With a normal time limit (4000+400, for example), the timer in Town/Townhall is a perfect thing. For those who like to spend a minute thinking while 30 archers attack 20 sprites, or when 2 mummies and a ballista chase a horde of earth elementals, it might not be ideal, but for a normal game, it's more than enough!

Another huge advantage is that during your turn in battle, you won't be off doing something else, which naturally encourages respect for both your own time and your opponent's time.