Timex Reaches for the Moon with the New Q Timex x NASA Apollo 17

While brands like Omega and Bulova dominate the historical narrative of the Apollo missions, Timex has carved out a unique niche by bringing space-age aesthetics to the accessible market.

A recent listing on specialized retail sites has revealed a new addition to this lineage: the Timex Q Timex x NASA Quartz Watch. This release signals a shift in the Q Timex line, moving away from pure 1970s nostalgia and toward a more technical design language.

A Technical Evolution of the Q Timex Series

Since its revival, the Q Timex series has been defined by its hooded lugs, battery hatch, and rotating bezels. However, this NASA collaboration introduces a level of dial complexity rarely seen in the collection. The watch features a multi-register layout that integrates day, date, and moon phase functions.

The centerpiece of the dial is the aperture at the six o clock position. While the lunar imagery and NASA branding might lead one to expect a true moon phase complication, a closer look at the movement reveals a different story. This is actually a day/night indicator. Rather than tracking the phases of the moon, it rotates once every 24 hours to distinguish between AM and PM hours.

While the dial focuses on the lunar surface, the caseback offers a stunning perspective from space looking back at our home planet. The screw-down caseback features a vibrant, full-color depiction of the Earth.

The Timex Q Timex x NASA is a masterclass in high-contrast design. The matte black dial provides the perfect canvas for the white NASA “worm” logo, a design icon that has seen a massive resurgence in recent years.

The hands and indices are treated with luminescent material, ensuring visibility in low light—a nod to the legibility required of cockpit instruments. A subtle red hand in the day-of-the-week sub-dial adds a technical “emergency” aesthetic often found in aerospace equipment.

The TW2Y56800 is the stealthier of the two, coming equipped with a black integrated strap. This choice reinforces the “instrument” feel of the watch, making the 40mm case appear more compact and focused. The black-on-black transition from the dial to the wrist emphasizes the high-contrast white NASA logo and the celestial sub-dial, giving it the look of modern tactical gear.

For those who prefer the classic 1970s DNA of the collection, the TW2Y56700 provides the iconic stainless steel bracelet.

The 40mm case size is a sweet spot for modern enthusiasts, offering more wrist presence than the original 38mm reissues. The market for this watch is clear: it is for the person who loves NASA history and the specific geometry of the Q Timex case but wants something more visually engaging than a standard three-hand watch.

Pricing, Availability & Where to Get One

Priced around £170, this model sits in a competitive but accessible bracket. It is priced slightly higher than the standard Q Reissue but remains far below the cost of a mechanical moon phase or even a high-end quartz chronograph.

For now, it looks like it can only be acquired through Iguana Sell UK/Spain.

Who Should Consider This Release?

The Q Timex x NASA is a lifestyle piece first and a tool second. It is an excellent choice for:

• Fans of the NASA “worm” logo and space memorabilia.
• Enthusiasts who enjoy the Q Timex case shape but want more dial depth.
• Collectors looking for an affordable, worry-free daily wearer with a unique theme.

However, those seeking a true astronomical complication or a watch for professional diving (given the standard 50m water resistance) may find it lacking. This watch is about the joy of the theme and the storied history of the agency it represents. It is a playful, stylish accessory that proves you do not need a five-figure budget to wear the moon on your wrist.