1971 Timex Mercury Mechanical Watch Ref. 160501
1971 Timex Mercury Mechanical Watch Ref. 160501
Reference Number: 160501
Manufactured Date: 1971
The 1971 Timex Mercury Ref. 160501 is the watch that defined “no-nonsense” timekeeping. With its textured dial, chrome-plated case, and rugged mechanical movement, it delivered dependable style for under $8—practically pocket change even back then. Built to last and designed for everyday wear, this Mercury proves why Timex dominated the wrist of the working man.
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Sizing
Sizing
Case: 33.25mm
Dial: 39.25mm
Lug-to-Lug: 39.5mm
Thickness: 9.25mm
Strap: 18.4cm
Strap Style: Leather Pin Buckle
Timekeeping
Timekeeping
Watch Type: Mechanical
Watch Movement: Unknown
Watch Complications:
- None
Movement Caliber: Mechanical
Watch Lume: None
Watch Night Light: None
Color & Finishing
Color & Finishing
Case: Silver
Dial: Silver
Strap: Black
Research & Restoration
Research & Restoration
Caseback Style: Snapback
Restoration Thoughts / Notes:
- Accessible Everyday Elegance: Released in 1971, the Timex Mercury Ref. 160501 featured a simple, chrome-plated bezel and textured dial, offering timeless style at an unbeatable price of $7.95—proving that good design doesn’t have to break the bank.
- Durable Mechanical Movement: Powered by Timex's rugged mechanical movement, this watch was built for reliability and longevity. Its tagline, “Takes a Licking and Keeps on Ticking,” wasn’t just a slogan—it was a promise.
- A Staple of the Mercury Line: The Mercury series was part of Timex's push for functional, stylish, and affordable timepieces throughout the 1960s and ‘70s, aimed at everyday wearers who wanted no-frills dependability.
Original Catalogue Description: "160501 - Chrome plated bezel, black straps, sweep."
Original Wholesale Price (1971): $7.95
Original Retail Price (1971): $5.30
