Timex Just Made a Legendarily Tough Watch Even Tougher
There's tough and then there's Ironman tough.
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There's tough and then there's Ironman tough. Hot off the success of a 2024 collaboration with Beams , Timex has three new models of the Ironman 8-Lap, each featuring steel cases, bezels and pushers that bring a trio of robust updates to a watch already famed for its rough-and-rugged demeanor.
The Timex Ironman 8-Lap Metal stuck closely to the original design from the 1980s. - Credit: Timex
True to the original
For the most part, all three watches boast the same design specs as the original Ironman 8-Lap released in 1986. However, according to Timex, a few minor adjustments were required to accommodate steel cases and pushers while maintaining 100 meters of water resistance.
That said, details are sparse on the exact modifications and they're not readily apparent at face value, meaning all three watches should still appeal to the purists in the room.
A steel Ironman may not be ideal for a triathlon, but it sure looks more stylish. - Credit: Timex
Two of the watches come with a black resin strap that matches the 1980s original. The TW5M66700 has a polished steel case, black bezel and polished steel pushers, while the TW5M66600 sports a bronze-gold case and bezel topped with black pushers.
The only full-metal option in the group is the blacked-out TW5M66500 . Its stainless steel micro-adjustable bracelet matches the case and buttons.
Only one of the three watches comes with a metal bracelet: the all-black TW5M66500. - Credit: Timex
An upgrade in form, if not function
For the most part, stainless steel represents a notable — and durable — upgrade over the plastic case of the original. However, it has some drawbacks when considering the original purpose of the watch.
A vintage example of the OG Ironman 8-Lap. - Credit: Photo by Jack Seemer for Gear Patrol
The Ironman 8-Lap was one of the first horological collaborations when Timex teamed up with the triathlon competition that gave the watch its name. In addition to keeping prices low, the plastic components promised a lightweight design that wouldn't chafe or react to cold water while swimming.
These days, few triathletes would actually consider competing in an Ironman 8-Lap over a Garmin or Coros, regardless of the materials, so the metal cases, pushers and bezels arrive on a design that's already evolved well beyond its original purpose.
Pricing and availability
At launch, the Timex Ironman 8-Lap is available for purchase exclusively on Timex Japan's website. Both resin strap designs cost $311, while the metal bracelet option costs $343.
