Timex, the watch company that has always built Sinclair computers, will market and distribute Sinclair-based products in North and Central America and the Carribean beginning this year. Note the new name — Timex-Sinclair 1000. This computer is a virtual twin to the ZX81, except for an extra 1K RAM under the hood (2K total).
Watch for these other changes:
Price — TS 1000 will sell for $99.95 assembled. There will be no more kits. 16K RAM packs will go for $49.95.
Availability — Expect computers, software, and peripherals from Timex to be in greater supply than from Sinclair. According to the agreement with Sinclair, Timex must meet certain production levels (about 3x current level). You will be able to buy computers, etc., at Timex’s 100,000 retail outlets, including drug and department stores.
Other Products — Timex just announced availability of two new products for 4th quarter 1982: direct connect modem ($99.95) and printer ($99.95). The printer shown at a recent press conference looked identical to Sinclair’s UK ZX printer, although we expect the shielding is improved to satisfy the FCC. The modem will allow TS1000 and ZX8l users to access any phone-up data base.
Additionally, Timex plans to offer 25-30 assorted educational and business software packages in July 1982, from $9.95-$19.95 .
According to Timex Product Manager Bill Skyrme, Timex is very interested in customer support. The TS 1000 will come with a manual for beginning BASIC programmers. Timex will continue Sinclair’s 90-day warranty policy. Service will probably be handled through Timex’ Little Rock, AR, facility, where watches are repaired in 24 hours. We expect Timex to maintain this level of service to their computer customers.