2018 was a good year for the travel watch — from affordable GMT watches under $1,000 to the new Rolex GMT Master with Pepsi bezel and everything in between, this year saw offerings at nearly every price point available to the watch lover. And of course, a travel watch need not necessarily be any one specific type of timepiece — though the GMT function is probably the classic example of a travel complication, a calendar watch is also immensely useful for travel, and even a 12-hour bezel, the “poor man’s GMT,” can give quick access to a second time zone in a pinch.
If you’re gearing up for some travel this holiday season (or if you’re simply looking for a good read), check out these stories below, some of our favorite travel watch pieces from the past year.
The Monta Skyquest Is A Quality GMT That Won’t Break The Bank
Finally, a tough-as-nails GMT that you don't have to baby.
Baselworld 2018: Feast your Eyes on the New Rolex GMT. Oh, and the Pepsi Bezel is Back.
The "Pepsi" and "Rootbeer" return.
Alpina Debuts a Handsome, Entry-Level Pilot’s Chronograph
A great everyday watch option.
This GMT Watch Is Built for the One of the World’s Harshest Environments
Bremont worked with explorer Ben Saunders to create a watch tough enough to withstand the unforgiving environment of Antarctica.
IWC Gave Its Classic Pilot’s Watch a Beautiful Blue Dial and a Ceramic Case
An upgrade on an iconic for a good cause. What's not to like?
This GMT Features Some of the Best Graphic Design in the Watch Industry
The beautifully-designed Slim d'Hermès now comes with a GMT movement, as well as a case made from super-rare palladium.
Hamilton’s Reasonably-Priced Pilot’s Watch Is a Throwback to the Days of Early Aviation
Hamilton has a long history of making pilot's watches and it shows in this new timepiece.
You Can Only Buy IWC’s New Vintage-Style Chronograph Online
It's reminiscent of classic chronograph the brand made during the 1990s.
This Pilot’s Watch Is Made by an Underrated German Brand
It's inspired by a 1950s chronograph worn by Steve McQueen.
This Swedish Watch Company Is Bringing Back A Forgotten Pilot’s Chronograph
And it's very well-priced.
Bell & Ross Perfects Its Vintage-Inspired GMT
A few small touches can make a big impact.
This Tough GMT Can Be Had for a Great Price Right Now
Pre-order pricing puts this handsome, durable travel watch at around the $2,000 mark right now.
You Won’t Find a Better GMT Watch Than This for Under $1,000
Just consider acting quickly, as it's likely to sell out fast.
These Accessible GMT Watches Are Very Cool and Very Blue
Ming's new GMT watches celebrate one year since the brand's founding.
Grand Seiko’s Brilliant Quartz Movement Now Comes With a GMT Function
A beloved, super-accurate movement now gets a useful travel complication.
Just like that, 2018 has come and gone. Take a look back at the best of what the past 365 days had to offer in This Year in Gear