The Timex TX 730 was an unusually ambitious quartz watch: a 46 mm PVD-coated steel chronograph that paired retrograde GMT and chronograph displays with an electronic compass. In James Stacey’s hands-on WatchReport review, published May 13, 2008, the watch impressed with its finish, bracelet, and distinctive complications, but fell short on low-light legibility. The review disclosed that Princeton Watches provided the watch; its praise and criticisms reflect one reviewer’s experience, not independent lab testing or a current ownership survey.
What made the TX 730 different?
The TX 730 belonged to Timex’s short-lived TX sub-brand, launched in 2006. Recent Gear Patrol coverage describes the TX 730 as the line’s introduction of a four-motor quartz arrangement and fan-shaped retrograde subdials, and reports that TX was discontinued. That history helps explain the watch’s “grown up Timex” reputation: it aimed well beyond a basic time-and-date quartz model, with a substantial case and several less-common functions.
Despite its mechanical-looking complication layout, the movement is quartz, not mechanical. WatchReport described it as a German-designed six-hand quartz movement. The watch combines analog timekeeping with retrograde GMT and chronograph indications and an electronic compass.
TX 730 specifications reported in 2008
| Specification | WatchReport’s report |
|---|---|
| Movement | German-designed six-hand quartz |
| Case diameter | 46 mm |
| Case and bracelet | PVD-coated stainless steel; bracelet with solid end links |
| Crystal | Sapphire |
| Displays and functions | Analog time, retrograde GMT, retrograde chronograph, and electronic compass |
| Date | Window between 2 and 3 o’clock |
| Water resistance | 100 m |
| Chronograph range | Up to four hours |
| Original retail price | $550, as stated in the 2008 review; not a current price or valuation |
These are details reported by WatchReport in 2008, not a current Timex catalog listing. The sources cited here do not establish a current price, market value, parts compatibility, or service documentation.
#1 Best Overall
- Field-Inspired Design: Black dial with full Arabic numerals and 24-hour military time for a bold, classic outdoor look
- Polished Case: Silver-tone 38mm brass case with mineral glass crystal for a refined, durable finish
- Comfort Fit: Adjustable black 20mm nylon slip-thru strap fits wrists up to 8 inches for versatile, all-day wear
- INDIGLO Backlight: INDIGLO night light allows you to tell the time in the dark with the push of a button
- Water-Resistant: Safe to 30 m / 100 ft — withstands splashes or brief immersion, but not suitable for swimming or bathing
How do the flyback chronograph and GMT work?
Flyback chronograph
A flyback chronograph lets you reset and immediately start a new timing interval with one operation, rather than stopping the chronograph, resetting it, and then starting it again in separate steps. Stacey described the TX 730’s function this way: “it has a flyback feature that allows the chronograph to be instantly reset and restarted in a single motion.” He reported that it could time up to four hours and praised the fan-shaped retrograde subdials for making the chronograph easy to read.
Retrograde GMT display
A retrograde display uses an arc-shaped scale: its hand travels across the scale and then returns to the start instead of making a full rotation. The TX 730’s GMT display provides a second time-zone indication alongside the main analog time. The 2008 review identifies the function but does not establish a detailed operating procedure, so consult model-specific documentation before relying on a particular control sequence.
Rank #2
- Adjustable black 20mm double-layered fabric slip-thru strap fits up to 8-inch wrist circumference
- Black dial with date window at 4 o'clock; Arabic numerals
- 30-minute chronograph measures to 1/20th second
- Black 40mm aluminum case with acrylic lens; Indiglo light-up dial
- Water resistant to 30m (100ft): in general, withstands splashes or brief immersion in water, but not suitable for swimming or bathing
What did WatchReport like—and what fell short?
Finish, bracelet, and presentation
Stacey praised the case finish and the bracelet’s construction and comfort. He also liked the watch’s unusual combination of functions and its presentation box. Those are subjective impressions from the review, rather than results from standardized durability or comfort testing.
Low-light legibility
The main drawback Stacey identified was lume visibility: he found that the inlaid markers and hands did not glow as brightly as he wanted. If night-time readability is a priority, that criticism matters more than the TX 730’s striking complication layout.
The Tool Desk
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- Sport-Inspired Function: 24-hour chronograph with lap and split times plus month, day, and date calendar for everyday timing and organization
- Everyday Utility: Built-in alarm and 24-hour military time mode keep you on schedule around the clock
- Clear Readability: Green digital display with INDIGLO light-up dial ensures visibility in any light
- Polished Build: Silver-tone 34mm resin case with acrylic lens offers durability and a sleek finish
- Comfort Fit: Extra-long silver-tone 18mm stainless-steel expansion band fits wrists up to 8.25 inches for easy, slip-on wear
Is the TX 730 still available?
Recent Gear Patrol reporting says the TX line was discontinued, but that is not evidence of present stock or a current Timex listing. The 2008 review’s $550 retail figure is historical MSRP, not a reliable guide to today’s asking prices. Current availability and market value are not established here.
If you are looking for one, treat it as a pre-owned-watch search and assess the specific listing rather than assuming a standard price or condition. Check that the seller has a clear reputation, inspect the watch’s condition and whether the listing includes the box or other accessories, and confirm the return terms. The available sources do not establish a battery specification, repair procedure, replacement bracelet or strap references, or parts compatibility.
Rank #4
- Silver-Tone Classic: White dial with a date window at 3 o'clock pairs with a silver-tone 38mm case and matching expansion band
- Stainless Steel Expansion Band: A 20mm expansion band slips on for a comfortable, no-buckle fit up to an 8-inch wrist circumference
- Effortless Style: A brass case with a mineral glass crystal and full Arabic numerals keeps the dial simple and easy to read
- Night-Ready Visibility: An INDIGLO light-up dial lets you check the time in the dark with the push of a button, day or night
- Built to Last: A Timex watch is designed for durability and everyday reliability; every piece reflects our commitment to quality without compromise
Who is the TX 730 for?
The TX 730 makes the most sense for someone drawn to oversized, feature-rich quartz watches and retrograde displays, especially if an integrated compass is part of the appeal. Its 46 mm case is a substantial presence, and the 2008 reviewer’s low-light criticism is a practical consideration for anyone who expects strong lume. For a prospective buyer, the discontinued status also means that the condition and completeness of an individual watch matter more than the original retail specification.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- All-Black Build: A 38mm black resin case pairs with an adjustable 18mm strap for secure, everyday training wear day after day
- Serious Performance: A 100-hour chronograph with 30-lap memory and a 24-hour countdown timer support training days, while three customizable alarms keep you on schedule
- Stay on Schedule: Two time zones and a full day, date and month calendar keep every plan on track wherever the day takes you
- Night-Ready Visibility: An acrylic lens and INDIGLO backlight keep the digital display easy to read after dark, day or night
- Built to Last: A Timex watch is designed for durability and everyday reliability; every piece reflects our commitment to quality without compromise
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.
