Different time zones, different time differences... There are many time differences around the world. From San Francisco to Sydney, via New York and London, a time difference of ten hours can sometimes be observed. This is where the GMT function comes into play: with a simple movement, you can find out the time in the desired time zone. Let's take a look at this watchmaking complication.
The GMT function: origins and operation
For almost a century, GMT (Greenwich Mean Time) was based on the movement and position of the sun. Since 1972, it has been based on UTC (Coordinated Universal Time). Determined and based on atomic clocks, UTC is far more precise and accurate. Rather than a time zone, UTC is a time interval measuring the difference in time between different regions of the globe. Some watch manufacturers designate their models with a second time zone as UTC rather than GMT, using this more precise technology.
Particularly in the 1950s, during the first transatlantic crossings to the continent of hope, the GMT function played a major role in both aviation and navigation.
Most of the time, a simple glance isn't enough: the GMT complication is integrated into a unidirectional rotating bezel, which must be activated to read the time from another prism. The GMT function gives you several time zones to read on a single watch!
A model to illustrate: MARQ AVIATOR from Garmin
An ultra-functional adventure timepiece for extreme sports, the MARQ AVIATOR from Garmin is an excellent illustration of the GMT function. Originally designed for aviators, adding two additional time zones was an obvious choice for the watch manufacturer. Featuring a polished mirror dial with 24-hour GMT display, you can keep track of your long-distance travels and long-haul flights by indicating the local time at different airports.
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