Design 
Quality of Materials 
Value for Money 
Craftsmanship 
Customer Service Watches by lifestyle brands are a tricky category.
There are far too many fashion watches among them parading as affordable luxury. For the record, I have nothing against fashion watches. It’s the trickery I don’t love.
Still, there are also aesthetic-forward watch brands that offer solidly built models. They can range from good-looking yet well-built (enough) to truly exceptionally made.
Are Nixon watches more like the former or the latter? I’ve been wearing three of their models for the past several months. Here’s everything you need to know.
What Is Nixon?
Nixon is a lifestyle brand that offers watches and accessories, including bags, hats, and belts. Founded in 1996 by Andy Laats and Chad DiNenna, Nixon started with just watches. They were often sold at boardsport shops.
Both Laats and DiNenna were active in the action sports community, and their line reflects this. Appropriately enough, Billabong acquired Nixon in 2006.
Like Billabong, Nixon watches focus on often sporty but sophisticated designs, aimed at the young and active—and the young and active at heart.
Things to Consider Before Buying
The most important thing to consider before buying Nixon watches is if you like the design. They offer a wide range of styles, which is actually one of their most impressive qualities. Part of this is because they do a lot of partnerships.
They even have an automatic Rolling Stones model with a woven Hot Lips logo. It’s incredibly rare to find pieces like this that aren’t built like overpriced fan merchandise. So, if you love a Nixon design, you’re more than halfway through deciding whether or not to buy one.
Second, of course, is the price. As with any style-forward watchmaker, Nixon understandably wants to maximize margins. They’re built far better than your typical fashion watch. And their prices are similar to watch lines built by luxury fashion brands, like Gucci and Burberry. In my opinion, I don’t think their pieces are overpriced. This is for you decide for yourself, though.
Third is the horology factor. They make both quartz and automatic watches. You’ll pay a pretty dear upcharge for automatics.
I believe every watch collection should vary. This is why serious watch collectors will often have a limited edition Rolex and, say, a $30 Casio A168WA-1 in the same line-up.
If all you care about is just owning the latest, most advanced tourbillons (RIP all your paychecks), then lifestyle brand watches may not be for you.
Sentry Stainless Steel
Packaging
Nixon’s packaging is excellent. It’s almost too good, both from a presentation and practical perspective.
The watch itself features damage-proofing shrinkwrap on every surface and layer. I’m talking over and under the clasp, over and under every layer of the clasp, 360 around the bracelet, and even a plastic stopper on the crown.
It was kind of annoying to free my watch from its shackles, but I’m not complaining. They took good care to ensure it didn’t get damaged during shipping. This shrinkwrapped watch is in a tight, styrofoam-like structure that is then in a branded, sleeved box. There’s almost no negative space in there, which means the watch won’t clatter around.
Case
The Sentry’s case is made of 316L stainless steel, a reliable and standard material for watches at this price point. It’s water resistant to 100 meters, which is an impressive spec for a non-diver. Even most luxury non-divers don’t offer so much water resistance.
Visually, the polished bezel pops beautifully against the brushed sides and lugs. I also like how the swerve of the round case and legs contrasts the hard edge of where the top of the bezel breaks off to the side.
It’s a simple case, but one with enough visual intrigue.
The 42-millimeter diameter is a standard sport watch size, but I think I would’ve preferred it in 40. This is partly because I have smaller wrists and partly because it would allow you to wear it more easily as a dress watch.
Crown
The crown is one of my favorite parts of the Sentry. It’s decorated with a polished enamel-like top that’s tonal with the dial and clad with the Nixon logo. I like this attention to detail.
In fact, I’ve seen watches several times the price of this with far less inspired crowns.
It’s also easy to use. Just pop it out to set the time and date, then pop it back in to get the watch ticking again.
Case Back
The flat, solid caseback is brushed and engraved with the brand, the model, and the phrase “Never Be Late.”
Not much to report here, except that it sits comfortably against my wrist, and that I appreciate the simple and informative decoration.
Dial
The Sentry has an exceptional dial. It’s deceivingly simple, with impressive details.
The matte skeleton hands give the watch a ton of personality. They’re the at-a-glance details that graduate the dial from classic but standard to classic but distinct. They’re highly legible against the impeccably silky sunray dial.
The applied indices and the ends of the hands attached to the dial deliver beautiful light play, thanks to their textured silver surfaces. This subtle effect adds a level of sophistication.
Lume
This watch doesn’t have lume, which surprises me since Nixon is a pretty sporty brand. This sportiness is why I accept the 42-millimeter size, even though I think 40 would be better for this everyday look.
So yes, I do question why they’d go sporty with the size, but not the functionality.
Crystal
The mineral crystal might be offensive to some, but I don’t mind. Moreover, it’s hardened, so it’s an upgrade compared to your standard mineral.
Besides, brands like Seiko do the exact same thing at this price point. Now, if it were $600 and didn’t have a sapphire crystal? That would probably irk me.
Movement
The Miyota quartz movement is as accurate as any Japanese quartz.
Also, the hands seem to hit the indices and minute track pretty precisely.
Strap and Wearability
The stainless steel bracelet is fine. Its brushing and polishing are attractive, but it’s lighter than most of my stainless steel bracelets. I’m okay with that at this price point.
I like how the bracelet tapers, providing an easy wear and slick look. It’s also equipped with a double-locking clasp and micro-adjustments, which allow for a secure, precise fit.
The Sentry is a well-built everyday watch that can be worn casually and professionally. The dial is straightforward but offers unique design cues that don’t take away from its simplicity, and therefore, versatility. It may not have lume or a sapphire, but it’s an overall compelling value proposition for someone who wants a stylish timepiece you can wear anywhere.
51-30 Chrono
Packaging
The 51-30 Chrono was packed exactly like the Sentry.
I did have one small issue though. Like the Sentry, the 51-30 is firmly wrapped in protective plastic.
Plastic stuck tightly to the clasp and went over its edge into a portion that didn’t lift up. I had to use tweezers to remove the plastic from that microscopic space.
I’m pretty sure there are still small pieces of plastic stuck inside. It’s not a huge deal since you can’t really see it.
Case
This case is a massive 52 millimeters. It wears big, it looks big, and you won’t forget it’s on your person. And that’s the whole point. It’s a commanding statement piece.
While huge, bigger-is-better watches aren’t my thing personally, I very much enjoy the 51-30 in this colorway. The matte, all-black aesthetic is so authoritative, and the large, almost vehicular construction gives it a Batman vibe.
Burly watches that flaunt a loud palette are too conspicuous for me—gauche, even. The onyx hue of this three-pusher chronograph gives it a more official look as if you work at some important agency and have the highest clearance with the TSA.
I think it would look good with workwear and or a suit. Did I mention the 300 meters of water resistance?
Crown
The crown and chronograph pushers are screwed in, which contributes to the watch’s exceptional water resistance.
You have to unscrew them to use them, but they’re user-friendly. Use the main crown to set the time and date. Use the bottom pusher to activate the stopwatch. The top pusher instantly brings the stopwatch hand back to 12.
Don’t forget to screw them all back in when you’re done with your chronograph.
I appreciate the crown and pusher placement, too. They’re on the arm side of the watch case, not the hand side. Considering how big this watch is, it would definitely dig into my wrist bone and hand if they were on the 6 o’clock side.
Case Back
Like the Sentry, the 51-30’s case back is flat and features the exact same information. Instead of the phrase “Never Be Late” it implores you to “Simplify.”
I think these sayings are delightful.
Dial
The dial is boldly designed, the Arabic even-numbered indices taking up a lot of real estate. Fortunately, this helps with the legibility of the watch face.
Admittedly, reading the dial isn’t the easiest thing to do in this dark, monochrome palette. However, the shiny applications against a matte watch face ensure it isn’t impossible.
Anyway, when you’re using the chronograph function, you’re looking closely at the dial. So the color palette won’t deter you from using the stopwatch.
Lume
This chrono lacks lume, which is my main grievance with it.
Yes, I know you’re already getting a lot from this watch at this price point. I’m being spoiled.
I just think all sports watches should have lume. It would also help with legibility when using the chronograph.
Crystal
The 51-30 Chrono is outfitted with a mineral crystal. Mercifully, it’s flat, which is likely why the height is just over 15 millimeters despite looking close to 20.
The use of visual height instead of physical height adds to its wearability.
Movement
The Japanese Miyota quartz is accurate and precise.
Again, the placement of the pushers is thoughtful and comfortable. I also very much appreciate Miyota and Nixon offering a fun, engaging chronograph in the $500 price range.
Strap and Wearability
The strap is thick and strong, just like the case. Visually, it pairs perfectly with the watch itself. The micro-adjustments make finding the right fit easy.
It is a broad strap though. Like the case, if you don’t like a brawny feel and look, it’s not for you.
The 51-30 Chrono offers two things you don’t often find in the market. First, it's a chronograph that’s under a grand but built far better than budget chronographs you find on AliExpress. Second, this black colorway is large and bulky, but it isn’t gawky and inelegant.
Time Teller
Packaging
The Time Teller was packaged exactly like the other two watches, except the bracelet was wrapped in plastic.
Since it’s the lightest, least sporty bracelet, I do wonder if this was on purpose or not.
Case
The 37-millimeter case is slim and simple, with a retro design sensibility. Where each side of the bracelet meets it, the case extends past the bezel far enough that the lugs look almost hooded.
This touch of retro-futurism gives the otherwise minimal look a unique character, but not one that compromises the elegant simplicity of the case.
Thanks to the notched case back, this watch is 100 meters water resistant. The Time Teller gets extra credit for this. Given its dressier look and low price point, this level of water resistance is definitely above and beyond.
Crown
The simple crown matches the watch’s classy and minimal style. However, it’s short and difficult to pull out.
I’d rather this be the case than if they added a sporty knurling or made it bigger. Just don’t try and set this watch after you’ve moisturized your hands.
Case Back
The solid case back looks just like the back of the other two. The message on the back of the Time Teller is “Minimal.” While I didn’t take advantage of it myself, Nixon offers engraving on most of their models if you’re a big fan of personalization.
A bit on the nose, but there you go.
Dial
The dial is exceedingly simple, providing a good balance to the multi-linked bracelet and almost blocky case. Overall, this watch offers a beautifully balanced design.
The baton indices and hands are easy to see despite the all-gold palette. Their polished finish pops against the flawless sunray dial. When it comes to perfect sunray dials, Nixon scores two for two in this review.
Lume
Like the other two watches, the Time Teller doesn’t have any lume.
It’s a dressier model, so this isn’t an issue.
Crystal
The hardened mineral crystal is good enough for a dress watch and even everyday wear.
People might complain about the lack of sapphire on the other two watches. However, given the Time Teller’s design, purpose, and price point, such complaints don’t apply here.
Movement
The Time Teller is yet another Miyota-powered quartz. Again, I have no complaints. It’s accurate and reliable.
It doesn’t always hit the hour indices exactly, though. Fortunately, there isn’t a second track, so it isn’t always obvious.
Strap and Wearability
I like the look of the strap, but it feels a touch rattly. I’m okay with this because I’ve seen way worse, emptier-feeling bracelets at this price point.
I just want to mention it because I’ve seen other reviewers complain about it. Personally, I don’t think a watch this dressy needs a heavy, sporty bracelet.
Besides, the adjustable locking clasp provides both excellent fit and security.
The Time Teller is one of the easiest purchases in Nixon’s lineup. The design is highly versatile, though the top-notch applications and slightly retro vibe ensure it isn’t overly textbook. Meanwhile, the build and water resistance punch above its price point.
What Do Other Reviewers Say about Nixon?
After scouring websites, forums, trade magazines, and YouTube channels, I can confidently say that reviewers generally appreciate Nixon’s unique designs and value for money. Nixon also gets tons of praise for their fun partnerships.
I see some complaints on forums about wanting more functions from certain models. I already mentioned that I believe all sport watches should have lume. Still, I wouldn’t say that small lacks here and there compromise the brand as a whole.
Their price points are understandable, the range of designs is excellent, and the constructions are solid.
Different watch brands and price points cater to different priorities and audiences. I think the few complaints out there come from people who are looking for the wrong priorities in the wrong places.
My Thoughts Overall
What I Like
- The Sentry case boasts solid, impressive construction and 100 meters of water resistance.
- This Sentry wears comfortably and securely.
- With its matte, black palette, the 51-30 has an official, commanding presence that matches its big size.
- The 9 o’clock placement of the 51-30’s pushers prevent wrist bite.
- The Time Teller is a classic and adaptable dress watch that manages to be non-generic thanks to an overall well-balanced design.
- The Time Teller’s locking clasp makes the bracelet easy to size.
What I Don’t Like
- Lume would make the Sentry and 51-30 more effective everyday timepieces.
- The Time Teller’s crown was a bit difficult to pull out.
The Verdict
Overall, Nixon watches are a good value proposition. They perfectly balance their creative yet wearable designs and solid construction.
Even if you don’t love the light bracelet or lack of lume on one particular design, the thoughtful and distinct aesthetic will more than make up for it. And it’s not as if any of the watches in the line are poorly built. These aren’t fashion watches.
The fact that a $125 dress watch has 100 meters of water resistance is proof of this.
Of the models I tried, the Sentry is classic but distinct. The 51-30 is a brawny sport watch, though the all-black matte version looks more professional than loud. And the Time Teller is a versatile dress watch that combines elegance with retro showmanship.
Overall, Nixon watches are a good value proposition. They perfectly balance their creative yet wearable designs and solid construction, and their thoughtful and distinct aesthetic makes them some of the most attractive watches in their price bracket.
