“What’s really cool about the movement is how it works—two pieces moving in opposite directions,” Babenzien said in an email to GQ. “The moon rotates in one direction, while the date function moves in the other. It’s not just functional; it’s a captivating part of the design. Having the date right there on your wrist is practical—I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve had to ask, ‘What’s today’s date?’”
Watches with moon phase displays are generally relegated to the higher end of the market as additions to calendar complications. Think Jaeger-LeCoultre or even Patek Philippe-type territory—not Timex. But the beauty of Noah’s Timex collab is that it affords someone the ability to wear what is often referred to as a “poetic” complication for the wonderfully reasonable price of just $200. This, of course, is thanks to the presence of a battery-powered quartz movement, which makes the whole package much more economical to produce than a mechanically-powered moonphase watch.
“The moon has always held a unique place in human history, from its influence on tides to the beliefs about how its phases affect our lives,” Babenzien explained. “And let’s be honest, who hasn’t paused to admire the moon on a clear night? This watch is our way of honoring the moon and what it means to us here on Earth. It’s not just a shift from the sun and moon—it’s a celebration of the moon’s significance on its own.”
Those paying careful attention will notice that the lunar object has lost the smiling face seen on the original. Babenzien explains that retaining the moon from the previous collaboration would have upset the balance of the watch’s design. “With the addition of the moon phases and the starry sky, we knew anything more would feel excessive,” he said. “This design hits the perfect balance. It’s clean, elegant, and just feels right—letting the moon take center stage without overcomplicating things.”
For those who want a handsome, dressy watch that won’t drain their bank account, Noah and Timex’s couldn’t be more appropriate. Adding the date offers utility without compromising the elegance of the design, and the rectangular case is truly timeless. It may not be a gold Cartier Tank, but that’s intentional: This is the everyman’s Tank—though there’s no reason it can’t exist in a collection alongside that century-old, Swiss-made staple.
So while Babenzien was initially surprised by the success of this collaboration, a few months’ distance has helped crystallize the watch’s popularity for him. “It’s pretty straightforward: it’s a well-made product at a fair price,” says Babenzien. “Plus, the size and style of the watch feel spot-on—not just for now, but for years to come. Its classic design makes it a timeless piece that resonates beyond trends.” Now for the really good news, after the massive success of the first piece, Noah and Timex have steeled themselves for the increased demand by upping the number of pieces it produced this time around. The piece is now available for pre-order ($198) on Noah’s site and set to ship in June 2025.
