Watches equipped with a GMT function are popular due to their high practicality and distinctive character. Various watch manufacturers have released a variety of models. Let's take a look at GMT watches from Seiko, the giant of Japanese watches, by brand.
"GMT function" that displays multiple time zones simultaneously
First of all, what exactly is a GMT function in a wristwatch? Before checking out Seiko's GMT watches, let's first understand the features and appeal of the GMT function.
A separate GMT hand displays a second time zone
The GMT function on a watch is a mechanism that allows it to simultaneously display the time in two different time zones. Some watches can even display the time in three countries (areas) simultaneously.
A typical GMT watch has hour, minute, and second hands, as well as a GMT hand that extends to the bezel. The local time is displayed with the hour hand, and the 24-hour rotating bezel and GMT hand indicate the time back home.
GMT is a term that refers to Greenwich Mean Time, an international standard time. Each country's standard time is expressed based on GMT. For example, Japan's standard time is 9 hours ahead of GMT, so it is written as "GMT+9."
The first wristwatch to feature a GMT function was the Rolex GMT-Master. The GMT-Master II, which inherited the design and engineering philosophy of the original model, is a popular model that continues to see new models being produced to this day.
The appeal of watches with GMT functions
Some watches with GMT functions have bezels that are divided into two colors. The eye-catching two-tone bezel is a major design feature of watches with GMT functions.
For example, the bezel of Seiko's "Seiko 5 Sports SKX Sports Style GMT" Ref. SBSC001 is divided into gray and black to make it easier to distinguish between day and night.
The GMT hand on the dial is also one of the distinctive features of watches with a GMT function. Many models have a different color or design for the GMT hand, making it an important design feature.
Some manufacturers focus on GMT functions, so when looking for a watch with a GMT function, it may be interesting to compare the features and differences of each manufacturer.
[Seiko 5 Sports] Recommended watches with GMT functions
Seiko 5 Sports is a casual watch brand with five different style concepts. We will introduce recommended Seiko 5 Sports watches with GMT functions.
"Seiko 5 Sports SKX Sports Style GMT"
Automatic movement (Cal. 4R34). 24 jewels. 21,600 vph. Power reserve approximately 41 hours. Stainless steel case (diameter 42.5 mm, thickness 13.6 mm). Water resistant to 10 bar. Price: 46,200 yen (tax included).
The Seiko 5 Sports "SKX Sports Style GMT" Ref. SBSC001 is a beautiful evolution of Seiko's SKX models. The bezel features different colors for day and night, and is made of Hardlex glass, which changes appearance depending on the light.
The GMT hand is equipped with Lumibrite, ensuring excellent visibility even in dark places, and a magnifying lens that enlarges the calendar display at 3 o'clock also contributes to improved visibility.
The metal bracelet, with its short link pitch, has a comfortable weight and fits comfortably on the wrist. Combining high design and practicality, this is a watch recommended for active wear.
[Seiko Presage] Recommended watches with GMT functions
Seiko Presage, which inherits the tradition of watchmaking, continues to spread Japanese aesthetics to the world. Let's take a look at the appeal of recommended Seiko Presage watches with GMT functions.
"Seiko Presage Sharp Edged Series"
Automatic winding (Cal. 6R64). 29 jewels. 21,600 vph. Power reserve approximately 45 hours. Stainless steel case (diameter 42.2 mm, thickness 13.7 mm). Water resistant to 10 bar. 84,700 yen (tax included)
The Seiko Presage Sharp Edged Series is characterized by a design that sublimates the uniquely Japanese aesthetic into a wristwatch. By eliminating ornate decoration, it accentuates its sophisticated image.
The dial of the Ref. SARF005 in this series features the traditional Japanese hemp leaf pattern. The sharp design creates a powerful shine, giving it a stylish impression.
The color of the GMT hand not only improves visibility, but like the other hands and indexes, it is also coated with Lumibrite, making it highly practical and useful in business situations.
"Seiko Presage Style 60's"
Automatic winding (Cal. 4R34). 24 jewels. 21,600 vph. Power reserve approximately 41 hours. Stainless steel case (diameter 40.8 mm, thickness 13.0 mm). Water resistant to 5 bar. 84,700 yen (tax included)
The dial of the Seiko Presage "Style 60's" Ref. SARY229 is inspired by the cockpit of a historic car from the 1960s, and the color is a metallic shade that was popular in the 60s.
The watch incorporates details from the Crown Chronograph, which was released in 1964, and features a GMT layout. The Crown Chronograph was the first Japanese-made wristwatch with a stopwatch function.
The transparent case back allows you to enjoy the beauty of the mechanical movement, Cal. 4R34, in action. If you like retro-inspired watches, this is a great choice.
[Seiko Prospex] Recommended watches with GMT functions
Seiko Prospex is a brand known for its professional-grade functions that are useful for sports and outdoor activities. Let's take a look at some popular watches with GMT functions.
"Seiko Prospex Diver Scuba"
Automatic movement (Cal. 6R54). 24 jewels. 21,600 vph. Power reserve approximately 72 hours. Stainless steel case (diameter 42mm, thickness 12.9mm). Water resistant to 200m. Price: 218,900 yen (tax included).
The Seiko Prospex Diver Scuba is a series of diver's watches equipped with practical functions. The Ref. SBEJ009 is equipped with the Cal. 6R54 movement, which also features a GMT function. This movement boasts a power reserve of approximately 72 hours.
While inheriting the heritage design of Seiko's famous "1968 Mechanical Divers," the watch also features a mirror and hairline finish that adds a touch of elegance, achieving a fusion of tradition and modernity.
The case and bracelet are treated with Seiko's proprietary DiaShield technology, which makes the surface scratch-resistant and helps maintain the watch's original beauty and shine.
"Seiko Prospex Diver Scuba"
Solar-powered quartz (Cal. 5K65). 3 jewels. Stainless steel case (diameter 45mm, thickness 13.2mm). 200m water resistant. 121,000 yen (tax included).
The Seiko Prospex Diver Scuba SBPK001 is Seiko's first model with a solar GMT function. In addition to the GMT function, it also features a solar charging function that eliminates the need for regular battery changes.
The appeal of this watch is that it has a power reserve of approximately nine months when fully charged. The orange GMT hand enhances the readability of the time amidst the green dial and bezel.
The basic water resistance of the Seiko Prospex Diver Scuba series is 200m, which is enough for serious diving.
"Seiko Prospex The Black Series"
Solar-powered quartz movement (Cal. 5K65). Stainless steel + black hard-coated case (diameter 45mm, thickness 13.2mm). 200m water resistant. 132,000 yen (tax included).
The Ref. SBPK007 is also available as a GMT model for the Diver Scuba. Furthermore, as part of "The Black Series," this model's design is inspired by "night vision," the view seen through a night-vision scope. It features an all-black exterior and green Lumibrite Pro. This green Lumibrite Pro is a newly developed luminous paint that boasts higher brightness and a longer afterglow than regular colored Lumibrite. It can be said that the design is in line with the worldview of "night vision," both in terms of its design and functionality, which ensures visibility in dark places.
With 200m water resistance and a hard-coated case, it's easy to wear on a daily basis, and combined with its cool all-black design, it's a GMT watch you'll want to wear every day.
Experience the practicality of Seiko's GMT watch
The GMT function allows the time in two or three countries (areas) to be displayed simultaneously. The design of the bezel with its separate colors and the GMT hand on the dial are distinctive features of watches with a GMT function.
Many watch manufacturers offer a variety of watches with GMT functions, and Seiko's lineup also includes many attractive models. Let's take a look at the features and appeal of Seiko's GMT watches and find one that can be used for business or personal use.
