Comparing 10 desirable mid priced TRUE GMT watches for you to consider

I review and compare 10 of the most affordable true, or traveller's, GMT watches available today. A traveller's GMT is one where the local hour can be changed without impacting the minute and second hands or the GMT hand. A much more convenient operation for those who move frequently between time zones.
If you are in to horology, I suggest you watch this video on the advancements in time telling: • A History of Watch Adv...
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✅ DISCLAIMER: This video and description contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. This helps support the channel and allows us to continue to make videos like this. Thank you for the support! Everything in this video is based on information we learned from online resources, our own experience, and books we have read. Please do your own research before making any important decisions. You and only you are responsible for any and all digital marketing decisions you make. Thank you for watching!
⬛ AFFILIATE LINKS
Certina DS Action GMT:amzn.to/3Z2UQ99
Tissot Chemin des Tourelles GMT: amzn.to/3VCyrMU
Mido Ocean Star GMT: amzn.to/3YVDAml
Seiko Sharp Edge Presage GMT: amzn.to/3jJ4Q7b
Hamilton Khaki Aviation Converter Auto GMT: amzn.to/3Gteh3M
Timecodes
0:00 - Introduction
0:24 - Types of GMT watches
1:57 - 10 true/traveller's GMT watches
3:09 - Bulova Wilton GMT review
4:39 - Boldr Odyssey Freediver GMT
6:20 - Certina DS Action GMT review
7:57 - Tissot Chein Des Tourelles review
9:25 - Mido Ocean Star GMT
11:15 - Seiko Sharp Edge Presage review
13:32 - Hamilton Khaki Aviation Converter Auto GMT review
15:26 - Longines Spirit Zulu Time review
17:11 - Grand Seiko SBGN003 review
19:10 - Ball Engineer III Jet-Set GMT review
21:01 - Higher priced traveller's GMT watches

[@adventureswithtime]

If you are in to horology, I suggest you watch this video on the advancements in time telling: kzbin.info/www/bejne/nmS8dXiFh52qr8U

[@smashexentertainment676]

MIDO is the king, all occasion tough diver with GMT function, plus 80 hours. Love it. My go-to anywhere I go. Glycine Airman is timeless classy design, that is relatively tough and offers variety of sizes and can be found for a reasonable price. Got mine for 500 bucks few years ago, even tho now it retails at 1800.

[@adventureswithtime]

Nice hunting. Always great to get a good discount

[@smartcar8]

Appreciate the work that was put into this video! Very informative.

[@adventureswithtime]

It did take a lot of time and was an education for me too.

[@jimgd4]

I have been consuming watch content on KZbin for years, seeking out videos on GMT's and watches for men who like big watches that are tastefully done- with your 7-7/8" wrist, maybe you could be my guy for that content!! This was probably the best GMT video I have ever seen!! You did such a concise job of explaining the basic difference between an office GMT and a Traveler's GMT, and I have watched so many content providers botch that delivery and make that a very confusing lesson. I will be looking forward to your next video, and checking out your back catalog!

[@adventureswithtime]

Thank you for the kind words. It encourages me to make more and even better videos.

[@alamore5084]

Fanrastic review of sensibly priced GMT's! I like thd Mido!

[@adventureswithtime]

The Mido is a very nice watch.

[@ronnienes]

This is a great channel! Love the practical yet entertaining content.

[@adventureswithtime]

Glad you like my videos

[@LectioDivina33]

Yes thanks for the effort into this video. I ended up buying the affordable luxury Longines Spirit Zulu Time GMT bracelet Blue on black for $2,300 USD. Even at RRP I think it beats any watch on this list for looks, value, overall specs etc IMO. The polished wooden box is also amazing,, with a luxury presentation just like the watch. You could have added the Tudor black bay pro but I prefer the Longines or the Rolex GMT Master II which is beautiful but crazy priced IMO.

[@adventureswithtime]

You and I have similar tastes. I do think the Zulu Time is a beautiful watch. I'm hoping to buy one soon. Although I usually get watches on the bracelet, I'm thinking this watch would be best on a strap. How do you like the bracelet?

[@LectioDivina33]

@@adventureswithtime Yes the bracelet is very good quality just like the watch. I will keep mine on the bracelet! Thanks

[@italianstallion3130]

Zulu for the win. I just wish the back was transparent

[@fjbtube6278]

That Ball E3 Outlier would check all my boxes.

[@adventureswithtime]

It is a nice watch. Do you have a GMT: office or traveler?

[@BoleDaPole]

Yea I'm thinking about getting a Ball as well. The lume looks fantastic.

[@Harpooooon]

I love my Citizen Nighthawk. I use the GMT hand for tracking Zulu time for flying. I might have to pick up one of these watches that you've selected. I really like the Hamilton!

[@adventureswithtime]

So many watches and such limited money.

[@EricBishard]

As a traveler, it is worth it and this video is great because a lot of GMTs don't easily advertise what type of GMT it is.

[@adventureswithtime]

Thank you. Glad you found it useful

[@user-so8sb6bz9y]

Great video. I think Tudor BB Pro is a great addition to your list. Size, bracelet, strap options, quality and value are all there. I did not mention the thickness as a negative because compared to the other watches on this list, it's proportions are IMO better.

[@adventureswithtime]

At the time of filming, I don’t think the Pro model was available.

[@edmora3048]

Mido gmt 🙌 hands down the best on this list thank you for the review

[@adventureswithtime]

And thank you for watching.

[@serdalkaptan]

I would like to add the Seiko SSK00X (001, 003, 005 if I am not mistaken) GMT timepieces. This model is also a lot of value for the money. I also saw, and ordered, a Wancher Astronaut II TRUE GMT timepiece a few days ago. According to info I obtained, the movement is Seagull ST1612, and manufactured in Japan. It is, like Seiko SSK001, a screw down crown diver piece. It is discontinued, unfortunately. Its price is ridiculously low as well. Thank you for the evaluation of these beautiful timepieces.

[@adventureswithtime]

Since I made this video there have been several new watches on the market.

[@warrengiang6502]

Great video. I was looking for a true gmt and went with the Tudor black bay gmt that I got used for under $3k.

[@adventureswithtime]

Great. How do you like it.

[@MarcosVenti]

The Certina and Zulu are the best! I personally do not like bezel on my gmt watches as it is always moving accidentally. Do consider this if you are looking for a bezel.

[@adventureswithtime]

I think a bezel adds interest to a watch. But to each their own.

[@lesgillard1508]

Great presentation as usual Bob, Thank you for the information .😀

[@adventureswithtime]

I love making videos like this. It’s an education for me too

[@jrl956080]

I loved this video, and have become a "follower". I think it is worth mentioning that even with these "true" GMTs, there are defining characteristics of their operation. Some use "pusher" buttons to set the "local" hour hand. Other use the single crown to move the hour hand only forward in one hour increments by turning the crown in one direction and quick set the date by turning the crown in the opposite direction. Still others use the single crown to turn the hour hand forward or backward in one hour increments, but have no quick set date capability except turning the hour hand forward or backward in 24 hour increments. I like the latter implementation, but some may like the quick set date function. That said, it might be wise to read the owner's manual to determine the method of operation before purchasing one of these watches.

[@adventureswithtime]

Thanks for the information. The pushers may be an addition that people don't like. While others may love them. Thanks for subscribing.

[@DSimms]

The 1998-2005 Omega Seamaster GMT is another traveler GMT option to consider at around $3,000. Reference numbers 2534.50, 2234.50, 2834.50.91, 2538.20.

[@adventureswithtime]

I was only new currently available models. When considering what is available on the pre-owned market, there are a lot more options.

[@Gumby56]

Yep, love my Bulova Wilton GMT.

[@adventureswithtime]

Do you have one? It was hard to find one in any store here.

[@Gumby56]

@@adventureswithtime yes, from teddy baldassarre

[@JoseMorales-vw4qf]

Thanks, that Mido gold and silver is a killer plus lower price.

[@adventureswithtime]

It is a very nice watch

[@TarrelScot]

Yes, I've got my eye on an Ocean Star. Hadn't considered the duo-tone but, using it showcased here, it does look good.

[@jrl956080]

Another True GMT worth mentioning is the Oris Big Crown ProPilot Worldtimer. Simply turning the bezel provides one hour local time adjustment forwards or backwards. This would be my favorite true GMT but I had mechanical issues with the bezel adjustment of the hour hand, and eventually traded the watch for the Fortis GMT.

[@adventureswithtime]

Does it fit within the price limits of this video?

[@quehorassao00]

Great review,very informative,coincidently I have learn just today the difference between a true and a traveller gmt

[@RobinsWatchJourney]

Interesting and informative review.

[@adventureswithtime]

Thank you for watching

[@Vox-Populi]

Good production quality and valuable content. Thanks!

[@adventureswithtime]

Thank you. I’m glad you found it in helpful

[@shj2000]

Great survey of affordable traveller GMT watches! It's been a year since you posted this collection. With the greater adoption of the Miyota 9075 and the seemingly increased interest in GMT watches, how about an update?

[@adventureswithtime]

I’m thinking about it. Thanks

[@slavemi3018]

6:49 the Certina DS Action GMT uses an ETA.C07.661 movement, the GMT-variant of the .611 movement. It doesn't use the synthetic-escaping C07.111.

[@adventureswithtime]

Maybe I'm wrong. I'll check on that. Thanks

[@helenrushful]

You didn’t cover this one, but For me it’s Hamilton Jazzmaster GMT every time, high quality movement and feels more expensive than it is. Ok, you can pay 1k for them, but it’s a thing of joy.

[@adventureswithtime]

I’ve not yet looked at the Jazzmaster. I’ll have to give it a look

[@m.jackson2380]

Excellent review! You have a new subscriber, keep up the good work!

[@adventureswithtime]

Thank you so much. Tell your friends.

[@kevinc1001]

Gotta put Jack Mason's new Strat- O-Timer on this list and even though some wouldn't call it a true Travelers GMT I would say the Citizen Promaster Diver BJ7128-59E should be one to also consider the hour hand can be set independently but also can the date.

[@adventureswithtime]

Does it have a GMT hand?

[@Orozco_PNW]

@@adventureswithtime I thought they had true Travelers GMT local hourhand adjustment on the Strat-o-Timer? Very attractive look and price, and it's not an homage...

[@jackkennedy9475]

@@adventureswithtimeyes, Jack Mason Strato Timer is a GMT. By watching your video I now know of True vs Traveler GMT’s. I don’t know if Strato Timer is true or traveler GMT?. Good video. Uncle was a certified gemologist and watch repairer in Durango CO. He worked on clocks and watch tat were built in 1800’s! And newer as well.

[@peterholzapfel6912]

Love my Mido GMT

[@adventureswithtime]

It is a great watch.

[@jrl956080]

Another good addition to this list is the Gavox Longitude GMT for around $750 USD.

[@adventureswithtime]

Didn't know about that one. Thanks

[@hugohernandez3651]

I have the Mido Ocean Star. Absolutely fantastic. You can get it for $1K.

[@adventureswithtime]

That is a very nice watch.

[@gtcih]

I also have it, blue and red version. I like that it only takes a matter of seconds to change out the bracelet for the strap.

[@np1663]

I was very surprised to see the Certina DS Action GMT. A very nice top quality watch not known by many. Thanks.

[@adventureswithtime]

Why the surprise? There are others I should add in the update.

[@sjonny-depp]

Recently discovered the Mido ocean GMT duo tone. I can buy it for 1K. Shame that no body seems to talk about these watches. The quality of this watch is out of the world and probably one of the best bracelets for the money. Is it worth the money?

[@adventureswithtime]

Value is up to they buyer. But it is a great watch.

[@jhandal311]

Forgot about the traska with the new miyota ! Just a tik under $1k

[@adventureswithtime]

Some watches were released after I made this video. Thanks

[@Lensman3333]

I really enjoyed your video and presentation.

[@adventureswithtime]

Thank you for watching

[@4034miguel]

I would like a 40mm or less rotating bezel traveler GMT. It is so difficult to find one. Could you please recommend one with those requirements?

[@adventureswithtime]

The Longines Zulu Time now comes in a smaller version. Take a look at it.

[@zahanl5595]

Longines zulu 39mm

[@ghaith8707]

Great informative review, thanks 👍

[@adventureswithtime]

Thanks for the praise.

[@LBEfication]

39mm version of the Longines spirit gmt's will launch soon. Can't wait for one of those beauties on my wrist

[@adventureswithtime]

I didn’t know that. Do you know when it will launch and any specifics like price? I wonder if the dial will look too crowded at that size. Thanks.

[@rickhoevenaars7833]

You missed the Jack Mason Strat-o-Timer, which also uses the Miyota movement. You should check it out as it’s got great specs.

[@adventureswithtime]

It was announced after I made this video. I will have to look at it. Have you seen it in person?

[@rickhoevenaars7833]

@@adventureswithtime No, but I've got it on order. I think they'll be shipping in February or March. The reviews from the few KZbinrs who have received the preproduction models have been really positive.

[@DSimms]

Gavox Longitude is another one to consider with the Miyota 9075 movement for $910 with dimensions of 39x47x12.6mm and a bidirectional 24hr bezel

[@adventureswithtime]

@@DSimms Yup. It uses the same movement as the Jack Mason. Thanks for bringing this one to my attention.

[@grahamlawton6250]

Cool video and concept, thanks. Other than Ball and Grand Seiko, they are all bigger (42mm+) watches…do travellers have bigger wrists than the rest of us?

[@seayak]

i do get weary of this business that moving from an "office" to a "traveller's" GMT is an "upgrade", which implies that is requires a more expensive or elaborate movement. GMT movements such as the Sellita 330-2 can be configured either way - if the manufacturer opts for the jumping hour hand, then this is done at the expense of a quick-set date, whereas with the "office" type the quick-set date function is preserved at the cost jumping hour hand. Personally I prefer the "office" configuration because I don't move between time zones very frequently. In addition I rotate between different watches in my collection, so that by the time I get back to a particular GMT watch, days or even weeks may have elapsed, and in that case I need to go throught the laborious process of winding the time set until the date clicks over to the current one. This is a nuisance as far as I am concerned, but my point is there are tradeoffs either way - you just have to decide which suits your needs best. But calling one or other a "true" GMT rankles me, because they can both be used to track a second time zone. Add a rotating bezel and you can actually track a third.

[@adventureswithtime]

I agree that the term “true” GMT is inappropriate. I was going to leave it out but decided to keep that term as it is often used by others.

[@seayak]

@@adventureswithtime Thanks for that down-to-earth comment. As a sailor, I find the "office" GMT more useful, because I can use it to actually track GMT, which is useful for setting avigational devices that require you to set GMT offset.. Better we should call these "sailor"" GMT's, at least partly because time zones change pretty infrequently when you are sailing at six knots. I suppose we could label the jumping hour hand variety "airplane" watches for the same reason. I don't expect this to catch on any time soon though. The jet-setters who fork out big cash for the luxury brand jumping-hour versions likely need to think they are getting extra funcdtionality or their money 🙂

[@seayak]

@@adventureswithtime Thanks for this thorough and articulate review of these watches!

[@petercharron3268]

Yes, with most of us working from home for a company in another location or a business associate across the world then then office gmt or world timer are better than a so called true gmt.

[@Pappas1997]

Great video. What black strap is that on your Longines Zulu? Thanks!

[@adventureswithtime]

The one that comes with the watch

[@bernardbarroga1497]

Great review as always. But, the Jack Mason GMT for a grand should be included in your list. Just saying.

[@adventureswithtime]

Unfortunately, it came out just after I finished this video. Have you had the JM GMT in hand? Do you like it?

[@LevPicaresco]

Great work Thank you so much. Very informative.

[@adventureswithtime]

I'm glad you found it helpful. I hope you enjoy my other videos.

[@Orozco_PNW]

What are your thoughts on the microbrand Jack Mason with their Strat-o-timer GMT? I have been considering getting one before a trip later this year... Priced at $999 USD

[@adventureswithtime]

The Strat-o-Timer came out just as this video was published, so it was not included in my survey. I haven't seen it in person so can't give concrete thoughts. However, I do think it is worth checking out.

[@jorgecarrillo2]

I would go for the Bulova,

[@adventureswithtime]

Several people have admired the Bulova. It’s just not for me.

[@jorgecarrillo2]

@@adventureswithtime Yes, everybody have their own preferences

[@khan7475]

Very informative. great vid! Could you also review the Tissot Seastar GMT?

[@adventureswithtime]

If I can get my hands on one

[@cryptobiolyn]

Great video, thank you!

[@adventureswithtime]

Thank you. I do enjoy making these comparison videos.

[@arielargo]

You could add to this list the new Traska Venturer GMT that uses the new Miyota 9075 movement. Great value watch and spec monster under 40mm and under $700! 👍

[@adventureswithtime]

Thanks for bringing that to our attention

[@jazzman5598]

Fine vid Sir! Thanks

[@adventureswithtime]

Thanks. Glad you liked it.

[@TarrelScot]

Very useful video. It can be hard work trawling through the vast number of "GMT" watches out there to find the true GMTs. You've separated the wheat from the chaff for us. May I respectfully offer a small correction? Your specs displayed for the Longines showed "display case back". I'm not sure that's true, but if it is I'll definitely be having one! Also worth noting they've recently brought out a 39mm version.

[@adventureswithtime]

Yes, I see they have a 39mm version. I want to try that on to see if it fits me better.

[@jondevlin4187]

Why does Jack Masons watch not get mentioned in all the other True GMT or even GMTs under $1000 ?

[@adventureswithtime]

Not sure if it was out when I made this video

[@BaronPrasilHD]

I have Bulova Wilton GMT

[@adventureswithtime]

How do you like it?

[@tims4505]

fantastic comparison thank you.

[@adventureswithtime]

I’m glad you found it helpful. I like and learn a lot myself making these.

[@krugmeup2162]

Thank you for the education on gmt watches.

[@adventureswithtime]

It was an education for me too. I’m glad you liked it.

[@mrcaloyski14]

Mido oceanstar GMT is the best. I have the pepsi gmt.i.want the rose gold version

[@adventureswithtime]

How many watches do you have

[@joelantler6660]

I have heard that the powermatic 80 movements cannot be regulated. does anyone know if that is the same for the GMT based on that movement?

[@adventureswithtime]

I would assume so

[@Devoto2]

Very good video. You missed CHRONOMAT AUTOMATIC GMT 40 for the best GMT!

[@adventureswithtime]

I didn't really miss it. I selected the 10 most affordable and your watch was more expensive than the 10 I showed. But thanks for pointing it out.

[@davinhunt7558]

Nice recommendations and informative

[@adventureswithtime]

Glad you liked it

[@Xanduur]

My “GMT” watch is a Casio G-Shock 5000U

[@adventureswithtime]

That’s a digital right?

[@kamil151]

Nice video

[@adventureswithtime]

Thanks

[@GadgetyMV]

Nice walk through. Ball's Engineer III Jet-Set GMT looks great, however, they will not produce until they have sufficient orders taken and a deposit is required. The do not inform how many orders they need, nor how many orders they have. The production dates have moved several times, and it's been continually moved into the future, for over a year now. So, not a viable alternative.

[@adventureswithtime]

Wow. I didn’t know that. Did you find out only because you ordered the watch and only after you put down your deposit? Are you able to withdraw and get your deposit back?

[@GadgetyMV]

@@adventureswithtime I found out because others ordered and I've followed Ball's updated production dates over the past year. I don't know if you can get your deposit back.

[@howarddiskin636]

Have you researched the Zelos Spearfish GMT? I’m wondering if it’s an office or traveler gmt

[@adventureswithtime]

I believe it’s an office GMT

[@harri4208]

Seiko Presage Sharp Edge ❤

[@adventureswithtime]

A nice one

[@jrl956080]

I have one, and found the dial to be too busy; and the date wheel difficult to read.

[@edheromarvelazquezalvarez2265]

I really like your video Thanks

[@adventureswithtime]

Thank you for the nice words. Spread the word so others get to discover my channel.

[@gergemall]

Love the video

[@16rumpole]

the Ball blue dial is beautiful

[@adventureswithtime]

There are too many beautiful watches. We want them all.

[@16rumpole]

@@adventureswithtime I know I just got a direnzo with a red dial and it is just gorgeous

[@rustyjohnson7796]

AWT - nice video . We all love gmts.

[@adventureswithtime]

Which GMTs do you have?

[@steveverhoef5667]

Excellent video..

[@adventureswithtime]

Thank you. It was an education for me to make it

[@johnnie5442]

TAG Carrera GMT, though I think it's overpriced for what it is. But still, not much more expensive that the Ball or Grand Seiko.

[@adventureswithtime]

I'd like to see it in person.

[@darrylbrown5030]

should have added the original 24 hr style Glycine Airman

[@adventureswithtime]

What is the cost on that watch?

[@yukonthornsaengsanoh7942]

Traska Venturer could be in this list, so please help review this watch. Thanks.

[@adventureswithtime]

Yes. I don’t have access to this watch, but would love to review one

[@joshsher6327]

Monta looks nice. But at $2,435.00, I'd rather buy a preowned Tudor Black Bay GMT.

[@adventureswithtime]

Pre-owned is always an option for any brand.

[@JoseMorales-vw4qf]

Will you review Rado gmt.

[@adventureswithtime]

If I can get my hands on one.

[@oldsnwbrdr]

There’s a new Tissot Seastar GMT that is absolutely beautiful, but absurdly sized at 46mm.

[@adventureswithtime]

I'm sure there will be other traveller's GMT watches coming out. These were the 10 I found at the time. But thanks.

[@pinoyedc]

I have the Citizen Promaster Air Nighthawk for a GMT

[@adventureswithtime]

I don’t think that is a traveler’s GMT

[@pinoyedc]

@@adventureswithtime I can adjust the hour hand independently though

[@adventureswithtime]

@@pinoyedc Does the hour hand jump one hour when you adjust it? Maybe it is a traveller's GMT

[@robyee3325]

Subbed

[@adventureswithtime]

Thanks. Tell ALL your friends to also subscribe

[@jaesounglee7396]

how abour the Christopher ward?

[@oldsnwbrdr]

I like the CW brand but they don’t make any true GMTs, just office GMTs without the essential jumping hour hand.

[@adventureswithtime]

I don't believe they made a traveller's GMT.

[@B2359]

90% have near or over 50 mm lug to lug and only suitable for large wrists.

[@adventureswithtime]

Unfortunately, for a lot of watch enthusiasts, a lot of watches today are like that.

[@bonestacio]

Adjusting on the wrist???

[@adventureswithtime]

What about adjusting on the wrist?

[@bonestacio]

@adventureswithtime kzbin.info/www/bejne/jX7Ic4GLiM5jhqc Check out 10:11 mark.

[@shawnfaison5118]

The black bay pro and seiko 5 GMT would be two other possible options for this list :D

[@adventureswithtime]

Black bay is over the price of this list. But thanks

[@arielargo]

The Seiko 5 GMT is a caller type, not travelers.

[@adventureswithtime]

@@arielargo yup

[@thegorn]

There is no “true” gmt except for a particular Oris that can do half hour offsets. Rolexes aren’t true gmts but traveller GMTs.

[@adventureswithtime]

Interesting take on the term “true” GMT. I was actually going to leave out the term but lots of people use it without a clear and universal definition. Based on your statement, would you say a “true” GMT needs to also adjust to 15 minute increments to support Nepal’s time zone?

[@wristwatch15]

There is a new Tissot Seastar GMT

[@ericmontgomery7339]

Unfortunately it is 46mm. Smh

[@adventureswithtime]

Yeah 46 is a bit large

[@SkylineBilip]

Damn, almost all of these are bigger than my whole house..

[@adventureswithtime]

Tiny house?