7 Best GMT Watches Under $1000 You Can Buy in 2024

GMT watches, also known as dual-time watches, are designed for travelers and globetrotters who need to keep track of multiple time zones simultaneously. This tool watch is definitely useful as it allows you to know the local time and second-time zone. Despite its impressive functionality, you can still find a lot of the best GMT watches under $1000.

This exceptional offer provides both functionality and affordability, meaning that you don’t need to worry about performance and accuracy. Moreover, GMT watches under $1000 not only provide accurate timekeeping but also offer a touch of sophistication and versatility for the modern traveler.

In this article, we’re going to look at the list of 7 GMT watches under $1000 that would do well for your next travel across time zones.

What to Look for in GMT Watches Under $1000 in 2024

There are several things you need to know before buying a GMT watch under $1000. When it comes to buying a watch, it’s the performance and design that we go first, right? 

Therefore, pay attention to the following key factors to find your perfect GMT watch under $1000.

Dual-Time Functionality

The primary feature of a GMT watch is the ability to track two or more time zones simultaneously. Ensure that the watch you choose has a dedicated GMT hand that can be adjusted independently. This allows you to easily set and read the time in different time zones.

Read also: Best Dual Time Watches to Wear When Travelling the World

Accuracy

A reliable GMT watch should offer accurate timekeeping across multiple time zones. Look for watches with reputable movements known for their precision, such as automatic or mechanical movements. 

Quartz movements are also known for their accuracy and can be a more affordable option.

Read also: The 5 Most Accurate Watches in the World

Build Quality and Materials

Choose a watch with sturdy construction and durable materials. Stainless steel cases offer excellent durability and resistance to everyday wear.

Sapphire crystal is highly recommended for its scratch-resistant properties, ensuring the dial remains clear and legible over time.

Read also: The 6 Materials From Good to Exclusive Quality Metal for Watches

Legibility

Clear and easy-to-read dials are crucial for a GMT watch. Opt for watches with well-contrasted hour markers and hands, preferably with luminescent coatings for enhanced visibility in low-light conditions. 

A well-designed bezel with clear markings can also aid in reading different time zones.

Read also: Everything You Need to Know About Super-LumiNova Watches

Exploring the World: Impressive GMT Watches Under $1000 

These days, GMT watches become an impressive complication and are loved by many. This is considering that the watch allows travelers to track multiple time zones simultaneously. Below are our top picks for GMT watches under $1000:

Seiko 5 Sports GMT Series Blue Ref. SBSC003

The first recommendation for GMT watches under $1000 falls to Seiko 5 Sports GMT Series Blue Ref. SBSC003. This sport watch boasts the latest GMT model with stainless steel case material has a diameter that is only upsized by 0.5mm to 42.5mm.

For high-contrast and seamless reading, the GMT hand is in bright red and the dial has a 24-hour hand and a stop-seconds hand function. Even in low light conditions, the time of day hands and indexes as well as the GMT hand have a profuse layer of Lumibrite for legibility.

Price: $440.00 USD

Read also: Seiko 5 Sports: A Great Collection for A Complete Package

Squale 30 ATMOS Aurora GMT Ceramica

The Squale 30 ATMOS Aurora GMT Ceramica is the latest model introduced by Squale. Made in Switzerland and powered by a Swiss Made ETA 2893-2/Sellita SW330-1 automatic movement with quickset GMT and date function.

Measuring just 42mm and 13mm thick, the watch is the first 30 ATMOS that got sized down a little to fit most wrists. Featuring a svelte case, a bolder design, and better water resistance, the 30 ATMOS has yet again set a new standard in the price segment. 

Price: $799.00 USD

Read also: 7 Impressive Squale Watches That Should be Under Your Radar

Steinhart Ocean One Vintage GMT

The Steinhart Ocean Vintage GMT is made to the highest of Swiss standards. The case of the Steinhart Ocean 1 is made from 316L stainless steel. Features a satin brushed finish on the top of the lugs and polished sides of the case.

The Steinhart signed 6.5mm screw-down crown is located at 3 O’clock and is good for a water-resistant rating of 300m.  For the price, you get a Swiss Made to watch with an SW330-2 movement, a full 316L stainless steel 300m diver watch with an SEL bracelet, and an overall well-finished sturdy watch.

Price: $550.00 USD

Read also: Steinhart Ocean One Titanium 500 Review: Dive Mastery Unleashed

Glycine Airman Vintage “The Chief” GMT Antique-Bronze Green Ref. GL0307

The next GMT watch under $1000 that should be in your collection is the Glycine Airman Vintage “The Chief” GMT Antique-Bronze. The watch is the new edition based on their original and famous watch from the 50s. 

It features a charismatic bronze-like case, and a stunning green dial, complete with a GMT function. Further, featuring vintage triangular markers, and period-correct hands with age-colored SuperLuminova lume, doing things the Glycine way. 

Price: $998.00 USD

Read also: On Hand: Glycine Airman “The Chief” Collection Review

Le Jour Hammerhead GMT Black Ref. LJ-HH-GMT-001

Built on the foundation of Le Jour’s technical knowledge of dive watch production, the Hammerhead collection of watches is a family of Swiss-made dive watches with solid specifications and a charming retro persona.

The Hammerhead GMT Black Ref. LJ-HH-GMT-001 is one of the collections that embodies the sporty character of their 70s sports chronograph’s cushion case. Further, the 3 o’clock position, the screw-down signed crown grants this piece a capable water resistance of 200m. 

Price: $980.00 USD

Read also: Closer Look: At The New Le Jour Rally Monte-Carlo Collection

Seiko Prospex 200M Sumo Solar Black GMT Ref. SBPK003

True to the Sumo legacy, this watch retains the oversized dimensions of the original Sumo. The Prospex 200M Sumo Solar Black GMT comes with a vibrant red GMT hand which allows the wearer to read off a 24-hour format of a second timezone. 

All elements are generously topped with Lumibrite, with a new small luminous marker next to the date window, for better readability. This GMT watch under $1000 makes a great choice for watch enthusiasts who seek a grab-and-go watch that reads multiple timezones, on land and deep underwater.

Price: $590.00 USD

Read also: Closer Look: At the new Seiko Prospex 200M Sumo SBDC175 & SBDC177

Steinhart Ocean One GMT Blue/Red Ceramic 2

A watch with a Pepsi bezel has been a popular choice for many years. One of them is as presented in Steinhart Ocean One GMT Blue/Red Ceramic 2. Made in Switzerland and powered by a Swiss Made Sellita SW330-2 Elaboré, this automatic GMT watch for $1000 is set to amaze. 

The bezel on the Ocean One GMT is a classic diver design with a new upgraded blue/red bezel done in ceramic. Further, the engraved bezel makes the numbers and markers visible under all lighting conditions. In short, the watch makes a great and loyal companion for your next travel or even diving.

Price: $650.00 USD

Read also: Closer Look: Steinhart Ocean One Vintage GMT Two-Tone

Final Thought

In conclusion, the world of GMT watches under $1000 offers an exciting range of options for travelers and watch enthusiasts seeking a reliable GMT watch without breaking the bank.

Seiko, Orient, Hamilton, Citizen, and Glycine are just a few of the brands offering exceptional value for money, combining functionality, durability, and style in their GMT watches.

By carefully considering the features and brands mentioned above, you can find a GMT watch that suits your needs, allowing you to navigate different time zones with confidence and style.

Read also: A Brief Guide on How Do GMT Watches Work?