Discover

Elegance at every hour: 4 GMT watches for traveling in style

Rolex, TAG Heuer, Ressence and Bremont offer functional and sophisticated GMT watches for watch enthusiasts and frequent travelers.

Por: Raquel Seijas April 15, 2025

The new Rolex GMT-Master II features the brand’s first ceramic dial set in an 18 ct white gold case / Photo Rolex

Originally conceived as vital instruments for aviation professionals navigating new air routes, GMT watches have an illustrious history that dates back over 70 years.

The rise of international air travel in the mid-20th century required reliable methods for pilots to track time across multiple time zones. To meet this requirement, watchmakers introduced the GMT (Greenwich Mean Time) watch, featuring an additional hour hand and a rotating bezel, enabling users to effortlessly monitor two time zones simultaneously.

The most iconic? The Rolex GMT-Master, launched in 1955 in cooperation with Pan American Airways, cemented the GMT watch‘s status as the preferred accessory for pilots and frequent travelers, recognized for its distinctive red and blue “Pepsi” bezel and rugged functionality.

Here, four new GMT models showcased at Watches & Wonders 2025 in Geneva (April 1 -7).

Rolex GMT-Master II

Rolex unveiled a stunning iteration of its Oyster Perpetual GMT-Master II at Watches & Wonders 2025. This new model features the brand’s first ceramic dial set in an 18 ct white gold case.

The innovative Cerachrom dial showcases an elegant green hue that complements the unique two-color black and green ceramic bezel, which displays a 24-hour graduated scale.

Enhanced by the robust Caliber 3285, the GMT-Master II includes a bi-directional rotating bezel and retains the classic triangular-tip 24-hour hand, seamlessly offering local time, GMT time, and date information.

Bremont Altitude Chronograph GMT

Renowned for its military-inspired designs, Bremont has expanded its aviation-centric Altitude collection with the Chronograph GMT.

Available with either a silver or black dial, the watch can be paired with a steel bracelet, NATO strap, or nubuck leather. Crafted from durable 904L steel with a black DLC coating, it houses a BC781 automatic movement boasting 62 hours of power reserve.

Distinctive design elements include a propeller-like continuous seconds hand and a bright red arrow on the GMT hand. This model is engineered for endurance, featuring a shock-absorbing mount and anti-magnetic protection.

Ressence Type 7

The Ressence Type 7 stands out with its unique display, characterized by a Night Blue dial with a ceramic bezel and a limited edition option in XV Aquamarine with an aluminum bezel.

The design includes a seamless bracelet integrated into a lightweight Grade 5 titanium case, featuring an innovative oil-based system to power its iconic rotating discs.

A subdial displays the second time zone alongside temperature and operating indicators. Notably, the movement is adjusted from the case back, heightening the Ressence distinctive no-hands and crown-free approach while providing an unparalleled viewing experience.

Ver esta publicación en Instagram

Una publicación compartida por RESSENCE (@ressence_watches)

TAG Heuer Carrera Date Twin-Time

TAG Heuer introduced the Carrera Date Twin-Time model, a true homage to motor racing in steel. The watch features a satin teal dial reminiscent of the sport’s golden era, accentuated by a striking two-tone flange and a vibrant red-tipped GMT hand inspired by classic watchmaker tools.

A convenient date window at 6 o’clock enhances the dial’s functionality without compromising its sporty elegance. At the heart of the Twin-Time beats the TH31-03, which delivers an impressive 80-hour power reserve.

Q&As about GMT Watches

What is GMT? GMT stands for Greenwich Mean Time, a time standard that provides a reference point for coordinating time around the world. GMT watches allow users to track local time alongside a second time zone, making them essential for travelers.
What is the origin of GMT watches? GMT watches were developed in the mid-20th century amid the rise of commercial aviation, enabling pilots to manage their schedules effectively by tracking multiple time zones.
What is the most iconic GMT watch? The Rolex GMT-Master, launched in 1955, is regarded as the most iconic GMT watch, particularly known for its distinctive red and blue "Pepsi" bezel and robust functionality.
What distinguishes the Ressence Type 7? The Ressence Type 7 is unique due to its absence of traditional hands and crown, utilizing a patented oil-based display mechanism with rotating discs, enhancing both visual appeal and functionality.
What’s new in the GMT Master II? The new Rolex GMT-Master II features the brand's first ceramic dial in an 18 ct white gold case, a refined green hue on the Cerachrom dial, and the latest Caliber 3285 for improved timekeeping functionality and robust durability.