Timex Revives Retro Charm With a Black-Dial Marlin Automatic in a Vintage Tonneau Case

Timex has expanded its vintage-inspired Marlin lineup with a new automatic watch that brings a darker, more refined personality to the collection. Shortly after introducing the white-dial Marlin Tonneau TW2Y84300IK, the American watchmaker has now unveiled the Timex Marlin Tonneau TW2Y84500IK, a black-dial variant that keeps the same mechanical foundation while changing the overall look through updated styling details.

The new Timex Marlin Tonneau TW2Y84500IK stands out with its 36 mm tonneau-shaped stainless steel case finished in a warm gold tone. The tonneau case design, known for its barrel-like silhouette, gives the watch a distinctive vintage character that separates it from traditional round dress watches. This shape has long been associated with classic watchmaking, and Timex uses it here to give the Marlin a more elegant and nostalgic appeal.

The biggest visual difference is the black dial, which gives the watch a bolder and slightly dressier appearance compared to the earlier white-dial version. Paired with the gold-tone case, the dark dial creates a strong contrast that feels both retro and modern. The dial features Breguet-style numerals and slim hands, adding to the old-school charm while keeping the design clean and readable.

Timex completes the look with a brown leather strap, a fitting choice for a watch that leans heavily into vintage styling. The strap also includes quick-release spring bars, making it easy for owners to swap straps without special tools. However, Timex does not appear to offer a stainless steel bracelet option for this model, so buyers looking for a metal bracelet version may need to consider third-party alternatives.

Inside the Marlin Tonneau TW2Y84500IK is a self-winding automatic movement. Timex has not disclosed the exact movement caliber, but the mechanism can be viewed through the exhibition caseback. This transparent rear case design adds extra appeal for mechanical watch fans, allowing them to see the movement in action.

The watch also comes with 50 meters of water resistance, which is suitable for everyday splashes and light exposure to water. However, it is not designed for swimming, snorkeling, or other water sports, so owners should treat it more as a dress watch than an adventure-ready timepiece.

In India, the Timex Marlin Tonneau TW2Y84500IK is priced at ₹21,995, which is approximately $232. That makes it slightly more expensive than the white-dial TW2Y84300IK, which is priced at ₹21,495, or around $228. The ₹500 price difference is small, so the choice between the two models will likely come down to personal style preference.

With its black dial, gold-tone tonneau case, automatic movement, and vintage-inspired details, the Timex Marlin Tonneau TW2Y84500IK is aimed at buyers who want a stylish mechanical dress watch with classic character. It offers a distinctive alternative to standard round watches and adds another attractive option to Timex’s growing Marlin automatic collection.