Office GMT vs. True GMT Watches: A Detailed Guide by Long Island Watch

Hello, this is Mark from Long Island Watch. It's time for another Watch and Learn. It's been a while, and I apologize for the delay. We've covered a lot of ground with over 80 episodes, but today we're revisiting a topic from an earlier episode: GMT watches. This is inspired by the new Seiko GMT models, the SSK1, SSK3, and SSK5.

GMT watches generally fall into two categories: Office GMTs and True (or Traveler's) GMTs. Let's dive into each type, their functions, and differences.

The term "Office GMT" often refers to GMT watches like the Seiko GMT. These are designed for those who need to track a second time zone but don't frequently travel. The GMT hand is synchronized with the main hour hand, moving together as you adjust the time. This design is simpler and typically less expensive.

Example:

- Set your local time to 9:00 AM.

- Set the GMT hand to track a friend’s time zone at 12:00 PM.

- The GMT hand will always be three hours ahead of your local time.

This setup is convenient for monitoring another time zone without constant travel adjustments.

True GMTs, or Traveler's GMTs, like the Seiko Kinetic GMT, function differently. Here, the GMT hand operates independently from the main hour hand. This type is ideal for frequent travelers, ensuring the home time remains constant regardless of local time changes.

Example:

- Set your home time (GMT hand) to 12:00 PM.

- When you travel and adjust the local time after landing, the GMT hand remains at 12:00 PM, reflecting your home time.

True GMTs are typically more expensive due to the complex movement required to keep the GMT hand independent.

- Operation: The GMT hand is linked to the main hour hand.

- Adjustment: Pull the crown out two clicks to change both hands; one click to adjust the GMT hand in hour increments.

- Best For: Occasional travelers or those needing a second time zone without frequent changes.

- Operation: The GMT hand is independent of the main hour hand.

- Adjustment: Pull the crown out two clicks to set the time; one click to move the hour hand in increments without affecting the GMT hand.

- Best For: Frequent travelers needing to maintain a consistent home time.

Both types of GMT watches have their merits. Office GMTs are budget-friendly and suitable for those who monitor another time zone occasionally. True GMTs offer greater flexibility and precision for frequent travelers, albeit at a higher cost due to their complex movements.

I hope this clarifies the differences between Office GMTs and True GMTs. If you found this video helpful, please like, subscribe, and leave your comments or questions below. I'll address them as soon as possible. Thank you for watching!