August 24, 2025
An Insider’s Nod to Horological Icons
The world of watch collecting is rich with lore and insider terminology, a culture cleverly tapped into by the collaboration between Timex and French artist seconde/seconde/. Their “IYKYK” (If You Know, You Know) collection, which debuted to immense success in 2023, masterfully plays on the famous, unofficial monikers given to iconic luxury timepieces. For 2025, this celebrated series expands beyond its original six sell-out models, introducing two new designs born from the initial creative sessions. These additions continue the tradition of offering a witty, irreverent homage that resonates deeply with seasoned enthusiasts who appreciate the subtle references and playful spirit woven into each design.
The ‘Smurf’: A Study in Blue and Whimsy
Among the new releases, the model nicknamed the ‘Smurf’ (ref. TW2Y48200) stands out with its bold aesthetic. It draws direct inspiration from the legendary white gold Rolex Submariner (ref. 116619LB), featuring a vibrant, punchy blue dial and a matching 12-hour bidirectional bezel. The true genius of the design, however, lies in its seconds hand. In place of a traditional hand, a charming red-and-white cartoon mushroom sweeps across the dial—a direct and playful nod to the Smurfs’ iconic homes. This single element transforms the timepiece from a simple homage into a conversation starter, perfectly encapsulating the clever design language of Romaric André.
Elevated Mechanics in a Quartz Timepiece
While the IYKYK collection is built upon the accessible Q Timex platform, these limited editions feature significant technical enhancements that appeal to the discerning collector. Instead of a standard quartz movement, the ‘Smurf’ is powered by a Seiko Caliber VH31. This is no ordinary quartz movement; it features a sweeping seconds hand that ticks four times per second, gracefully emulating the fluid motion of a mechanical watch. This detail provides a far more refined viewing experience than the typical one-second jump of a quartz watch. Furthermore, the decision to omit the day-date window results in a clean, symmetrical time-only display that enhances the dial’s visual purity and focus.
An Attainable Piece of Horological Fun
Ultimately, the Timex x seconde/seconde/ ‘Smurf’ presents a unique value proposition. Housed in a classic 38mm stainless steel case, it combines a retro-inspired design with thoughtful, enthusiast-focused details. It allows collectors to own a piece of horological commentary—a lighthearted and affordable counterpart to the six-figure icons that inspired it. As a limited edition, it carries an inherent exclusivity that adds to its appeal, making it a must-have for those who enjoy the fun, cultural side of watch collecting without compromising on considered design.
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