I got my second Timex for the collection.
I just found out that Solar Time is the brand's AD for Malaysia. I was so happy as it was difficult to source the brand using other channels. It least now I can visit and see the watch firsthand before I make any decision.
The model I am interested in is the Expedition series, specifically, the ones with automatic movements. I didn't have my hopes up as the automatic movement sub-series was only launched a few months ago. In fact, Solar Time was promoting the Q Timex line as this is the call-to-fame for the brand.
However, in between all the Q Timex models, there sits a pair of the Timex Expedition Capstone Automatics. I quickly asked the AD to take it out of the display cabinet for me to view.
As a policy, I usually take the model with the bracelet option. However, in this case, the bracelet looks rather pathetic when compared to the fabric strap. Due to this, I decided to get the black Capstone with the fabric strap for the collection.
The Expedition Series
Timex’s Expedition field watch series has long been a staple of the brand’s catalog. They are exceptionally affordable, hardworking, military-inspired timepieces. Powered by quartz, solar as well as mechanical movements, the series have incorporate many useful features for users out on an adventure.
The newest addition to the lineup, the Timex Expedition Capstone was recently added in 2025 and still bears the hallmarks of the series, but in a much sleeker, sportier package than ever before. With the option of either a quartz or mechanical powered movement, this sub-series currently has four models to choose from. These are:
|  Reference: TW2Y18100 Case Material: Low Lead Brass Case Color: IP Black Case Finish: Brushed Case Back: Solid, snap-on Band Material: Silicone Band Color: Black Glass: Mineral crystal Movement: Quartz Price: RM635 |
 Reference: TW2Y39600 Case Material: Stainless steel Case Color: Steel Case Finish: Brushed Case Back: Display screw-down Band Material: Stainless steel Band Color: Steel Glass: Sapphire crystal Movement: Automatic Price: RM1,650 |  Reference: TW2Y39800 Case Material: Stainless steel Case Color: Black Case Finish: Brushed Case Back: Display screw-down Band Material: Fabric Band Color: Green Glass: Sapphire crystal Movement: Automatic Price: RM1,500 |
Timex Expedition Capstone series have two distinct sub-series that
allow the brand to set the pricing to target certain demographics. The
clear demarcation is the type of movement used.
Timex
utilizes the term "low lead brass" to describe a brass alloy containing
a minimal lead content, typically under 0.25% by weight. This material
is commonly employed for watch cases and crowns, especially within the
brand's more accessible models. Primarily an alloy of copper and zinc,
the low lead content adheres to modern regulations. This
alloy is valued for its high corrosion resistance and durability. To
enhance its appearance and longevity, it is frequently finished with
coatings such as PVD or chrome plating, which provide a desired look and
protect against scratches. As a material, low-lead brass represents a
cost-effective alternative to stainless steel, enabling Timex to produce
robust and functional watches at an affordable price point. The
use of brass also connects to Timex's heritage, hearkening back to its
origins in the Waterbury Clock Company, based in the historically
brass-focused city of Waterbury, Connecticut.
The two automatic models feature sapphire crystal (no reference on the crystal used for the display case-back. Highly likely it is mineral glass) while the two quartz versions use mineral glass (there is no display case-back for this particular sub-series).
The style of hour markers are also different whereas the quartz version has 12-hour marker scale whereas the automatic version has 12-hour and 24-hour marker scales on the dial.
The Watch
The Timex Expedition Capstone Reference TW2Y39800 is in stainless steel painted black. It has a width of 39 mm and maintains the clean, legible styling characteristic of a field
watch. The case is 12 mm in thickness and the lug-to-lug length is 48.1 mm. Paired with a fabric strap, the watch looks rather handsome. The whole dimension makes this watch into a package well suited to practically anyone.
On this watch, Timex has added both 12-hour and 24-hour markings, allowing wearers to
read the time in the format they prefer. This is especially useful for
activities where military time is standard or for users who want a
straightforward way to reference both systems. Nighttime visibility has
also been refined. Instead of fully lumed indices, the automatic model
provides lume on the hour markers, numerals, and hands, offering clear
low-light readability while maintaining a more understated design.
The whole dial surface, including the chapter ring is painted black. The sub-seconds timing scale is at the edge of the dial in white lines. The 12-hour marker scale comes next and finally the 24-hour marker scale in printed in aquamarine blue. The brand and series name are printed on the top quadrant while the mountain logo and the word "AUTOMATIC" are printed at the bottom quadrant.
A date aperture replaced the 3:00 marker and is framed with a white line. The date wheel has a white background to balance the loss of the marker at that position.
The crown is signed with the mountain logo and uses the common push-in/pull-out system to engage the adjustment gears.
The Expedition Capstone Automatic continues to feature a quick-release
fabric strap with a pin buckle on the black-coated model, keeping the
watch aligned with its outdoor-ready identity.
The watch is also equipped with an exhibition screw-down case-back, offering a clear
view of the movement inside. As you can seen from the photo below, Timex printed its brand and the mountain logo in black at the center of the glass window. Although Timex does not officially disclose the caliber used, it is
widely suspected to be the Japanese Miyota 8215, a reliable movement
featuring 21 jewels, a beat rate of 21,600 BPH, and a
power reserve of up to 42 hours. The water rating for this watch is 50 meters. I was surprised it was that low.
Below is a photo of the watch with the lume lighted up. In a world where Timex is famous for its Indiglo backlight, the Capstone takes a different path. Because it is an automatic watch, Indiglo (which requires a battery) is absent. Instead, Timex relies on high-grade luminous paint which emits a crisp, cool green glow.
The Wearing Experience
In terms of the wearing experience, the Timex Expedition Capstone Automatic is a "sweet spot" watch. While many automatic field watches can feel bulky or top-heavy, the Capstone manages to remain remarkably balanced for a mechanical piece. Below is a video of the watch on my wrist.
Specifications
Case Material: Stainless steel case
Case Diameter: 39 mm
Case Diameter: 39 mm
Case Height: 12 mm
Case Length: 48.1 mm
Lug Width: 20 mm
Weight: xx gm
Case Color: Black
Case Finish: Brushed
Dial Color: Green
Dial Markings: Arabic and painted on
Illumination: Superluminova paint on hands & indices
Illumination: Superluminova paint on hands & indices
Window: Sapphire crystal
Strap Material: Double layered fabric strap with quick release lug-bars and black buckle
Strap Color: Dark green
Strap Color: Dark green
Complications: Hours, minutes, seconds, date
Movement: Miyota 8215 automatic movement
Jewels: 21
Frequency: 21,600 BPH
Power Reserve: 42 hours
Water Rating: 50 meters
Vendor: Solar Time, Mid Valley Mega Mall
Purchase Date: 29 December 2025
MSRP: RM1,459
Purchase Price: RM1,069
Warranty: One (1) year
Serial Number: xxxx
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