Timex 5C401 HRM (& Ironman Watch)

I've had this for a couple of weeks now and really like it.  This is my first HRM so I have nothing to compare it.  I did quite a bit of research as I usually do over my on-line purchases, agonizing over little details and trying to figure out whats important. I don't know how many of you have shopped for HRMs, but the # of features, bells and whistles referred to by different names was very confusing to me. 

After analyzing everything I decided I needed the following features- (in addition to basic HRM function):  1) a watch, since I dropped mine in my Tri on the bike.  2) Target heart rate zones and alarms. 3) % of max HR display.    

Due to cost I decided I would pass on the "downloadable to computer feature".   I also ended up not getting my #3) feature above.  This HRM has a number of features that I wasn't really concerned with like Time in Zone, Calorie counter, and Recovery Heart Rate Timer. 

I was a little concerned with Timex reputation for HRM's not being very reliable.  I found out this model in the "c" series is a new design by Timex and the HR features are greatly improved.  Heart Rate Monitors USA sells several brands including Polar and provided me that info. 

Anyway the feature I like best is that with my Garmin Forerunner set to 1 mile laps, everytime it beeps, I can hit the Split button on the Timex, it will give me my avg heart rate for that mile.  When you use the chronograph (stopwatch),  it will display HR and your time.  When you stop the timer, you can display (review) Avg HR, Max HR, Low HR for the entire workout, and see average HR for each split.

For $69. including delivery off Ebay (seller was HR Monitors USA)  I thought this was a heck of a deal.   If you want it to interface with your computer this one is not for you.