Best GMT Watch Under $1000: Our Top Picks

Written by Paul Morrison
| Last Updated on July 22, 2021

You don’t have to spend $5000 just to own a top-notch watch that will last you for 5 generations.

Even with a lot of expensive options, there are a ton of affordable GMT watches that are both stylish and functional.

Keep reading to find the best GMT watch under 1000 for you!

Best Overall

Seiko SUN065 Padi GMT Diver Watch

Seiko SUN065

Best Value

Victorinox FieldForce Sport GMT Watch

Victorinox FieldForce

Best Budget

Torgoen T9 Blue GMT Watch

Torgoen T9

#1 – Seiko Padi GMT Diver Watch

Best Overall

Alpina Men's Seastrong GMT Watch

If you’re looking for the best GMT watch under 1000, you should definitely consider this Seiko piece—even if it’s a bit pricey.

First of all, the Seiko Padi isn’t just a GMT watch; it has dive watch capabilities certified by the Professional Association of Dive Instructors (PADI) too!

It has a water resistance of 200 meters and a unidirectional bezel so you can wear it safely (and dive safely) in the ocean.

Worried that your watch will break after a few scratches?That’s hardly the case with Seiko Padi.

The watch features an anti-reflective, scratch-resistant sapphire crystal dial that protects it from damage anywhere you go.

The tough, stainless steel case should resist most forms of impact, while the silicone strap is tough but still comfortable to wear.

Now, most importantly, how are its timekeeping functions? Well, because this Seiko watch operates on a Japanese quartz movement, you can trust it to be pretty accurate.

What’s unique about it is that it’s kinetic-powered, which means it recharges with the movement of your wrist—much like an automatic movement. This function gives you up to 6 months of power reserve at a time.

Lastly, the second time zone can be tracked using the red GMT hand, which lights up at night.

Because the hour and minute markers are luminous as well, the primary time zone can be read easily even in low-light conditions.

Although the Seiko Padi GMT watch may be a bit more expensive than the other GMT watches on this list, we think it’s well worth it for the impressive functionality it offers.

Pros

  • Comfortable diving watch
  • Suitable for those with bigger wrists
  • Doesn’t require a battery to run

Specifications

  • Model: SUN065
  • 47.5mm case diameter, stainless steel
  • Sapphire crystal dial
  • Silicone rubber strap
  • Japanese quartz movement
  • Water-resistant up to 200 meters

#2 – Victorinox FieldForce Sport GMT Watch

Best Value

Victorinox FieldForce Sport GMT Watch

Perfect for those with active lifestyles, the Victorinox FieldForce Sport GMT watch exudes a confident and sporty style.

Because its orange hand, strap, and accents provide a striking contrast against the black-coated, stainless steel dial and lugs, it gives the wearer a youthful, energetic feel too.

We love how this model has practical GMT functionality, but you can also choose one with chronograph features, which consists of small second, 30-minute, and 12-hour counters.

Since it runs on quality Swiss quartz movement, you can depend on it for ACCURATE timekeeping as well.

In terms of readability, this GMT model is a great option: Its numerals are bold and distinct, and the hands are enhanced with Super-LumiNova for a luminescent finish in the dark.

The white and orange accents also make the dial components stand out.

Best of all, this watch is very reasonably priced!

This is one of the best GMT watches under 1000 because it performs well in all aspects—style, function, quality, and price—which truly makes it an all-around watch.

Pros

  • Lightweight and comfortable
  • Fun, sporty look
  • Easy readability
  • Accurate movement

Specifications

  • Model: 241897
  • 42mm case diameter, stainless steel
  • Rubber strap
  • Sapphire crystal-enclosed black dial
  • Swiss quartz movement
  • 100-meter water resistance

#3 – Torgoen T9 Blue GMT Watch

Best Budget Pick

Torgoen T9 Blue GMT Watch

Did you know that this GMT watch under 1000 is actually under 150? Yup, you read it right—the Torgoen T9 GMT watch is the most affordable one on this list, so it’s perfect for anyone on a tight budget.

However, the low price doesn’t mean it’s not a good choice.

Instead of a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal dial and an automatic movement, you get mineral glass and quartz, but these don’t make the watch any less functional.

In fact, it still houses a quality Swiss movement that keeps time well.

We also appreciate that besides having GMT functions, this watch has an above-average water resistance of 100 meters.

This means you can keep it with you while engaging in most light water sports without worrying it’ll break.

However, if you plan to bring it into the pool more than a few times, you might want to switch out the leather strap for something more heavy-duty—perhaps stainless steel or rubber.

In terms of aesthetics, this Torgoen watch is great for those who appreciate a classic, vintage-inspired look. Although it’s definitely on the rugged side, we think it’s still suitable for all kinds of occasions, so you’ll get a lot of use out of it!

Pros

  • Budget-friendly
  • Great quality at a low price
  • Multipurpose watch

Specifications

  • Model: T9BLOR42BR
  • 42mm case diameter, stainless steel
  • Brown leather strap
  • Mineral glass dial
  • Swiss quartz movement
  • 100-meter water resistance

#4 – Versace Men’s Hellenyium GMT Watch

Versace Men's Hellenyium GMT Watch

This luxury fashion brand may not be top-of-mind for GMT watches, but its Hellenyium GMT watch made its way into this list for a reason; it’s simple, stylish, high-quality, and very suitable for today’s modern man.

At first glance, the watch may look plain, with its black dial, white markers, and stainless steel finishings.

However, upon closer inspection, you’ll notice the little details that make it STAND OUT: The Versace logo at 12 o’clock, the tiny Roman numerals on top of the white markers, and the word ‘Versace’ printed all around the circumference of the dial.

All the components are well-organized on the dial for easy readability. It also helps that the date window at 3 o’clock comes with a cyclops magnifier. One glance is all you need to tell the time and/or date!

Despite its great aesthetics, though, the Versace Hellenyium GMT watch is a bit lacking in terms of functionality.

It can only be submerged in water up to 50 meters, so it’s not suitable for most marine activities.

Its stationary bezel is only used for GMT tracking, so while you can check another time zone, it cannot be used to record elapsed time.

If you’re looking for a dress watch with some added functionality, though, this is a pretty great watch to own.

Pros

  • Made from quality materials
  • Accurate time-telling
  • Classy and elegant look

Specifications

  • Model: V11020015
  • 42mm diameter stainless steel case and bracelet
  • Sapphire crystal dial
  • Swiss quartz movement
  • Water-resistant up to 50 meters

#5 – Alpina Men’s Seastrong GMT Watch

Alpina Men's Seastrong GMT Watch

If you’re after quality and durability, check out the Alpina Men’s Seastrong, one of the best GMT watches under 1000 that checks those boxes.

Right off the bat, it sets itself apart from other GMT watches because of its titanium PVC coating.

Because it combines the strength of stainless steel and titanium in the construction of the watch, almost any type of damage can’t hurt it!

Add in its scratch-resistant sapphire crystal dial, and you can be sure that this watch will last you a long time.

Now, you may be wondering if the Alpina Seastrong is really water-resistant like its name suggests.

Well, it can handle a depth of 300 meters, making it the most waterproof of the dive watches on this list. This means you can swim, snorkel, and dive without much problem.

With these specifications, some users are disappointed that it houses a Swiss quartz (and not a Swiss automatic) movement. Given its price point, we tend to agree, but the brand does give you the option to purchase the automatic watch version instead.

If your budget doesn’t allow the upgrade, though, we still think this is a great watch to have, as Swiss quartz still makes for very accurate timekeeping anyway!

Pros

  • Durable titanium PVC coating
  • Great water resistance (suitable for diving)
  • Quality Swiss-made watch

Specifications

  • Model: AL-247LNN4TV6B
  • 44mm diameter stainless steel/titanium case and bracelet
  • Sapphire crystal dial
  • Swiss quartz movement
  • Water-resistant up to 300 meters

#6 – Tissot Chemin Des Tourelles GMT Watch

Tissot Chemin Des Tourelles GMT Watch

Tissot is well-known for its luxurious, high-quality watches, and their Chemin Des Tourelles GMT watch is no exception.

This beautiful GMT model features a sleek, stainless steel case and strap, a durable sapphire crystal dial, and a see-through case back that reveals the automatic mechanisms inside.

What’s even more special about this automatic watch is it runs on the Tissot Powermatic 80 movement, which boasts 80 hours of power even when the watch isn’t worn for 3 days.

Most watches from other brands can only be left idle for 1.5 days, but this one is accurate for much longer.

In terms of design, this GMT watch is the epitome of elegance: Polished stainless steel and Roman numeral markers make it a classic, but a few contemporary touches make it fashionable for today’s generation as well.

However, some users feel that a 42mm diameter is just a little too big for a watch that’s supposed to be dainty and delicate.

The large case size to movement size ratio also makes the placement of the date window at 6 o’clock a little awkward—it’s too high up and quite difficult to read.

If you’re not so nitpicky, though, then you’ll definitely be happy with the look of this one!

Pros

  • Impressive power reserve of 80 hours
  • Sleek and elegant look
  • The see-through case back and Swiss-made automatic mechanisms give it a luxurious feel

Specifications

  • Model: T0994291103800
  • 42mm diameter stainless steel case and bracelet
  • Sapphire crystal dial
  • See-through case back
  • Swiss automatic movement
  • 50-meter water resistance

#7 – Glycine Airman 42 GMT Watch

Glycine Airman 42 GMT Watch

This Glycine GMT watch is the most expensive on this list, primarily because it runs on an automatic movement that’s much harder to construct than its quartz counterpart.

It also features quality finishings such as a stainless steel casing, a leather strap, and a sapphire crystal dial.

Design-wise, it’s very classy and understated: The black dial and strap blend well with the silver and white accents, while the pentagon-shaped hour/minute hand evokes a slightly rugged and masculine feel.

Because each hand is coated with Super-LumiNova, you can easily tell the time in the dark as well.

What’s unique about this watch is its ability to display three time zones—perfect for the ultimate jet setter.

Its bidirectional rotating bezel is also quite useful to calculate average speed, distance, and elapsed time, among others.

Now, once you turn it around, you’ll get a peek of the automatic mechanisms running around. The Swiss movement keeps the power up to 42 hours, so you’ll get a little under 2 days’ worth of accurate timekeeping even without any movement.

Overall, this Glycine GMT watch is quite a splurge, but a good one if you have the means.

If you’re not satisfied with its functionality, though, you should check out the other GMT watches on this list that have different features for a fraction of the price.

Pros

  • Comfortable to wear
  • Durable and good-quality automatic watch
  • Easy to read

Specifications

  • Model: GL0066-LB9B
  • 42mm case diameter, stainless steel
  • Black leather strap
  • Display case back
  • Sapphire crystal-enclosed black dial
  • Swiss automatic movement
  • 100-meter water resistance

#8 – Citizen Men’s Eco-Drive Promaster Nighthawk GMT Watch

Citizen Men's Eco-Drive Promaster Nighthawk GMT Watch

The last GMT watch under 1000 on this list is the Citizen Men’s Eco-Drive Promaster Nighthawk GMT watch, which is a great daily beater with added GMT functionalities.

Because it’s lower-priced than most of the other watches mentioned here, it doesn’t share some of the more high-end features.

Although it’s constructed from quality stainless steel, its dial is non-reflective mineral crystal and its movement is Japanese quartz.

This means it’s more prone to minor scratches, wear and tear, and other possible damages, but if you’re not so concerned about the aesthetics, it shouldn’t be a big problem.

Moreover, even if it’s not an automatic watch, it still tells the time accurately—it just feels less prestigious.

If you’re always on the go, you’ll love that this watch also has a 200-meter water resistance (which is more than most watches of this price range), a power-saving mode, and a light-powered cell that requires no battery change.

Additionally, its large, luminous hand and markers are great for low-light visibility and dual time zone capability.

Now, the only con is the watch face can look busy. Once you get the hang of its many functions. though, you might end up appreciating its utility over time!

Pros

  • Good value for money
  • Durable everyday watch
  • Good water resistance

Specifications

  • Model: BJ7000-52E
  • 42mm diameter stainless steel case and bracelet
  • Mineral glass dial
  • Japanese quartz movement
  • 200-meter water resistance

Buying guide

Watch Components

Before you purchase any GMT watch, make sure you’re satisfied with each of the watch components: The case and dial materials, the movement, and the strap type, among others.

For instance, is sapphire crystal an ABSOLUTE MUST, or will you be satisfied with a mineral dial?

Although the former is more scratch-resistant, the latter is much more affordable, and it often comes with anti-reflective properties too. Plus, minor scratches aren’t so visible to the naked eye.

Another example is a screw-down crown vs a push/pull crown.

Although a push/pull crown is a lot more convenient, a screw-down crown is safer and more secure as it cannot accidentally be operated.

Depending on your lifestyle, activities, and habits, you may find that specific types of watches fit your needs more than others. Find out your must-haves and stick to those while figuring out the best GMT watch under 1000 for you.

If you’re looking for something a bit more affordable, check out the best GMT watches under $500.

Functionality

Any GMT watch should have the ability to display multiple time zones, but the best GMT watch under 1000 will have extra features that are very useful to you.

For example, some watches can display a third-time zone, while other watches have chronograph functions and dive watch capabilities.

Automatic GMT watches usually have power reserves too, which is helpful if you don’t plan to wear your watch 24/7.

Aesthetics

Another factor to consider is the look of the watch.

The best GMT watch under 1000 can’t just be functional; it has to match your tastes too. Fortunately, watch brands produce a lot of different watch styles, colors, and designs to suit all kinds of personalities.

At the end of the day, always go for the one that’ll make you feel most confident—you’re spending for the watch after all, so might as well look good wearing it!

Conclusion

We hope that this article helped you find your best GMT watch under 1000. There are tons of options out there, so choose wisely!

If you liked our content, please feel free to comment or leave a reply below.

Recommendation:

Seiko Padi GMT Diver Watch

★★★★★

Seiko SUN065 Padi GMT Diver Watch

FAQ

What’s the Best GMT Watch?

Ultimately, the best GMT watch under 1000 is the Seiko SUN065 Padi GMT Diver Watch, which has impressive functionality for a reasonable price.

Comfort, accuracy, quality, and style—this one’s got it all!

Which GMT Watch Should I Buy?

If the Seiko option doesn’t fit your budget, check out the Torgoen T9 Blue GMT Watch, which provides the essential functions for a fraction of the price.

If you have a little more to spend, consider the Victorinox FieldForce Sport GMT Watch, which is the best choice for those looking for something fun, unique, and sporty.

What Is a GMT Watch?

This type of watch has an extra hand and a bezel with 24-hour markings so you can easily track a second-time zone.

About Paul Morrison

For years I’ve been buying and selling watches as a hobby, which led me to the decision of starting Watch for Tomorrow. I write a lot of the content, and I enjoy doing it. The most important aspect for me is the guidance of buying watches as well as avoiding bad ones. There are many bad watches out there, that are just too expensive. Hopefully, I can help you find your dream watch!