Prepare to be amazed: The latest Timex x Noah collaboration has just raised the bar with a stunning, Patek-inspired dress watch that defies its affordable price tag. But here’s where it gets controversial—can a $228 timepiece truly rival luxury designs? Let’s dive in.
The dynamic partnership between New York-based fashion brand Noah, helmed by J.Crew Men’s Creative Director Brendon Babenzien, and watchmaker Timex continues to impress. Since their debut in 2024, this duo has consistently delivered elegant, budget-friendly watches that punch far above their weight. Their latest release, the Oval Moon Phase Watch, is no exception—and it’s already sparking debates among watch enthusiasts.
And this is the part most people miss—this collaboration isn’t just about affordability; it’s about blending timeless design with modern accessibility. Their first release in 2024, a quartz-powered rectangular dress watch with a 24-hour sun and moon complication, was an instant hit. The follow-up in November 2024 refined the design with a proper moonphase complication, leaf hands, and Cartier Tank-inspired Roman numerals—all for under $500.
But the real game-changer came with the Lighthouse Watch, released in June. Inspired by Patek Philippe’s Golden Ellipse, it featured a gilded oval case and a minimalist dial adorned with a pencil sketch of a lighthouse. No indices, no complications—just pure, artistic simplicity. Now, with the Oval Moon Phase Watch, Timex and Noah have combined the best of both worlds: the oval case of the Lighthouse and the moonphase complication of their earlier designs.
Here’s why it stands out: The 31mm x 35mm case, available in gold-tone or polished steel, is perfectly proportioned for a dress watch. The creamy off-white dial, paired with beveled dauphine hands and faceted dash indices, exudes sophistication. The moonphase window, with its crescent shape and blue wheel, adds a touch of whimsy. And in a bold move, Noah’s logo has been replaced with the brand’s name in elegant script—a detail that feels both fresh and refined.
Bold statement alert: This watch has no business costing just $228. But here’s the catch—it’s available for pre-order exclusively through Noah, with shipping not expected until May 2026. Given the rapid sell-out of previous collaborations, hesitation could mean missing out.
So, is this the ultimate affordable luxury watch? Or is it a clever marketing play that sacrifices quality for price? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—we’re eager to hear your take on this divisive yet dazzling timepiece.