Here are our impressions of the GMT24 M1a from Timex's new collection, Timex Atelier. The Timex Atelier concept is to "embodied luxury for everyday use," and it features a dial made up of parts with different textures, a case design and bracelet with a rich three-dimensional feel. In this article, we'll focus on the details that make this watch so appealing, and review whether it lives up to the concept.
Automatic winding (made by LANDERON). 28 jewels. 28,800 vph. Power reserve approximately 40 hours. Stainless steel case (diameter 40mm, thickness 12.7mm). Water resistant to 100m. 275,000 yen (tax included).
Text and Photographs by Shin-ichi Sato
[Article published on January 10, 2026]
Timex's new collection "Timex Atelier"
This time, we'll be reviewing the GMT24 M1a from Timex's new collection, Timex Atelier, announced in January 2026. The concept of Timex Atelier is to "embodied luxury for everyday use." In planning Timex Atelier, Timex aims to advance the pursuit of value to the next chapter while inheriting the brand's core principles of "independence," "high quality," and "timeless design." Rather than competing on production volume or complexity, Timex creates value through the sum of design and attention to each component, proposing this as "everyday luxury."
To mark the debut of the Timex Atelier, the lineup includes two models: the GMT M1a, which features a GMT display with a 24-hour hand, as we will be reviewing here, and the Marine M1a, which shares the same basic design as a diver's watch.
To determine whether this game reflects its concept, it's best to consider whether it can be said to be a comprehensive assessment of the design and attention paid to each component. This review will focus on this point.
"Information-rich and good-looking" design
To sum up this piece in one word, it's "rich in information and looks great." "Rich in information" is a term used in reference to plastic models and illustrations, and refers to the increased amount of detail that catches the eye and the improved quality of the design, incorporating the shapes of the joints of parts that appear to exist in the real thing, as well as minute irregularities and textures. When picking up this piece, the first thing you'll notice is the details of the dial, including the crystal. The base of the dial is finished in a glossy black, framed by a satin-finished, metallic-textured ring. The indexes are connected to this ring, emphasizing the difference in height between the dial base and the dial.
Furthermore, a 24-hour ring with a shiny gunmetal color, presumably plated, is placed around the outer periphery. This ring, which serves as the faceplate, is shaped like a mortar, and has a height difference toward the base of the dial, creating a three-dimensional effect.
The outermost circumference features a scale marked to the nearest fifth of a second. The visibility of this scale is affected by the box-shaped sapphire crystal, and the curved part of the crystal causes the scale to appear distorted, changing depending on the viewing angle.
In this way, this model makes extensive use of differences in the height and texture of the parts, resulting in a dial design that is rich in variety.
A distinctive side view with a rich three-dimensional feel
The next thing that catches your eye is the design of the case side. It features a gunmetal-colored IP-coated middle case with U-shaped lugs attached. The edges of the lugs and middle case are polished and chamfered to accentuate this structure. Furthermore, the crown guard is also designed with a U-shaped part attached. It's quite intricate.
In keeping with this design, the sides of the bracelet links are also engraved. The edges of the sides are satin-finished, while the bottom of one groove is matte-finished, adding contrast to the design.
The carved design that continues from the side of the case had a greater impact than expected. The edges appear differently depending on the angle from which you view it, and the shadows cast also change, creating a rich, three-dimensional finish.
Case shape and bracelet that fit the wrist
The wearability is above average. The short lugs and shape of the watch fit snugly around the wrist, providing a comfortable fit. It will likely fit even those with smaller wrists than mine, which measure about 18cm. The finished watch is 12.7mm thick. This includes the thickness of the box-type sapphire crystal. The case is a little thinner, with a lower center of gravity, which also contributes to the improved wearability.
The bracelet is thin, allowing for a wide range of motion and providing an excellent fit. The slim butterfly buckle does not get in the way when doing desk work. The lightweight bracelet and buckle contribute to a light and comfortable feel, but on the other hand, it makes the balance a little head-heavy. I wanted to adjust it for a tighter fit, but since this model does not have an adjustment mechanism for the buckle, I only rated the fit as "above average."
This model also features an elaborate method for adjusting the bracelet length (removing links). A spring is installed in the axis that connects the links, and the links can be removed by pulling and twisting the side links. The technician who performed the work said, "I've never seen this before. Once you get the hang of it, it's easy and securely fastened. If you don't operate it too often, the spring doesn't seem likely to weaken." While frequent adjustments should be avoided, adjusting it about once a year should minimize the negative impact on durability and allow you to wear it comfortably for a long time.
The bracelet is an interchangeable type that can be removed without tools, so you can enjoy changing it for the rubber strap or standard leather strap that are available as variations.
Clear contrast and good visibility
Visibility is good. The black dial has a glossy yet light-absorbing finish, creating a sense of depth, and the hour, minute, and GMT hands appear to float. This ensures visibility in both dark rooms and bright outdoor conditions. The hands are clearly indicated even when viewed from an angle. The orange GMT hand provides a nice contrast to the monotone dial, and is easy to read. However, the second hand does not reach the 1/5 second scale on the outermost edge of the dial, rendering the finely divided scale ineffective. It's unfortunate that the design is purely cosmetic.
A watch with a design that is carefully crafted with details
As we've looked at in detail in our impressions, the design is one in which every detail has been carefully considered, with a dial made up of parts with a variety of textures, a three-dimensional and unique case, and a bracelet that matches the case. As mentioned at the beginning, each detail increases the amount of information and contributes to a good appearance. This abundance of information does not interfere with visibility, and the unique case design makes the watch comfortable to wear, so it was highly praised for its practicality.
It's difficult to know what to make of the price tag of 275,000 yen (including tax), which is on the high side for a Timex. In my opinion, it's clear that a lot of effort has gone into making it, even down to the smallest details, and it's unique, so if you like this design, it's probably a satisfying finish.
The details that are connected to the concept of this work are more appealing when you see it in person than in a photo. We hope you will come to the store and take a look at it for yourself.
