Storied watch brands are no stranger to collaborations with non-watchmakers. However, when these names do happen to collide, they often result in the latter putting a new twist on one of the former’s classic models. That’s why we love the current state of The James Brand and Timex’s partnership.
After a couple of go-rounds with past Timex models, the EDC stalwart aimed to create a new watch entirely with the Timex Automatic GMT last year. Minimalist and stunning, the timepiece perfectly fell in line with both brands’ aesthetics and felt like what an actual collaboration should look like. Now, the two of them are back again with a third spin on the Automatic GMT, dubbed the Nocturne Edition. Let’s take a look…
A Material Evolution
At 41mm, the barrel-shaped case maintains the same dimensions as its two predecessors while swapping titanium for a sand-blasted stainless steel case. The switch from titanium to steel might seem like a step backward, but it’s anything but. Sure, titanium is lighter and more resistant to corrosion, but there’s something to be said for the heft and presence of a well-finished steel case. The Nocturne Edition will bring a more substantial feel to the wrist.
What really sets this version apart, though, is the forged carbon fiber dial. Rather than the flat, matte finishes we saw on the original monochrome and Emerald editions, the Nocturne’s dial has this dynamic shimmer that catches light in an interesting way. The crown inlay also gets the forged carbon treatment, keeping The James Brand’s signature degree logo alive with added texture.
The Perfect Travel Companion
Inside, nothing has changed, and that’s a good thing. Visible through the co-branded exhibition caseback, the Miyota 9075 automatic movement is a “true” GMT, meaning you can adjust the hour hand independently without stopping the movement or disturbing the other hands, making this an excellent travel option. The orange 24-hour hand pops nicely against the black dial, and the bidirectional ceramic bezel insert helps track a third time zone if you need it.
Wearing It
The package includes both a three-link stainless steel bracelet with Timex’s tool-free I-Size adjustment system and a two-piece fabric strap. Both attach via quick-release spring bars, so swapping between them takes seconds.
Everything else is business as usual. Green-glowing Super-LumiNova fills the applied indices and hands, a sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating sits up top, and 200m of water resistance gives this plenty of versatility.
Spec Sheet
Model: The James Brand x Timex Automatic GMT Nocturne Edition
Case Material: Stainless steel (recycled 304)
Case Size: 41mm
Movement: Miyota 9075 automatic “true” GMT
Dial: Forged carbon fiber
Crystal: Sapphire with anti-reflective coating
Water Resistance: 200m
Straps: Stainless steel bracelet and fabric strap
Limited Edition: 1,000
Price: $749
Pricing & Availability
Limited to 1,000 individually numbered pieces, the Automatic GMT Nocturne Edition is available now from The James Brand and Timex’s websites for $749.
Recap
The James Brand x Timex Automatic GMT Nocturne Edition
The James Brand and Timex are back with their third take on the Automatic GMT, and this time they’ve swapped titanium for sand-blasted stainless steel and added a forged carbon fiber dial.
