What Is the Timex X MM6 Maison Margiela Collab? (£215)
The Timex X MM6 Maison Margiela collaboration takes the classic Timex T80 (a lightweight, retro digital watch) and reimagines it through MM6’s experimental, deconstructed lens. Instead of simply releasing a new colourway, Margiela played with the T80’s identity, using the brand’s signature circled “6” motif to replace the usual dial details and create a watch that feels more conceptual than commercial.
The result is a gold-tone, rectangular retro watch that still feels unmistakably Timex, but with that subtle, fashion-forward twist MM6 is known for. It’s wearable, minimal, slightly unconventional, and sits firmly in that sweet spot where everyday function meets designer creativity.
Of course, like most high-fashion collaborations, the price lands well above a standard T80 (£215).
That’s where the alternatives come in.
1. Casio A700 - Best Overall Match (£50-£80)
If you’re looking for the closest visual match to the Timex X MM6 collaboration without paying the designer premium, the Casio A700 is the one. It carries that same slim, rectangular retro-digital look with a clean gold finish that instantly gives off the same vintage-styled, fashion-led feel.
Why It Works
- Ultra-thin case that gives it a sleek, elevated profile similar to the MM6 silhouette.
- Gold-tone stainless steel bracelet that mirrors the same nostalgic 80s/90s digital aesthetic.
- Minimalist screen layout, keeping the watch clean and uncluttered (perfect for styling with everyday fits).
- Casio’s build quality at this price point is excellent, making it a long-lasting daily wear option.
Who It’s For
- People who want the closest aesthetic match to the MM6 X Timex without the designer markup.
- Someone who prefers clean, simple vintage design over branding.
- Anyone wanting a reliable digital watch that looks far more expensive than it is.
Price Range
£50-£80, depending on the retailer.
2. Timex T80 - Closest in Shape & Function (£60-£90)
If you want the actual watch the MM6 collab is built on (just without the designer twist) the Timex T80 is the perfect alternative. It shares the exact same case shape, digital layout, button placement and overall feel, because it is the foundation of the MM6 release.
The gold-tone version gives you that same nostalgic, vintage-digital look but at a true entry-level price point.
Why It Works
- Identical silhouette to the MM6 collab: same size, same retro case, same bracelet style.
- Same digital display, alarm, stopwatch and Indiglo light as the designer version.
- Available in gold-tone, so you get that same elevated, fashion-ready finish.
- You’re paying purely for the watch – not the designer logo.
Who It’s For
- Anyone who loves the MM6 X Timex look but doesn’t mind skipping the designer branding.
- Someone who wants a lightweight, easy-to-wear daily watch with zero fuss.
- Fans of retro digital watches who want the purest version of the T80 aesthetic.
Price Range
£60-£90, depending on the retailer.
3. Casio X A.P.C. - Designer Collab Alternative (£150-£190)
If you still want a designer collaboration but without the MM6 price tag, the Casio X A.P.C. partnership is the perfect middle ground. A.P.C. is known for its minimalist, Parisian aesthetic, clean lines, simple shapes, understated luxury – and that translates perfectly into this retro digital watch.
It gives you the same elevated feel of a fashion-watch collab, but at a far more accessible price point.
Why It Works
- True designer collaboration at a fraction of the MM6 cost.
- The gold-tone finish keeps that retro-luxe look alive but with a more refined, minimal edge.
- A.P.C.’s influence gives the watch a premium, fashion-forward presence without overpowering it.
- Casio’s reliability and build quality make it an everyday essential you won’t be scared to wear.
Who It’s For
- Someone who wants a designer name on their wrist but doesn’t want to spend MM6 money.
- Fans of minimalist fashion who appreciate the A.P.C. design language.
- Anyone wanting a retro digital watch with a premium, curated aesthetic.
Price Range
£150-£190, depending on availability.
Our Advice - To designer or not designer
Designer collaborations are exciting – they’re creative, limited, and feel special. But when it comes to watches (and fashion in general), it’s worth remembering one thing:
You don’t need a designer label to achieve the look.
The Timex X MM6 collab is fun, conceptual and beautifully executed, but the aesthetic it delivers; retro, gold, minimal, slightly nostalgic – is something you can replicate easily with the right pieces.
Affordable watches like the Casio A700 or Timex T80 give you the same vibe, the same styling potential, and in many cases the same level of day-to-day wearability. Fashion is about expression, not price tags.
That said… If a designer piece genuinely means something to you, don’t be afraid to treat yourself.
Buy it for the joy, not the status.
At the end of the day, the best watch is the one you actually wear, enjoy, and feel good in – whether it’s a £50 Casio or a high-end collaboration piece.
Final Thoughts
The Timex X MM6 Maison Margiela collab is a standout release – a creative twist on a classic retro-digital watch that blends everyday wearability with high-fashion design. But if you’re drawn to the silhouette, the gold aesthetic, or the vintage feel rather than the branding itself, there are plenty of affordable options that deliver the same look.
The Casio A700 offers the best overall match, the Timex T80 gives you the original shape behind the collaboration, and the Casio X A.P.C. collab adds a designer edge without the MM6 designer price tag.
No matter which route you choose, the retro gold digital watch trend is timeless – and you don’t have to spend luxury money to tap into the style.
If you want more affordable designer alternatives, styling guides and curated drops, explore The Edit or check out our latest TCS Drops. And if you want first access to deals and new releases, make sure you’re on the newsletter list.
Your style, your budget – we help you make both work.
