Yet its soaring price tag leaves many admirers searching for alternatives that capture its essence without draining their savings. Enter Timex’s latest release: the Harborside Coast. Priced at just $109, this 44mm watch channels the Rolex Submariner‘s iconic aesthetic while carving out its own identity as a rugged, accessible companion for everyday adventures.
At first glance, the Harborside Coast’s design feels strikingly familiar. The Mercedes-style hour hand, trapezoidal indices, and unidirectional bezel with engraved numerals mirror the Submariner’s DNA. But look closer, and subtle distinctions emerge. The case, slightly larger than replica Rolex’s 40-41mm standard, offers a bolder wrist presence, while the hour markers feature thicker, more pronounced borders. The lollipop seconds hand adds a playful twist, its trapezoidal counterbalance contrasting with the Submariner’s circular dot. Even the cyclops date window – mounted atop scratch-resistant mineral crystal instead of sapphire – echoes the luxury archetype, proving Timex’s knack for balancing homage with ingenuity.
Crafted from low-lead brass, the Harborside Coast’s silvery case carries a heft that whispers durability, though it may develop a patina over time – a small trade-off for its budget-friendly construction. The bezel, a near-replica of its high-end inspiration, features meticulously placed numerals and hash marks, while the dial’s minute track shifts to the rehaut, creating a clean, uncluttered face. Lume-coated hands and indices glow brightly in dim light, ensuring legibility whether you’re diving into a sunset swim or navigating a dimly lit commute.
Beneath its classic exterior lies a quartz movement – a pragmatic choice that prioritizes accuracy and ease. While purists might miss the sweep of a mechanical seconds hand, the ticking motion guarantees reliability, and the 100-meter water resistance handles swimming and snorkeling with ease (though the absence of a screw-down crown means serious divers should look elsewhere). Paired with a perforated tropical rubber strap, the watch sits comfortably on the wrist, its breathable design ideal for humid days or post-workout rinses.
Timex offers the Harborside Coast in two new colorways: a maritime-inspired blue dial with matching bezel and silver-tone case, and a moodier green-and-black variant accented with gold-tone finishes. For those seeking versatility, these join an existing teal-and-black model at a slightly lower $99 price point.
Is this the watch for Rolex enthusiasts? Perhaps not. But for anyone drawn to the Submariner’s allure yet unwilling to splurge, the Harborside Coast delivers a compelling mix of style, substance, and affordability.