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Born from the skies, GMT watches were conceived as aviation's answer to a world drawn closer by speed yet fragmented by time zones. Pilots navigating the globe realised the necessity of tracking time across the meridians they traversed. This practical need gave birth to an extraordinary solution: the GMT watch. Ingeniously integrating a second-hour hand, these watches are designed not just to tell time but to bridge time zones effortlessly, embodying both a marvel of engineering and a hallmark of elegance.
What Is The GMT Feature?
GMT stands for Greenwich Mean Time, the benchmark from which all time zones around the world are measured. Originally used by mariners and later adopted by aviators and travellers, GMT serves as the universal backdrop of international time coordination. A GMT feature on a watch allows the wearer to keep track of time in the time zone aligned with Greenwich, London, alongside their local time. This duality offers a seamless solution for those who operate across different time zones, ensuring they remain synchronised with their global commitments.
How Do GMT Watches Function?
GMT watches are designed to tackle the challenge of keeping track of time across multiple time zones. They do so through mechanical ingenuity and thoughtful design that enables wearers to view their local time alongside the time in another zone, aligned with GMT. The core functionality hinges on additional components that work with the traditional watch movement to provide this dual-time capability.
Primary Features Of GMT Watches
- Dual Hour Hands: The primary aspect of a GMT watch is its two-hour hands. The first displays local time, just like any traditional watch. The second-hour hand is set to track time in a second time zone, moving around the dial every 24 hours. This second hand often has a different design or colouring for easy differentiation.
- 24-Hour Scale: Accompanying the second hour hand is a 24-hour scale, either on the dial or the bezel. This scale is crucial for distinguishing between AM and PM in the second time zone. Some watches feature a rotating bezel, allowing the wearer to adjust the second time zone without affecting the watch's main timekeeping.
- Setting Mechanism: The added complexity of displaying two time zones necessitates a unique setting mechanism. In many GMT watches, the crown has several positions or settings to adjust the local and GMT separately. This allows travellers to set the local time to their current location without losing track of their home time zone or any other reference time zone.
- Independent Hour Hand Adjustment: A key functionality in many luxury GMT watches is the ability to adjust the local time hour hand independently of the GMT hand and the minute hand. This feature is handy for quickly setting the local time upon entering a new time zone without disrupting the accuracy of the minute hand or the position of the GMT hand.
Buy GMT Watches At Ethos
From the legacy of timekeeping, watches have evolved to serve the global citizen – as advanced, elegant tools that effortlessly unite time zones. As an authorised retailer, Ethos prides itself on housing an impressive array of over 60+ luxury watch brands. Our collection encompasses a wide range of sophisticated GMT watches that cater to various tastes and needs.
We understand the gravity of investing in a timepiece that captures your personality, suits your style, and meets your practical needs. That's why our team of experts stands ready to guide you to a watch that truly represents you. They will navigate you through the intricacies of each piece, discussing their specific features, craftsmanship, and heritage to help you make a well-informed decision.
Frequently asked Questions (FAQs)
Why are GMT watches so popular?
GMT watches are popular because they cater to the modern, global lifestyle. They allow wearers to track time effortlessly in multiple time zones, making them essential for travellers, business professionals, and anyone with connections across the globe. Their functionality pairs with a sophisticated aesthetic, making them both practical and stylish.
Why are GMT watches more expensive?
Luxury GMT watches are often expensive due to their complex mechanism for tracking multiple time zones. This functionality requires additional parts and skilled craftsmanship to integrate seamlessly into the watch's movement. The precision, materials, and labour involved in creating such a timepiece contribute to its higher price.
Are there automatic and quartz GMT watches?
Yes, there are both automatic and quartz GMT timepieces available. Quartz GMT watches are operated by batteries and offer precision with minimal maintenance, while automatic watches are mechanically driven and powered by the movement of the wearer's wrist. Each type offers its unique blend of functionality and aesthetics to suit different preferences.
Why would I need a GMT watch?
You might need a GMT timepiece if you frequently travel across time zones, work in international business, or have personal connections in different parts of the world. Its GMT feature lets you keep track of local time and another time zone simultaneously, providing convenience and ensuring you remain punctual and connected.
What is the price range of a GMT watch at Ethos Watches?
At Ethos Watches, the GMT watch price range from INR 25K and can go up to 75 lakh, depending on the brand, material, and complexity of the watch.