For busy men who are always on the go, a GMT watch is a must-have in your collection. What sets a GMT watch apart from other timepieces is its ability to display two different timezones simultaneously. These watches are both functional and modern, providing various valuable features in a stylish package. As such, they’re perfect for all kinds of wearers, from the active outdoorsman to the office worker and just about all those in between. So, if you’re in the market for a new watch, you should choose one of these stylish GMT designs.
1. Rolex GMT Master II Watch
The unique gold and green design of Rolex’s GMT Master II Watch isn’t the only reason to add this timepiece to your collection. Along with being head-turning, this watch is also incredibly sturdy. It features an 18k protective yellow gold case, oyster bracelet and bi-directional rotating bezel, green dial with yellow gold-tone hands and luminous hour markers. It boasts an automatic movement, scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, deployment clasp, and water resistance to 100m as well as hour, minute, second, and date function.
2. IWC Pilot Automatic GMT Watch
The IWC Pilot GMT Automatic Watch is designed to live a long life. Along with being water-resistant to 60m, this durable timepiece features a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal and 68 hours of power reserve. Plus, it’s seriously stylish and functional! The Swiss-made watch boasts a stainless steel case and black leather strap as well as a matching black dial. Timekeeping features include a chronograph function with a 60-second, 60-minute, and 12-hour display. Finally, the watch features a dual-time zone and date functions.
3. Breitling Avener II GMT Watch
Luxury and comfort meet fashion with the Breitling Avener II GMT Watch. This ultra-durable features an automatic movement with 42 hours of power reserve and scratch-resistant sapphire crystal. Plus, it is water-resistant to 300m. The beautifully designed watch pairs a stylish black rubber strap with eye-catching luminous silver-tone hands. Finally, it features a bi-directional rotating stainless steel bezel, solid case back, and tang clasp.
4. Bell and Ross GMT BR-01-93 Watch
The Bell and Ross GMT BR-01-93 Watch boasts a durable yet fashionable design. The analog timepiece features a black ion-plated stainless steel case with a black rubber strap, fixed bezel, and black dial. It boasts luminescent hands and markers for an easy-to-read design. With scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, a screw-down crown, and solid case back, this sturdy watch is built to withstand tough conditions. A 40-hour power reserve is paired with automatic movement, contributing to the incredible functionality of this piece. Additionally, it is water-resistant to 100m.
5. Maurice Laxroixm Masterpiece Date Watch
The Maurice Laxroixm GMT Watch packs a variety of clever features into a stylish design. A 40mm stainless steel case and stainless steel bracelet come together with an opaline dial for a timepiece that is as sturdy as it is sleek. The watch features a 42-hour power reserve, water-resistance to 50m, and scratch-resistant sapphire crystal to ensure the ultimate endurance. This expertly crafted Swiss-made timepiece also incorporates automatic movement, a pull/push crown, and transparent case back into its design.
6. Longines Conquest GMT Watch
The Longines Conquest GMT Watch is the perfect companion for the classic man. The beautifully designed stainless steel timepiece features a silver-tone bracelet, blue dial with silver-tone hands and hour markers, 24-hour markers and minute markers around the outer rim. Arabic numerals and luminescent hands and markers ensure accuracy and easy readability. Durable features include an automatic movement, a 48-hour power reserve, 41mm case, scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, and water resistance to 50m. Additionally, the analog timepiece harnesses date and dual time zone functions.
7. Ulysee Nardingmt GMT Dual Time Automatic Watch
As functional as it is fashionable, the Ulysee Nardingmt GMT Dual Time Automatic Watch harnesses a stunning design. The timepiece pairs a sturdy 42mm stainless steel case with scratch-resistant sapphire crystal for a flawless finish. Additional features include a silver dial with luminous black hands and index hour markers, automatic movement, a screw-down crown, and transparent case back. To finish, a deployment clasp with the push-button release comes together with a black alligator leather strap. As well as telling the time, the watch is water-resistant to 100m.
8. Certina DS Podium GMT Watch
For an elegant look with a comfortable fit, the Certina DS Podium GMT Watch is the way to look. Ideal for everyday wear, this timepiece pairs a stainless steel case with a brown leather strap. Black dial with luminescent hands and index hour markers, date display and quartz movement, ensure a simple, easy-to-read design. With scratch-resistant sapphire crystal and a solid case back, the watch is perfect for the adventurous man. Finally, it is water-resistant to 100m and harnesses 60 second, 12-hour, and 24-hour function on a three sub-dial display.
9. Blancpain Villeret Reveil GMT Alarm Automatic Watch
The Blancpain Villeret Reveil GMT Alarm Automatic Watch is a stylish timepiece suitable for every kind of wearer. It boasts a white dial with silver-tone hands and Roman numeral hour markers as well as a sleek black alligator leather strap. Plus, the watch harnesses an automatic movement with approximately 45 hours of power reserve. Finally, it offers a high level of protection against damage with scratch-resistant sapphire crystal and water resistance to 30m.
10. Hublot King Power GMT Chronograph Watch
The Hublot King Power GMT Chronograph Watch is the perfect companion for the man on the go. With a carbon fiber case, rubber strap, and fixed carbon fiber bezel, this all-black timepiece is as sleek as it is sturdy. A black dial is paired with luminous silver-tone hands and scratch-resistant sapphire crystal for a practical yet stylish finish. Timekeeping features include four-time zone displays and a chronograph function. As well as water resistance to 100m, the Swiss-made watch features a tang clasp and screw-down crown.
11. Panerair Radiomir Chrono Monopulsante GMT Watch
For a watch that evokes strength and sophistication, the Panerair Radiomir Chrono Monopulsante GMT Watch is the ultimate in masculinity. This Swiss-made timepiece features an 18kt white gold case with a brown alligator leather strap and fixed 18kt white gold bezel. Additionally, a black dial contributes to the incredible design of this piece, which is rounded off with luminescent rose gold-tone hands and hour markers. Featuring a 192-hour power reserve, dual time zone, hand-wind movement, and scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, the watch is water-resistant to 50m.
12. Patek Philippe Nautilus Automatic GMT Moonphase Watch
Smokey black elements and shining silver come together to create the Patek Philippe Nautilus Automatic GMT Moonphase Watch. This incredible timepiece features a stainless steel case and a crocodile leather strap, brought together with a black dial and luminous hands and markers. Harnessing an automatic movement and 45-hour power reserve, the watch features a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal. Additional features include a skeleton case back, fold-over clasp with safety and water resistance to 120m, as well as dual time zone and moon phase functions.
13. Chopard L.U.C. GMT Watch
Looking for a watch that is both practical and fashionable? Look no further than the Chopard L.U.C. GMT Watch. This timepiece is as sturdy as it is sleek, with scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, a 38mm protective case, and water resistance to 30m. Not only will it accompany you through almost any activity, but it will look sophisticated and chic while doing so. Aesthetic features include an 18k white gold case and black alligator leather strap, silver dial, fixed 18kt white gold bezel, and silver-tone hands and hour markers. The watch also boasts an automatic movement and approximately 65 hours of power reserve.
14. Ulysse Nardin GMT Perpetual Watch
The GMT Perpetual Ulysse Nardin GMT Perpetual Watch offers a practical and timeless design, perfect for the man on the go. This Swiss-made timepiece features an 18kt white gold case with black leather strap and a black dial with silver-tone hands. The watch also incorporates a date display, perpetual calendar, and automatic movement into its design.
15. Chanel J12 Chromatic GMT Automatic Watch
If you’re the kind of man who prides himself on his appearance, then the Chanel J12 Chromatic GMT Automatic Watch is your kind of watch. Along with being water-resistant to 100m, this luxurious timepiece has a 42-hour power reserve and harnesses a self-winding automatic movement. It boasts a sturdy case and bracelet, charcoal dial with silver-tone hands, dual time zone function, and date display. Finally, scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, a solid case back, and triple folding buckle clasp ensure strength and protection.
The Citizen Promaster Navihawk A-T Eco-Drive GMT Watch boasts a sporty yet stylish design. Ideal for the outdoorsman, the watch features a Citizen Caliber Eco-Drive U680 movement, 48mm protective stainless steel case as well as water resistance to 200m. It also boasts a comfortable black rubber strap, black dial, and luminous orange hands. Best of all, the timepiece features an easy-to-read design with both analog and digital function.
17. Hamilton Jazzmaster GMT Automatic Watch
Sleek and sharp, the Hamilton Jazzmaster GMT Automatic Watch is an impeccable timepiece. A stainless steel case and brown leather strap combined with a silver dial and silver-tone hands and index hour markers for a smooth finish. Additional features include 24-hour markings, minute markers, a world time function, and a 42-hour power reserve. As well as being water-resistant to 50m, the watch features a fold-over clasp, 42mm protective case, and scratch-resistant sapphire crystal. Finally, the watch harnesses an automatic movement.
18. Tudor Black Bay Automatic GMT Watch
The Tudor Black Bay Automatic GMT Watch is both functional and stylish. Meeting practical needs, it features a 70-hour power reserve, Tudor MT5652 automatic movement, dual time zone function, and date display. With scratch-resistant sapphire crystal and water resistance to 200m, this timepiece is built to last. When it comes to aesthetics, a silver-tone stainless steel case, black dial, and silver-tone steel bracelet make a polished statement. Finally, a bi-directional rotating burgundy and blue bezel also adds to the overall elegant design.
19. Omega Planet GMT Automatic Watch
The Omega Planet GMT Watch is the ultimate companion for the chic, sophisticated man. The luxurious Swiss-made timepiece features a blue dial with luminous silver-tone hands and index hour markers. Additional features include a titanium case with a stunning silver bracelet and bi-directional rotating titanium bezel with a blue ceramic top ring showing 24-hour markers. The watch promises protection and endurance, with a 60-hour power reserve and automatic movement. With water resistance up to 600 meters, it will stand up to a variety of underwater activities.
Best GMT Watches FAQs
What is a GMT watch?
A GMT watch allows you to see the time in multiple time zones at once. It has regular hands that you can adjust to your current location, and the hour hand rotates a full circle every 12 hours. Then, there is a second hour hand that rotates over a period of 24-hours, and this points to Greenwich Mean Time (GMT). Most designs will have both 12 and 24-hour markings on the dial, with the GMT hand pointing to the 24-hour time scale.
How to Read a GMT watch?
Based on the Rolex GMT Master, when your bezel is set to 12 o’clock, it will show the local time, as per your main face. The GMT hand will point to the 24-hour format, so if it’s sitting midway between 18 and 19, it’s 18:30, or 6:30 pm. When you move the bezel forward or back to the second time zone, the GMT hand will point to the time in that new zone. For example, if your second time zone is ahead by 2 hours, and local time is 3 pm, then by moving the bezel forward by two positions, the GMT hand will point to the 17 on the bezel, meaning it's 5 pm in the second time zone. Of course, GMT watches can vary in their structure and time setting, so always read the manual.
How a GMT watch works?
A GMT watch can work in a couple of ways, depending on your preference and style. For example, on a Rolex GMT Master, you can leave the main display as home time and adjust the bezel for local time, aligning it to the GMT hand. Alternatively, you can change the main hands using the crown for local time, then use the bezel to set home or a second timezone. Some watches don’t have a moveable bezel but instead have 24-hour time marked on the face. In this case, you can adjust the GMT hand to set the second time zone. Whenever you are setting your watch, it’s best to confirm instructions with the user manual.
Who invented the GMT watch?
The first GMT watch with a rotating 24-hour bezel was released in December 1953 by the Swiss company Glycine and was named the Airman. However, Rolex’s 1954 debut of the GMT-Master often overshadows this. Pan Am approached Rolex to create a solution for their pilots traveling between time zones as air travel became more commercial and popular. As such, between the two big brands, the Rolex watch became more commonly known as the first GMT watch.
SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER
Subscribe to our mailing list and get interesting stuff and updates to your email inbox.