Timex Expedition Camper T49713PF review

What it is

The Camper takes the field-watch idea, with a plain dial, large numerals and a tough fabric strap, and makes it small and light. It belongs to Timex's Expedition range, which covers outdoor-styled watches, and it sits near the entry end of that line. The white dial gives it a fresher look than the usual black or khaki military style.

Timex is an American brand with a long record of making durable, accessible watches, and the Camper follows that tradition.

The movement

It is a battery-powered quartz watch with three hands and, on many Expedition models, a date; check the listing for this one. Accuracy is typical of quartz, a few tens of seconds a month, and the cell lasts a year or two before a swap. A battery change is simple. The Indiglo backlight lights the entire dial at the press of the crown, which is easy to use in a tent or a dark room, and it is the main practical feature.

On the wrist

The case is small and light, so it wears comfortably on slim wrists and does not feel like much on larger ones. Check the listing for the exact diameter. The strap is a nylon type that fastens with hook-and-loop, which means it can be adjusted by any amount and is quick to take off. The strap can look scruffy after heavy use and picks up dirt, but it is easy to replace.

Water and everyday wear

Timex generally rates this kind of watch at 30 m, which allows rain and handwashing but not swimming, so check the listing and treat it as a splash-resistant watch. The crystal type should also be confirmed. Lume on the hands and numerals plus Indiglo make it easy to read in the dark. Nylon is comfortable in summer but slow to dry.

Hook-and-loop closures are noisy when opened and can snag on knitwear, which is a small annoyance.

Against the alternatives

The Timex Expedition Scout TWC001200 is a larger field watch with a date on leather. The Timex Weekender T2N651PF is a similar simple strap watch with a more casual dial. The Casio MQ-24-7BLL is an even cheaper plain analogue. For something more robust, the Hamilton Khaki Field Quartz 33mm is a Swiss quartz field watch at a higher level.

Who it's for, and who should skip it

It suits those who like a small, light field watch with a simple, quick-fit strap, including children and anyone with a slim wrist. Skip it if you want swimming capability, a large case, a metal bracelet or a premium finish.

For a low-risk watch to take camping, to festivals or on the school run, it is a sensible pick.