I wish my heart were as cholesterol-free as this almost-as-essential time-keeper.  Almost as much as the Timex-sponsored jazz spectaculars, I miss the days of Timex television commercials with John Cameron Swayze regularly announcing a new stunt demonstrating the indestructibility of Timex wrist-watches. Drop it from the Sears Tower; run over it with a Caterpillar; lace it with stinky bait, attach a microchip and toss it into the Atlantic, then follow its progress into the belly of a Great White. Each and every time, it's still ticking (admittedly, slightly the worse for wear).

I now see that Casio, a trusted brand name, is undercutting the prices of most Timexes.  Moreover, I understand that any day now we can expect the arrival of a "smart watch"--from Apple or Samsung or both.

I prefer my Timex.  There are already too many "smart devices" along with techno-klutzes like me who don't know how to avail myself of their reputed intelligence.  The only thing that can beat a Timex with it date reminder, leather strap (the medal ones never fit or feel quite right) and, last but not least, Indiglo (no longer as resistant to finger-pressing as the earlier versions) is another Timex (or a 2nd leather strap with easy do-it-yourself instructions for quick attachment).

I no longer have the patience to seek out a jeweler or drive to Walmart to have a loose or broken watchband reattached or replaced.  It's far more convenient (and no more expensive) to order a whole new watch from Amazon.