Review of the Timex WS4

In this case, I had the opportunity to talk on the phone with the VP from Timex, who shared some interesting tidbits:"Think outside the circle" was one of their key design mantras. This led to the widescreen format, which allows more useful screen area without overhanging the sides of the wrist.Economy. This is Timex's first ABC bags gift online, and they wanted it to be priced reasonably, in line with the rest of the Timex line. Given that list price is $199, I think that they succeeded.High-quality sensors and well-written software, combined to produce readings that are trustworthy, repeatable and as accurate as possible.Asymmetry. The notched-rectangle shape of the screen was inspired by the rear window of the expedition-classic Land Rover. (Expedition vehicle, Expedition line of watches. Makes sense, eh?)Easy to read.Use industrial design to produce a bags for gift that looks good, too.Easily user-replaceable battery. I wish more companies thought of that!The watch was tested in the Himalayas on an expedition to Meru by Conrad Anker (Wikipedia page), complete with videos on YouTube. (1, 2)As you can see from the pictures, the screen is separated into three areas: In the upper left, circular-array segments are used to emulate an analog face, which is very easy to read at a glance. (Only hour and minute hands are displayed.) In compass mode, it's used to display the emulat Up for review today is the Timex WS4, their new entry into the field of 'ABC' gifts for jewelry, which stands for Altimeter/Barometer/Compass. Actually, this one also has temperature, but that's getting ahead a bit. Here are some quick stats:Widescreen shape - unlike the Casio Pathfinder or Suunto Core, this one is shaped to add display via width. The wide screen enables the display of more information, as you'll see below.Waterproof to 50m (165ft)Temperature rated from -10 to 50C (14 to 122F)Composite case, stainless steel bezel.Available in six color combinations; our review unit was the militaristic green and matte black.Also available with a fabric strap.Sophisticated alarm - daily, weekly, weekend-only, and five minute backup alarm. 100-hour countdown timer.100-hour stopwatch, customizable to show lap or split times in large digits.Compass with 'virtual needle' that always points north.Indiglo night lightGraphical display of altitude and barometric pressure.Weather forecast based on recent barometric trend.A screen inspired by the Land Rover!Read on for the full review. Sometimes, the backstory behind a watch design is fascinating. ed compass needle and direction.