The Return of the TV Dial: A 1976 Masterpiece
The mid-1970s were a turbulent time for the watch industry, but they were a golden era for design. As the 'Quartz Crisis' loomed, brands began experimenting with shapes that moved away from the traditional circular case. The Timex Lexington was a product of this experimentation—a bold, rectangular 'TV-dial' watch that captured the futuristic optimism of the decade. Today, the Ref. TW2Y88200 brings that spirit back for a new generation of collectors who value style as much as substance.
Dimensions and Real-World Wearability
When we talk about 'wearability' at Vivir, we aren't just talking about whether a watch fits. We're talking about how it lives. The Lexington features a 37mm case width, but its rectangular nature makes it wear more like a 39mm round watch. However, the secret to its success is the 42mm lug-to-lug distance. This compact measurement ensures that the watch never feels like a slab of steel strapped to the wrist. Instead, it curves gently, following the natural contour of the forearm.
In a week of testing—ranging from high-pressure editorial meetings to casual weekend gallery hops—the Lexington never once felt intrusive. At 10mm thick, it is remarkably slim. I wore it under a stiff-cuffed poplin shirt and a heavy wool overcoat; in both instances, the watch glided out when needed and tucked away when not. This is the 'cuff test,' and the Lexington passed with flying colors.
Dial Aesthetics and Legibility
The silver-tone sunray dial is the star of the show. It catches the light in a way that provides depth, preventing the watch from looking 'flat' or cheap. The applied indices are polished to a mirror finish, offering excellent legibility even in dimly lit restaurants or theaters. While the watch lacks lume, the high-contrast hands ensure that you can read the time as long as there is a sliver of ambient light.
The date window at 3 o'clock is framed neatly, adding a touch of utility without disrupting the symmetry of the rectangular face. For the daily wearer, a date complication is often the difference between a 'weekend watch' and a 'work watch.' The Lexington firmly occupies the latter category.
The Quartz Movement: A Pragmatic Choice
Purists might scoff at the lack of a mechanical heart, but for a daily-wear watch at this price point, quartz is the logical choice. It allows for the slim 10mm profile that makes the Lexington so comfortable. Furthermore, the accuracy of the Japanese quartz movement means you never have to worry about the watch stopping if you leave it on the nightstand for a few days. It is the ultimate low-maintenance companion for a fast-paced lifestyle.
Construction and Durability
The case is crafted from polished stainless steel, giving it a premium feel that belies its sub-$150 price tag. The mineral crystal is the only minor drawback; while it offers good clarity, it is more susceptible to scratches than sapphire. However, given the 'reissue' nature of the piece, the mineral crystal feels period-appropriate, offering a warmth that sapphire sometimes lacks.
The 50 meters of water resistance is sufficient for daily life. It will survive a sudden rainstorm or a splash while washing your hands, but this is not a watch for the pool. It is a metropolitan timepiece, designed for the concrete jungle rather than the coral reef.
The Vivir Verdict: Why It Matters
For the sophisticated young collector, the Timex Lexington Ref. TW2Y88200 serves as a perfect 'style-forward' piece. It challenges the notion that a collection must only consist of round, mechanical Swiss watches. By embracing the funky, geometric heritage of the 1970s, Timex has created a watch that feels both nostalgic and incredibly modern. It is a reminder that horology is as much about the joy of design as it is about the precision of engineering.
If you are looking for a watch that offers a distinct wrist presence, exceptional comfort, and a dash of retro-cool without breaking the bank, the Lexington is an easy recommendation. It is a watch that proves, once again, that Timex knows exactly how to tap into the zeitgeist.
