The above title tells it all! Timex, with little other information, announced they were abandoning their computer product line as of February 22nd, 1984 and joined the ranks of Texas Instruments, Mattel, Tomy and Panasonic.
C. Michael Jacobi, vice president of marketing and sales stated the main reason as being an anticipation of further upheavals in the volitile home computer market.
After less than three months from the time the TS-2068 became readily available, computer product manufacturing ground to a halt.
Published reports have estimated a 1983 loss of nearly $100 million on estimated sales of $400 million. Computer sales represented approximately 10% of the total sales picture.
Other reasons given were that product sales were not meeting expectations. Almost all peripherils, except the modem, will not be marketed. Details are sketchy but Timex plans to continue warranty support and the toll free Watts line will be in operation for at least till the end of the first quarter (1-800-24 TIMEX).
The combination of low 2068 sales (not because of poor quality but marketing strategem in an extremely competitive market) and being shut out of the Sinclair QL market, certainly had to take its toll.
Computer stores, on the whole, lost interest in selling Timex computers after it began distributing the TS-1000 through mass marketers who discounted the product sharply and declined to sell the 1500 and 2068.
All after-market supporting companies (including ourselves – you will receive all the issues you paid for) most certainly will be affected in the negative.
I can’t say this came as a shock, but I thought Timex would make a stronger effort to capitalize on the features and quality control of the 2068, which is a fine product.
In retrospect, many of us probably feel left out on the limb and don’t know where to turn to for support. Perhaps some company will see the beauty of the 2068 and manufacture a compatible look-alike, but that doesn’t seem likely at this time.
Supporting companies have been hurting since last April and many once reputable entities have been placed in the position of non-delivery because of poor market sales performance. The Messiah of the ZX/TS industry seemed to be the 2068 – but with Timex dropping the computer lines, many will find it the death knell – Ed.