The SERICA 4512 is a compact, hand-wound field watch shaped by French design and military-watch references—not a watch established as having been issued to military forces. In the original configuration reviewed by Worn & Wound, a steel case, sapphire crystal, screw-down crown and 200 m water resistance give its restrained design substantial practical credentials. Its three dial styles and signature Bonklip bracelet make it more distinctive than a generic utilitarian watch.
How the 4512 evolved from SERICA’s W.W.W.
SERICA traces the 4512 to its W.W.W. field watch, introduced in 2019. The brand says the W.W.W. evolved into the Ref. 4512 in 2020, with revised case finishing and water resistance increased to 20 bar. That lineage grounds the 4512’s military-watch look in a modern design story; it does not establish the watch as military-issued or built to an official military specification. SERICA’s history describes the transition.
Worn & Wound reviewer Blake Buettner characterized the watch as a modern design using a World War II-era template. The 4512 keeps the clear, functional cues of a traditional field watch while adding a more considered case treatment and an unusually characterful bracelet.
What the original 4512 is like to wear
For the original configuration it reviewed, Worn & Wound reports a 37.7 mm diameter, 46.5 mm lug-to-lug length and 11.3 mm thickness, with 20 mm lugs. Those dimensions make the watch relatively compact across the wrist, though its steel construction and bracelet give it a more substantial feel than its diameter alone might suggest. Check the exact reference and listing before relying on these review-era figures.
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- High Quality:This paratrooper-style strap is made from super stretchy nylon-like fabric elastic to ensure a perfect fit for any wrist size. This material has an exceptionally tight yet breathable, soft Twill Weave of polyester and rubber, with reinforced edges that prevents unraveling and shape change when stretched. Danxancy MN style watch strap finish your timepiece deserves.
- Adjustable Watch Strap:Our nylon strap will adapt and conform to your every move, no matter what size wrist you have. You'll find no greater amount of adjustability and comfort than you will with the Hook Strap. Adjustable parachute bands,even if your wrist is very large or small, it can be tightly fitted to your wrist.
- Powerful Compatible:This french marine nationale elastic nylon watch straps suitable for traditional watches with 18/20/22mm lugs and design available for 10 colors in silver & black buckle. Work with most of watch brands. Please measure width of watch lug at connection point before ordering,according to your needs to choose the correct width.
- Size Information:Thickness: 1.5mm(0.06inches),Length: approx 240mm(9.44inches)standard/regular length,Width:18-22mm. This strap is way more comfortable than a nato already. Once you have the size adjusted correctly, it sits perfectly between too tight and loose because of the elastic. With a nato you don't get that, they are a fixed size.
- What You Get:1 * French Marine Nationale Elastic Nylon Watch Strap; 1 * Spring Bar Tool; 4 * Spring Bars. Spring bars/pins to change your strap easily. We are happy to send out a replacement band if your band has any quality issues, please kindly let us know.
The brushed steel case is paired with a flat, vertically brushed bezel and a polished facet. The included steel Bonklip bracelet is light and flexible, so it can wear differently from a heavier, more rigid bracelet. A strap changes the character as well as the feel: a 20 mm NATO or leather strap is an alternative to look for, but confirm that it fits the specific watch and its attachment points.
Choosing between Commando, WMB and California dials
| Variant | Dial layout | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Commando | Arabic numerals with an inner 24-hour reference and an open minute track. | The most straightforward, open-looking layout of the three. |
| WMB | Arabic numerals with an inner 24-hour reference, a railroad-style chapter ring and lume dots. | A more technical, busier alternative to the Commando. |
| California | Arabic numerals on the upper half and Roman numerals on the lower half. | The most visually unusual of the original dial treatments. |
The layouts are documented in Worn & Wound’s 2020 review. The practical choice is between the Commando’s simpler minute track, the WMB’s added chapter-ring detail and the California’s distinctive mix of numeral styles.
Rank #2
- SUPER 2035 QUARTZ MOVEMENT: A traditional one-second hand advance provides a crisp, easy-to-follow quartz display. The compact 2035 movement is durable, long-lasting and low maintenance. Its slim construction supports the balanced 38mm profile, making it an economical choice for dependable everyday timekeeping and strong long-term value.
- SUPER C3 GREEN LUME FOR CLEAR READING: Super C3 luminous material is applied to key dial elements to support quick time reading after exposure to light. The green glow complements the bold Arabic numerals and 12/24-hour field layout without changing the restrained vintage character of the dial, making the display easy to follow during changing light conditions.
- 100M WATER RESISTANCE AND SCREW-DOWN CROWN: The ML05 is rated to 100M for added confidence around handwashing, rain and routine daily water exposure. Its screw-down crown helps reinforce the case seal and is an important distinction of the ML05 design. Keep the crown fully secured before water contact, and do not operate it while wet or submerged.
- COMPACT 38MM PROPORTIONS: The case measures 38mm in diameter without the crown, approximately 46–47.5mm lug to lug depending on the case style, and 10.5mm thick including the domed crystal, with a 20mm lug width. These balanced dimensions give this men’s field watch a compact wrist presence while keeping the dial clear and easy to read.
- SANDBLASTED 316L STEEL FIELD-WATCH DESIGN: The low-reflection case finish, bold Arabic numerals and inner 12/24-hour scale give the ML05 a functional vintage character. Its restrained profile works easily as an everyday field watch, while the 20mm lug width makes it simple to pair with a wide range of compatible straps.
The California TXD is a separate, scarce edition
The California TXD, introduced in 2022, gives the California layout alternating black-and-white tuxedo sectors. SERICA says the two-tone enamel process was technically complex and led to production in very small numbers. Fratello reported 100 pieces available for preorder at the time; that historical figure is not evidence of current stock or availability. Its March 2022 coverage also reported a price of €690 then. Neither that price nor a past preorder offer establishes what a TXD costs today.
Original 4512 specifications and source differences
The following specifications are for the original 4512 configuration as reported by Worn & Wound in September 2020. They are not a substitute for checking the exact reference, edition and listing.
Rank #3
- Gray Dial Design: Gray dial and silver-tone 40mm brushed brass case pair with a black 20mm fabric strap with leather trim, water resistant to 50 meters
- Full Arabic Dial: Full Arabic numerals keep the dial easy to read at a glance, giving this analog field watch classic field styling that works outdoors and in town
- Mineral Glass Crystal: A mineral glass crystal, a toughened glass that is heat- and scratch-resistant, protects the dial with clear visibility and everyday durability
- Classic Buckle Closure: An adjustable strap with a classic buckle closure keeps the fit secure, and a water-resistant build handles rain, splashes, and daily outdoor wear
- Built to Last: A Timex watch is designed for durability and everyday reliability; every piece reflects our commitment to quality without compromise
| Specification | Reported value |
|---|---|
| Case diameter | 37.7 mm |
| Lug-to-lug | 46.5 mm |
| Thickness | 11.3 mm |
| Lug width | 20 mm |
| Case and crystal | Stainless steel; sapphire crystal |
| Crown and water resistance | Screw-down crown; 200 m water resistance |
| Movement | Hand-wound STP1-11 |
| Power reserve | 45 hours, as reported for the reviewed original configuration |
| Bracelet | Steel Bonklip bracelet |
The California TXD coverage gives a different power-reserve figure: Fratello reported 40 hours in 2022, while Worn & Wound reported 45 hours for the original reviewed 4512. Treat the figures as source- and configuration-specific rather than assuming one reserve applies to every 4512 variant. The period specifications and pricing for the TXD are in Fratello’s TXD article.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What to check if you are considering one
- Confirm that a listing is for a SERICA 4512, not a different SERICA reference, and identify the dial variant.
- Check dimensions and water-resistance information against that exact reference; the figures above describe review-era configurations.
- Establish whether the watch comes with its Bonklip bracelet or another strap, and verify fit before buying a replacement.
- For a California TXD, distinguish the limited 2022 edition from standard California variants and determine whether any listing is new or pre-owned.
- Do not use the historical $650 price listed in Worn & Wound’s 2020 review or Fratello’s €690 TXD price from 2022 as a current valuation.
Current production, inventory, warranty terms and pricing are not established by the cited coverage, so verify those details with the seller or SERICA before making a purchase.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Outdoor Sports Quartz Watch:Japanese 2115 quartz movement, accurate timekeeping, battery life up to 3 years
- 44 MM Large Dial:12/24-hour military time display,3-day calendar view,large Arabic numerals on the dial make it easy to read the time
- Adjustable Nylon Strap:Lightweight and comfortable nylon strap, breathable, waterproof, dries faster after sports. Durable and wear-resistant,Fixed structure prevents the watch from falling off during outdoor activities
- 50 M water resistance: can be worn while showering, swimming, or surfing, but should not be immersed in hot water
- Dimensions: The case features a 44 mm diameter, an 11 mm thickness, and a lug-to-lug length of 49.7 mm. 22 mm lug width, while the crown measures 8 mm in diameter. The total weight is 74 grams, fits up to 8-inch wrist circumference
Rank #4
- AUTHENTIC FIELD AESTHETIC: Inspired by the classic Vietnam style field watch, this timepiece features a rugged matte-finish case and a high-contrast dial. Designed for those who command respect, it’s the ultimate "hardman" accessory that transitions seamlessly from professional tactical missions to weekend outdoor adventures.
- PRECISION 12/24H MILITARY TIME: Engineered for professionals who can't afford a second of doubt. This tactical watch features a dual-dial display with 12/24H military time and an easy-to-read Day-Date calendar (English/Spanish). Ideal for EMS, military personnel, and night-shift heroes who need precision at a glance.
- BREATHABLE TACTICAL NYLON STRAP: Experience all-day comfort with our lightweight, 22mm green nylon slip-thru strap. Unlike heavy steel bands, this "beater watch" strap is designed to be sweat-resistant and breathable, making it perfect for high-intensity work, construction sites, or humid jungle treks. Fits wrists up to 9 inches.
- 5ATM WATER RESISTANCE (DAILY USE): Built to handle your daily grind, this mens analog watch is rated at 5ATM (50M), protecting against rain, splashes, and cold-water washing. Note: To maintain the seal and prevent fogging, please avoid warm water, steam, or high-pressure diving activities.
- RELIABLE JAPANESE MOVEMENT: Powered by a premium imported Miyota 2105 Japanese quartz movement, ensuring long-term reliability for your busy schedule. Housed in a tough stainless steel back case with an anti-scratch mineral window, it arrives in an original gift box—ready to be the perfect "tough-as-nails" gift for Father’s Day, birthdays, or graduations.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
