If you’ve ever needed to keep track of time in more than one place, you’ve likely heard of a GMT watch. But what sets it apart from a standard timepiece? In this blog, we’ll dive into the question: How does a GMT watch work? We’ll look at the origins of this handy complication, how it functions, and why it’s become a favourite among globetrotters and watch enthusiasts alike. Plus, we’ll share some of our top picks for GMT watches. Let’s dive in!
History of the GMT Watch Complication
The GMT watch complication was born out of necessity in the 1950s, an era when international air travel was becoming more common. Pilots, particularly those flying long-haul routes, needed a reliable way to keep track of multiple time zones. This was especially the case for Greenwich Mean Time, the global aviation standard. In response, Rolex introduced the GMT-Master in collaboration with Pan American Airways in 1954. This groundbreaking watch comprised an additional 24-hour hand and a rotating bezel, allowing wearers to read two time zones at once. Since then, the GMT complication has evolved into a popular feature for travellers and watch collectors alike.
How Does a GMT Watch Work?
A GMT watch uses an additional hour hand, often styled in a different colour, that circles the dial once every 24 hours; rather than the standard 12 hours. This GMT hand points to a 24-hour scale, either on the dial or on a rotating bezel, allowing the wearer to track a second time zone at a glance. By setting the main hour and minute hands to local time and the GMT hand to a reference time, travellers can track multiple time zones at once. Some models even allow you to adjust the local hour hand independently, making time zone changes quick and seamless.
Why are GMT Watches so Popular?
GMT watches are popular because they offer a practical solution for tracking time across different time zones; something useful for frequent travellers, business professionals, and pilots. The ability to track a second, or even third, time zone at a glance makes them incredibly practical. Beyond utility, GMT watches often feature bold, distinctive designs. From colourful bezels to extra hands, these features only add to their aesthetic appeal. Whether you’re navigating international business or planning your next adventure, a GMT watch combines style with global awareness.
Our Top Picks for GMT Watches
Roamer R-Line GMT
This timepiece seamlessly blends functionality with classic design. Featuring a 43mm stainless steel case with a striking blue sunray dial, it showcases gold-tone baton indices and hands, offering a refined contrast. The watch is powered by a Swiss-made quartz movement, ensuring precise timekeeping and dual time zone tracking via its central GMT hand. A date aperture features at 3 o’clock, adding to its practicality. The timepiece comes with interchangeable straps: a two-tone stainless steel bracelet and a blue leather strap, providing versatility for different occasions. Protected by a sapphire crystal and water-resistant up to 50 metres, the Roamer R-Line GMT is both durable and stylish. It’s an ideal companion for travellers and watch enthusiasts alike!
Duckworth Prestex Rivington GMT
This GMT watch marries classic British design with modern functionality. Housed in a 42mm brushed stainless steel case, it features a distinctive green fumé dial with a waffle texture. The dial also features luminescent Arabic numerals and brushed steel hands. The orange accents on the second and GMT hands add a vibrant touch. Powered by the reliable Miyota 9075 automatic movement, it offers a 42-hour power reserve as well as the ability to track a second time zone. A double-domed sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating ensures clarity, while the watch’s 200-meter water resistance makes it suitable for various adventures. The timepiece is completed with a green Horween leather strap, providing both comfort and style.
Mühle Glashütte Sportivo Travel GMT
This robust timepiece is for modern explorers who require both functionality and elegance. Encased in a 42.5mm stainless steel body, it features a black dial accented with light blue details and a bidirectional rotating bezel with a black ceramic inlay. The watch is powered by the automatic SW 330-2 movement, offering a 56-hour power reserve and Mühle’s patented woodpecker neck regulation for enhanced precision. A discreet arrow-tipped GMT hand indicates a second time zone on a raised 24-hour scale, making it ideal for travellers. Additional features include a date display at 3 o’clock, Super-LumiNova-coated hands and indices for visibility in low light, and a screw-down crown ensuring water resistance up to 300 meters. The timepiece is completed with a stainless steel bracelet featuring a folding clasp, combining durability with a sophisticated style.
What are your thoughts on our top picks for GMT watches? Do you now know how a GMT watch works? Let us know in the comments below!
