GMT watches, also known as dual time zone watches, are an essential tool for frequent travelers and aviation professionals.
These watches display two time zones simultaneously, allowing wearers to easily keep track of the time in their home city and their current location.
There are many GMT watches available on the market, each with its own unique features and design.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the best GMT watches available today.
The Rolex GMT-Master II is one of the most iconic GMT watches on the market, and for good reason. With its classic design, durable construction, and accurate timekeeping, this watch is a top choice for frequent travelers and watch enthusiasts alike. The watch features a 24-hour hand that can be adjusted independently of the main hour hand, allowing wearers to easily track a second time zone. The Rolex GMT-Master II is available in a variety of materials, including stainless steel, gold, and platinum, and is water-resistant to a depth of 100 meters.
The Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra GMT is a sporty yet elegant watch that is perfect for travelers who want a watch that can go from the boardroom to the beach. The watch features a 24-hour hand and a rotating bezel that can be used to track a third time zone. The watch is available in a variety of materials, including stainless steel, gold, and titanium, and is water-resistant to a depth of 150 meters.
The Tudor Black Bay GMT is a versatile watch that combines classic styling with modern features. The watch features a red and blue “Pepsi” bezel that can be used to track a second time zone, as well as a 24-hour hand that can be set independently of the main hour hand. The watch is available in a variety of materials, including stainless steel and gold, and is water-resistant to a depth of 200 meters.
The Grand Seiko SBGM221 is a beautiful watch that combines traditional Japanese craftsmanship with modern technology. The watch features a 24-hour hand and a rotating bezel that can be used to track a second time zone. The watch is available in stainless steel and is water-resistant to a depth of 100 meters.
The Breitling Navitimer GMT is a classic pilot’s watch that is perfect for frequent travelers. The watch features a 24-hour hand and a rotating bezel that can be used to track a second time zone. The watch is available in a variety of materials, including stainless steel and gold, and is water-resistant to a depth of 30 meters.
How do I set the second time zone on my GMT watch?
Setting the second time zone on a GMT watch can vary depending on the specific model and brand. However, here are some general steps that may be helpful:
- Pull out the crown to the first position. This will allow you to adjust the time on the main hour hand.
- Turn the crown until the main hour hand is set to the correct time for your current time zone.
- If your GMT watch has a rotating bezel, rotate it until the 24-hour hand lines up with the correct hour for your second time zone.
- If your GMT watch has a 24-hour hand that can be adjusted independently, pull out the crown to the second position and turn it until the 24-hour hand is pointing to the correct hour for your second time zone.
- Push the crown back in to the original position.
Note: It’s always a good idea to consult the user manual or contact the manufacturer for specific instructions on setting the second time zone on your GMT watch.
Can a GMT watch be used as a chronograph?
A GMT watch and a chronograph watch are two different types of watches with different functions. While a GMT watch is designed to display multiple time zones simultaneously, a chronograph watch is designed to function as a stopwatch, allowing you to measure elapsed time with the push of a button.
Some GMT watches may have a chronograph function as an additional feature, but this is not always the case. If you need a watch that can measure elapsed time, a chronograph watch would be a better choice.
That being said, there are some GMT watches that have a rotating bezel or an additional hand that can be used to measure elapsed time, but this is not the primary function of a GMT watch. It’s always a good idea to carefully consider your needs and choose a watch that has the features you require.
What is the difference between a GMT watch and a world time watch?
While both GMT and world time watches display multiple time zones, there are some key differences between the two:
- GMT watches typically display two time zones, with the second time zone displayed using a 24-hour hand or a rotating bezel. The main hour hand is used to display the local time. In contrast, world time watches can display the time in multiple cities around the world, often using a rotating bezel or inner dial with city names.
- GMT watches are designed primarily for travelers who need to keep track of the time in two different time zones, while world time watches are designed for frequent travelers who need to know the time in multiple time zones.
- GMT watches are often more simple and straightforward, with a focus on functionality rather than aesthetics. World time watches, on the other hand, may be more complex and feature-rich, often with detailed world maps or intricate dial designs.
- Finally, GMT watches are often more affordable than world time watches, which can be quite expensive due to their complex mechanisms and advanced features.
How accurate are GMT watches?
The accuracy of a GMT watch depends on the specific model and brand, as well as the movement used in the watch. Generally speaking, GMT watches that use mechanical movements (such as automatic or manual-winding movements) may have some degree of variation in accuracy, as mechanical movements are inherently less precise than quartz movements.
However, many modern GMT watches use high-quality mechanical movements that are capable of keeping time within a few seconds per day. Some GMT watches also incorporate additional features such as hacking seconds or quick-set date functions that make it easier to set and maintain accurate time.
It’s worth noting that quartz GMT watches are generally more accurate than mechanical GMT watches, as quartz movements are powered by a battery and use an electronic oscillator to keep time, resulting in higher precision and accuracy.
Ultimately, the accuracy of a GMT watch will depend on several factors, including the type of movement used, the quality of the watch, and how well the watch is maintained and serviced. It’s always a good idea to choose a reputable brand and have your watch serviced regularly to ensure that it remains accurate and reliable over time.
