Best GMT Watches You Can Buy In 2024

Born out of the necessity for precise timekeeping in aviation, GMT watches have a long and established history. From a pilot’s tool to a travel essential, today, GMT watches are valuable assets for travellers and watch enthusiasts alike because they can track multiple time zones simultaneously.

These refined luxury watches balance style, functionality, and value and are no longer confined to the aviation industry. Many prestigious brands have entered the league to execute this essential function with good looks. As a result, fans of travel watches have witnessed an incredible amount of variety, leading to increased competition and confusion.

So, here, we’ve decided to discuss everyone’s favourite travel complication—the GMT—and the luxury watches that best comprehend this feature. Let’s get started.

What is a ‘GMT’ Watch?

In simple terms, a GMT watch is a timepiece with a 24-hour hand, displaying the second time zone and sometimes three time zones if there is a 24-hour bezel. a standard hour hand completes a full rotation every 12 hours, while the GMT hand makes a full rotation only once every 24 hours.

The GMT scale is shown on the dial in 24-hour military time, making it easy to read the PM and AM when travelling. The GMT provides a constant time reference for pilots crossing many time zones.

How it all started: GMT Watches

Horological complications were mostly born out of necessity, and the GMT is no different. The history of GMT watches goes back to the 1950s, during which there was a rapid growth in the aviation industry and air routes became longer and complicated. Pilots needed a reliable tool to monitor the multiple time zones.

In response to this demand, legendary watchmaker Rolex introduced the Rolex GMT-Master watch in 1954 in collaboration with Pan AM Airways. This timepiece addressed the needs of the pilots and businesspeople and set the standard for GMT functionality.

The feature that distinguished GMT watches was their ability to display multiple time zones simultaneously. This is due to the additional hour hand, which makes one full rotation every 24 hours, and a rotating bezel with 24-hour increments, which helped track the second/third time zone.

The first Rolex GMT-Master Ref. 6542 had an additional GMT hand that made a full rotation once every 24 hours. However, this additional hand could not be set to a specific time, and the user needed to rotate the 24-hour bezel to set the additional time zone. This is how the GMT complication remained until 1983 when the Rolex GMT-Master II Ref. 16760 was introduced.

The new reference 16760 allowed the GMT hand to be set independently relative to the local time. Now, the wearer could move the home time hand independently from the local time, making it possible to show three time zones on a single watch without using the hands.

Over the years, GMT watches have received several improvements and upgrades to meet evolving needs, and watch enthusiasts consider them stylish accessories. Modern GMT watches from iconic watch brands combine practical features with high-quality materials, sophisticated designs, and additional complications, making the watches even more versatile and suitable for travel as well as everyday wear.

7 Things To Look For In A GMT Watch

A GMT watch is the ultimate travel companion for your adventures. However, choosing the perfect GMT watch requires careful consideration. You need a watch that aligns with your requirements and preferences to enjoy years of reliable timekeeping.

Here are the 5 essential aspects to consider when selecting a GMT timepiece.

1. Accuracy

It goes without saying that a GMT watch should be highly accurate as it tracks multiple time zones. Look for watches with COSC certification and high-quality movements. Travellers look for a reliable timepiece to check time in various environments. It’s advisable to seek out GMT watches from brands with a proven reliability and accuracy track record. 

2. Choice of Brand

Brand reputation plays a key role in determining the accuracy of GMT watches. Renowned brands with an established history in producing premium GMT watches generally bring in their years of expertise to curate mechanical marvels. These brands offer a sense of heritage that many watch connoisseurs appreciate.

3. Design 

While functionality is key, it’s also important to consider the aesthetics of the GMT watch.  The design of the GMT watch should be compelling and align with your personal taste. Consider the case size, shape, dial colour, bracelet style and overall proportion to pick your favourite timepiece. A well-designed GMT watch from a popular brand allows easy tracking of multiple time zones without complicating the watch's face.

Some GMT watches are robust and sporty, while others are ideal for casual wear. Then there are watches with a more refined appearance suitable for formal occasions. The best choice depends on your preference, lifestyle and how you plan to use the watch.

4. Materials & Craftsmanship

When selecting a GMT watch, prioritise high-quality materials and construction. Since GMT watches are designed to withstand various temperatures and environments, they should be made of premium materials like stainless steel or titanium to provide durability as well as a luxurious feel. Look for GMT watches with sapphire crystal for superior scratch resistance. The watch should be well-polished with crisp engravings, and the bezel and crown should operate smoothly.

5. Additional Features

While the GMT function is the star of the show, a little more functionality won’t harm. In fact, it would add to the watch’s value and utility. Consider features like a date display and water resistance in your GMT timepiece, as it will help withstand various environments. Moreover, some GMT watches offer extra complications like annual calendars, chronographs, antimagnetic properties and shock resistance. While these can be attractive to look at, the prices will inflate considerably. 

6. Movement Type

The movement refers to the internal mechanism that drives the complications and the hands. It’s important to consider the movement type when deciding what kind of GMT watch you want. Do you prefer the high accuracy of a quartz watch or the smooth pace of a mechanical movement? While mechanical movements present the charm of old-school watchmaking, quartz movements provide unparalleled accuracy. Therefore, look out for the movements to ensure years of precise timekeeping.

7. Maintenance Cost

Whether you agree or not, maintenance is a crucial factor to consider when purchasing GMT watches or any luxury watch. Mechanical watches require servicing after every 3 to 5 years, which can be expensive. On the other hand, quartz watches require less frequent maintenance but need battery changes. So, you must consider these costs before making a purchase decision.

5 Most Appealing GMT Watches Perfect For Travellers  

1. Rolex GMT-Master II ‘PEPSI’ Ref. 126710BLRO

There is no more logical place to begin the list of the best GMT watches than with the Rolex GMT-Master II with its most iconic bezel configuration, the red and blue ‘Pepsi’. The kind of emotion the Rolex GMT-Master II Pepsi Ref. 126710BLRO evokes among Rolex enthusiasts is explicable. The striking blue and red bezel has been a signature element of the GMT-Master since the release of the very first model Ref. 6542 in 1955.

Released in 2018, the Ref. 126710BLRO with ceramic red and blue ‘Pepsi’ bezel, stainless steel body and steel jubilee bracelet is an excellent choice for travellers and professionals alike. The watch features a highly legible dial, ensuring easy readability in all conditions. While finding the GMT-Master II Pepsi 126710BLRO can be challenging at retail, the pre-owned market offers great opportunities to own this sought-after Rolex.

Key Features:

• Case Diameter: 40mm
• Material: Stainless Steel
• Bezel: Bidirectional Rotatable red & blue ceramic 24-hour graduated bezel
• Functions: 24-hour display, Centre hour/minute/second hand, Instantaneous date, Second-time zone with independent rapid-setting of the hour hand
• Dial: Black
• Bracelet: Stainless Steel Jubilee Bracelet
• Water-Resistance: Up to 100 metres
• Power Reserve: Approximately 70 hours

2. Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra 150M GMT Chronograph Ref. 231.13.43.52.03.001

If you want a versatile GMT watch, look no further than the Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra 150M GMT Chronograph Ref. 231.13.43.52.03.001. Omega’s Aqua Terra line has always stood out as a toned-down dive piece. The Ref. Ref. 231.13.43.52.03.001 combines GMT, chronograph and automatic winding to perform better than any other watch in this range.

Executed in stainless steel, the Ref. Ref. 231.13.43.52.03.001 is a robust timepiece that pays tribute to Omega’s maritime heritage. The dramatic blue dial design recalls the wooden boards of luxury sailboats and features a Teak Concept pattern, setting it apart from other GMT watches. Various other functions, like date display and sub-dials, add to the watch’s versatility.

Key Features:

• Case Diameter: 43mm
• Material: Stainless Steel
• Bezel: Stainless Steel bezel
• Functions: Chronograph, Date, Small Seconds, Chronometer
• Dial: Blue
• Bracelet: Blue Leather Strap
• Water-Resistance: Up to 150 metres
• Power Reserve: Approximately 60 hours

3. Tudor Black Bay Pro Ref. 79470

Tudor, which is Rolex’s sister brand, offers similar quality and heritage but at a more accessible price point. The Black Bay Pro is a watch with a dual-time function and acts as a true GMT. It is not only well-suited for cave explorers but also ideal for those who often travel to different time zones.

The Tudor Black Bay Pro Ref. 79470 fuses the vintage-inspired aesthetics of the Black Bay with a practical GMT function. The steel bezel has a 24-hour scale to indicate the day or night in the local or home time zone. There’s a date window with a contrasting disc at 3 o’clock for added functionality. However, the most interesting part is that now there are three snowflake hands. The yellow accented GMT hand gives the watch a strong retro and modern vibe. Additionally, Tudor has added faux rivets to the steel bracelet for aesthetic reasons.

Key Features:

• Case Diameter: 39mm
• Material: Stainless Steel
• Bezel: 24-Hour graduated fixed stainless steel bezel
• Functions: GMT, Date function
• Dial: Black
• Bracelet: Riveted steel bracelet  
• Water-Resistance: Up to 200 metres
• Power Reserve: Approximately 70 hours

4. Breitling Navitimer B04 GMT Chronograph Ref. AB0441211G1X1

The Breitling Navitimer B04 GMT is a durable timepiece that that exemplifies the brand’s aviation legacy. The model was designed for pilots to wear and perform any necessary in-flight calculations. The watch combines a bold aesthetic with practical features, making it an excellent choice for adventure enthusiasts.

The Breitling Navitimer B04 GMT Ref. AB0441211G1X1 is packed with utility. It is large and has a perfectly legible instrument panel. It is also equipped with the famous aviation slide rule and the revolutionary entirely crown-adjustable dual time zone system. The Navitimer dial is busy but somehow synergises for an appealing whole. The watch ensures great comfort with its leather strap, grabbing attention immediately.

Key Features:

• Case Diameter:  48mm
• Material: Stainless Steel
• Bezel: Bidirectional Slide Rile Bezel
• Functions: GMT, Chronograph, Date
• Dial: Silver
• Bracelet: Brown Calfskin leather strap   
• Water-Resistance: 3 bars
• Power Reserve: Approximately 70 hours

5. Panerai Luminor 1950 8-Day GMT Ref. PAM00289

Many collectors think that Panerai makes large watches with simple dials. But that’s far from reality. The brand offers some of the most stunning timepieces equipped with notable complications—for example, the Panerai Luminor 1950 GMT Ref.PAM00289 sticks to the brand’s signature design aesthetic but stands out with a GMT complication. Although the watch requires manual wounding, it is equipped with the famous Calibre P2002, offering a notable 8-day power reserve.

Interestingly, the GMT and seconds hands are located at 9 o’clock, which is quite unusual. This stunning Panerai watch in rose gold is limited to only 200 pieces and is perfect for someone looking for Panerai’s bold design aesthetic.

Key Features:

• Case Diameter:  44mm
• Material: 18ct Rose Gold  
• Bezel: 18ct Rose Gold  Bezel
• Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds, date, GMT/World time, Power Reserve indicator  
• Dial: Brown
• Bracelet: Brown Leather Strap    
• Water-Resistance: 100 Metres
• Power Reserve: 8 Days

ENDING NOTE

If there was a hyped watch complication, it’s the GMT. Its popularity is justified on several grounds: it makes watches more interesting, the GMT function adds essential functionality to a watch with basic time-telling, and it’s also a popular investment, wherein you can sell watches with GMT complications for a higher return.

However, before selecting the perfect GMT watch, it’s important to consider your needs, the watch’s features, and your style preferences. Start by assessing whether you’re a frequent traveller needing to track multiple time zones, more interested in the GMT complication, or just want to use the watch as an occasional tool.

As you embark on your journey to find the perfect time-zone-hopping travellers’ timepiece, take the time to research and, if possible, buy luxury watches in person to check the fit. Remember, the right GMT watch will be your faithful companion not just across the globe but also in your daily life.