch, and it feels almost romantic that your adventures will keep this wrist piece ticking over. Water resistant to 200m, you can take this with you whatever the weather.

Much like their knives, carabiners, and pens, The James Brand have inserted their identity onto the classic field watch with this collaboration. The screw-down crown has their logo proudly displayed, inlaid in their recognizable green hue. While this quite literally is stamped on the watch, their ethos is clear throughout the design choices. Titanium casing, which matches the Chapter knife, limited but focused production runs highlighting making the best products rather than the most products, and all in a package that is affordable for those who will use it most.

Personally, the value of this watch is in the spirit of its design. While it may seem hyperbolic, I enjoy nothing more than products that enhance, not hinder, my escapades. A reliable watch is the top of that list for me personally. I’ve always had a fascination with horology and I have a collection of watches that each mean different things to me. There is my grandfather’s wind-up from the 1950s which reminds me of home and family events. I’m a self-confessed technophile and so I have my fitness watch that encourages me to be active and to push myself. I also have some fun $40 pieces that I just think look great for being out and about. This watch becomes part of that collection and it undoubtedly says one thing to me that perhaps my others don’t – adventure awaits.

At $349, this watch is very hard to beat. It is adorned with features that you would expect to see in a watch that is two or three times the price. This watch was designed to be a reliable daily driver that can bounce with you from adventure to appointment without skipping a beat. Timex and The James Brand have achieved that with great aplomb.

The James Brand x Timex Expedition North Field Watch is limited to 500 pieces and is available here.