zOwie Omega Discussion Forum

: My new job will have me traveling extensively
: all over the world. I want to buy a reliable
: GMT watch, either quartz or automatic;
: accuracy is my number one criterion. I will
: appreciate recommendations and comments.
: Thanks in advance.

I can't make a recommendation unless I know better what you are actually looking for. I may misinterpret your needs and desires.

First, it is good to define our terms.

How would you define "accuracy"?

If you want accuracy measured in seconds per month, buy a quartz. If accuracy measured in seconds per day is acceptable, consider mechanicals.

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Define what you mean by "GMT"?

It is an oft misused term. There are many ways to accomplish the function of displaying two time zones. A GMT is one.

Traditionally, a "GMT" consists of a watch which displays the local time in 12 hour format and the home time or GMT/Zulu/UT time in a 24 hour format, using three hands.

It usually also allows easy change of the hour without affecting the minute hand.

Please see this link:

http://fejack.net/misc/gmt24/gmt24.htm

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Here are some examples of Omega GMTs and other ways of providing dual time zone displays.

Omega has several models of GMT mechanicals:

Seamaster sports watches, available in black or blue faces -- this white is now discontinued

The basic three hands (four counting the second hand) are clearly visible. The red 24 hours hand is read on the bezel.

A dressier alternative is included in the Deville line

Same functions, but the 24 hour indications is on an inner chapter ring.

There is also a Speedmaster chronograph GMT.

Vintage Omegas offered other alternatives

This is an uncommon watch with GMT dial at twelve from 1984

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As I mentioned, there are a number of ways to display multiple time zones. Since this is an Omega-oriented site, I will mention a now discontinued but readily available quartz alternative, the Speedmaster X-33. This watch is approved for use in space by NASA.

Below you see the date (1-365) and UT time

The X-33 allows for the dual display of two time zones among its reputedly over 20 functions (I never counted). While sounding intimidating, the watch is remarkably intuitive and easy to use, as well a furnishing an amazing night visibility and an earsplitting alarm.

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Other methods of dual time zone displays have been used:

One is a "world timer:

This 1952 Tissot provides a functionality identical to a GMT, two hands that read 12 hour time and a center disk that reads the 24 hour time (and moves at a 24 hours pace) in every time zone in the world.

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Some quartz watches offer split analog digital displays like this 1990s Seiko

While this photo shows the date function, a second time zone in 12 or 24 hours format can be shown in the LCD window.

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Better define your needs and desires and we'll happily help with a recommendation

Sam aka Hewybaby