What is a GMT watch and why do you need one? βοΈ
If you're a frequent flyer or a business professional, chances are you've already come across GMT watches — a must-have for anyone who needs to track two time zones at once. With just a glance at the dial, you know the time both at home and at your current location π
GMT stands for Greenwich Mean Time — the baseline time set by the Royal Observatory in London, used to calculate all time zones worldwide. Move west of Greenwich and subtract hours; move east and add π§
In the 1960s, Coordinated Universal Time (UTC) became standard in scientific fields, but GMT stuck around in watchmaking, aviation, and global navigation βοΈ
The history of GMT in wristwatches β
The first GMT-equipped watch appeared in 1880, created by the British firm Nicole, Nielsen & Co. After international recognition in 1885, GMT became the official global reference π
But GMT gained real popularity in the 1950s, the golden age of civil aviation. Pilots flying across time zones needed to see local and home time simultaneously. Later, business people and diplomats discovered its value, saving them from constantly doing mental math π€―
How GMT display works π°οΈ
The most common type features a fourth hand — the GMT hand — which rotates once every 24 hours and moves independently. It usually has a bold color, arrow tip, and often glows in the dark πΊ
The 24-hour scale may appear on the bezel or be built into the dial. Digital versions often display the second time in a dedicated window π₯οΈ
One standout example is the Vacheron Constantin Patrimony Traditionnelle World Time, with rotating city and 24-hour rings that allow a single hand to show two time zones simultaneously. Genius and elegant π‘π
How to use your GMT watch π§
There are two main types:
Fixed bezel: The GMT hand points to the second time zone along a 24-hour scale.
Rotating bezel: Lets you track a third time zone by aligning it accordingly.
π Setup steps:
Unscrew the crown.
Pull to the second position and set the GMT hand.
First position — adjust the local time.
Push crown back in and screw down.
Rotate bezel to track a third zone if needed π
Recommended GMT models π
πΈ Rolex 216570 Explorer II GMT 42 mm
A robust, reliable tool. White dial, lume-filled markers, and stainless steel case — a true professional’s companion.
πΈ Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean 600 m GMT 43.5 mm
Master Chronometer with Co-Axial 8605 calibre, scratch-resistant, helium valve, 600 m water resistance, and sapphire caseback. Built for extremes π¬
πΈ Tudor Black Bay GMT 41 mm
A bold choice. Pepsi-colored rotating bezel, automatic movement, and luminous markers — perfect for frequent travelers π
πΈ TAG Heuer Aquaracer Professional 300 GMT 42 mm
Inspired by Formula 1, this piece features a Batman-style blue and black bezel π¦ and strong aquatic performance.
GMT is more than a complication — it's a mindset. Don’t confuse it with world time watches that show dozens of cities. GMT means precision, confidence, and style π§³πΌ
