Timex Marlin Chronograph Gets the Snoopy Treatment — and Woodstock Rides Along
Timex has figured out a pretty simple way to make almost any watch cooler: just add Snoopy. The iconic cartoon beagle has become an unexpected horological icon thanks to his association with certain rare and awesome Omega Speedmaster references, but Omega is far from the only brand to license Peanuts characters — and no brand has leaned into it harder than Timex, which has an entire line of affordable Snoopy watches. The latest is an update to the brand's TAG Heuer Carrera-inspired Marlin Chronograph, and it's one of the coolest racing chronos you'll find under $300.
The watch is a Snoopyfied version of the Marlin Chronograph Tachymeter. It keeps the same 40mm stainless steel case topped with a retro acrylic crystal that envelops the inner tachymeter bezel — visually similar to TAG's modern Glassbox Carrera — along with the sunburst blue dial, the Carrera-esque tricompax layout, and a pair of vertical racing stripes. The stripes are slightly altered from the standard model, bearing less resemblance to the iconic Gulf livery, while the distinct applied, enclosed 12, 3, and 9 Arabic numerals remain. The black leather rally strap has been swapped for a sharp blue one with white stitching.
The most notable change, of course, is Snoopy himself. The beagle strikes a celebratory pose against a yellow checkered background inside the 9:00 subdial, while his old pal Woodstock is perched atop the 3:00 register — a subdial that also contains a large number "50," which looks like a race car number but is actually a nod to 1950, the year Peanuts debuted. The solid caseback features an engraving of the Peanuts gang, and inside ticks an undisclosed quartz movement that keeps the price friendly.
Compared to the Snoopy Speedmaster — which sells for many thousands and is notoriously difficult to obtain — the Timex delivers the same whimsy at a fraction of the cost, and it does so on a genuinely handsome chronograph platform. That's the magic of this release: it doesn't rely on the license to carry a mediocre watch. The Marlin Chronograph Tachymeter is a good-looking, retro-correct racing chrono on its own, and Snoopy makes it irresistible. For EDC-minded watch fans who want a fun, durable, affordable piece with a story, this is an easy recommendation — assuming you can grab one before they sell out.
The Verdict: Timex nailed the formula again: a great retro chronograph, a beloved character, and a price that keeps it fun. Snoopy makes everything better, and this Marlin is proof.