Introducing the Timex Giorgio Galli S2Ti: a Titanium Farewell to the S2

When Timex launched the Giorgio Galli S1 in 2020, an eponymous watch designed by the brand’s long-time creative director with over 30 years in the industry, it was met with shock. It didn’t look like a Timex, having a stripped-down, retro-luxury vibe. It didn’t feel like a Timex, constructed from injection molded steel and featuring a Miyota movement inside. It wasn’t priced like a Timex, initially listed at $450. And yet, it was described by the historic brand as “the most ‘Timex’ Timex ever made,” a bold statement and perhaps even a challenge to what we expect from the brand. It was met with excitement, if also some confusion, that wore off as the S1 took root and eventually spawned subsequent versions, including an enthusiast-friendly 38mm variety.

In 2023, Timex followed up with the S2, which took Giorgio Galli’s vision further into conceptual territory as well as upmarket. The DNA of the S1 was clear, but the S2 was more than a refinement; it was a genuine evolution of the concept. Combining steel and titanium, the 38mm x 46mm x 12mm case was hollowed out from the side, revealing an unexpected structure for a sleeker, more contemporary style. The dial was further reduced to an expansive surface with a single applied ring, notched at intervals of five. Finally, it was Swiss-made, and powered by a decorated Selitta SW200 automatic.

Minimal in a Euro-chic way, the S2 was a restrained and mature design intended to speak to the enthusiasts in Timex’s fandom. Priced just below a thousand dollars, it was a step up from the S1 and new ground for Timex, yet completely in line, if even a bit underpriced, given the watch they were delivering. A little over a year later, the S2 is back again as the final version of the S-series: the S2Ti.

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As the name indicates, this version is primarily titanium (grade 2, I believe), replacing steel with the lighter (and superior) metal. But more surprisingly, the mid-case core, which sits between the case back and the top of the lugs, is made of forged carbon. Though a relatively small component comparatively, the visual effect is noticeable. It emphasizes the uncommon case construction, giving it the appearance of a void from a distance but an appealing texture up close.

The dial retains the same simple layout but is further reduced to a tone-on-tone palette of satin titanium gray, matching the case. The applied steel ring is brushed with polished bevels, providing just a touch of contrast. Similarly, the hands are polished, making them easily readable. A lesson in subtlety: text reading “Giorgio Galli S2 Automatic” has printed in a remarkably small size on the steel ring at six. Easy to miss at a glance, all that stands out is still a relatively small “Timex” logo at 12.

A new, striking feature of the S2Ti is an edge-to-edge, sapphire bubble crystal. Like a bio-dome, the crystal fully encapsulates the dial space below turning it into a three-dimension space, replacing the bezel. The dial has a new chapter ring that crests up to meet the crystal along the edge, providing a futuristic element as well. While similar to what is found on the TAG glass-box Carreras, the visual result is different, as it doesn’t feel like an echo of vintage, but rather something purely contemporary. Further, the edge of the crystal is flush with the side of the case, meeting the titanium, which transitions to the forged carbon, emphasizing the materiality of the watch.

Another departure from any previous S-series is the inclusion of a bracelet. It is fully titanium and features a three-link design that tapers from 18mm to 16mm. The top surfaces are fully brushed, while the sides of the links are milled out and matte-finished, echoing the case construction, which is a nice touch. The bracelet features a buttonless, deployant clasp, completing the minimal look.

While a titanium bracelet is a welcome addition, how the bracelet is sized makes it unique. Rather than pins or screws, the links flanking the clasp feature a toolless adjustment mechanism. By simply pulling on the marked side (indicated underneath), the link extends out, letting you “open” it by turning the side of the link past the connector pin. The links can then be separated and removed or added back as necessary.

It’s the easiest and most intuitive sizing mechanism I’ve come across. While I’m still uncertain what would make a watch the “most ‘Timex’ Timex ever,” a toolless method of sizing that requires no experience or much instruction (beyond indicating its existence) does feel like a very Timex, inclusive move. To be fair, they have had toolless bracelets before on the Q-line (maybe others), but in my experience, the mechanism on the S2 was even simpler.

As one would expect from the change in materials, the new crystal, and the inclusion of a bracelet, especially a titanium one with said sizing mechanism, the price of the S2Ti has increased to $1,950. Will this be a tough pill for those who associate Timex only with watches under $300 or so, as most are? Yes, likely, but does that mean it’s not worth it? No. The Galli S2Ti is not for the day-to-day Timex customers but for enthusiasts and collectors fond of the brand, which Timex reinforces by limiting it to 500 units.

A striking watch, the S2Ti goes beyond the novelty of simply being a “higher-end” Timex; it expresses Giorgio Galli’s vision for a luxury watch: material-driven, minimal, intuitive, and pleasantly un-retro. Timex

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Zach is the Co-Founder and Executive Editor of Worn & Wound. Before diving headfirst into the world of watches, he spent his days as a product and graphic designer. Zach views watches as the perfect synergy of 2D and 3D design: the place where form, function, fashion and mechanical wonderment come together.
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