Timex Ironman T5C411 Unisex 30-Lap Digital Fitness Heart Rate Monitor Watch

This is my first heart rate monitor and after a lot of searching, I selected this one. I am not a Tri-athlete Olympian, just an average guy who runs about 3 times a week. So I wanted something an average person would actually use. I wanted to improve my running ability and heard a HR monitor was the way to go. I checked out other brands such as Nike and Polaris, but they all seemed too complicated and bulky. That being said, I was looking for a basic, easy to use (Not complex), inexpensive, and sturdy HR monitor. Well the Timex 5C411 fit all of my criteria. This HR monitor is very easy to use and aesthetically pleasing as well. The basic functions can be learned very quickly (Especially for anyone who's owned a Timex Ironman watch). I got them down after one use. Can't beat the price and Timex is known for "Takes a licking and keeps on ticking." There is only one thing I wish was a little different. When using the chronograph, the HR appears in small numbers above the counting time which makes it just a hair difficult to see when you want to view your lap time and your HR. However, if you cycle through the menus back to the main time screen, your HR takes the place of the normal time and appears in large, easy to see numerals (just a minor observation). So far it works great and I am very pleased with the purchase.

I often use Consumer Reports when buying products, but the last review of heart rate monitors (HRM) was a couple of years ago and many tested models were discontinued, and the existing models were unattractive, so I had to choose one on my own. So far, this watch and HRM have worked without issue.

Pros:

- Looks great
- Inexpensive
- Accurate (via my own informal tests)
- Comfortable

Con:

- Need to dampen heart rate monitor contacts before using (very minor)

This watch is perfect! I use every one of the functions through out the day, and use the fitness features while working out. From keeping track of time in two time zones to timing between sets and monitoring my heart rate I use it all!!! This is the simplest watch to use with all of these functions, and the display is layed out practically and you can modify it to your tastes. All in all, the best watch I've had in years. Oh, it doesn't look to bad either; although it wouldn't be too appropriate for a night on the town it still looks good. It was surprisingly small for all the functions it carries. If this thing ever breaks, I'll buy another one right away!