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Home » Gear » best travel watch

17 Best Travel Watches for your Travel Style in 2024

If there is ever a time to have a trustworthy watch, it’s when traveling. A great travel watch can save your ass time and time again. Journeys of all kinds rely on being in the right place at the right time – to catch a flight, meet up with a guide, claim that restaurant reservation, or check in to a hotel.

Though other bits of gear, like smartphones, have usurped the role of the watch for many in everyday life, with changes in time zone and attempts to get away from the constant demands of working life, there’s still no single item more useful to the modern traveler than a good watch.

Besides, in certain places, you want to reduce how often you’re pulling out your phone. A travel watch can keep your smartphone from getting snatched in busy urban areas, where it’s all too common.

Here we bring you what we believe are the very best travel watches to keep you on schedule!

Quick Answer: The Best Travel Watches

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• Best men’s travel watch – Casio G-Shock Gravity Master
• Best women’s travel watch – Timex Women’s Ironman Transit
• Most attractive travel watch – Nordgreen Influencer
• Best watch under $500 – Garmin Instinct 2 Solar
• Best watch under $100 – SOLARMATE watch CITIZEN Q
• Best analogue travel watch – Tissot Seastar 1000
• Best digital travel watch – DIDITIME Sports and Military Watch
• Best travel watch for hikers – Samsung Galaxy Watch
• Best smart watch for staying fit while traveling – Fitbit Charge 4
• Best travel watch with GPS – Garmin Fenix Chronos

Casio G-Shock Gravity Master

• > Protective body
• > Water resistant to 200 m

Timex Women’s Ironman Transit

• > Durable on the go
• > Follows two time zones

Nordgreen Pioneer

• > Quality Build
• > Interchangeable Straps

Garmin Instinct 2 Solar

• Price > $$$
• > GPS tracking and route finding
• > Web connectivity

SOLARMATE watch CITIZEN Q

• > Large digital display
• > Metal wristband

Tissot Seastar 1000

• Price > $$$$
• > Luminous hands
• > Large face

DIDITIME Sports and Military Watch

• > Fabric strap

Samsung Galaxy Watch

• > In-built GPS
• > 4-day battery life

Fitbit Charge 4

• > Measures heart rate without chest strap
• > GPS connectivity

Garmin Fenix Chronos

• > TracBack GPS feature
• > Activity monitor

• > Great look
• > Water resistant

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The Casio G-Shock Gravity Master is a serious travel watch for serious travelers. What makes it so great? First off, the microchips and inner workings of the G-Shock Gravity Master are encased in a body that protects from sudden shocks such as dropping or knocking, centrifugal forces, and vibration. Then there’s the fact this watch is water resistant down to 200 meters, meaning evening scuba diving is an option with this watch. Finally, techies, in particular, will love the fact that the G-Shock Gravity Master will automatically synchronize to your time zone when you reach a destination – using a combination of GPS and radio waves. How cool is that!

• Protective body
• Water resistant to 200 m
• Automatic synchronization to time zone
• A little bulky for some
• Analogue-digital display
• Imported from US for UK customers
• 52 mm diameter

Is the Casio G-Shock Gravity Master for me?

If you’re a frequent traveler or you simply struggle with working out time zones when you do, the Casio G-Shock Gravity Master is definitely the travel watch for you! Not only does it use GPS technology to ensure it’s always synchronized to the correct time (even taking account of daylight saving time!), its hard protective body and impressive level of water resistance mean you’ll never find yourself without a functioning watch when away.

The Women’s Ironman Transit by Timex offers a great blend of functionality and style. The relatively large digital display makes it super easy to check the time while moving, whether you’re on a busy underground train or scaling a mountain on a rope harness. The resin case means it will resist knocks, while the strap is durable and easily cleaned. The clock itself has the option of two different time zones, so you can keep a clear idea of the time at home, and a customizable alarm, which is always a useful feature while traveling. What’s more, it’s also water resistant to a depth of 100 meters! What more could you want?

• Durable on the go
• Follows two time zones
• Water resistant
• Resin strap
• Simple buckle closure
• No automatic synchronization of time zones
• Digital display

Is the Timex Women’s Ironman Transit for me?

The answer is undoubtedly yes! Its stylish modern design of smooth lines and molded resin certainly means it looks the part, while the ability to follow two time zones, the customizable alarm, and water resistance down to 100 m also means it acts the part! It may not have some of the bells and whistles of other travel watches on our list, but we still love it!

Nordgreen Pionee r

Not every travel watch has to feature James Bond level gadgets and gizmos. The Nordgreen Pioneer is an industry leader when it comes to producing quality minimalist watch designs that are fit for your days exploring cities and nights on the town. A big selling point for this watch is that you can easily change out the bands if you are feeling like a different look/color (bands sold separately).

The combination of sleek specs like the domed Sapphire crystal face and Japanese quartz make for a watch that you will be using for many years to come. In addition to being a sexy travel watch – the Nordgreen Pioneer also is a great everyday watch. 

• Minimalist design
• Comes with Steel Case
• Water-Resistant
• Scandinavian Made
• Extra Watch band colors not included
• No smart technology
• No alarm feature

Is the Nordgreen Pioneer for me?

If you are looking for a no-frills watch that looks much more high-end then the price reflects, this is the watch for you. As mentioned, the Pioneer is not just a travel watch – and it is classy enough for use in a professional setting as well as when you are not on holiday. 

Just scrapping under the $500/£390 mark at its full recommended retail price, the Garmin Instinct 2 Solar gives the widest array of features for a travel watch under $500. Coming from a trusted brand like Garmin, you know what you are getting here! What we also love the most is that being solar powered it will basically stay charged indefinitely if you spend a few hours a day outside, pretty rad! It’s also got stealth mode to disable wireless communication if you’re going to be doing some rogue ops or just don’t want your crazy girlfriend to know your whereabouts!!

Other cool features include built-in 3-axis compass and barometric altimeter plus multiple global navigation satellite systems meaning you can track your adventures over varied and challenging terrain. You’ll never be lost again!

If that wasn’t enough, this watch also boasts several built-in sports tracking modes like running, biking, swimming and strength training as well as tracking for things like heart rate, VO2 max and sleep!

• Tested to military standards
• GPS tracking and route finding
• Real-time weather information
• Web connectivity
• Requires USB charging
• Nylon strap
• Not touchscreen

Is the Garmin Instinct 2 Solar for me?

You don’t have to be a hardened adventure to see the benefits of the Traverse Alpha GPS Outdoor Watch by Suunto. If you’ve ever got hopelessly lost in a foreign city you’ll really appreciate the real-time GPS tracking and route finding functions, while its web connectivity will ensure you can stay in contact with friends and family while away too!

Want to compare this watch to other awesome outdoor models? Check out our EPIC review of the best outdoor watches .

We think the SOLARMATE watch CITIZEN Q is simply a bargain for what it offers! Deep within the inner workings, you’ll find (if you were ever to look), a movement by Japanese watchmakers Citizen, and a battery meant to last three years. On the outside, you have a large, easy to read, digital display with a classy metal band. The watch is also waterproof so you’ll have no issues taking anywhere you end up on your travels.

• Great price
• Trustworthy internal workings
• Large digital display
• Metal wristband
• Only water resistant to 50 m
• Not great for slim wrists
• No second time zone function

Is the SOLARMATE watch CITIZEN Q for me?

You don’t have to be counting the pennies to think that the SOLARMATE watch CITIZEN Q is a great buy for what it offers. For an incredible price, you get a trustworthy brand, and an easy-to-read digital display alongside waterproofing and a nice look. Brilliant!

Although aimed at the diving market, the Swiss-engineered Tissot Seastar 1000 is just as functional as a general analogue travel watch. The large face makes it easy to read the luminous dials even in the low light of an aircraft cabin or a candle-lit restaurant, while maintaining enough style to ensure you won’t feel embarrassed at wearing it even at more formal occasions. The tough body will keep it safe from knocks, while the resin strap is comfortable and easy to keep clean. As you might expect, the Seastar 1000 also has an impressive degree of water resistance too – safe down to 300 m!

• Luminous hands
• Water resistant to 300 m
• Lacks GPS features
• Not as tough as the Casio G-Shock Gravity Master

Is the Tissot Seastar 1000 for me?

Having been making watches for more than one and a half centuries, Tissot is clearly doing something right! Their Seastar 1000 is no exception, with this analogue travel watch bringing a touch of class to the proceedings. But more than just having a pretty face (very literally) its also functional thanks to luminous hands and water resistance to 300 m.

From the best analogue travel watch to the best digital watch of our reckoning with this number from DIDITIME. It can be argued whether the best digital watch should be as simple as possible or as feature heavy as possible – we’ve sided with simple. But simplicity doesn’t mean you’re laying aside reliability – the DIDITIME is based around a Japanese-made movement and battery for precision timing. The time/date display, auto calendar, alarm, and backlight are matched nicely by the black fabric strap, and protected by the carbon fibre case.

• Japanese movement
• Fabric strap
• Lacks features of other digital watches we’ve covered
• Not suitable for submersion
• No analogue dial
• Some customers mention build issues

Is the DIDITIME Sports and Military Watch for me?

If you’re after a digital watch that can tell you exactly where you are at any given time and what the weather is likely to be in the next couple of hours, we’d recommend the Garmin Solar 2 Watch, however if you’re looking for a simple digital display with which to tell the time, this DIDITIME watch will be perfect for you!

It’s a fact of life that tech has encroached into the world of hiking as much as other sports and activities, and while a paper map and physical compass is always a good idea, a lot of the hard work of route finding can be made simple with a watch such as this Samsung Galaxy offering. As well as keeping you connected with calls and messages straight to your wrist to keep you hands-free, the Samsung Galaxy also automatically (yes, automatically) detects movement and activity and monitors it for you. This watch also has in-built GPS, so you can follow pre-planned routes or find a short cut home on the move effortlessly!

• Lets you stay connected hands-free
• Automatically detects and monitors activity
• In-built GPS
• 4-day battery life
• Requires regular charging
• Water-resistant to only 50 m
• Weighs 300 g

Is the Samsung Galaxy Watch for me?

If you’re an Apple fan, look away now…While a smart watch may not be the obvious choice for hikers, the Samsung Galaxy watch does in fact make a fine travel watch for hikers. Why? Because you can stay connected, have your activity monitored without even having to touch a screen, and have the safety and security of GPS route finding as well!

Market leaders are market leaders for a reason, and the Charge 4 by Fitbit remains to our mind the best smart watch for staying fit while traveling. The smooth lines of the Charge 4 monitor your heart rate from your wrist – meaning no unwieldy chest strap for starters. Its all-day activity tracking measures distance, steps, and calories among other metrics, and can remind you to move if you’ve remained still for longer periods. Finally, with its GPS connectivity, you can see real-time stats in addition to your current location and route!

• Stylish look
• Measures heart rate without chest strap
• All-day metric measurement
• GPS connectivity
• Requires regular charging (every 4+ days)
• Additional accessories cost extra
• Touch screen scratches quite easily
• Two-year warranty

Is the Fitbit Charge 4 for me?

Staying fit while traveling used to be difficult to monitor, what with the change in routine (and the added calories that undoubtedly come with many types of travel!). Then the Fitbit Charge 4 came along, with the possibility to record metrics from heart rate to steps taken without issue, alongside the brilliant functionality of GPS connectivity.

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You’ve got to love GPS, don’t you? Endlessly useful in your home town and abroad, its certainly saved us from all manner of potential pitfalls! The Garmin Fenix Chronos is a masterly GPS-enabled travel watch, with a tracking log for pinpoint accuracy and its ‘TracBack’ feature that helps users head back the same way you’ve come. But as well as GPS functionality the Fenix Chronos has ABC (or altitude, barometer, and compass) functions, and will record and monitor your activity levels, whatever sport or activity you’re undertaking. All this, smart phone connectivity, and a battery life of up to eight days make this the best travel watch with GPS for us!

• TracBack GPS feature
• Altitude, Barometer, and compass readings
• Activity monitor
• 8 day battery life
• Leather strap
• Water resistance to just 100 m
• Has a traditional look some users may not like

Is the Garmin Fenix Chronos for me?

If you’re regularly traveling, looking for the very best of travel watches with GPS, we think you’ve probably found it with the Garmin Fenix Chronos! The ‘TracBack’ feature will be really useful for many, while more seasoned adventures will love the ABC functionality too!

The FIZILI’s combination of ageless elegance and simple minimalist design makes their watch a hands-down winner. Their travel watch, just like the Nomatic travel bag , is extremely versatile; it can be used whether you’re traveling for work or pleasure, and when roughing it or in the highest-end resorts – without looking out of place.

There are a whole number of different colourways to choose from too, whether you want the uber cool black-on-black look or you want to throw in some red highlights or a blue face, there’s even gold, silver and blue wristbands available too.

Is the FIZILI for me?

If you’re after a pared-back but classy travel watch which you know you can rely on while on the move the FIZILI is the perfect choice for you. With a style that looks great in any situation, the quality steel mesh strap and the variety of different styles means there’s something to suit everyone and at this price you could buy them all!

Shinola Runwell

Detroit’s Shinola has a growing legion of fans on both sides of the Atlantic, and travelers old and new will be sure to fall for the Runwell too. This analogue watch has a traditional look, complete with a real leather strap, while ensuring a large face to ensure the clock face is easy to read whatever the light levels. The sapphire crystal window is scratch resistant, which is obviously ideal when traveling, and the watch is also water resistant down to 50 m – more than deep enough for a swim in the hotel pool!

• Beautifully styled traditional look
• Scratch resistant sapphire crystal window
• Water resistance to 50 m
• Imported from the US for UK customers
• Luminous hands but no backlight
• Not for budget travelers
• No GPS functionality

Is the Shinola Runwell for me?

The style-conscious traveler will be very happy to be seen wearing the Shinola Runwell, as a result of its phenomenal looks and literally crystal-clear analogue display. But this watch isn’t just style over substance, with durability built in with the leather strap, scratch resistance, and water resistance. When looking for a traditional and trustworthy watch, the Shinola Runwell is a great option!

Seiko SEIKO SRPE99 Prospex

The SEIKO SRPE99 Prospex watch comes with a stainless steel bracelet style strap that slips over the hand to close. The 21 jewels used in its analogue movement ensure accuracy, and although this is an automatic movement – rather than a battery-powered one – it has a power reserve of 40 hours, meaning you can forget to wear it for an entire day without having to manual wind the watch on to restart it. The face incorporates a very useful day and date window, that will surely stay clear as a result of the scratch resistant Hardlex crystal glass. The fact it’s a diver’s watch also means it boasts water resistance to a depth of 200 m.

• 21 jewel movement
• 40-hour power reserve
• Scratch resistant Hardlex crystal glass
• Automatic movement
• Metal bracelet style strap
• Intended as a men’s watch

Is the Seiko Divers Automatic for me?

If you’re an experienced diver you’ll be probably looking for a more sophisticated divers watch than that offered by the Seiko Divers Automatic. However, for mere mortals, this watch reaches the right balance between everyday practicality and specialization. Accurate and tough, we can’t see the Seiko Divers Automatic letting you down!

Timex Expedition Scout

The Timex Expedition Scout offers an analogue face with both twelve- and twenty-four-hour time settings, and accuracy you know you can trust. This rugged outdoor watch is protected by a durable body that is guaranteed to be water resistant down to a depth of 50 m and has the added feature of an ‘Indiglo’ light-up watch face. There’s also a quick date window on the face so you’ll never lose track of the time or date, while the classic yet contemporary look will have to check the time far more than is actually necessary!

• 12 and 24-hour dial settings
• Water resistant to 50 m
• Indiglo light-up dial
• Analogue watch
• Lacks different time zone settings
• Date but no day window on face

Is the Timex Expedition Scout for me?

Forget those tempting added features of other watches in our review, the Expedition Scout is a good ‘solid’ watch that will see you through while always looking fresh and up to the minute thanks to its classic looks.

Suunto Core

The brother of the Suunto Traverse Alpha GPS Outdoor, you might consider the Core the more basic (and also cheaper) of the two watches, but that’s not to say the Core is not a fantastic travel watch in and of itself. Though it obviously doesn’t match all the Traverse Alpha GPS Outdoor’s incredible functions – such as being military grade – this unisex watch still has a lot of flash features of its own! Its barometric altitude measurements, depth gauge, and weather warnings make it an ideal companion in the Alps if you’re hiking, snowshoeing, or skiing, where its tough enough to do the job thanks to a metal casing. Comprising aluminium, it keeps the watch light, while it has a battery life of up to a year, meaning you have little worry over when it’s going to need its next charge!

• Dedicated mountain watch
• Cheaper than the Traverse Alpha GPS Outdoor
• Detailed altitude and depth measurements
• Lightweight
• Water resistant to just 30 m
• No GPS tracking
• Too large for some wrists
• No different time zone settings

Is the Suunto Core for me?

Avid skiers and mountaineers are the target market for the Suunto Core, and they are undoubtedly the group of people likely to get the most benefit from wearing the Core thanks to its barometric data, altitude graphics and depth gauge. The rest of us will just have to make do with having a pretty cool watch on our wrists!

North Edge Dive and Sports Watch

North Edge brings us this travel watch which is water resistant to a depth of 100 m, meaning you can check out its analogue-digital face pretty much anywhere you choose – from a city centre café to a shipwreck on a coral reef! The large backlit dial makes it easy to read the time too, while the mineral glass mirror surface is resistant to scratches and the body protective against knocks and bumps. This clever little watch is also capable of monitoring steps with its pedometer, and calculating calories burnt, as well as offering users the ABC of altimeter, barometer, and compass too!

• Trusted brand
• Analogue-digital face
• Water resistant to 100 m
• ABC functions
• Intended for men only
• No GPS tracking or route finding
• Stainless steel strap
• Not the longest battery life when heavily used

Is the North Face Dive and Sports Watch for me?

This dive and sports watch by North Edge should definitely find its way onto your shortlist for best travel watch, combining traditional analogue looks with the benefits of digital technology. It has great features for anyone who likes to get outdoors, from mountains to seabed, making it a good all-round travel watch!

Lad Weather Sensor Master III

Look at the full list of what the Lad Weather Sensor Master III can track and you’ll feel like you’ve got NASA monitoring your every move, calories, highest peaks, lap speed, total distance…. We could fill up this entire space just listing them! So this watch by Lad Weather certainly meets the need of anyone who likes (or needs) to record data while travelling. What also makes it a great travel watch is the fact it is preset with 59 city time zones, can provide a weather forecast for your location, has two daily alarms, AND is water resistant to 100 m – far deeper then you’ll ever head unless scuba diving!

• Fantastic data collection
• Preset city time zones
• Weather forecasting
• Overly complicated for some travellers
• Large dial face
• Thermometer function can be affected by body heat
• Plastic dial window

Is the Lad Weather Sensor Master III for me?

Greatly improved over the Sensor Master I, the Sensor Master III is a phenomenal travel watch by Lad Weather. Having clearly absorbed customer feedback from the previous models, this travel watch is both well protected against physical damage and packed full of very useful monitoring and forecasting data!

Luminox Navy SEAL Colormark

And finally… we bring you the Luminox Navy SEAL Colormark, and unbeatable travel watch when it comes to durability! Comprising an incredibly light carbon compound case, this analogue watch has been tested to 20 atmospheres of pressure, has a window made from tempered mineral glass, and has the added protected of a double-gasket security crown. The large numbers on the face make it easy to read in all light levels, although the in-built Luminox light technology will provide constant night lighting for up to 25 years! The Swiss-made movement comes with a two-year guarantee against faults, providing added peace of mind!

• Very light on the wrist
• Added Luminox light technology
• Swiss-made movement for precision
• Analogue rather than digital
• Large bezel numbers can confuse with time

Is the Luminox Navy SEAL Colormark for me?

If it’s good enough for the Navy SEALs its good enough for us, right? As you would expect from a watch made for military personnel this Luminox is as tough as old boots and you’d have to really go out of your way to damage it – great news for all travellers! It also has a Swiss-made movement for accuracy, and innovative lighting technology for checking the time in the dark.

Now, you  could spend a fat chunk of $$$ on the WRONG present for someone. Wrong size hiking boots, wrong fit backpack, wrong shape sleeping bag… As any adventurer will tell you, gear is a personal choice.

So give the adventurer in your life the gift of convenience: buy them an REI Co-op gift card!  REI is The Broke Backpacker’s retailer of choice for ALL things outdoors, and an REI gift card is the perfect present you can buy from them. And then you won’t have to keep the receipt. 😉

Still have some questions? No problem! We’ve listed and answered the most commonly asked questions below. Here’s what people usually want to know:

What is the most stylish travel watch?

Our favorite is the Nordgreen Pioneer . With the changeable straps and the sleek design you can combine it with every outfit. It’s also relatively affordable.

What is the most practical travel watch?

The Suunto Traverse Alpha GPS Outdoor Watch is a military tested travel watch that stands out with amazing features. You can connect it to the internet, track your location precisely and get real-time weather information.

Smart watch, digital or analogue?

What kind of watch you should purchase really depends on what your travels will look like. If you can afford it, a smart watch will always offer the most features, while a digital or analogue watch is way more reliable.

What does a a travel watch need?

A travel watch needs to be reliable, durable and ideally, track your location. Especially for backpackers and hikers, a GPS tracker to look back at miles and location comes in very handy sometimes.

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There we have it – the very best of the best when it comes to travel watches. Whether you prefer a simpler analogue watch, want a digital watch with GPS tracking and route-finding, or are happy with a travel watch that looks stylish whatever the backdrop, we’re sure you’ll find your next travel timepiece among these fantastic watches!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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Check out Vaer watches. Swiss ETA movement, American assembly. 100M water resistant with a screw down crown. To me, it’s a much better value than the Nomad.

Hi Joel, Indeed we will check out Vaer watches, thanks for the heads up.

The Nomatic battery does not last 45 years! No watch battery does. It’s rated for 45 months.

Thanks for the correction Dwight! Indeed, no battery will last 45 years :).

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Best Affordable Travel Watches For Men (Updated for 2023)

As a traveler, I know how important it is to keep track of time. We always have a schedule that needs to be followed. Whether it’s check-in time, a bus tour, or meeting with friends, it’s important to have a great travel watch.

According to Wikipedia , watches progressed in the 17th century from spring powered clocks and the technology of digital and mechanical watches has significantly improved over the years. They keep getting better and better.

Not only are watches just used to keep track of time, but for many other great features like scheduling, mapping and even making phone calls. Having a good travel watch is almost a necessity these days for most travelers.

It is not always easy to make the right selection when looking at watches for travel. There are so many styles and options, and some of the best travel watches can be confusing to make the right choice. And you don’t need to spend a fortune. You can stay on a budget and still buy a very nice watch.

In this post, I will show you the best affordable travel watches for men. Look at all the different styles, prices, and specifications of all the best travel watches and see which one is the best for you.

#1. Best Value Travel Watch –  Casio G-Rescue Solar Atomic Classic Color Watch

Features And Specifications:

✅ 1/100-second stopwatch

✅ Atomic timekeeping

✅ Solar-powered sport watch

✅ Resin band with buckle closure

✅ Water resistant to 200 m (660 ft)

✅ Dimensions: 4.4 x 3.6 x 4 inches

✅ Weight: 8.8 ounces

✅ Battery: 1 CR2 battery required

This is the perfect watch for travel if you are sticking to a budget and you just want a solid watch that is reliable, durable and easy to use .

It is a solar powered sport watch, that has atomic timekeeping — world time in 48 cities. It has 24/48 hr time formats and will keep track of 31 time zones with a calendar. This watch is tough and doesn’t scratch easy. It’s great for hikers and campers as well.

The one thing I don’t like about this watch is that it is not very fashionable. I don’t like the look of the screws on the front. But that is just my preference; it may not be an issue for you.

Who should buy this watch?

Anyone who is on a lower budget and wants a watch that is very tough and great for keeping track of different time zones. It’s also great for adventure travelers as it’s durable and long-lasting.

Who should not buy this watch?

Scuba divers. The Casio G-Rescue is only certified water resistant to 200 meters or 660 feet. This is definitely not a watch for you if you like to scuba dive. Also, if you are looking for a watch that looks good or has advanced features like some of the more expensive watches, you should probably look elsewhere.

For the price and durability, it is a great watch that I think you will be happy with.

You can get the  Casio G-Rescue Solar Atomic Classic Color Watch  on Amazon here.

#2. Best GMT Watch-  Citizen Men’s Eco-Drive Navihawk Atomic Timekeeping Watch

Features and specifications.

✅ Japanese quartz movement with analog display

✅ 48-millimeter stainless steel case

✅ Atomic timekeeping technology

✅ 99-minute countdown timer

✅ Universal coordinated time (UTC) display

✅ Pilot’s rotating slide rule dial ring

✅ Dimensions: 4.3 x 3.9 x 8.3 inches

✅ Weight: 4 ounces

✅ Battery: 1 lithium ion battery required

With so many great GMT watches on the market today, I wanted to review the watch that will give you the best value for an affordable price.

GMT watches can be way too expensive in my opinion, and for a fraction of what some higher-end models charge, you can get a very comparable watch like the Citizen Eco-Drive .

This watch uses atomic clock synchronization for superior accuracy. It will display the time digitally in 43 cities. The Citizen is a very durable watch that looks great as well. I love the Polyurethane band as well, plus it is only 23mm in width.

It’s also very lightweight at only 4 oz; this is something I always have an issue with when buying a watch. But, the Citizen’s weight is perfect.

This watch will suit any traveler who crosses multiple time zones and is looking for a modern look and feel. This watch is very comfortable and has a great price tag and specs to match some of the higher priced watches.

Again scuba divers will not be happy with this watch. It’s water resistant to 200 meters or 660 ft. Other than that, I think the Citizen Eco-Drive is a great choice.

You can get the Citizen Eco-Drive Navihawk on Amazon here.

#3. Best Budget Digital Travel Watch –  Casio G-Shock GD-100-1B Watch

✅ Shock resistant & 200M water-resistant

✅ 12/24 hour formats

✅ Multi-time (four different cities)

✅ Dimensions:   3.9 x 4.2 x 2.4 inches

✅ Weight: 3.52 ounces

This is another Casio G-Shock watch that is  excellent for travelers on a budget.  This watch is cheaper than the G-Rescue mentioned earlier but still have some nice features.

A nice improvement for this watch is a newly designed high-density LED light, which has been employed to light up the dial face from behind.

As you can tell, I’m a huge fan of the Casio G-Shock watches as a suitable match for someone is budget focused. They are very tough and durable, hold up to a variety of weather conditions, and are reliable.

As mentioned earlier, the Casio G-Shock watch is a perfect watch if looking for a lower cost. It’s great for all types of travelers including hiking and camping. Also, if you’re not looking for the higher-end features of expensive watches, this is for you.

Anyone who is looking for the added features like the atomic timekeeping should go for the Casio G-Rescue. Also, if you’re looking for a watch that is a classy or modern design, this is also probably not what you are looking for.

Although this watch doesn’t have the screws in the front face like the first watch I mentioned earlier, I still don’t find it fashionable.

You can get the Casio G-Shock digital watch on Amazon here.

#4. Affordable Smartwatch For Travel-  Samsung Gear S3 Frontier Smartwatch

✅ Make payments with Samsung Pay almost anywhere

✅ Compatible with Android and iOS smartphones

✅ S Health Fitness Tracking

✅ Built-in GPS

✅ Built-in speaker/microphone

✅ Rotating bezel navigation

✅ Dimensions: 1.81 x 1.93 x 0.51 in

✅ Weight: 5 oz

The Samsung Gear S3 is my favorite watch on the list. It connects via Bluetooth so you can receive texts, emails, and alerts without reaching for your phone. With a built-in speaker and microphone, you can also make and answer calls hands-free.

Now for people that know me, you know I am a huge Apple fan. I only use Apple Mac and iPhones and as you can see from my blog post I wrote about the best tablets for international travel , I review and recommend the Apple Ipad. So why don’t I recommend the Apple watch here?

Well for only 2 reasons. I LOVE the look of the Samsung Gear S3 . It’s very fashionable and modern looking and in my opinion, a huge factor of owning a smartwatch is that you want it to look good, right?

Although I love the Apple watch as well, I put the Samsung ahead for appearance reasons. Also at the time of writing this, Samsung is currently cheaper than the Apple. And since this post is based on the best affordable travel watches for men, I listed it here.

Now I still highly recommend the Apple Watch 3 , but you can’t go wrong with the Samsung Gear S3.

Who Should Buy This Watch?

Anyone looking for the advanced technology of a smartwatch. I t has all the connectivity features using Bluetooth, this watch is also very comfortable to wear and looks great. If you are looking to have a very classy-looking watch, this is a great choice.

Here’s the thing with smartwatches. They are addictive! I find that most people who own them are so into all the technology and cool features that they tend to forget the main function of a watch: to tell time!

So if you are looking for a basic watch for travel without all the fancy tech, phones, Bluetooth etc. this is not the one for you.

You can get the Samsung Gear S3 on Amazon here:

#5. Best GPS Watches For Travel –  Garmin Forerunner 35 Watch

✅ Garmin GPS built-in quality

✅ 24/7 heart rate monitoring

✅ Vibration alerts

✅ New high-resolution display

✅ Smartphone compatibility

✅ Dimensions: 1.4 x 0.5 x 1.6 inches

✅ Weight: 1.6 ounces

When choosing a watch for a main specific feature like GPS capability, it’s  important to go with a brand that is known for it’s GPS products, like Garmin.

For anyone that has other GPS products, you will know that Garmin produces excellent quality gear at great prices. Now in saying that, they also make very high-end and expensive GPS watches. But that’s not what we are focusing on here.

The Garmin Forerunner 35 is the perfect GPS watch for the outdoor adventure traveler. It still has some of the main features of the higher end Garmin 735XT model, but at a fraction of the price while maintaining the Garmin quality.

I love the smartphone connectivity feature of this watch; it’s something that more people are looking for in a watch these days.

Anyone who is an outdoor adventure traveler looking for a GPS watch. Hikers, runners, walkers, campers will appreciate the Garmin Forerunner 35. Also if you are looking for a quality GPS watch and don’t want to break the bank, this is the one for you.

Anyone who is not an outdoor adventure traveler, this watch is most likely not for you. There are so many great features that you probably won’t appreciate having like heart rate monitoring. Also, if you are looking for a classy looking watch, this is not the watch for you.

You can buy the Garmin Forerunner 35 on Amazon here.

So as you can see, there are quite a few options to choose from when looking for an affordable travel watch for men.

When deciding, you will most likely see several watches for travel. Have a look at all the main features and try to eliminate the things you don’t need or are not really looking for in a watch.

For example, if you don’t need the advanced features of a smartwatch and just want a basic, affordable, and durable watch, go with the Casio G-Rescue. If you don’t need the GPS capability, then the Garmin is not for you.

But if you wanted to spend a bit more money and have all the great features of a smartwatch, then try the Samsung Gear S3. I honestly don’t think you can go wrong with any of these watches on the list. They are all great watches for the features that they have.

If you enjoyed our Best Affordable Travel Watches for Men guide, have a look at all our travel gear guides here:

• Laptops/Tablets
• Gadgets And Tech
• Photography
• Phones/Sim Cards

Hopefully, you found these guides helpful. 

Thanks for reading!

Some of the links on this page are affiliate links, which means we may receive a small commission if purchases are made through those links at zero cost to you. I will only sell and recommend products that I have either used personally or believe will be helpful for you. You will only see proven and trusted gear, and I will help guide you away from the products that simply don’t work!

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Can I wear a travel watch every day? ⌚14 Best Travel Watches: Your Perfect Journey Companion

Can I wear a travel watch every day? Yes! Travel watches are designed for daily wear, offering durability and versatility suitable for various occasions.

Traveling is an adventure, and every adventurer needs a reliable companion on their wrist. Enter travel watches – the perfect blend of style, functionality, and durability.

Whether you’re climbing mountains or exploring vibrant cities, having the best travel watch is essential.

Your style, particularly your accessory choices, reveals a lot about you. Watches are one of the most popular purchases for men and women, but which ones are the best travel watches?

• Classy or bold?
• Digital or analog?
• Leather or titanium?

In this guide, we’ll explore the world of travel watches, helping you choose the perfect timepiece for your journeys.

🤷🏻 how many watches can I travel with?

2. type (digital or  analog ), 3. characteristics, 4. material, 5. water resistance, 7. dial size and style, 1. sne329 sport solar-powered stainless steel watch by seiko, 2. casio g-shock gravity master, 3. samsung galaxy watch 4 44mm smartwatch with ecg monitor tracker for health fitness.

• 4. Women's Ironman Transit 33mm Watch By Timex

5. Premium GPS Running / Triathlon Smartwatch By Garmin

• 6. Eco-Drive Promaster Diver Quartz Men's Watch By Citizen 

7. Rugged Outdoor Watch With GPS By Garmin

• 8. Men's 3051 EVO Navy SEAL Colormark Watch By Luminox

9. Fitbit Charge 2 Heart Rate + Fitness Wristband

• 10. The Runwell Quartz Movement Blue Dial Men's Watch By Shinola

11. Wrist-Top Computer Watch With Altimeter By Suunto

12. suunto traverse gps watch, 13. garmin fenix chronos.

• 14. Nordgreen Pioneer Men's Gun Metal Chronograph Watch

Q. Are travel watches water-resistant?

Q. do travel watches require special care during flights, q. are travel watches suitable for different time zones, q. can i replace the watch battery on my own, q. do travel watches come with warranties, q. how do i choose the right travel watch for my needs, q. are water-resistant watches necessary for all travelers, 😇 conclusion, ✉ which travel watch from the list above is your favorite let us know in the comments..

While we don’t advise taking lots of watches on the trip, if you do, think about getting a lockable carrying case. To avoid deterioration, place each piece in a watch travel case or roll, like the one available from the shop. Keep in mind that you should ALWAYS take your watch(es) with you and never put it in your checked luggage .

🧐 Things To Consider Before Buying The best smartwatch for travel [Buying Guide]

Finding and purchasing a new watch is confusing because there are so many different elements to consider. However, it is important to choose the ideal watch for your personality and lifestyle.

We should look at the most important factors to consider when purchasing a watch. 

Watches come in a variety of styles and sizes. Watches can be categorized into one of the following styles.

• Sports Watches   
• Luxury Watches
• Casual Watches
• Vintage Watches

The style you should choose is dependent on how often you plan to wear your watch.

Like mobile phones, digital watches have large numbers across the face that indicate the time. Analog watches include clock hands and either Roman numerals or numbers around the outside, making them appear a little more antique.

The majority of athletic watches feature digital displays, whilst luxury and casual watches have analog displays. While digital watches are simpler to read and often provide more functionality, they are far more complex to use.

Decide on how you’ll use the watch. This is also related to the watch’s style and type.

How much more do you require, even if you have decided that you require more than a basic timepiece?

A timer and stopwatch are standard on most sports watches , but you might also want GPS, a speed calculator (tachymeter), or several alarms.

If you’re buying a watch for camping, it’s probably a good idea to look for a watch with a lot of functions.

The most common materials (for the band and case) are as follows:

• Leather (just for the band)

Although canvas and plastic watches appear to be less expensive, they are often more durable and useful outside.

The metal materials, on the other hand, all look fantastic, but gold and silver watches can quickly become too costly.

Leather is less durable than metal, but it is lighter and gives the watch a more classic look.

Nowadays almost all watches are water-resistant , so you won’t have to worry about water splashing on them when you’re washing your hands.

Many watches (especially sports watches) are splashproof or appropriate for swimming and diving.

It is one of the important things that we need to consider while purchasing the watch.

Brand matters if you’re buying a watch for fashion purposes, such as flaunting at work. A low-cost Rolex has more brand recognition than a high-end Timex watch. Rolex , Omega , and Seiko are some of the most well-known watch brands.

The case and the outside of the face are usually referred to as the dial. In general, select a dial size that matches the size of your wrist.

Choose a dial with a tiny height and diameter if you have thin, small wrists. If your wrists are thick, choose a larger face and a higher casing.

The weight of the watch is a final consideration. Some watches are so light that they barely feel like they’re on your wrist, while others are as heavy as a brick.

Look for anything that makes you feel at ease. If you enjoy a watch but prefer a lighter version of the watch , go for a model with a leather strap rather than a metal band.

• Adjustable green 20mm nylon strap fits up to…
• Black dial with date window at 3 o’clock; full…
• Black 40mm brass case with mineral glass crystal
• Indiglo light-up watch dial; luminous hands

• Polished silver-tone watch featuring blue sunray…
• 40 mm stainless steel case with mineral dial…
• Japanese quartz movement with analog display
• Three-link stainless steel band with fold-over…

• 🏆【Eternal Black Gold, Elegance on Wrist】…
• 🏆【24H Care for Women’s Health】The smart…
• 🏆【Perfect Figure, Perfect Women】The fitness…
• 🏆【Don’t Miss Anything】The callable smart…

Last update on 2024-03-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

✉ List Of 11 Best Travel Watches For Men And Women

After reading a lot of reviews and research we have shortlisted some of the best watches for travel .

A solar-powered watch is what catches everyone’s eye! Having a beautiful, yet pleasantly understated look. Having an analog with a day and date display makes it easy to read. It is a perfect watch for travel lovers .

A battery having a reserve of 10 months and deceptively light by nature is what makes it even more attractive. Having a 100m water resistance makes it suitable for swimming but not for scuba diving.

• Round watch with gleaming sunray dial featuring…
• 43 mm stainless steel case with Hardlex dial…
• Solar-powered Japanese quartz movement with analog…
• Nylon band with buckle closure. Operational…

Last update on 2024-03-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Also Read : 10 Best Smartwatches For Kids That Ideal For Travel

If you are a daring adventurer and lover of outdoor activities, this Casio G-Shock gravity master watch is all that you need! Having an automatic synchronization to the time zone tells you about your destination.

A 200m water resistance, water-lovers this is a Jackpot. Having a compass that is easy to calibrate and a thermometer along with an analog/digital display makes the day easy.

Being bulky is a drawback, but the pros surely outweigh the cons. This watch comes under the list of best luxury travel watches.

• Sports Watch Men’s Master Of G Gravitymaster Black

Also Read : 12 Best Cool Cheap Sunglasses For Travel

Are you a fitness freak? or a marathon runner? This Samsung Galaxy watch is what calling you. Having an inbuilt GPS always keeps you on track. With the silver touch, it gives an aesthetic appeal.

Keeping your hands free connects you with your loved ones’ calls and messages and detects every moment of yours automatically.

From counting your steps to average heartbeats a built-in sleep tracker for peaceful sleep is what makes it perfect for you. However, 50m water resistance and regular charging are something to look out for.

• BODY COMPOSITION ANALYSIS: Galaxy Watch4 is the…
• BETTER SLEEP STARTS HERE: Wake up feeling…
• BE SMART ABOUT YOUR HEART: Take care of your heart…
• MAKE EVERY WORKOUT COUNT: Get the most out of…

Also Read : 7 Best Headphones For Travel

4. Women’s Ironman Transit 33mm Watch By Timex

This stylish and elegant watch from Timex is available in 8 vibrant colors to carry from the pool to a nightclub! Plenty to choose from.

With an Adjustable [with respective color] 12mm resin strap that fits up to a 7.5-inch wrist circumference and a grey digital display, the Indiglo light-up watch dial makes it more versatile.

All those women who are into swimming this watch is calling for you with 100m water resistance.

Digital display and day-date-month calendar are what make it more preferable. Due to its variety of uses, it comes under the best watch for adventure travel .

• Adjustable purple 12mm resin strap fits up to…
• 100-hour chronograph with 10-lap memory; 24-hour…
• Customizable alarm; 24-hour military time mode; 2…
• Purple and chrome 33mm resin case with magenta…

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Who does not like to hear songs? This Forerunner 945 watch allows you to take your music where you go.

With full-color, onboard maps, you’ll never get lost, and it has a battery life of 2 weeks in smartwatch mode.

A sports lover can find tons of sports categories in mind blogging. Sleep tracker, training metrics and the lightweight make this watch a full package of what you can truly desire. Also, it is one of the best smartwatches for travel.

• Premium GPS running/triathlon smartwatch with…
• Download songs to your watch, including playlists…
• Performance monitoring features include Vo2 Max…
• Garmin Pay contactless payment solution (available…

Also Read : 15 Best Travel Pillows That Will Make Your Journey Comfortable

6. Eco-Drive Promaster Diver Quartz Men’s Watch By Citizen 

SCUBA diving enthusiasts, here you go!!! This Citizen watch is 200m water-resistant and is the perfect wear for all sorts of marine activities.

Having luminous hands and markers, with the analog display can enable you to read the time how deep in water you are, or simply where you are.

The light-powered eco-drive is another breathtaking feature where the watch recharges itself continuously in any light for eternity. This is worth every penny you spend.

• Iconic Promaster watches with advanced functions…
• 3 Hand, Date
• Silver-Tone Stainless Steel
• Luminous Hands and Markers and Anti-Reflective…

Also Read : 11 Best Sleep Masks For Travel That Will Make Your Journey Comfortable

Too picky when it comes to choosing the color? This is the best automatic travel watch that best world travel watch offers you plenty of options. The Strap material made up of Silicone is what makes it more attractive.

The battery lasts for 14 days in smartwatch mode and the GPS navigation mode, it’s packed full of useful features (like the navigation and the ability to control Spotify) and yet it looks like a normal watch.

Having thermal, shock, and water resistance of 100m. It estimates your heart rate, activity and stress throughout the day, telling you how hard you work. Every feature makes this watch a must-buy!

• Solar charging capabilities allow you to extend…
• Rugged GPS Watch is water-rated to 100 meters and…
• Built-in 3-axis compass and barometric altimeter…
• Track your activities for running, biking,…

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8. Men’s 3051 EVO Navy SEAL Colormark Watch By Luminox

If you’re on the lookout to purchase an EVO navy seal color mark watch that’s as handsomely rugged as it is practical, you may want to consider that one.

The glow is peerless: you will see time no matter how dark it is outside, making it a remarkable feature.

Water-resistant to 200 m, suitable for professional marine activity [except scuba diving]. Its lightweight and durability add to the reasons why to buy this one.

• Precise Swiss-quartz movement
• Mineral crystal
• Case diameter: 43.9 mm
• Polyurethane case; black dial; date function

Also Read : 10 Best Outdoor Blankets For Travel That Will Keep You Warm On The Go

Everyone wants calmness and this fitness wristband watch provides this! Tracking all-day activities like steps taken, calories burned, floors climbed and active minutes helps you to find moments of calm throughout your day with personalized guided breathing sessions based on your heart rate.

You can also see call, text & calendar notifications on the OLED display on your wrist. A perfect guide for your everyday reminder!

• Pure Pulse continuous, automatic wrist-based heart…
• Maximize your workouts using simplified heart rate…
• See call, text & calendar notifications on the…
• Get a better understanding of your fitness level…

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10. The Runwell Quartz Movement Blue Dial Men’s Watch By Shinola

Shinola, based in Detroit, has a growing fan base on both sides of the Atlantic, and travelers old and new will undoubtedly fall in love with the Runwell.

This analog watch has a classic design with a genuine leather band, as well as a large face that makes it easy to see whatever the lighting conditions are.

The sapphire crystal window is scratch-resistant, which is great for traveling, and the watch is water-resistant to 50 meters, which is plenty deep for a swim in the hotel pool !

This electric black watch counts your ascent or descent, measures your overall progress on a climb, and identifies your present elevation—making it perfect for mountaineers, skiers, and wilderness visitors.

Along with a Compass to navigate and pinpoint locations to safely find your way through the wilderness and in whiteout conditions.

Keeping a close eye on air pressure tends. Lightweight and 1-year battery life. This should be on your list if going to the mountains next time!

The Suunto Traverse Alpha combines a strong, high-quality design with a comprehensive array of outdoor functionality. With GPS/GLONASS navigation, it provides your companion in the wild, keeping you on course.

Specific hunting and fishing features, such as automatic shot detection, moon phase calendars, sunrise alerts, weather trend alerts, and red backlights for use at night, provide useful tools for your activity.

• Features a rugged, knurled stainless steel bezel,…
• Suunto’s automatic shot detection technology keeps…
• Gps tracks your path, helping you find your way…
• Location based moon Phase calendar with moon rise…

Along with estimates of your VO2 max and training status, advanced training elements like PacePro provide grade-adjusted pace guidance throughout your exercise.

The battery life in smart Watch mode is up to 14 days, in GPS and music mode is up to 10 hours, in expedition GPS activity mode is up to 28 days, and in battery saving, Watch mode is up to 48 days.

• Fit for performance with rugged, sophisticated…
• Advanced training features include PacePro for…
• Navigate the outdoors with preloaded TOPO maps,…
• Support for Garmin Pay contactless payments (not…

14. Nordgreen Pioneer Men’s Gun Metal Chronograph Watch

Our design is a simplified reflection of the characteristics and elegance of Copenhagen, where we are from. a constant push to do better.

Our objective is to provide customers with more than just a watch, but also a taste of inspiring Copenhagen, where enduring aesthetic value is combined with accuracy and usefulness.

• Minimalist Scandinavian designer watch designed by…
• 42mm Gun metal men’s Chronograph watch with a…
• Interchangeable black 20mm soft rubber watch band…
• Domed scratch resistant sapphire crystal glass in…

We hope you find this helpful and can find what you were looking for.

🙋🏻‍♀️ FAQs About Best Travel Watches

A lot of questions are asked by consumers when purchasing travel watches. The answers to a few frequently asked questions are provided here.

A. Yes, many travel watches come with varying degrees of water resistance. It’s crucial to check the specifications of each model to understand its capabilities.

A. While most travel watches are equipped to handle changes in air pressure, it’s advisable to check the manufacturer’s recommendations for air travel.

A. Yes, many travel watches feature multiple time zone settings, making them ideal companions for globetrotters.

A. While some travel watches have user-replaceable batteries, it’s recommended to have battery replacements done by professionals to ensure proper sealing and water resistance.

A. Yes, most reputable brands offer warranties on their travel watches. It’s essential to register your watch and adhere to the manufacturer’s guidelines for warranty coverage.

A. Consider factors like durability, features, and design that align with your travel style.

A. While not mandatory, they are recommended, especially for those engaging in water-related activities.

In the realm of travel, time is both a constant companion and a precious commodity. The Best Travel Watches seamlessly blend style, functionality, and durability, ensuring your journeys are not just measured in miles but in moments. Elevate your travel experience with the perfect companion strapped to your wrist.

Also, don’t forget to book your personalized holiday package with  Fiery Trippers . Let us make your vacation a romantic as well as a dreamy getaway.

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Rahul Siddharth

He is a dedicated travel writer with a wealth of 10 Years + experience that enriches his narratives. He holds a degree in Hospitality and Hotel Administration from IHM Dehradun, which he couples with hands-on expertise in the field. Drawing from his diverse experiences, Rahul's writings offer readers a captivating glimpse into the world of travel. Embark on a journey of exploration and inspiration with Rahul as your guide. Read More

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Best Travel Watches For Men & Women – Top Picks Reviewed

Those who love to travel know how specific time is since they are at its mercy. From checking in a hotel and catching a flight to meeting up with someone and or going to far-flung tours, time keeps them on their toes. And we are sure nobody wants to let the time slip from their fingers. This is why we will show you the best travel watches that will save you hassle at times.

Table of Page Contents

Here is the Quick Answer for The Best Travel Watches in 2022:

• Best Travel Watch for Men: Citizen Watches Men’s Eco-Drive
• Best Travel Watch for Women: Gramin Fenix Chronos Smart Watch
• Best Travel Watch for Kids: Waterproof Smart Watch
• Cheapest Travel Watch: BUREI Men’s Analog
• Best Travel Smart Watch: Samsung Galaxy Smart Watch
• Best Smart Watch Apple: Apple Watch Series 4
• Best Stylish Watch: Tissot Seastar 1000
• Best Waterproof Watch: Hamilton Men’s 

Travelers carry all the necessary gadgets while traveling , but they rely on their smartphones for the time. Have you ever considered that smartphones can die at any moment, and you might miss your journey because of not getting an accurate time estimate?

Here’s when a reliable and robust wristwatch helps you track time while you travel. Yes! That’s true. Though we know that smartphones have usurped wristwatches, there’s still something classy about them. You can’t pull out your phone in certain instances, for example, while swimming, but you can check time anywhere with the help of a watch.

And let us tell you something significant; this timeless tool serves as an excellent accessory for modern travelers to stick to their schedule. It’s more important the essential travel accessories for long flights .

But what is the best travel watch?

Want to gear up for a trip but don’t know how to select the best travel watch according to your requirements? Let us help you in doing this!

Let us help you in doing this!

First things first , reflect upon the features you want in a wristwatch. Still confused? We consider a watch the best which has certain features including;

Time zone- Can it adjusts itself with the time zone, or is it manual?

Stylish- Consider, is it good if you are going on a fine dinner or to formal events?

Durable- The most important thing; is it robust and sturdy?

GPS – Does the watch has a GPS tracker to help you make way if you are lost?

Visibility- Especially for night travelers. Can I see in low light or dark?

Water-resistant/Water-proof – For the marine adventurers or those who love to swim and snorkel.

Tachymeter- It can be a useful feature to consider as it lets you estimate short time frames.

Risk – Shock free and knock free

Alarm- Does the watch has a built-in alarm?

Versatility – Will it suit on formal occasions as well?

Battery timing – Do I need to charge it every 24 hours, or can I go without charging for months?

The strap – Will I feel comfortable while wearing it?

Having said that, to save you from the frustration of missing your journey because of improper time tracking, we have listed some of the best travel watches for you.

Best Travel Watches for Men

Gone are the days when the wristwatches used to tell time only. For travelers to be more proactive, manufacturers are coming up with unique and innovative designs. From up-ticking accurate time to pinpointing locations, these watches are helpful and range from being affordable to incredibly expensive. 

In a rush? Let’s have a look at the best travel watches for men . Find the best and the cheapest travel watches on this page for men who like to wear stylish watches.

1. Citizen Men’s Eco-Drive Promaster Diver

With all its style and simplicity, this beautiful timepiece is a technical dive. This watch is specially designed for travelers who have packed their bags for an overseas adventure. And did we tell you that it works underseas too?

It has a mineral crystal dial and is an epitome of a style that is wearable. The time and date display are crisp because of the anti-reflective mineral crystal. This watch features a one-way rotating bezel and comes with an adjustable strap plus buckle to ensure it does not fall down your wrist.

With having a water resistance of 660ft (200m), you can wear this wristwatch while snorkeling or swimming. It is also suitable to wear this watch while in the shower. Want to do scuba diving? Well, we can’t get enough of this watch as you can wear it underwater without any worry.

Travelers have given this watch some extra points because it comes in scuba tank display packing. And the best thing, there is no need to insert batteries every time because of its Eco-Drive technology powered by light. It can convert artificial or natural light into energy, so it recharges and runs forever.

• Light power
• Water-resistant
• No batteries required
• A little bulky
• Analog display

2. Casio G-Shock Gravity Master

A combination of robustness and style, this timepiece is excellent for serious travelers. But what makes this watch the best? This watch’s microchips and inner dials are encased in a body, hence protecting the inner workings from any sudden shocks, for example, centrifugal forces, knocking, and vibration. Want to plan a scuba diving while wearing this watch? G-Shock Gravity Master, besides being shockproof, is also water-resistant. So, you can dive into the water for a maximum of 200 meters. 

We bet that this travel watch is best for globetrotting explorers as its technology is one of a kind.

Using a combination of GPS and radio waves, this Gravity Master synchronizes with the time zone once you reach your desired destination. It allows you to travel without worrying about time. Plus, the hybrid system ensures that the time displayed is correct every time wherever you are. Isn’t this a cool feature?

Save yourself from the hassle of setting the time manually.

• It has a calendar
• Its body is protective
• Water Resistant up to 200m
• It automatically synchronizes with the time zone
• Built-in thermometer
• G-shock resistant
• Some might find it bulky
• Analog-digital display
• Its diameter is of 52m

3. Bulova Precisionist 98B257

For travelers who want a sporty yet classy look, this watch serves their demand. Wanderers particularly like this watch because they can flaunt a sporty façade while wearing it.

Bulova has been making time watches for ages, and the watches they make are still the best. This flawless timepiece comes with a stainless-steel strap which is ion-plated and has a black matte finish, hence giving it a sophisticated look. Moreover, as perfect as the name, this perfectionist 98B257 can tell insanely accurate time because of its high-frequency quartz. A tachymeter coupled with a precision chronograph and vibrating at 262 kHz makes it stand out among high functional travel watches.

However, serious divers who want to dive into the water below 300 meters cannot wear this watch as it is not waterproof. Therefore, this watch is more towards recreational diving.

• Stainless steel strap
• Precise chronograph
• Gives insanely accurate time
• Ultimately sophisticated
• Great for fine dining or beach
• Low water resistance
• Not recommended for scuba divers
• Lack of pressure relief

4. BUREI Men’s Analog-Digital Sport Watch

Is adjusting your watch to different time zones every time seems a hassle? Buy this BUREI Men’s Analog Watch. This watch offers a convenient style while having the ability to adjust time itself in different time zones and that too with precision. The digital display makes it easy to view time in a second.

Now you won’t need to put an alarm on your phone as the watch comes with an alarm clock to wake you up at the set time. Moreover, the inner workings are enclosed in stainless steel, and its soft band makes it easy to wear.

Travelers can wash hands without worry while wearing this watch as it is splash-proof.

• Splash proof
• Auto adjustment to different time zones
• Digital display
• Not water resistant
• No GPS tracker

5. Hamilton Men’s 

This watch is among the perfect watches built for travelers. The dial of this watch is aviation-inspired and easy to read dial hence enabling the users to watch time quickly when they are in a rush. Along with the luminous hands, you can see a day/date window.

The dials and inner workings are encased in stainless steel, making no way for rust with a screw-in case displaying date and day. Travelers who go out on a day full of marine activity can use this wristwatch as it is water-resistant up to 600 ft.

Its brown leather strap and pin buckle make it less intricate for those who love minimalist style.

• Stainless steel
• Imported from the U.S.A.

6. Suunto Core All Black – Military

This masterpiece from Suunto has a robust case and is coal black. It has various features, including an alarm clock, altimeter, and a compass; so, you can locate your desired destination anytime, anywhere. You can see the air pressure and prediction about changing weather because of its built-in barometer.

However, please note that it is water-resistant for only 30 m. Moreover, it displays record sessions, shows elevation, and displays ascent or descent. Did we tell you that it tracks the sun and temperature as well? This watch is the best travel watch for those who want to plan their activities, keeping in mind the weather. 

The best part? It also tells you the drop in air pressure and senses any upcoming storm due to its storm alarm intelligence.

• Intelligent storm detector
• Weather trend graph
• In-built compass
• Heavy on pocket
• Water-resistant up to 100ft.

7. Samsung Gear S3 Frontier

Among all the best travel watches, Samsung Gear S3 is at the top of the list. Its top-notch features and simple yet elegant design will make you forget any other watch. But how?

This powerful gadget plus timepiece has a round and bezel design with a built-in GPS feature. Find nearby attractions or restaurants for mouth-watering food with this gadget instead of having a hard time locating them on maps.

Travelers who want to keep themselves fit and active will love this watch as it comes with an activity tracker and keeps their heart rate and fitness level checked. And the best part; you won’t have to take out your phone every time it buzzes with notifications because you can directly check notifications from your Samsung Gear S3 as it synchronizes via Bluetooth on Android devices.

What else might one need? It can be used as a payment method through Samsung pay.

But there are more features as well, including detecting high temperatures, shockproofing, and withstanding water above 5 feet.

The battery life of this watch is 2-3 days, which is not bad for a device like this, but travelers have to charge it constantly, which is cumbersome for those who move frequently.

• Activity detector
• Manually synchronizes with your phone
• Detects high temperatures
• The constant need to recharge the battery
• Is not compatible with iPhone users

8. Citizen Eco-Drive World Time AT9010-52E

The citizen Eco-Drive offers something best for the travelers. Those who are always on the move particularly love this watch. Its stainless-steel construction gives it a chic view. If you like something contemporary, then you won’t want to miss this watch. Moreover, it offers radio-controlled synchronization of time means that the time can be synchronized in 26 zones. It is adjusted to synchronize to an atomic clock and gives a superior time accuracy. This feature makes it stand out among the best travel watches.

This timepiece also offers a scratch-resistant feature, and it’s orange accented dial makes time watching an easy job. The combination of rechargeable lithium-ion battery and solar power holds charging forever, hence making it easy for frequent travelers always on the run. It converts light into energy and recharges in any light.

It has a built-in alarm, an indicator that displays power reserve, and has an anti-reflective sapphire crystal.

• Best for travelers who like to hop around different time zones
• Radio-controlled time keeping both automatically and manually
• Striking and functional
• Not suitable for serious scuba divers

9. Tissot Seastar 1000

As the name implies, Seastar is a travel watch explicitly designed by keeping marine adventurers in mind. Swiss watchmakers have come up with the idea of creating an entry-level watch for travelers; so they can quickly move between land and sea. Its classic and aesthetic design is loved by all types of travelers, let alone marine adventurers.

With a delicately crafted bezel, which is dive-style, it is available in different colors, keeping in mind their customers’ choice. The 42mm dial of this watch makes it exquisite and adds depth to it hence implying the serious water adventurers.

This timepiece will not let you feel out of place and features a silicone band hence pushing it towards the end of the spectrum. The hands of this watch are luminous and will not hurt your eyes, which makes this watch easy to read even at night or in situations where light is low.

Forget worrying about watching time during water sports. Moreover, it has a water resistance of up to 984 feet and a valve to depressurize the watch.

• Best travel watch for the marine enthusiast
• Fulfills all the land or in-water functions
• Up to 300m water resistant
• It cannot withstand shocks
• Lack of GPS can make travelers lose their track

10. Apple Watch Series 4 (GPS, 40mm)

I am presenting you with the game-changer watch, a leader of watches if we talk about form and function. This apple watch is a mix of splendor and more than a tech accessory.

We recommend you buy this top-notch travel watch, which will make people’s heads turn wherever you go. Its 30% enhanced display is the new incarnation in this series.

Want to monitor your heart activity after a day full of adventure? This watch comes with an ECG heart monitor so you can check your health any time, anywhere. Take the ECG on your wrist!

Also, it features a gyroscope for detecting falls. Along with this, GPS, a world clock, and a sleep tracker in this watch will make you choose this over other timepieces every time you look for the best travel watch.

Oh! And did we tell you that you can calculate currency exchanges and see real-time weather with this watch? Isn’t this something out of the world?

No need to fish around in your pocket or purse because this apple watch is everything.

Wait! We have another great feature of this watch. Now you can handle text messages and phone calls on your wrist. Use your favorite apps while on the go with Siri Shortcuts.

• ECG heart monitor
• 30% large dial
• Tracks sleep

Hey! We Gotcha. You are looking for the best Apple Watch charger, and that’s why we have listed this for you.

11. Ugreen Portable Charger

This is a certified charger best suited for charging smartwatches. And the best thing about this charger is its compatibility with all the Apple smartwatches, including a series of four-time pieces.

It is a portable charger and is compact, which means that you can take it anywhere hence making it ideal for travelers. Its design is foldable, and the charging module is magnetic and is known for its reliability. Moreover, its design has a contemporary touch.

And the best thing about the charger is that it is pocket-sized, which makes it more worthy. This charger has short circuit and overvoltage protection, and when you order this, you will get a 4 ft USB cable so you can charge the device by plugging it in any socket or PC.

12. Casio Men’s Digital Watch

This watch is the upgraded version of the Casio calculator watch, which was there a long time ago. And it is one of the highly recommended watches. Why?

Because it has the world time feature through which it allows travelers to access and set, not 10 not 20, not 25, but 31 (yep, you read that right) time zones and displays 48 city codes. A perfect choice for thrifty travelers that will keep you stick to the time anywhere. It comes in a stainless-steel case, which adds a class and style to it. Also, the strap is adjustable and comes with a buckle.

Moreover, it features five daily alarms that can be configured easily, or you can set only one alarm. It allows you to disable the alarm anytime you want.  And at the top of that, you can adjust it in a way and turn on an hourly time signal that beeps after every hour.

It is water-resistant up to 100m which is suitable for everyday snorkeling or swimming but not good for serious scuba divers or marine adventurers.

• Great on pocket
• 31 time zones
• 48 city codes
• No light for night wanderers

Best Travel Watches for Women

Not only men but women also travel frequently due to specific reasons such as job requirements, or they are cabin crews, or they might have a seminar to attend or they are traveling for leisure or are wanderlust. Thus, to make their traveling more comfortable, we have come up with some of the best travel watches for women that they can carry while on the go.

1. GARMIN FENIX CHRONOS

Manufactured according to the taste of women, keeping delicacy and style in mind, the GARMIN timepiece features a sapphire lens that is scratch resistant. This resistance is a convenience for those who move around a lot for one reason or another.

Moreover, it has a hand-brushed forged titanium hybrid link that makes it lightweight at the same time. Logically, it has a built-in GPS and a TracBack feature so you can reach the place from where you started your tour.

There’s a fitness tracker in the watch hence making it ideal for women who work out. Its VO2 max estimator provides data like the speed of running, heart rate, beats per minute, and a recovery advisor. Plus, if you connect it with a compatible smartphone, you can receive e-mails, messages, and alert displays anywhere.

• A.B.C. (altitude, barometer, compass) readings
• 8-day battery life
• Monitors activity
• TracBack GPS feature
• Extensive monitoring
• Up to just 100m water resistant
• Requires USB charging
• Leather strap

2. Timex Women’s Expedition Mini Watch

Are you looking for a travel companion? This slim and delicate timepiece can be a trustworthy travel companion. The Timex series is tried and tested to be water-resistant up to 165 feet. Moreover, it is ideally suited for trekkers because of its Indigo night-light. It is available in three different colors so you can choose according to your style.

• Light-weight
• Indigo light for night wanderers
• Suitable for recreational swimming
• Nylon strap
• Not useful while diving or snorkeling

3. Timex Women’s Ironman Transit

This watch is a perfect blend of style and functionality. Its strap is easily cleanable and durable. The large display makes it easy to check the time, especially when you are in a hurry or hiking on a mountain. The resin case is shock resistant, hence making your watch safe to use.

Also, this clock shows two time zones, so you will get a clear idea of the time at the place where you are and the time at home, which itself is a useful feature. You can also use its customized alarm, which is a helpful feature when you are traveling. And the best thing, this watch is water-resistant up to a depth of 100m.

What more could one want?

• Displays two time zones
• Water-resistant up to 100m
• Customized alarm
• Shock resistant
• Manual synchronization of time zone
• Resin strap

4. FOSSIL Q VENTURE HR

Let’s start by understanding the feature that is hidden in the name. ‘HR,’ which is heart rate monitoring. You can monitor your heart on your wrist.

This watch tracks your activity, including how many steps you have taken, the calories you burnt, and the distance you covered. Whether you work out, do yoga, run, or meditate, you will get precise feedback on your heart rate during all the activities.

Want to set customized goals? With this watch, you can set the health goals for yourself, such as the amount of water intake or any particular exercise. Also, this will keep you more productive by reminding you of the goals set by you.

Not to forget the splendor this watch carries because of its rose-toned stainless-steel case, which is lightweight and sturdy—hence giving you a feeling like you are wearing a bracelet. Thanks to its design, the strap is interchangeable with any 18mm.

You are tired of manually setting time when in a different time zone? This piece comes with automatic time adjustment features which prevent you from the worry of setting time. And you won’t lose track as it has a built-in GPS so you can explore any part of the earth.

You can also enjoy your favorite music while cherishing the scenic views because it stores music in itself. You can listen to any music through wide-ranging apps, including iTunes, Soundcloud, Spotify, or Google Play.

This watch helps you make online payments in places where credit cards can be used. Moreover, once you connect it with your phone, you will be able to receive calls, alarm clock, text messages, and all other notifications from your smartphone. You can also set the alarm on this watch in case you have a crucial meeting to attend or any vital work to do.

Water splashes are not a big deal as your watch is swim-proof.

Its built-in microphone enables you to give voice commands or enable any specific function to different buttons. You can also personalize this time tool according to your mood and taste.

However, the battery life is only 12 hours, which makes the frequent travelers look for other options. But its charging time is super-fast, and you get it charged up to 80% in an hour.

Not a bad deal for travelers who want to travel to nearby places.

• Elegant and stylish design
• Quick charging
• Heart rate monitor
• Light and sturdy
• Straps are interchangeable
• Its battery timing is not too good

Best Case for Travel Watches

We pack everything correctly from our dresses to small accessories, but when it comes to watches, we don’t care much. However, it’s also imperative to find the best place for our expensive travel watch.

Therefore, to keep your watches safe and well-organized, here are our favorite and best watch travel cases.

1. Cheopz Travel Watch Case

Do you want to carry an extra watch while traveling? You can go for this watch pad travel case, which is easy to carry. Its shell is hard with a Ballistic nylon exterior that keeps your watch protected and safe while traveling. The inner material of this case is soft hence preventing it from scratches and knocks.

You can’t go wrong with this travel case because of its ergonomic design, which comes with a zipper hence locking your watch in place and preventing water from going in.

And the best thing; this case can fit in any watch from your minimalistic watches to luxury timepieces.

2. ROTHWELL Watch Roll Travel Case

Protect your precious watches with this leather watch roll. Those who want to secure their collection of watches can get this as it’s designed in such a way

. It is compact, easy to store, and you can carry it along yourself anywhere. Made from high-quality leather, this roll is incredibly stylish and has plenty of space for your collection.

A lot to digest, eh? These are the best watches when it comes to traveling. From minimalist, analog, or digital clock to a watch with GPS trackers and shockproof tech, or a watch that looks stylish and classy, you can choose any from the list mentioned above.

The Conclusion

Time is money, so spend your money and invest in the best watch to save yourself from missing out on the journey. Also, read our guide about the “beach vacation packing list” for families. We tried our best to present you with the best and cheap travel watches , and we hope you like our effort. Happy travels!

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In 2023 you can still get a lot for under $1,500..

With the holidays just around the corner and the year having nearly come to an end, for watch enthusiasts, that means it's time to look back on 2023 and reflect upon some of our favorite watches of the year. 

Kicking off our week of superlative Staff Picks, I asked the Hodinkee editorial brain trust to consider their favorite budget watch of 2023, with the cap being placed at a lofty $1,500 – which feels like more than enough to entirely cover the idea of a budget (and then some). From $75 and up, here are our picks for the best budget watches of the year, including rockstar collaborations, cheap and color fun, and all manner of sporty options that promise strong value and plenty of appeal. 

Forgive me for choosing what amounts to three watches here, but the Bulova Oceanographer GMT collection remains the most delightfully surprising of the year, and I can still remember getting a preview of the products, learning about the functionality… and then getting hit with the price. 

The Bulova Oceanographer GMT.  

What we have is a '70s-evocative design base from a heritage brand in Bulova that marries the dive and GMT aesthetic in a manner not unlike the Black Bay GMT. But at less than $1,500, I didn't expect Bulova to deliver a full "flyer" GMT with local jumping functionality. The attention to detail in the design, along with the capability of the movement, made this a no-brain choice for me. I'm still deciding between the gold and full lume dial variants, though. –Danny Milton, Managing Editor

I first spotted this watch on my friend and jewelry designer Nadine Ghosn . Inspired by the Skychart GN705 , and released for Swatch's 40th anniversary, it has that 90s cereal box aesthetic that gets me just as nostalgic as strawberry-flavored roll-on lip gloss and butterfly barrette clips.

Ok, so what I really want is a 1992 Grand Prix reference SCJ101 . EBay listings go for between $500 to $2000, and though I may be an impulsive shopper, I'm not entirely sure I can bring myself to splurge on a plastic Swatch. Instead, I bought what I consider the next best thing, the Swatch Shades of Neon, and all for a very conservative $75. There's actually a direct successor to the SCJ101, the Neon To The Max SB06J100 , but it's 47mm, which is gargantuan and kind of defeats the whole point of these watches – in my humble opinion.

The Shades of Neon is the perfect summer watch. You can wear it on the beach, stack it with all your vacation jewelry, and then circle back into your real jewelry rotation once you return home. –Malaika Crawford, Style Editor

Brew Watches has been a staple of the New York watch scene for a while now, and its founder, Jonathan Ferrer, is known as one of the nicest and most approachable guys in the watch industry. But in the last few years, the brand has started hitting its stride in a way that excites me for its future. As for the watches, it's hard to pick just one as they operate almost entirely under the proposed limit for this budget-minded roundup. 

I put two of the Brew Metric chronographs head-to-head earlier this year , and with their vintage-inspired themes in a distinctly "Brew" case, I had a hard time choosing one over the other. But if you're looking for a fun, affordable, and more outside-the-box watch to add to an early collection or recommend to a friend, the Brew Metric in black PVD is a tough one to beat.

We all likely have recommended Seikos, Citizens, and Hamiltons to our friends. But instead of buying the same style of watch – dive, field, etc. – over and over when you're building a collection, it's refreshing to have an option to wear something completely different. There aren't a ton of integrated bracelet watches at the price point – just $475 – and none that both feel aware of history (like the Porsche Design Chronograph 1) without being too on the nose. Instead of buying something that feels like an affordable version of the watch you want, buy a watch that unabashedly is its own thing. If you're not on board yet, just keep an eye on Brew over the next few years. I think you'll be impressed. 

–Mark Kauzlarich, Editor 

This year, young U.K. brand Studio Underd0g upped its game with its second release, the Field Collection . While it takes the World War II-era Dirty Dozen watches as inspiration, the quartet of new watches meets the brief in a playful way that only an underdog could.

Not only is Studio Underd0g's take on the field watch fun and colorful, but the actual manufacturing is impressive, too. It starts with the dial: Studio Underd0g mounts a thin sapphire disc above the base dial, on which the branding and numerals are printed. Flip the lights off, and the full-lume treatment on the dials really shines.

While the Field Collection's 37mm case feels like a traditional field watch, it's a completely modern take on the form. At a time when so many brands are doing things vintage or heritage-inspired, Studio Underd0g is completely fresh. Instead of making an homage to the original WWW watches, Studio Underd0g imagined a world in which the British Ministry of Defense tasked them with creating the same watch today. The result is a decidedly modern take on the Dirty Dozen. Sure, Studio Underd0g takes inspiration from the originals, but these are far from homage watches. So few brands have the guts to try something truly new, and even fewer succeed. Studio Underd0g has managed both with its Field Collection.

For $900, Studio Underd0g is offering a perfectly sized field watch (with a Sellita movement) that uses techniques you don't see in many other watches. The initial pre-order window for the Field Collection is closed, but Studio Underd0g's Richard Benc told me you can expect availability to open up again in spring 2024.

–Tony Traina, Editor

Look, I could not be more biased here because I helped bring this watch to life, but show me a watch that says more about its creator (who happens to be one of the most creative, interesting, and kind people in the world today), and ties a larger community of watch lovers together than this bright yellow G-Shock. It's also fun as f*ck to know that you – we – all own at least one watch that lives proudly within the Ed Sheeran collection of insane pieces.

The G-Shock Ref. 6900 Subtract By Ed Sheeran for Hodinkee.

It's also just... FUN. And that's why we're all here, right? Not to mention, this watch premiered in what has been described as the best piece of watch content ever created (not by me, I swear), and it has an even stronger story. This watch is just awesome, just like Ed. And it's so, so different than anything else out there. –Ben Clymer, Founder

With G-SHOCK turning 40 this year, 2023 has been a massive year for the original tough watch, and they've been churning out celebratory limited edition makes of their most popular models (excuse the pun) like clockwork. Remaining well under the imaginary $1,500 budget, I'm going with the recently released full-metal anniversary edition of the brand's heritage DW-5000 model that kicked the brand off to a running start in 1983.

The G-Shock GMWB5000PC-1 "Full Metal Polychromatic". 

The all-metal construction makes it feel more luxurious than its resin counterparts. It has the extensive functionality and ruggedness you can count on from a G-SHOCK. And it's got that quirky, nerdy 80s vibe that is a key ingredient of the DW-5000 series. A close runner-up would be the Recrystallized Gold Full-Metal GMWB5000PG-9, which is much more flashy and has the added bonus of Bluetooth connectivity.

–Erin Wilborn, Copywriter 

Tissot's 40mm PRX has made the rounds on Hodinkee, Instagram, and TikTok since its release in 2021 – becoming a darling pick for budget watch no matter who you listen to. However, it is easy (read: lazy) to discount the 1970s-inspired integrated bracelet sport watch as "Tissot riding on the Nautilus and Royal Oak coattails" or, even worse, a rip-off of those two iconic models. I urge everyone to resist that temptation. Yes, there are a lot of those two watches in the format, but Tissot will be the first to tell you that they have their own 1970s vintage inspiration in the Seastar.

The Tissot PRX 35mm Powermatic 80 with Mother of Pearl Dial.

Just as Tony lamented here on the pages of Hodinkee , I, too, prefer the smaller PRX in the 35mm sizing. It's not because I have dainty wrists like Anthony but because I simply prefer a smaller watch (most days I wear my Rolex Explorer ref. 1016). This particular dial impressed me as I generally have a bit of a weakness for Mother of Pearl, and this one is really well done for $750.

–Rich Fordon, VIP Advisor

As budget watches remain my core category of interest, I am always interested in any solid, well-made, and value-packed everyday watch. Earlier this year, Canada's own Marathon updated a classic from their lineup with the military-designed Navigator , replacing the model's usual composite fiber case with a new steel case. 

Alongside the bead-blasted 41mm steel case, the new Navigator is now available with or without a date display, and both iterations use a high-accuracy ETA quartz movement that is accurate to +/- 10 seconds a year. Add to that 100 meters of water resistance, constant tritium tube illumination, and a 12-hour bezel for tracking a second time zone, and you have an incredible 41mm steel watch that can complement just about any collection with 70s styling, great specs, and a dash of Canadian charm – all starting at $770. 

I've been wearing one of these on and off since the steel version was released in April, and it's easily one of my favorite watches of the year. It's useful, subtle, and wears beautifully on wrist. 

–James Stacey, Lead Editor

The Hodinkee Shop is an authorized dealer of G-Shock , Tissot , and Bulova . Visit the H Shop to view the collection. 

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The 10 Best Watches for Travelers

Caroline Morse Teel

Caroline Morse Teel is the Managing Editor for SmarterTravel Media. Follow her adventures around the world on Instagram @TravelWithCaroline.

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This story is sponsored by eBay.

Whether you want to keep track of two time zones at once, measure your depth while scuba diving, check your route while hiking, or simply look stylish and well-accessorized, the right watch is an essential travel item. 

However, finding a legitimate watch online for a great price can be harder than snagging a cheap flight deal. You can shell out tons of money, but with knockoffs everywhere, how do you know that your watch is the real deal? The simple answer: get your watch on eBay , where you can search for watches that are covered by eBay’s amazing Authenticity Guarantee . 

Filter your search for watches that have eBay’s Authenticity Guarantee badge, and you can order with the peace of mind that you’re getting the real thing. Here’s how the process works: the seller ships the watch to independent experts who verify the watch through a multipoint inspection that looks at the movement, crown, bezel, dial, case, clasp/buckle, hands, end links, serial numbers, and more. The inspector then issues a NFC-enabled card that is included with the watch to prove the authenticity and ships the watch directly to you.

The Best Authenticity Guaranteed Watches for Travelers

Omega seamaster.

If you want a watch that you can wear on the beach and also out to a nice dinner, look no further than the Omega Seamaster . This classic timepiece has an eye-catching blue face with a subtle wave design that will go with any outfit. It’s also functional for outdoor activities like diving thanks to the helium escape valve, unidirectional rotating bezel, and screw-in crown.

Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date GMT-Master II

The original Rolex GMT-Master line was designed with Pan American Airways and worn as part of the crew uniform on long-haul flights. The newer GMT-Master II model features an adjustable hour hand that can be set to local time, so you can keep track of the time both at home and at your destination. 

Rolex Yacht-Master Watch

There may be a worldwide Rolex shortage , but you can find plenty of options from this iconic brand at eBay, all for a great price. The Rolex Yacht-Master is a classic for a reason , with an easy-to-read face and streamlined design. This model is available with eBay’s Authenticity Guarantee and will save you over $4,500 compared to buying new. 

Patek Philippe Complications Annual Calendar White Gold Mens Watch

For a splurge that won’t look out of place in the first-class cabin, Patek Philippe’s Complications watch is the best luxury watch for travelers. The stunning enamel dial center displays a map of Europe, Africa, and the Americas. Simply push a button and you can display two time zones at once, to help you stay on top of your jet lag. 

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The apple watch series 6.

The Apple Watch Series 6 puts some serious tech on your wrist. On the Series 6, you can get real-time flight alerts, translate a conversation, and check walking directions, all without you having to dig out your phone. 

The Apple Watch makes a great adventure partner. It’s water-resistant so you can wear it while swimming or boating, it can track miles and your route while you hike, and it can even detect if you’ve taken a hard fall and connect you to emergency services if needed. 

Citizen Eco-Drive Elektra Women’s Crystal Silver-Tone Watch

When your phone is dead and you’re far from a charger, Citizen’s Eco-Drive Elektra watch will still be able to tell you the time. This beautiful timepiece is solar-powered and doesn’t require a battery. This model features gorgeous sapphire crystals to add a touch of sparkle to any look. 

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Citizen Eco-Drive Promaster Diver Date Display 

Looking for an affordable, stylish, and functional dive watch? Citizen’s Eco-Drive Promaster Diver checks all the boxes. This solar-powered watch will never need a battery (so no need to worry about finding a charger or extra battery while you’re traveling). ISO rated for depths up to 200 meters, this watch will show you the date, time, and how long you’ve been in the water at a glance.

Garmin Fenix 6 Multisport GPS Watch

No matter how far you venture into the backcountry, you’ll never get lost as long as you have Garmin’s Fenix 6 Multisport watch on your wrist. This watch uses multiple global navigation satellite systems to track in places that are too remote for regular GPS. No access to electricity? Put the Fenix 6 in expedition mode and it will run for weeks without a charge. 

In addition to finding your way in nature, the Fenix 6 is great for urban travels, with the ability to send and receive text messages, tap-to-pay, sleep monitoring, and hydration tracking. 

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Bulova Classic Women’s Quartz Silver-Tone Bangle Watch

Bulova’s Classic watch has a sleek and understated design that will look elegant without calling attention to you while traveling. The simple black enamel face features four simple metalized crystal dashes to mark the time. The link bangle bracelet is comfortable to wear and can be easily adjusted for a custom fit. 

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Casio G-Shock G-Steel Tough Solar Connected Watch

Need a watch that can withstand anything? Made from a lightweight and extremely durable carbon steel, the Casio G-Shock G-Steel is nearly indestructible. This watch features G-Shock’s powerful shock resistance and can even be connected to your smartphone via Bluetooth. 

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We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

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The Ultimate Guide to Watches and Travel

From GMT and world time watches to tips and tricks for safety and enjoyment, here’s all you need to know about traveling with watches.

By Zen Love

There are plenty of good reasons to consider the watch you take traveling: the right timepiece offers a sense of preparedness in a relatively unfamiliar environment; it can become part of lasting memories; and, of course, you want to catch planes, make meetings on time and beat jet lag.

Since travel forces you to select only the few items you’ll be spending time with, you want to choose carefully. The right travel watch might be a dedicated tool with features specifically meant for tracking different time zones, one that’s rugged and ready for adventure, or just one that you love and want as a travel companion. In the coverage below, we’ve got all you need to know about the watches that are best for day trips or globetrotting, as well as the tips, tricks, gear and solutions that’ll enhance your excursions.

Travel is largely curtailed for many people around the world at the moment, of course, but we’re optimistically looking forward to the chance to get away again. The following articles and the cool watches featured will get you ready and inspired to get back out there as soon as it’s safe and responsible to do so.

These Are Our Favorite Adventure Watches of 2020

From rugged dive watches to world timers, these are some of the timepieces we want to take adventuring in 2021.

How to Pack and Travel with Your Watches

Let the watches you travel with enhance your memory-making and selfie-taking adventures.

The Best Cases, Rolls and Pouches for Traveling With Your Watches

Keep your beloved timepieces safe and orderly.

One Simple Feature Makes These 3 Watches Perfect for Traveling

A 12-hour rotating bezel is a handy way to track another time zone without the added cost of a GMT complication.

The 11 Best Mechanical Watches to Wear When Traveling

Whether you’re driving coast to coast or flying from JFK to Narita, here are the watches that will keep you on time.

These Are Seven of the Most Affordable GMT Watches

GMT watches needn’t be bank-breaking. From big Swiss companies and upstart microbrands, here are 7 affordable GMTs.

Travel in Style with These Seven Incredible World Time Watches

World time watches allow you to see the current time in any place in the world with just a quick glance at your wrist.

What Makes Rolex’s GMT-Master The Best Travel Watch Ever?

This two-timer from the jet age is technically and aesthetically the mother of all GMT watches.

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20 Affordable GMT Watches for Budget-Conscious Travelers

Of all the different types of complicated timepieces, watches with a GMT or second-time-zone function are among the most useful in everyday life, especially for those of us who travel frequently, do long-distance business in other parts of the world, or some combination of both. Until relatively recently, if you wanted such a watch with a traditional mechanical movement (as opposed to a digital or quartz option), you could expect to pay a fairly hefty price for it. Fortunately, a growing number of watch brands — large and small, well-established as well as plucky newcomers — have started to make GMT watches that are attainable for newer, less affluent aficionados while also being robustly built and thoughtfully designed. In this article, we spotlight 20 of these affordable GMT watches, in ascending order of MSRP, all of which fall under the $2,000 threshold. (If you’re interested in a broader look at the GMT watch category, and might be convinced to spend a bit, or a lot, more, check out our original list of the best GMT watches. )

Under $1,000:

Timex q timex gmt.

Price: $229, Case Size: 38mm, Thickness: 12.5mm, Lug Width: 18mm, Crystal: Acrylic, Water Resistance: 50 meters, Movement: Quartz Analog

Always known for its value proposition, mass-market Timex has also gotten onto the radar of vintage-watch fans in recent years by reproducing some of its cult-favorite historical models, seeking out the sweet spot between historical flair, modest dimensions, and great pricing. Among the success stories is the colorful and sporty Q Timex, a modern reissue of a popular model from the 1970s, which also happens to be one of Timex’s first models with a quartz caliber. Among the elements that echo the original models are the bicolor GMT bezel, diver-style geometrical indexes on the dial, the integrated SST bracelet and even the battery case cover in the back, which enables the wearer to change his own battery with the simple turn of a coin edge.

Nodus Sector GMT

Price: $475, Case Size: 38mm, Thickness: 12.25mm, Lug to Lug: 47mm, Lug Width: 20mm, Crystal: Sapphire, Water Resistance: 100 meters, Movement: Automatic Seiko TMI NH34

California-based microbrand Nodus takes its name from the Latin word signifying the intersection of pathways, and symbolizes its mission of merging the two worlds of vintage and modern design.The Sector GMT delivers on that promise with its modestly sized, brushed 38mm case and sector-style dial design that draws inspiration from military watches issued during the 1920s through the 1940s. The watch diverges from many other GMTs with its use of an inner 24-hour scale, within the main ring of radial Arabic hour numerals, to designate the second time zone rather than the more common 24-hour bezel. The outsourced Seiko movement inside the case has been heavily regulated by Nodus’ Irvine, California workshop and offers a 41-hour power reserve. 

Seiko 5 Sports GMT SSK001

Price: $475, Case Size: 42.5mm, Thickness: 13.4mm, Lug Width: 22mm, Crystal: Hardlex, Water Resistance: 100 meters, Movement: Automatic Seiko 4R34

Seiko introduced the first GMT complication to its entry-level, automatic Seiko 5 sports line in 2022, equipping the watches with the automatic Caliber 4R34. Available in three colorways for the dial and bezel — blue, orange, and the black version featured here — the watches have a central GMT hand in a contrasting color, used in coordination with the bicolor day/night bezels (here in black and gray), with rings made of Hardlex glass like the crystal, to indicate a second time zone. The GMT hand is coated in Seiko’s proprietary LumiBrite for nighttime legibility. Based on the design of the much-beloved SKX series of Seiko sports watches, the model has a five-link bracelet with polished middle rows.

Lorier Hydra SII GMT

Price: $599, Case Size: 41mm, Thickness: 12.2mm, Lug to Lug: 46mm, Lug Width: 20mm, Crystal: Hesalite, Water Resistance: 200 meters, Movement: Automatic Miyota 9075

Founded by the husband-wife team of Lorenzo and Lauren Ortega and based in New York City, Lorier is one of a handful of American microbrands (you’ll find others on this list) that have availed themselves of the revolutionary Japanese Miyota 9075 movement to power an automatic GMT watch at an eye-raising low price. The Hydra GMT is a 41mm steel watch with deep-diving capabilities as well as GMT functionality: it’s water-resistant to 200 meters and features both a unidirectional ratcheting dive-scale bezel and a 24-hour ring outside the hour track for indicating a second time zone. The Hydra is even highly legible in the dark, with blue-glowing Super-LumiNova used for the hands and indexes and green lume used for the 24-hour scale.

Traska Venturer

Price: $695, Case Size: 38.5mm, Thickness: 10mm, Lug to Lug: 46mm, Lug Width: 20mm, Crystal: Sapphire, Water Resistance: 150 meters, Movement: Automatic Miyota 9075

Jon Mack founded Florida-based microbrand Traska after accidentally ruining one of his beloved vintage watches while wearing it in the water. The company is devoted to making watches that combine an authentic retro design language with a modern tool-watch build. The first Traska watch, the Freediver, paved the way for the brand’s first travel-focused watch, the Venturer, outfitted with the aforementioned Miyota GMT caliber. The Venturer has a field-watch-inspired dial and a vintage-appropriate 38.5mm steel case whose thin bezel frames a wide dial bordered by a 24-hour scale, A red-tipped central GMT hand points to the additional time zone while a second crown at 10 o’clock operates the rotation of the 24-hour ring. The case and bracelet finishing, with polished and chamfered surfaces, is impressive for the price point.

Vaer G5 Meridian Navy/Red

Price: $799, Case Size: 39mm, Thickness: 13.2mm, Lug to Lug: 48mm, Lug Width: 20mm, Crystal: Sapphire, Water Resistance: 200 meters, Movement: Automatic Miyota 9075

Vaer founders Ryan Torres and Reagan Cook pooled their collective life savings to start their own watch brand because “we couldn’t afford the watches we liked and didn’t like the ones we could afford.” Based in Venice, California, Vaer manufacturers all its watches in the U.S.A. and offers in them a variety of outsourced movements, including quartz, solar quartz, and the automatic inside the G5 Meridian Navy/Red, a watch that evokes the classically colorful charm of Rolex’s “Pepsi” GMT-Master at an eminently more attainable price. The 39mm case has a ceramic bicolor bezel; both the bezel and the dial are generously lumed, and the central GMT hand in bright red, which indicates a second time zone on the 24-hour scale, creates a contrast with the black dial.

Bulova Wilton GMT

Price: $875, Case Size: 43mm, Thickness: 12.7mm, Lug to Lug: 49.5mm, Lug Width: 22mm, Crystal: Sapphire, Water Resistance: 30 meters, Movement: Automatic Miyota 9075

Over its long history, Bulova has become well-known for offering mechanical complications at very accessible prices, and the Classic Wilton GMT, which joined the collection in 2022, is no exception. Priced under a grand, the Wilton GMT is the rare example of a “true” GMT — i.e., one with an independently adjustable local hour hand — that just about any enthusiast can afford. The watch has a brushed steel case at 43mm; a dial in either white or blue, with applied Roman numerals matching the case tone, a date window at 3 o’clock, and a world-map textured pattern on its surface that adds to its value proposition. The central arrow-pointed GMT hand indicates a second time zone on the bicolor 24-hour scale on the dial’s flange. The automatic Japanese-made Miyota movement inside stores a 42-hour power reserve.

Tissot Chemin des Tourelles Powermatic 80 GMT

Price: $875, Case size: 42mm, Thickness: 12.5mm, Lug Width: 21mm, Crystal: Sapphire, Water Resistance: 50 meters, Movement: Automatic Powermatic 80.661

True to its form, the Tissot brand offers one of the watch world’s most value-oriented mechanical GMTs on the market in its elegantly detailed Chemin des Tourelles family. The Powermatic 80 GMT comes in a 42mm steel case (including a gold-plated version) with a thin, polished bezel framing a wide dial bordered on its outer edge by a 24-hour numbered scale. The dial’s ring of applied hour indexes and Roman hour numerals is accented by a hobnail pattern, and the thin sword hands for the hour and minute are joined by both a sweep seconds hand and an arrow-pointed GMT hand that reveals a second time zone on the outermost 24-hour ring. This watch’s version of the Powermatic 80 caliber is derived from the ETA C07.111, enhanced with the extended power reserve and antimagnetic escapement.

Maen Hudson 38 GMT

Price: $906, Case Size: 38mm, Thickness: 10.5mm, Lug to Lug: 46mm, Lug Width: 20mm, Crystal: Sapphire, Water Resistance: 200 meters, Movement: Automatic Soprod C-125

Maen was founded in Stockholm, Sweden in 2018 after a successful Kickstarter campaign, starting off with a dive watch, the Hudson Automatic, and expanding the scope to the Skymaster 38, a vintage-style pilot chronograph, and more recently the Hudson 38 GMT, which adapts the flagship Hudson diver’s design to a dual-time-zone utility. The sandblasted dial is bordered by a flange bearing a 24-hour scale, which is itself framed by a rotating bezel with its own 24-hour scale in place of the 60-minute dive scale; with the aid of the red arrow-tipped GMT hand, the wearer can read three time zones simultaneously. Like all Maen watches, the Hudson 38 GMT is Swiss-made, with its modest 38mm steel case housing a self-winding Soprod movement and attached to a supple, meticulously finished steel bracelet.

Certina DS Action GMT

Price: $995, Case Size: 43.1mm, Thickness: 12.6mm, Lug Width: 21mm, Crystal: Sapphire, Water Resistance: 200 meters, Movement: Automatic Powermatic 80.661  

Certina is a watch brand much better known outside the U.S. than within its borders, but that is rapidly changing as the company, which is owned by the Swatch Group, has expanded its distribution and thus the profile of its Swiss-made, value-oriented line of timepieces — particularly the divers’ watches that have put it on the radar of enthusiasts over the years. The DS Action line is Certina’s entry-level range of divers, the “DS” denoting the case’s “Double Security” case structure, in which the watch’s movement is protected within an extra shock-absorbing rubber ring inside the main case and the watertight crown features a proprietary sealant system. The DS Action GMT models, equipped with Powermatic 80 automatic calibers, swap out the traditional 60-minute diver’s bezel for a 24-hour GMT scale and a central hand.

Baltic Aquascaphe GMT

Price: 920 Euros, Case Size: 39mm, Thickness: 12mm, Lug to Lug: 47mm, Lug Width: 20mm, Crystal: Sapphire, Water Resistance: 100 meters, Movement: Automatic Soprod C125

Founded in France in 2017, Baltic has swiftly staked out its spot on the independent microbrand scene with its vintage-influenced collection, particularly the Aquascaphe, a retro divers’ watch heavily influenced by midcentury classics like Blancpain’s Bathyscaphe models. For the GMT version of the Aquascaphe, Baltic replaced the base model’s unidirectional bezel with 60-minute dive scale with a more travel-friendly, bidirectional (and bicolor) 24-hour bezel, which can be used in conjunction with a central arrow-tipped hand to read the time in a second time zone. The dive-watch DNA of the Aquascaphe series is clearly present, with the dial sporting geometric hour markers, plentiful lume on the markers and hands, and a 100-meter water resistance (half of the diving model’s 200-meter rating, but still substantial). Adding to the value proposition is Baltic’s use of a self-winding Soprod movement inside the brushed steel case.

Under $2,000:

Tissot seastar 1000 powermatic 80 gmt u.s. limited edition.

Price: $1,275, Case Size: 46mm Case Height: 15.4mm, Lug to Lug: 51.2mm, Lug Width: 22mm, Crystal: Sapphire, Water Resistance: 300 meters, Movement: Automatic Powermatic 80.661

Tissot's ruggedly attractive Seastar family of dive watches debuted in the 1960s and underwent a crowd-pleasing revamp in recent years, which included the enduringly popular models being fitted with ETA-based Powermatic 80 movements, named for their substantial 80-hour power reserve. Among the many iterations of the Seastar 1000 is this GMT-equipped model exclusive to the U.S. market, featuring an unusual green-and black-colorway and accompanying bright red central hand for its 24-hour GMT scale. Like all Seastars, it is a robustly built professional-grade dive watch, with a hefty, 46mm steel case rated to a punishing 300 meters (or 1,000 feet, hence the model’s name) of water resistance. The watch comes on a steel link bracelet, with strap options extra.

Mido Ocean Star GMT

Price: $1,310, Case Size: 44mm Case Height: 13.28mm, Lug Width: 22mm, Crystal: Sapphire, Water Resistance: 200 meters, Movement: Automatic Mido 80 (ETA C07.661 base)

Popular in Latin America but only vaguely familiar to many watch aficionados in the U.S., Mido has been making watches since 1918 and its nautically inspired Ocean Star line has been around since the 1940s, even before the era of the modern diver’s watch. The Ocean Star GMT, launched in 2020, is the family’s first dual-time-zone watch, with a sturdy steel case and ceramic divers’ bezel. The 24-hour scale that you might expect to find on the bezel is instead printed on the dial’s flange. A long, arrow-tipped hand points to the scale, enabling the wearer to read the time in additional time zones while the two main hands display the local time. The Powermatic 80 caliber inside the 44mm steel case has been equipped with an added module for the GMT functions.

Seiko Presage Sharp Edged GMT

Seiko introduced the Sharp Edged family, whose members were distinguished by their intriguing textured dials, into its dressy, all-automatic Presage collection in 2020, adding GMT models to the original group of time-and-date watches a year later. At just over 42mm in diameter, the Presage Sharp Edged GMT sits comfortably on the wrist thanks to sloping lugs; the case’s finish combines polishing and brushing at a level rarely found at this price point. The GMT bezel that frames the dial is made of steel and coated with Seiko’s fade-resistant DiaShield coating. The dial itself is, of course, the star of the show, with its geometric “Asanoha” textured pattern, an ancient Japanese design motif inspired by hemp leaves. The dial colors also take inspiration from Japan’s natural world, like the “Aitetsu” model pictured, whose tone evokes indigo-colored iron ore.

Sinn 105 St Sa UTC

Price: $1,400, Case Size: 41mm, Thickness: 11.9mm, Lug-to-Lug: 47.4mm, Lug Width: 20mm, Water Resistance: 200m, Crystal: Sapphire, Movement: Automatic Sellita SW330-1

German watchmaker Sinn is known for tough, purpose-built timepieces and developing its own in-house technologies and processes to produce them. The recently released, entry-level 105 series, which offers a clean, pared-down offshoot of the brand’s pilot-focused 104 series, incorporates several, including the proprietary Tegiment hard coating on the rotating 24-hour bezel. The bead-blasted steel case resists 200 meters of water pressure. The matte black dial has the signature pill-shaped hands and hour markers as well as a bright orange UTC hand to indicate a second time zone. The orange color is also used for the contrast stitching on the tough leather strap, which can be swapped out for an even tougher steel bracelet.

Christopher Ward C65 Aquitaine GMT

Price: $1,425, Case Size: 41mm Case Height: 12.7mm, Lug to Lug: 46.68mm, Lug Width: 22mm, Crystal: Sapphire, Water Resistance: 200 meters, Movement: Automatic Sellita SW330-2

U.K.-based Christopher Ward added a GMT to its Aquitaine dive watch collection, inspired by the original Blancpain Fifty Fathoms, in 2022. The 41mm steel case hosts a 24-hour GMT bezel, made of sapphire, that frames a clean, readable dial with sharp sword hands for the local hour and minute, a seconds hand with the telltale trident-shaped counterweight, a subtle 6 o’clock date window, and the signature element, a fourth center-mounted hand with a colorful triangle tip that indicates a second time zone. The C65 GMT still has the robustness of a dive watch — its case is water-resistant to 200 meters — and is powered by an automatic Swiss-made caliber, the Sellita SW 330-2, which beats at 28,800 vph behind an exhibition caseback.

Citizen Series 8 GMT

Price: $1,695, Case Size: 41mm, Thickness: 13.5mm, Crystal: Sapphire, Water Resistance: 100 meters, Movement: Automatic Citizen Caliber 9054

Citizen introduced the Series 8 collection in 2021, a series of watches equipped with in-house, mechanical automatic movements and targeting a more luxury-oriented segment of the market than many of the Japanese brand's Eco-Drive watches. The “8” represents the symbol for Infinity, hinting at the collection’s “infinite” possibilities. In 2023, the family welcomed its first model equipped with a GMT function. In addition to the classical bicolor 24-hour bezel and arrow-tipped GMT hand, the dial features a distinctive checkered pattern that takes its inspiration from the Tokyo skyline at night, with its grid of windows. The two-part steel case has an array of mirror-polished and brushed finishes and includes a transparent sapphire caseback to proudly display the movement, the self-winding Caliber 9054, boasting a power reserve of 50 hours and a daily accuracy of -10 to +20 seconds.

  Zodiac Super Sea Wolf GMT World Time Automatic

Price: $1,795, Case Size: 40mm, Lug Width: 20mm, Crystal: Sapphire, Water Resistance: 200 meters, Movement: Automatic Soprod C-125

Zodiac’s Super Sea Wolf GMT World Time Automatic uses the same 200-meter water-resistant steel case, sturdy build, and vintage-influenced aesthetics of its siblings in the Super Sea Wolf collection, all tracing their lineage back to Zodiac’s historical dive watch from 1953. For this model, Zodiac has adapted the traditional diver’s bezel and the dial for world-time functionality. The bezel, in either rich red or deep black, is printed with the names of 24 world cities, enabling the wearer to use the GMT hand, in coordination with the 24-hour chapter ring surrounding the main dial, to track the time in any other time zone in the world. Zodiac first launched this simpler style of world-timer — different from a "true" world-time watch, in which the bezel rotates— in 1970. The watch is mounted on a sturdy three-link steel bracelet and contains an automatic Soprod movement.

Glycine Airman

Price: $1,895, Case Size: 44mm, Lug Width: 22mm, Crystal: Sapphire, Water Resistance: 100 meters, Movement: Automatic Caliber GL293 (ETA 2893/Sellita SW330 base)

Glycine was founded in 1914 in Switzerland but its most famous watch didn’t make its debut until 1953: the aviation-styled Airman, which was worn by U.S. military pilots during the Vietnam War and featured the very first rotating 24-hour GMT bezel to track two time zones. (Rolex’s legendary GMT-Master, which debuted one year later, introduced the more common bicolor version of this innovative design.) The Airman (vintage model above, via Analog Shift ) is still Glycine’s flagship collection and still offers quite the value proposition for a Swiss-made watch with an automatic GMT function. The dial is extra-legible, with wide luminous hands, large geometric indexes, an understated 3 o’clock date window, and 24-hour ring on the flange. The steel bezel of the 44mm case is engraved with the emblematic 24-hour scale of the Airman series, allowing for a view of multiple time zones. The Swiss-made automatic movement is visible behind a sapphire exhibition back.

Fomex Reef GMT Automatic Chronometer

Price: $1,900 - $2,310, Case Size: 42mm Case Height: 11.4mm, Lug to Lug: 47mm, Lug Width: 22mm, Crystal: Sapphire, Water Resistance: 300 meters, Movement: Automatic Sellita 330-2 (COSC certified)

Founded in 1999 and based in Biel, Switzerland, independent brand Formex has drawn admiration for making durable and stylish watches at value-oriented prices. In 2022, Formex introduced the Reef GMT, which adds a dual-time function to the brand’s popular Reef dive watch by means of a central GMT hand and a 24-hour scale on the interchangeable bezel rather than the traditional 60-minute dive scale. The chronometer-certified movement inside the Reef GMT watches is the automatic Sellita SW330-2, with a 50-plus-hour power reserve and GMT capability. Formex’s attention to functional detail is evident throughout the model, specifically on the bezel, redesigned from the 120-click tooth profile of the divers’ version to accommodate the 48 clicks for a precise GMT setting. 

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Time flies: The best travel watches from the last 12 months

What’s travel, I hear you ask? Believe it or not, there’s an activity which means you can leave your home, and go somewhere else! Sadly, that’s an opportunity that many of us have been denied over the last couple of years due to Covid, but now the world is open again, it’s time to dust off that passport. If you’re looking for a new watch to join you on your holiday that you’ve had 24 months to plan, here are the best options from the last 12 months of so.

1. Rolex Explorer II

There were no massive departures between the generations of the Rolex Explorer II, which is a relief for the GMT’s fans. Slight cosmetic changes aside, upgrades to the Explorer II’s movement and bracelet step this underrated gem up a notch and further solidify its value. With it’s superb +/- 2 seconds per day accuracy, 70 hour power reserve, and 100M water resistance, the Explorer II remains a fantastic choice of tool watch. Price : $12,000 AUD

2. IWC Big Pilot’s Watch Timezoner Edition “LE PETIT PRINCE”

Literary references aside, the Big Pilot’s Watch Timezoner Edition has one of the most magical-seeming complications in a world timer watch, ever. Simply set the rotating bezel to any of the 24 listed cities, and the hour hand will automatically sweep over to adjust without the need for hacking the seconds. That bezel is made from a gorgeous deep blue ceramic, complimenting the sapphire-blue sunburst dial, with subtle touches of red text. Price: $21,700 AUD .

3. Bulgari Octo Roma Worldtimer

With travel becoming relevant once again in our lives, Bulgari has expanded their Roma collection with two new world timers. While thicker than the popular Finissimo line, the extra real estate allows the Roman Jeweller of Time to work with more complications. Whether you fancy the blue dial with a steel case and bracelet, or the black dial and black DLC steel case on a strap, you really can’t go wrong either way.

4. Bremont Supermarine S302

If you interpret the word Supermarine literally, you wind up with “above the ocean”, so it makes perfect sense that Bremont’s Supermarine S302 combines the best elements of classic pilot’s watches with a well-proportioned do-it-all diver. The parchment-orange of the GMT hand lovingly compliments the two-tone crown, which screws down to secure 300M of water resistance. Bremont also choose a creamy beige for the details, giving the dial plenty of vintage flair. Price: $6100 AUD

5. Zodiac Super Sea Wolf World Time

Zodiac are criminally underrated in the world of vintage-style reissues, and the Super Sea Wolf World Time is just another example of why they deserve more acclaim. The sleek silver sunburst dial and firetruck-red world time bezel is sporty but undeniably classy, especially on that solid steel quick-release bracelet. With 200M of water resistance and a Swiss-made GMT movement, it’s up to you to begin the Zodiac comeback. Price $1795USD

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Jeremy White

6 Affordable Automatic Watches That Feel Luxe

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A Lovely Diving Watch Rotate North Atlantic Dive Watch Read more

Most Affordable Seiko 5 Sports SRPD93 Read more

A Masterful Modern Watch Unimatic UC2 (U2 Classic) Read more

A Military Look Hamilton Khaki Field Automatic Read more

The maxim that you get what you pay for is a beguiling conceit. In one stroke it denigrates inexpensive items as naturally inferior while extolling the belief that expensive goods are inherently of a higher quality. 

But we know this is not always the case. Sometimes there is no genuine luxury contender (see smartphones). Sometimes a simpler, less overengineered option can be better ( Henry hoover versus a Dyson , or, for that matter, any human-powered vacuum over a robot one ). And sometimes scrappy smaller brands compete by offering surprisingly high-caliber products while undercutting respected global players. This, fortunately, has been happening in the watch world for some time now—yes, even with proper automatic movements.

Below is a selection of semi-affordable watches, all fully automatic, and all for less than $1,000 (and one for less than $100). All laudably punch well above their weight. And all should serve you well, from diving to fine dining, for decades to come.

Proper automatic movements, you say? What are those? Good question. An automatic watch, confusingly also known as a "self-winding" watch, is a mechanical watch where the natural motion of the wearer—you—moving their arm about (picking up a coffee, waving hello, or just walking around) provides all the energy needed to wind the mainspring (this is the watch's power source, a spiral torsion spring, but think of it like your phone's battery). This means if you wear the watch regularly you never have to wind. It just keeps going. How long it keeps going after you stop wearing it is called the power reserve (similar to when your phone is left on standby). Hand-wound watches can't do this, you have to remember to wind them at regular intervals. We explain more about types of watches at the end of this article.

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A Lovely Diving Watch

Rotate North CEO Damien Cranney says that the reason he set up this Irish adventure watch brand in 2019 was “to develop a range of elegantly designed tool watches at an affordable price that were fit for purpose.” Having tried the German-engineered Atlantic diver, we can attest to its quality, with a solid screw-down crown (a feature that helps enormously with water resistance), toothed bezel, hardened mineral crystal (more expensive and more scratch-resistant than plastic or acrylic), and glow-in-the-dark Super-LumiNova hands and hour markers. The Seiko shock-proof movement supplies 41 hours of power reserve, and the piece is good for depths down to 300 meters (just shy of 1,000 feet).

Plus, the sustainably sourced vegan rubber straps arrive with half-punched holes, so you simply pick the notch that fits your wrist and leave the rest unbroken. Some brands selling at 10 times the price have not been as inventive. The new Seal Black edition comes with those rubber straps or a stealthy NATO strap . Rotate North also has a more serious 500m diver watch complete with a helium valve. Either variant represents excellent value. The clincher? Right now the brand is offering free express worldwide shipping.

Most Affordable

Seiko has considerable dive watch heritage. This is, after all, the only watch brand that has an association with the Professional Association of Diving Instructors, established in 2016. If you are looking for a watch with a little more versatility, Seiko's 5 Sports range, all powered by an automatic movement, come in at preposterously low prices for what they offer. 

Seiko has produced its 5 Sports watches in various guises for more than 50 years, but the latest collection has something for everyone—27 iterations, each in one of five styles: Sports, Suits, Specialist, Street, and Sense. You can see them all here .

The collection also has a range of straps and bracelets from steel mesh to silicone-leather hybrids. This classic Sports model has a 41-hour power reserve, silicone strap, and 100-meter water resistance.

A Masterful Modern Watch

Unimatic makes achingly stylish yet modern watches at ludicrously low prices, considering what you get. This is hardly surprising when you consider the Milan-based brand was founded by a pair of industrial designers in 2015. The 400 euro ($463) UC2 has a minimal brushed 316 solid stainless steel case that's waterproof to 300 meters (about 1,000 feet) and an anti-reflective sapphire crystal. Sapphire is better than plastic or even mineral glass for toughness, so no need to worry about scratches if you bang the UC2 against a wall or ticket barrier. 

The black matte dial is finished with glow-in-the-dark, pale-green Super-LumiNova hour markers, while the automatic movement is good for a respectable 41-hour power reserve. The black nylon, two-piece strap finishes the package nicely. In a final flourish, at this price, amazingly, you also get the watch delivered in a Unimatic tough case.

A Military Look

The Hamilton Khaki Field is no stranger to lists of value watches, and rightly so. The military look is very much in style in the horology world (not that it ever really is out of fashion), but now the brand has brought in lightweight titanium options. This 42mm piece with a stealthy coating of black PVD (a process in which a solid material is vaporized in a heated vacuum then bound to a surface) houses the automatic movement, which offers an impressive 80-hour power reserve. The simple, clear dial will never look dated, while the tough canvas strap and 100-meter water resistance make this a watch that can serve for sports and evening occasions. 

Looking for something less Bruce Wayne in demeanor? Try Hamilton's new Far Cry 6 collaboration with Ubisoft. Identical to the in-game watch, this piece, also in titanium, has a stylized 6 , red second hand, an additional leather strap, a strap-changing tool, and a leather carrying case. But take note: It's a limited edition run. Only 1,983 will be made.

Aarian Marshall

Eric Ravenscraft

Parker Hall

Adrienne So

A Stainless Steel Wonder

Farer, a British brand, sells exceptional automatics under $1,000. Its 38.5mm Pembroke field watch with a 200-meter depth rating is made from marine-grade stainless steel (which has higher levels of chromium and molybdenum, so it's tougher and has greater corrosive resistance). Inside is a robust Sellita automatic movement with a 38-hour power reserve and built-in shock system. 

This timepiece also comes with three quality straps: a marine-blue American Horween leather strap; a green waterproof NATO strap (NATOs are one-piece straps, originally made for the military, that are lightweight, quick-drying, durable, and simple to use); and an integrated “5 row” 316 marine-grade steel bracelet—all with quick-release fitting systems. Many high-end brands would not be so generous.

We're not sure there is much need for the separation of watches into “men’s” and “women’s” categories. After all, if you like diving, a dive watch is the right choice for you. What makes this 38mm watch stand out is not that the manufacturer calls it a “women's” piece but that it's only 9mm thick yet still manages to be fully automatic. Sapphire crystal? Check. Water resistance? Check (to 100 feet). Leather strap? Check again. Then consider the price. This costs just $200. Then consider the sale price. Right now it's only $99. 

Chinese brand Sea-Gull, a public company based in Tianjin, reportedly turns out 5.2 million mechanical movements a year, making it easily the world’s largest manufacturer. It also made the original and much-copied Seagull 1963 pilot’s chronograph, so don't let the low price fool you into thinking it's a brand to ignore.

Smooth and Battery-Free

Tech has, much like everywhere else, massively impacted the watch world. The arrival of quartz technology in the 1970s and early 1980s at the time largely replaced mechanical watches. 

Mechanical: The items on this list are mechanical and fully automatic, so your wrist movements recharge them (no winding), and they have smooth hand movements. Generally, mechanical watches are designed to last lifetimes, if cared for properly. With an automatic, you're also paying for craftsmanship. This is unfortunately why “proper” watches cost so much. For example, an entry-level Rolex Submariner will set you back more than $8,000.

Quartz Watches: A quartz watch uses a battery to send an electrical current through a small quartz crystal, which electrifies it and makes it vibrate. Those vibrations keep the movement oscillating and power the motor that moves the watch hands. Quartz timepieces are more accurate than mechanical ones and are much cheaper. 

But there is a trade-off. Unlike the smooth sweeping motion of a mechanical movement, the second hand of a quartz watch moves in jerking individual ticks. Also, that battery will need changing every year or two. Additionally, quartz watches are mostly mass-manufactured with the cheapest possible parts.

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Scott Gilbertson

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Navigating Time Zones with Style: The Best Travel Watch

December 15, 2023 by Scott Witner Leave a Comment

What Defines The Best Travel Watch?

It’s crucial that you have a single watch that is precise , dependable , legible in all conditions , requires minimal upkeep, robust, reasonably priced , can be recharged without hassle even when you’re on the go, and can easily transition from one occasion to another; from the boardroom to the beach.

You Only Need ONE Watch When Traveling

Sure, I understand, you have an impressive collection of watches suitable for any occasion. That’s great, but remember, when you’re on the move, choose just one and leave the rest behind. Smart travel is all about packing light, which means only one watch . Keep it simple stupid.

The Watch Must Be Durable and Reliable

Avoid investing in the least expensive watch as it doesn’t represent true value for money. Instead, opt for a timepiece that comes from a well-known manufacturer, known for their exceptional build quality and consistent track record. The watch needs to be capable of withstanding unexpected rough treatment and still functioning perfectly, and quartz watches undoubtedly excel in this aspect.

Quartz movements demonstrate a higher resilience to temperature changes, physical mishandling, shocks, and drops compared to mechanical ones. So, aim for a watch equipped with a titanium case and bracelet, and sapphire crystal.

The Watch Must Be Affordable (Under $400)

Buy a watch that’s high-quality yet within your budget. Losing an expensive luxury watch during travel can and will negatively impact your vacation. Furthermore, flashy and expensive watches may draw the attention of potential thieves. Affordability is subjective, but for this discussion, we’ll set the limit at $400. Setting our limit to $400 really weeds out a lot of options, so we’re going to give you two of the best later on. keep reading!

Also, there’s no need to justify the idea of a $10,000 watch being suitable for travel. We’re not CIA case officers who need to wear a Rolex in case they need to bribe someone for safe passage out of a country.

The Watch Must Be Accurate

Quartz watches are generally more affordable than mechanical watches, and they offer superior accuracy, albeit by a small margin. But quartz watches work off a battery and have a limited runtime you ask? Not necessarily.

The Watch Must Never Die!

According to Murphy’s Law, even though your quartz watch battery says it’s good for 3 years, it will abruptly give out at the most inconvenient time, perhaps causing you to miss a flight. Never trust a conventional battery-powered watch when traveling.

You don’t want to spend precious travel time worrying about such issues, so opt for either an automatic movement (powered by the natural movement of your wrist) or, even better, a quartz movement powered by a solar-powered battery .

Even the automatics have a failure point; if you don’t wear them consistently they lose accuracy and could stop running, requiring you to reset and rewind the movement.

To mitigate that issue, you’re only two options are either a solar-powered movement or a Citizen Eco-Drive movement.

The Watch Must Have a Screw Down Crown (200-meter Water Resistance)

A significant benefit of a watch boasting at least 200m of water resistance is that these models typically come with screw-down crowns, which are less prone to inadvertent activation compared to push/pull crowns that are adjusted by pulling out to different stages.

There have been instances when I glanced at my watch only to find out that something, perhaps my shirt sleeve, had unknowingly pulled the crown out one stop, causing the watch to stop. When the crown is inadvertently pulled out, it also exposes the internals to dirt, debris, and moisture. Watches with screw-down crowns effectively mitigate this issue.

The Watch Must Be Readable in all Conditions

Opt for a travel watch with a neat, simplistic dial design that incorporates some type of lume. I’m a huge proponent of quality lume. If I cannot tell what time it is in the middle of the night, then it’s a no-go.

You shouldn’t need to search for a light source just to read your watch. A luminous dial with a straightforward, clear design, easy-to-read numerals, and indicators at every hour will serve your needs perfectly.

The Watch Must Be Versatile

Select a simple, understated design that can seamlessly transition from casual to formal depending on the situation, and will effortlessly blend with your travel attire .

The Watch Must Have a Metal Band

While leather bands provide comfort and style, they don’t play well with water. Wristbands made of canvas, plastic, or rubber are acceptable but not as durable as metal, and they typically don’t transition well into more formal settings. For travel, I prefer watches made from metal, such as stainless steel or titanium, as they arguably complement any attire.

Now that we know exactly what to look for, let’s take a look at a few travel watches that check all those boxes.

Selecting The Best Travel Watch

While numerous watches managed to fulfill the majority, though not all, of the requirements on this list, one timepiece checks every box; the Citizen Eco-Drive Endeavor.

Citizen, a century-old institution, pioneered the creation of the first solar-powered wristwatch back in 1975. When fully powered, their Eco-Drive watches can operate for up to six months in absolute darkness, making them perfect companions for your proposed half-year winter getaway in Antarctica.

For everyone else, the Eco-Drive watches harness energy from any accessible light source—ranging from bright sunlight, and overcast days, to faint artificial light—enabling them to operate continuously without any need for winding, battery replacement, or connecting to a power outlet.

The Citizen Eco-Drive Endeavor boasts a water resistance of 200 meters, a sapphire crystal, and is crafted from stainless steel.

Its design is understated and neat—almost Spartan—with a clear face and glow-in-the-dark hands and hour indicators that make it easily readable. This minimalistic, streamlined design also permits it to easily adjust according to your requirements.

Our second pick is the Seiko Prospex Solar , priced slightly higher than the Citizen Eco-Drive Endeavor. However, when comparing the two, the Seiko falls short in terms of toughness. Citizen pioneered solar-powered watches, whereas Seiko joined this arena much later, and anecdotal evidence from online discussions seems to suggest that Seiko’s reliability isn’t on par with Citizen’s. Seiko Prospex Solar also utilizes a sapphire crystal. Even though both watches are constructed from stainless steel, Seiko’s lacks the hypoallergenic titanium coating found in the Citizen, making it more susceptible to scratches.

The world of travel watches is filled with variety, but our exploration has brought us back to two standout choices: the Citizen Eco-Drive Endeavor and the Seiko Prospex Solar. Both watches come with their own unique features and allure, making them well-suited contenders for the best travel watch.

However, the Citizen Eco-Drive Endeavor truly sets the standard for its category. This is a wristwatch that not only boasts a century-long pedigree of craftsmanship but also a technological edge with its Eco-Drive powered system. Its durability, from its water resistance to its stainless steel construction, makes it a timepiece you can trust on your toughest travels.

While the Seiko Prospex Padi Solar is an impressive piece with its own merits, it falls a bit short when compared to the Citizen ProMaster Tough in terms of overall resilience and reliability. Its relative newcomer status in the realm of solar watches, coupled with slightly lower material quality, are factors to consider.

In the end, when traveling, reliability is key, and the Citizen Eco-Drive Endeavor offers exactly that, rendering it our top pick for the best travel watch. Nevertheless, the Seiko Prospex Solar remains a compelling option for those seeking a blend of aesthetic appeal and practical functionality. Safe travels, and may the watch on your wrist always be a steadfast companion on your adventures!

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About Scott Witner

Scott Witner is a former Marine Corps Infantryman with 2ndBn/8th Marines and was attached to the 24th MEU(SOC) for a 6-month deployment to the Mediterranean. He has completed training in desert warfare at the Marine Air Ground Combat Center, Mountain Warfare and survival at the Mountain Warfare Training Center, attended the South Korean Mountain Warfare school in Pohang and the Jungle Warfare school in the jungles of Okinawa Japan. He now enjoys trail running, hiking, functional fitness and working on his truck. Scott resides in Northeastern Ohio.

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These Are The Best (and Most Astonishing) Travel Watches of 2023

While spending the holidays abroad, time seems to fly by faster than usual.

Look closely. Can you see those ocean waves between the continents on the dial of the new (43.9mm, pink-gold) Marine Hora Mundi ? That’s meticulous hand engraving you’re seeing, a signature of the storied brand, that was once the watchmaker to Queen Marie Antoinette. In the wide world of horology, Breguet leads the way in guilloché.

Parmigiani Fleurier

Who doesn’t love a knurled bezel? (Just saying knurled aloud is a pleasure.) But that meeting of texture on the 40mm stainless-steel case with that of the Grain d’Orge guilloché dial, not to mention the movement’s elegant flyback function give the Tonda GMT Rattrapante a three-S classification: Simple, sleek, and sexy.

Greubel Forsey

Stephen Forsey, one of the most revered living watchmakers, has now made it so you can wear the world on your wrist. The 46.5mm titanium-case, rubber-strapped GMT Balancier Convexe features an embossed mini-Earth which, like the real one, rotates a full 24-hour cycle.

Patek Philippe

Toggling between timezones doesn’t get easier or more chic than with the 38.5mm white-gold World Time reference 5231G . The iconic design—one of many grail-status watches from Patek Philippe—was updated this year, with a depiction of Southeast Asia and Oceania on its Grand Feu cloisonné enamel dial.

If there was any doubt that the ’90s are back, look no further than the Bulgari Aluminium GMT . The 40mm rubber-and-aluminum collection originally may have made its debut in 1998, but the new GMT model has become a darling of the 2022 luxury watch crowd. With its Palladian proportions, high legibility, and that inimitable Bulgari cool factor, is it any wonder?

The latest addition to the French luxury brand’s Arceau line, originally launched in 1978, Le Temps Voyageur is a 38mm travel watch that demands your attention. Take a close look at the map on its blue galvanized dial. Can you identify the continents? No, you can’t, because it’s an imaginary world created by Jérôme Colliard. Eventually, after running out of places to visit for the holidays afield, we’ll need to dream up somewhere new. Thankfully, Hermès is already ahead of us.

Charles Curkin is ELLE Decor's Articles Editor, covering everything related to luxury watches, design, and travel, and has previously written for The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and The Paris Review.

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Tested: The Absolute Best GMT Travel Watches for Your Collection

By: Ethan Brehm Published: Oct 25, 2023

By: Ethan Brehm and Johnny Brayson Published: Oct 25, 2023

Contributors

With the holidays upon us, many are preparing for their trips, both near and far. But in order to travel, one needs certain accouterments. A suitcase is essential, a passport sure comes in handy, and comfy travel clothes are a must. And then there’s the GMT travel watch. You may think that you don’t need a watch while on vacation . After all, your phone tells you the time, right? But you’d be wrong, as the best GMT watches are indispensable travel partners.

Yes, your phone tells you the time, but does it tell you the local time as well as the time at home at a glance? Didn’t think so. A GMT watch will do this, offering you the time in two places at once with a quick look at your wrist. Not only that, but the best GMT travel watches will also complement any outfit you have on and act as a companion that accompanies you on all your excursions , making memories alongside you. Are we being just a bit romantic about GMT watches? Maybe, but once you know the history of the GMT watch, it’s hard not to wax poetic about them.

Best GMT Watches Breakdown

Best Quartz GMT

Q Timex GMT 38mm

Best Budget Automatic GMT

Seiko 5 Sports SKX Sports Style GMT

Best Microbrand GMT

Lorier Hyperion Series II

Best GMT Diver

Mido Ocean Star GMT

Best Office GMT

Monta Skyquest

Best Vintage-Inspired GMT

Longines Spirit Zulu Time

Best Quartz True GMT

Grand Seiko SBGN027

Best Overall GMT

Tudor Black Bay GMT

Honorable Mention

Rolex GMT Master II

The gmt’s high-flying history.

Come Fly With Me

GMT watches often conjure images of mid-century jetsetters and playboy pilots — think Leonardo DiCaprio in Catch Me If You Can and you’ll be on the right track. That’s because the watches were born in that era for those types of customers. Back in the early 1950s, long-haul intercontinental flights were becoming more and more common. Pan Am, the largest airline of the day, put out a request to watch companies to develop a watch that could track two timezones simultaneously so pilots could monitor the time at both their destination and origin. Two companies answered the call. The first was Glycine, which unveiled the Airman in 1953. That watch kept time on a 24-hour scale, with a rotating 24-hour bezel for tracking a second timezone. The next year, Rolex introduced the GMT Master. It kept time on a standard 12-hour scale but incorporated a fourth hand that made its way around the dial once every 24 hours. A rotating 24-hour bezel was employed here as well, allowing the wearer to track a second timezone on the fourth hand while still reading their current time on a 12-hour scale. Rolex’s design took off like a rocket, and other manufacturers began producing their own GMT watches based on the Rolex template. The age of the GMT watch had begun.

Video Guide: The Best GMT Travel Watches

While we’re suckers for the written word, nothing beats seeing our favorite GMT travel watches in all of their 4k glory.

Types Of GMT Watches

True Vs. Office

True GMT: When researching GMT watches, you may have come across the term “True GMT” and wondered what it meant. In 1983, Rolex made GMT history again. The brand introduced the GMT Master II, a new version of their travel watch icon with a handy new feature. The movement in the GMT Master II allows you to independently adjust the hour hand without stopping the seconds hand or disturbing the other hands. That means that, if your GMT hand is set to your home time, all you have to do when traveling is pop your hour hand over to quickly set your new local time. It’s a faster and more convenient way to set your watch for travel, and some watch enthusiasts consider it to be the only “true” GMT there is. That’s, of course, nonsense — there were GMT watches for nearly 30 years before this type of movement existed — but GMTs with this type of movement, also called a “flyer” GMT, are slightly better for travel.

Office GMT: The other type of (more common) GMT is the “office” or “caller” GMT. Instead of having an independently adjustable hour hand, these GMTs have independently adjustable GMT hands. This is far more convenient if you want to track a second timezone while you’re at home — as someone in a west coast office may do if they have East Coast colleagues — but it isn’t the most convenient arrangement when traveling.

Having said that, we’re talking about a minute or less in the difference it takes to set your local time on a “true” vs “office” GMT, so really any GMT watch will work just fine when traveling.

How We Tested

Our Selection Process

You could easily make a case that enthusiasm for wristwatches has never been higher than it is right now. We’ve seen a definite influx among younger wearers, who are taken by the idea of mechanical masterpieces adorning their wrists, as well as a plethora of new brands cropping up, many of which have something to offer. Not only that, the market now offers us more variety than we’ve ever seen, with wide-ranging prices as well as an increase in specialization. Sure, this means that there are more options out there to delineate, but it also means that the world is proving that digital technology isn’t always what people want.

Nevertheless, selecting the perfect timepiece in any category or price point has become more difficult. To tackle the task of finding the best GMTs out there, we began by selecting the watches we suspected would be the best candidates. Using both the eye test (e.g., design, color , dial configuration) and our expertise in the space to dig through specs (e.g., size, materials, strap, movement), we whittled all the options down to the ones we thought could be worthy of making the cut for this list. We also factored in price, value, and the reputation of the watch’s manufacturer itself, which is an earned quality in this industry.

And then there was the matter of testing the timepieces themselves. Any watch collector can tell you that, regardless of what you read on paper, you truly have to wear a watch on your wrist to get a feel for it and get a sense of the user experience. After acquiring the demo pieces for our initial shortlist, we put the watches on our wrists and put them through a variety of scenarios to see their fit, comfort, and wrist presence firsthand. The overall process took us weeks, but finally we were able to land on the list of the best GMT watches you see before you.

Why It Made the Cut

• Timex’s retro reissue is an incredibly inexpensive option for those into vintage-style timepieces, featuring an integrated bracelet and Pepsi-style bezel.

Best Quartz GMT: We’re so happy that Timex has been embracing retro-style models with its Q lineup. Inspired by the dive style of the original Q from 1979, this 38mm timepiece is still very much a GMT, with its bi-directional “Pepsi” bezel, domed acrylic crystal, hooded lugs, and functional battery hatch on the caseback. It has loads of nostalgia and is a steal at just over $200.

Recently revived in 2019, the Q Timex Reissue features an integrated bracelet with its 38mm barrel-shaped case. It’s incredibly compact, wears small, and feels even smaller than the dimensions suggest, but we love the sharp, angular styling and mix of vertical and horizontal brushing across the top of the main case. If you’re looking to save some shekels with a quality quartz-powered movement and a retro style, this will be your best bet.

Case Size: 38mm Water Resistance: 50m Movement: Quartz

• Seiko taps into the ethos of its discontinued SKX with this 5 Sports watch, featuring vintage charm, an exhibition caseback, and a fair price tag.

Best Budget Automatic GMT: After Seiko discontinued its beloved SKX dive watch, it revamped its entry-level Seiko 5 Sports range, albeit with loose relation to the outgoing models. However, with the debut of the first-ever GMT in the 5 Sports lineup, it finally gave the SKX the homage it deserved. Harkening back to its progenitor with similar color schemes and design ethos, the new 42.5mm GMT features an independently adjustable fourth hand and a rotating 24-hour bezel.

The larger case helps with visibility, as do the Lumibrite-coated hands and indices and the date window magnifier. It also ditches the 5 Sports’ Oyster-style bracelets and opts for a five-link Jubilee-style stainless steel option instead. We love the exhibition caseback to display the 4R34 movement, and the divisive five-row jubilee bracelet adds some charm and comfort that some third-party options forego. Despite the 100m of water resistance, this one certainly has that vintage Seiko diver character. However, the off-centered push-pull crown at 4 o’clock might make you cautious of taking this timepiece on your most aqueous adventures.

Case Size: 42.5mm Water Resistance: 100m Movement: Automatic GMT with manual winding capability

• Lorier’s handsome vintage-inspired watch is very robust, inexpensive, and endlessly classy.

Best Microbrand GMT: The very first Rolex GMT Master in the 1950s was the ref. 6542. It originally came with a lumed red and blue “Pepsi” bezel made of a plastic predecessor called Bakelite. However, concerns over the brittle bakelite cracking and exposing the radioactive tritium lume below caused Rolex to switch to aluminum bezel inserts after just a few years. These days, original bakelite bezel 6542s regularly sell for six figures, but you can get the same vintage feel for far less with this stunning microbrand GMT.

Series II of Lorier’s Hyperion uses Hesalite for its lumed Pepsi bezel insert and domed crystal, offering serious retro vibes to go with its traffic-stopping looks. For just $100 more than the Seiko GMT above, you can get a true GMT with an independent hour hand at an accessible price point. We love everything about this timepiece, including the price, the mid-century-inspired aesthetic that evokes the heyday of aviation, the robust construction featuring a marine-grade steel case and the aforementioned impact-resistant crystal, and, of course, the classy Pepsi bezel.

Case Size: 39mm Water Resistance: 100m Movement: Automatic “True” GMT

• Mido found the perfect middle ground between GMT and dive watch with this Ocean Star, sporting a graduated Pepsi-style bezel.

Best GMT Diver: Dive watch GMTs are becoming more and more popular, as you can see from this guide alone, and while there are several notable examples, our favorite has to be this Pepsi-bezeled Ocean Star from Mido. Whether you’re jet-setting or simply heading out on the trail –– or both –– this 44mm timepiece will do the trick. Boasting 200m of water resistance, the true GMT could have easily copied the styling of the iconic Rolex, but instead, Mido does its own thing with a fixed internal 24-hour bezel on top of the traditional rotating one on the outside.

Mido is a member of the Swatch Group. That means the brands have access to some of the same movements, such as the ETA Powermatic 80 GMT caliber that’s found here, with 80 hours of power reserve. Sure, the 44m steel case feels heftier on the wrist, but that translates to a superb wrist presence for those who want a bit more attention on their timepiece. Fortunately, the flat sapphire crystal helps with the thickness, erring more towards a modern styling in that regard. In terms of the bracelet , we also loved how you could adjust it quickly thanks to the double push button system within the clasp.

Case Size: 44mm Water Resistance: 200m Movement: Automatic “True” GMT

• With 300m of water resistance, the Skyquest from Monta showcases the brand’s unique design language while featuring superb on-wrist comfort.

Best Office GMT: American-owned and Swiss-made, Monta is one of the most highly-regarded microbrands in the business, and the Skyquest is arguably their best watch. The finishing is comparable to watches that cost twice as much, the fully-articulating bracelet features a quick-adjust clasp, the bezel is made of scratch-resistant ceramic, the water resistance is an impressive 300m, the hands are diamond-cut and rhodium-plated, and the GMT hand sports a quirky and ingenious bend that allows it to clear the applied indices while reaching to the outer edges of the dial.

Opposed to some other office GMT models, the Skyquest may be a little pricier, but with that price, you get a lot more than you’ve bargained for. This includes the in-house M-23 automatic movement , the overall build quality and finishing, and the Coke bezel, which nods to Rolex’s Pan Am collab in the ’80s. At 40.7mm across, the timepiece wears slightly smaller than you’d expect thanks to the lugs, which curve slightly towards the wrist. Operating with its own unique design language, the Skyquest is truly a sight to behold in person, with its features popping off the wrist and its contrast lending to nice visibility. We also love the bracelet, which features fully articulating links and supreme comfort.

Case Size: 40.7mm Water Resistance: 300m Movement: Automatic “Office” GMT

• Longines nods to its aviation-filled past with the Spirit Zulu Time, which pops off the wrist thanks to its 18K gold accents and handsome design.

Best Vintage-Inspired GMT: Longines may be one of the oldest Swiss watch manufacturers in existence — the brand was founded in 1832 — but they remain on the cutting edge of the industry, even credited with having the first watch with more than one time zone. Last year, it added a true GMT to its Spirit line. Named after a watch from about 100 years ago (which took its name from the military term for “GMT”), the Zulu Time is a watch made for true globetrotters, with 72 hours of power reserve and an independently set hour hand.

As classy as ever, the Spirit Zulu Time is a pilot’s watch through and through, with inspired colorways, a 72-hour power reserve, superb dial visibility, and easy adjustment. At a wearable 39mm, the stainless steel timepiece was dropped down a few sizes from its 42mm predecessor and the difference in comfort is noticeable on-wrist. Aesthetically, the 18K yellow gold accents truly pop and bring a great deal of wrist presence to the timepiece. Not to mention, Longines has several other variants if this handsome anthracite version isn’t for you.

For a deeper dive, read our Longines Spirit Zulu Time watch review .

Case Size: 39mm Water Resistance: 100m Movement: Automatic “True” GMT

• Pricier for a quartz watch, Grand Seiko proves that it’s movements are no cheap endeavor, while also finding a compromise between sportiness and class.

Best Quartz True GMT: The first watch to feature a GMT version of Grand Seiko’s lauded 9F High-Accuracy Quartz movement — arguably the best quartz movement in the world — this may be the ultimate “grab and go” travel watch. Accuracy is conservatively rated to within 10 seconds per year (1 second per year anecdotes are not unheard of), the finishing is easily the best you can get for the price thanks to Grand Seiko’s famed distortion-free Zaratsu polishing, and the handmade, fully-decorated, thermocompensated movement is a “true” GMT. Plus, it’s got looks for days.

Decidedly sportier than Grand Seiko’s typical options, this SBGN027 is certainly more expensive than your average quartz piece, but here it serves to preserve the timekeeping of the watch itself. Even when the offset crown is pulled out, the quartz GMT continues to keep the time. In-person, the 39mm diameter and 45.9mm lug size are about as perfect of proportions as you can get for everyday watch wearing. We’re also fans of the fixed 24-hour bezel with its black embossing and radial-brushed steel. The three-link steel bracelet looks beautiful, matching the case finish, and is easy to adjust with the screw posts and push-button clasp.

Case Size: 39mm Water Resistance: 200m Movement: Quartz “True” GMT

• Tudor’s near-perfect GMT utilizes its iconic Black Bay as the base layer, continuing to challenge conventions while maintaining a traditional ethos.

Best Overall GMT: As the more affordable sister brand to Rolex, Tudor has long had the reputation of offering Rolex quality and style for less eye-watering prices. And that’s never been more true than with this modern classic. Based on the brand’s popular vintage-inspired Black Bay diver, this GMT boasts a bi-directional bezel with a beautiful aluminum Pepsi insert, a subtly textured dial, and an in-house automatic movement with a “true” GMT function. It’s the closest one can get to a Rolex GMT — vintage or modern — without coming close to approaching the five-figure mark.

First debuting in 2018, the Black Bay GMT is still a favorite today. Boasting 200m of water resistance, this piece may have some definite diver properties, but we love it as a travel watch the most. Inside the 24-hour Pepsi bezel is a pearl-like opaline white dial, which is a nice change of pace from the typical dark GMT dials. Despite the modern touches, this automatic true GMT has some vintage design cues, including the aforementioned bezel with its coin edge and the domed sapphire crystal. Hopefully, Tudor will soon include its T-Fit adjustment system on the newer Black Bay GMTs, even if the bracelet is still really comfortable.

For a deeper dive, read our Tudor Black Bay GMT watch review .

Case Size: 41mm Water Resistance: 200m Movement: Automatic “True” GMT

• You can’t have a “Best GMT” list without including the most lusted-after GMT in the world.

Honorable Mention: You knew this was coming. The descendent of the original GMT watch, the GMT Master II remains the most lusted-after GMT in the world. The waitlist to purchase a new stainless steel Pepsi bezel variant is years long, and they routinely sell for more than double the retail price on the secondhand market. But the watch commands such demand for a reason. It’s unspeakably gorgeous, with an iconic design that few watches in the world can match. It’s also robust, dependable, and luxurious, and there’s not a person alive who wouldn’t want one of these on their wrist while traveling the globe.

As legendary as the Rolex GMT is, we couldn’t acquire the watch in time to perform in-studio testing. However, of all the pieces here, the reputation of the GMT Master II should be able to precede it.

Case Size: 40mm Water Resistance: 100m Movement: Automatic “True” GMT

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Looking for a solid diver to add to your collection? We’ve done the work for you and tested out the best dive watches on the market today.

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The Best GMT and Travel Watches of 2023

Perfectly fit for the frequent flyers among us, these five gmt/travel watches impressed us the most in 2023..

Yesterday, we started looking back at 2023 and all the new watches we’ve seen to try and make a list of the best ones. The MONOCHROME Editorial Team took votes to determine the Best Chronograph of 2023 , which kicked things off, but also many other categories. Up next is the GMT/Travel category , and although the list wasn’t as long as the chronographs category, there was a lot of debate on which ones would make the cut. Going through the list reveals that there are plenty of directions to go in, but the diving travel watch is gaining traction. So, without revealing too much up front, here are the MONOCHROME team’s Best GMT/Travel Watches of 2023.

Going through all watch novelties for 2023, we ended up with a little over 70 watches under the GMT/Travel tag. The list  before voting saw some usual suspects making the rounds, but some new brands, like Jacob & Co with its The World Is Yours dual time watch , also entered the mix. Nevertheless, we narrowed it down to the five watches we think best represented what we would look for in a travel watch: good looks, practicality, and a solid mechanical movement. Enjoy, and do let us know what you think of our selection.

A. Lange & Söhne Lange 1 Time Zone

The Lange 1 Time Zone isn’t new in A. Lange & Söhne’s arsenal, but it was never available in platinum. And with this monochromatic solid silver rhodium-coloured dial, it looks the part! In 2020, the Lange 1 Time Zone was updated with a fresh movement and, more importantly, a better-organised layout for the dial without losing the signature display of the Lange 1. This new generation exemplified the striking purity the Lange 1 is famous for , with non-overlapping time indications, a city ring on the outside adjustable through a pusher, dual time displays with integrated day/night scale and the signature Outsize Date. All this is set in a beautifully proportioned case and powered by a superbly finished movement. The only downside? The fact that it’s priced upon request means it probably costs an arm and a leg.

For more details about the A. Lange & Söhne Lange 1 Time Zone in platinum, please check out our hands-on review here .

Longines HydroConquest GMT

A watch that made a lasting impression on me personally, but also on the MONOCHROME team, is the new Longines HydroConquest GMT. Not only were we taken by its robust build quality but also by its very handsome appearance (especially in green!) and the fact it’s a Flyer GMT . It shows that pairing a dive watch with a GMT function is a very clever move when done right! From top to bottom, just about everything on this watch is executed to perfection. The HydroConquest GMT is water-resistant to 300m, has a GMT indication that can be adjusted independently in both directions (including the date) and has a solid power reserve of 72 hours. On top of that, it feels brilliant on the wrist and doesn’t cost the end of the world. Well done, Longines !

For more information on this very capable Longines HydroConquest GMT, please consult our review article here .

Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean 600M GMT Dark grey

Call it expensive, which it very much is, but the Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean 600M GMT Dark Grey is one mean-looking ‘machine’ with specs to more than back up its robust and tactile look. This attention-grabbing watch comes in a case made of a silicon nitride ceramic composite and a mostly grey colour palette. The only ‘break’ in the monochromatic design is the orange elements on the dial and hands. Furthermore, not only does it have a titanium dial, but the high-tech calibre 8906 Ti is also crafted from the lightweight material. The movement matches the case in terms of looks and comes as a METAS-certified Master Chronometer with a 60h power reserve from two barrels and an independent home time indication.

For more information on the superb Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean 600M GMT Dark Grey, please find our detailed review here .

Rolex Sky-Dweller 2023 edition calibre 9002

The year 2023 was very good for Rolex , as The Crown presented us with some unexpected evolutions. The refreshed Daytona made the cut for Best Chronograph, but the updated Sky-Dweller has also made this list. This combination of Oystersteel and Mint Green genuinely won us over because of its ease of use and good looks. The updates for Rolex’s ultimate travel watch were subtle but included touch-ups on the dial and, more importantly, the calibre 9002, which now features the Chronergy escapement. The Ring Command Bezel system makes it a brilliantly simple watch to set and use, and combining the annual calendar with local and home time in such an easy-to-read layout is a testament to why Rolex is so highly regarded by many. If you can get your hands on one, go for the Jubilee bracelet despite the fact it’s a smidge more expensive than the Oystersteel bracelet.

For more information on the updated Rolex Sky-Dweller, please check the hands-on review here .

Tudor Black Bay GMT Polar

We finish our selection for Best GMT/Travel Watches of 2023 with Tudor  and its gorgeous Black Bay GMT ‘Polar’ , or ‘Albino’ if you will. Part of the incredibly successful Black Bay range, this one combines retro appeal with an opaline white dial and a two-tone Pepsi-style rotating bezel. This pairing of colours takes us back to the GMT-Master Ref. 6452 , a highly coveted and rare watch by Rolex. The Kenissi-made calibre MT5652 makes this a Flyer GMT , so it has an independent local ‘snowflake’ hour hand and a red home hour hand, also the signature ‘snowflake’ design. Strap it to the wrist on the steel bracelet or the two-tone NATO-style fabric strap, and you’re guaranteed to be wearing a winner.

For more details on the ‘Albino’ Tudor Black Bay GMT, please head over to our hands-on review here .

3 responses

Great watches all, but the Breitling Chronomat GMT is my choice. Great watch for travel and as good for GMT function as any of these, at a reasonable price.

i’m always baffled by the Longines HC GMT. those “balls” at 6 and 9 are visibly too small and the final effect on the dial is totally unbalanced…

Omega Green worldtumer?

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Top Travel Watches for Your Next Vacation (2024)

W hether vacationing on land or by cruise, a reliable watch is a must-have for any traveler. However, finding that perfect travel watch that is versatile, aligned with your style, and durable can be challenging, especially when considering the risk of loss or theft for luxury watches.

I will help you explore five exceptional watches that meet the unique needs of the world traveler. They offer a blend of sophistication, functionality, and peace of mind and are available at various price points, between $95 and $4,900.

Disclosure: This page has affiliate links, meaning we may earn a small commission if you click the link and proceed with a purchase  at no cost to you . Some of the watches were sent to us for purposes of this review. We recommend cruises, experiences, products, and services we have tested or personally use. As Amazon Associates, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Top 5 Travel Watches at Various Price Points

• 1. Norqain Neverest GMT
• 2. Benrus SEA LORD
• 3. Armitron Wave
• 4. Christopher Ward Aquitaine GMT
• 5. IWC Spitfire

Read about our favorite watch strap company and the safe options you should invest in for your home to protect your valuables when traveling.

My Firsthand Experience with Travel Watches as a Watch Enthusiast

Everyone has a cell phone in their pocket that acts as a camera and a watch. We realize that's a reality in the 21st century. But when traveling, I often find myself in situations where carrying a phone isn't feasible, especially during our various cruises. Yet I still need to know the time, especially so we return to the ship before it leaves a port.

Whether for water activities or simply a desire to disconnect and be text-free onboard , a dependable watch becomes a lifeline. We love well-designed watches, which is why we often visit whatever shops are onboard a cruise ship as soon as they open to consider buying a watch on a cruise .

The best watch must withstand the rigors of travel — from water and climate exposure to accidental bumps — while maintaining its elegance for evening dinners.

The watches we have selected to highlight have proven to be valuable companions. They ensure we never miss a scheduled spa treatment, when we must meet our guide for an excursion, making the tender times, or a ship's departure, all while enhancing our travel wardrobes.

Mikkel and I often wear pricier timepieces at home that we have invested in (yes, I'm proud to say I turned her into a watch enthusiast like me). But when we travel on land or by cruise, we wear watches that we will not be worried about someone in a foreign country following us to steal. And yes, that does happen, unfortunately, so you must keep this in mind if you're considering traveling wearing a Rolex.

1. NORQAIN Neverest GMT: For the Stylish Explorer

Price: $3,950

This is my top choice for an elegant, upscale travel watch that won't break the bank. I love the GMT function that keeps time in multiple time zones, the ability to dress it up or down, and its design. The brand is newer in the watch world; though it's high-quality with Swiss parts and Swiss movement, it remains a hidden gem. Robbers have targeted tourists for well-known watches like Rolex, but Norqain pieces are luxury watches that still fly under the radar. This works to your advantage while you travel.

This watch looks good during daily activities, when you're wearing shorts and a t-shirt — or whatever adventure cruise attire you wear daily, from the Caribbean to Alaska — but also looks great dressed up, like in a button-down shirt and dark pants, by night. Its details, including the criss-cross metal knurling on the side of the bezel and the Norqain logo on its dial, are appreciated by watch aficionados and novices.

You cannot beat the satisfaction you feel when looking at the watch's skeleton back (that's watch speak, for a see-through, open case back), where you can see some of the 28 rubies inside.

Another fun fact is that when you buy this watch, you're helping to support Nepal's local community. “10% of the earnings from the sales of NEVEREST timepieces are donated to the Butterfly Help Project in Nepal helping families of sherpas who have lost their lives in the Himalayan mountains and give their children access to education.”

Additional Features of the Norqain Neverest GMT

The NORQAIN Neverest GMT is not just a watch; it's an investment in quality and functionality. Its mechanical automatic movement, 70-hour power reserve, and dual time zone with jumping hour feature make it a reliable choice for travelers. The scratch-proof sapphire glass is anti-reflective and scratch-proof; we know firsthand how much durability matters in the watch you bring on vacation as adventure takes over and your carefree days and nights are spent exploring new destinations.

The flex fabric strap (shown in photos) adds a touch of fun and flair to its design, but the watch from Norqain also has the following straps available: a stainless steel bracelet, a green rubber NATO strap, and a black rubber strap inspired by the knurled bezel design.

With its detailed Swiss mechanical automatic movement and comfortable 41mm case size, this watch offers excellent value for those looking for a high-quality, travel-friendly timepiece with a unique design.

Extra Protection for Your Valuables at home: safes

Invest in a waterproof and fireproof safe to store your valuables at home. You can put your jewelry in it — watches included — and important documents like passports and birth certificates. We recommend SentrySafes .

2. Benrus SEA LORD: Rugged Elegance

Price: $595

The Benrus SEA LORD perfectly blends vintage charm and modern technology. Its 39.5mm size comfortably fits most wrists. Its high-quality rubber strap and water resistance up to 98 feet make it suitable for adventurous travels. The Super-LumiNova markers ensure low-light visibility, enhancing its utility and style.

The brand was founded in 1926 and almost immediately marketed to a travel audience. Benrus was steeped in adventure from the get-go, using the famous pilot Charles Lindbergh as its spokesperson in 1926. In 1929, Benrus was the official watch of National Air Transport, which became United Airlines.

The Sea Lord, in particular, was available throughout the 1960s-70s. This revitalized watch style has a vintage feel in a modern offering, which is a huge reason why I like it; I'm a vintage watch guy.

Additional Features

This Swiss-made watch features automatic movement with a 38-hour power reserve. It requires no battery and charges with wrist movement, making it ideal for traveling.

Barton Watch Bands

Our favorite third-party watch band company is Barton Watch Bands . We have purchased several of their bands, from rubber to canvas, NATO straps, and then some. Be sure to read the description and measure the millimeters for the size watch strap you need before purchasing.

3. Armitron Wave: The Eco-Conscious Traveler’s Choice

Founded in 1975, Armitron has been a mainstay in affordable watches for decades. Did you know that Armitron is the Official Timekeeper of the New York Yankees?

The Armitron Wave stands out for its recycled materials and sportiness. The brand's commitment to sustainability manifests itself in this watch, made from recycled ocean-bound plastic from Tide Ocean Material SA. This watch makes a statement in addition to being an affordable travel option. The watch's packaging is also made from sustainable materials.

It has water resistance of up to 165 feet (50 meters) and an easily adjustable and washable band. This low-cost watch is designed for eco-conscious travelers who value both form and function at a price of under $100. Mikkel has the teal Armitron Wave with white details, and I have the black one, though all options are unisex. It is also available in navy.

It's worth mentioning that the 40 mm dial size didn't comfortably fit our wrists. We recommend purchasing the watch, testing it out at home, and wearing it for a few hours before committing to see if it's comfortable on your body.

The watch comes in various fun colors, is battery-powered, and offers a simple design that is perfect for a day of activities.

4. Christopher Ward C65 Aquitaine GMT: The Globetrotter’s Dream

Price: $1,590

For those who prefer a larger watch for traveling, the Christopher Ward C65 Aquitaine GMT's 41mm case and 656 feet of water resistance make it a robust companion. Its automatic movement, date window, and additional GMT hand for a second time zone are perfect for keeping track of things at home while exploring new destinations.

I like that this watch is easy to read, thanks to its large hands and big round hour markers. The skeleton back is a rare addition to a watch under $1,600, revealing the attractive movements inside the timepiece. The watch comes on a bracelet, but you can swap the band to personalize it, as I do with many watches.

The stainless steel bracelet is designed for all-day comfort, and its elegant design can be dressed up for formal dinners, making it a versatile choice for your itinerary.

5. IWC Pilot's Watch Automatic Spitfire: The Ultimate Travel Companion

Price: $4,900

Inspired by WWII-era aviation history, the IWC Spitfire combines history and elegance. Its 39mm case size, easy-to-read hands, and Swiss automatic movement ensure reliability and style. Water-resistant up to 196 feet, it’s built for adventure yet sleek enough for formal events. It's also a brand name many people are familiar with and trust, from its long-standing reputable history, founded in 1868.

It's easy to find a reputable IWC boutique worldwide, especially in USA port cities coast to coast, whether you're cruising from the Port of Los Angeles or Miami.

The face isn't overly complicated; its beauty is in its clean elegance and simplicity, yet it still has a rugged feel. This watch matches any outfit, day or night.

The watch's adventurous look and date window feature make it a versatile option for travelers who demand functionality without compromising on style.

Five Best Travel Watches

Every traveler deserves a watch that's as reliable and stylish as they are. Whether you're a seasoned watch enthusiast or new to the world of luxury timepieces, our curated selection caters to every budget and need. From the sustainable Armitron Wave to the exquisite IWC Spitfire, each watch offers a blend of functionality, quality, and style, making them perfect for any journey.

Choose a travel watch that reflects your taste and accompanies you through every adventure, and you'll embark on your next journey with confidence and elegance. Remember, a watch is not just a tool; it's a part of your travels. Always read reviews and research before deciding, ensuring your travel watch is a companion you can rely on, no matter where your adventures take you.

Read this next:

• Buying a Watch on a Cruise Ship: 18 Things You Need to Know 
• Top Binoculars for Alaska & Antarctica Cruise: Leupold BX-2 Alpine HD Review
• Awesome Cruise Gift Ideas for Cruise Fans & People Going on a Cruise

The post Top Travel Watches for Your Next Vacation (2024) appeared first on Sometimes Sailing .

This article may contain affiliate links that Microsoft and/or the publisher may receive a commission from if you buy a product or service through those links.

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The Best Crossbody Bags For Travel, Built With Storage And Style

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Roomy enough to carry everyday essentials, the best crossbody bags for travel give you the freedom to explore without having to lug your suitcase around. We researched the best crossbody bags for travel that offer both storage and style and selected the MZ Wallace Small Sutton Deluxe as our top pick. We also found other great options for different travel styles, like a spacious crescent bag for beach trips and a sleek sling bag for organization.

The best crossbody bags for travel give you the freedom to explore without having to lug your ... [+] suitcase around.

A solid crossbody bag is versatile and provides convenient hands-free storage for every situation. This 4-in-1 leather bag from Lo & Sons stylishly transitions from day to night, while Lululemon’s popular Everywhere Belt Bag can be worn on the hip or across the body. Meanwhile, active travelers will get great use out of the Nomatic Navigator Sling , which features a water bottle holder and a stabilizer strap. Below, the best crossbody bags for travel in a variety of price points, styles and materials.

• Best Crossbody Bag For Travel Overall: MZ Wallace Small Sutton Deluxe
• Best Affordable Crossbody Bag For Travel: Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Mini Shoulder Bag
• Best Crossbody Bag For Organization: Aer Day Sling 3
• Best Crossbody Bag For Parents: Hobo Sheila Large Satchel
• Best Crossbody Bag For Beach Trips: Baggu Large Nylon Crescent Bag
• Best Crossbody Bag For Active Trips: Nomatic Navigator Sling 6L
• Most Versatile Crossbody Bag For Travel: Lo & Sons Waverley 2 in Nappa Leather
• Best Belt Bag For Travel: Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag 1 L
• Best Crossbody Bag For Men: Cotopaxi Coso 2L Hip Pack
• Best Leather Crossbody Bag For Travel: Quince Italian Leather Triple Compartment Crossbody

Best Crossbody Bag For Travel Overall

Lightweight, stylish storage, mz wallace small sutton deluxe.

Dimensions: 9.8 × 5.5 × 10.20 inches | Weight: 1.08 pounds | Materials: Recycled oxford (polyester, nylon), leather

With a handy key ring strap and five interior pockets, this versatile bag is perfect for staying organized during travel. It can be worn as a crossbody or top handle tote and its water-resistant oxford fabric won’t weigh you down on your journey. There’s an easy-to-adjust nylon strap for a customized fit and the detachable interior pouch is big enough to hold a pair of shoes, plus the ample pockets provide plenty of space for your phone, keys, tickets and more. It weighs only a pound but can fit a surprising amount of items, plus its plush fabric folds down for packing.

Best Affordable Crossbody Bag For Travel

Security features plus many pockets, travelon anti-theft classic mini shoulder bag.

Dimensions: 8.5 x 8.5 x 2.25 inches | Weight: 0.7 pounds | Materials: Polyester, nylon

Travelon’s Anti-Theft Classic Mini Shoulder Bag packs an impressive punch for being so small. Its six pockets keep everything where you need it—including an RFID-blocking passport and card interior organizer—while a tethered key caddy with an LED light eliminates that dreaded “can’t-find-it-in-my-bag” feeling. The 5-Point Anti-Theft security system protects against theft threats with slash-resistant fabric, lockable straps and secure zipper pulls. Not only will you feel safe wearing this bag, but thanks to its 13 colors and prints, you’ll also look stylish anywhere your trip may take you.

Best Crossbody Bag For Organization

A compact sling bag with room to spare, aer day sling 3.

Dimensions: 11.5 x 6 x 3 inches | Weight: 0.8 pounds | Materials: Cordura nylon

With a ballistic nylon exterior and a unique design that zips open for easy access, Aer’s Day Sling 3 is one of the more durable crossbody options out there. It has a 3L capacity that fits a surprising amount of items and its 8 pockets ensure everything stays in its place. There are multiple loops for strapping onto your luggage or storage and a handy front pocket with a key leash and cool security features like a secret back pocket. There’s also a sneaky Fidlock clasp that makes it harder for a pickpocket to snatch your bag.

Best Crossbody Bag For Parents

Extra space and storage for the whole family, hobo sheila large satchel.

Dimensions: 13.5 x 14 x 5.5 inches | Weight: 1.6 pounds | Materials: Raffia, leather

For parents or travelers who need to tote a lot of stuff on the go, a larger bag might be in order. Hobo’s Sheila Large Satchel offers nice organizational features and high style points. It’s made of a lightweight woven raffia with leather trim for added durability, plus its six interior pockets, key lanyard and accessible side exterior pocket are perfect for storing smaller items you may need throughout the day. Its main compartment is quite roomy, easily fitting a laptop, kid’s tablet, diaper wipes, snacks, toys, a backup outfit and more. The flexibility of its 3-in-1 styling really stands out—the adjustable strap can be worn as a crossbody, shortened for a shoulder bag or simply removed to transform into a classy top handle bag for a night out after the kiddos go to sleep.

Best Crossbody Bag For Beach Trips

Large and easy to wear for sandy days in the sun.

Urban Outfitters

Baggu Large Nylon Crescent Bag

Dimensions: 10.5 × 19.5 × 5.25 inches | Weight: N/A (not listed) | Materials: 100% recycled nylon

A beach bag calls for some pretty specific features: it needs to be durable and water-resistant, it should be big enough to hold bulky towels and ideally, it has a simple shape so sand won’t get lodged in the nooks and crannies. After much research, the Baggu Crescent Bag fits the bill. Its adjustable strap can be worn across the chest or as a tighter-fitting shoulder bag, the large size is roomy enough for a couple towels and a change of clothes and the zippered interior pocket keeps your wallet and keys secure. The quick-drying ripstop nylon is not only recycled, it’s also durable enough to withstand the windiest—and wettest—of beach days. Consider adding a few of Baggu’s fun printed flat pouches for additional organization.

Best Crossbody Bag For Active Trips

A durable sling with no detail spared, nomatic navigator sling 6l.

Dimensions: 13.5 x 9 x 4 inches | Weight: 1.3 pounds | Materials: 80% nylon, 20% polyester

Whether you’re hiking, biking or riding the metro, the Navigator Sling from Nomatic offers durability, storage and some impressive features. There’s a water bottle holder that zips away when not in use, a molded EVA back panel for wearable comfort and breathability, a tamper-resistant zipper and tech features like built-in tablet storage, an RFID-blocking pocket for your cards and a cord-pass through for charging your devices in different pockets. If you’re running or moving around a lot, there’s also a stabilizer strap that clips on to keep the sling even more secure to your body. Unlike some sling styles, this bag has multiple zippered storage compartments, the main one opening extra wide for easier access.

Most Versatile Crossbody Bag For Travel

Four ways to wear it.

Lo & Sons

Lo & Sons Waverley 2 in Nappa Leather

Dimensions: 5.6 x 8 x 2 inches | Weight: 0.6 pounds | Materials: Nappa, Saffiano or cactus leather

When you’re on the go, sometimes the last thing you want is to ruin the flow of the day by making a pit stop at the hotel to change out a bag before dinner. We like the Lo & Sons Waverley for its inventive versatility that adapts to your needs. The minimal leather design has an adjustable strap that can be worn 4 ways: as a hands-free belt bag, a longer crossbody, a casual shoulder bag or an elevated clutch with (or without) a wristlet. The main compartment is large enough for the essentials and the zippered inner pocket keeps smaller items secure no matter where your day—or night—takes you.

Best Belt Bag For Travel

Hands-free storage in a slim profile, lululemon everywhere belt bag 1 l.

Dimensions: 7.5 x 2 x 5 inches | Weight: N/A (not listed) | Materials: Nylon, recycled polyester

Over 22,500 reviewers agree: the Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag is sleek, lightweight and versatile enough to be worn just about anywhere your travels take you. It has a water-repellant nylon exterior and one main compartment, three mesh interior pockets for added organization and a back zipper for your phone or cards. Its adjustable strap can tighten for comfortable wearing around your waist or it can be extended as a crossbody sling. With a 1L capacity, this bag is definitely on the smaller side, so you might want to consider their larger 2L size if you need more space.

Best Crossbody Bag For Men

Rugged looks for when you're on the go, cotopaxi coso 2l hip pack.

Dimensions: 11 x 7 x 3 inches | Weight: 10 ounces | Materials: Recycled nylon, recycled polyester

This easy-wearing hip pack from Cotopaxi combines an urban rugged look with smart storage solutions. The recycled nylon exterior is durable with a matte TPU coating, making it water-resistant and easy to clean, while a fleece interior pocket stores your phone or other small devices without any scratch risk. There’s multiple grab handles for easy carrying, secure pockets for smaller items and in addition to the main zippered compartment, the exterior front flap pocket can store a rolled-up lightweight jacket when you get warm on the go. G-hooks on both sides can be adjusted for customized storage and it can be comfortably worn as a crossbody on the front or back, or around the waist as a belt bag.

Best Leather Crossbody Bag For Travel

Three storage sections in a minimal package, quince italian leather triple compartment crossbody.

Dimensions: 7.8 x 9.5 x 3 inches | Weight: 1.54 pounds | Materials: Leather

Quince’s smooth Italian leather crossbody might look simple from the outside, but there’s actually a lot of unexpected storage inside. The bag has three main compartments—two zippered sections flanking one open area that closes with snaps—plus three internal zippered pockets to take your organization a step further. It also comes with two detachable straps that allow for crossbody or wristlet wear. Quince is known for its fair prices and ethical manufacturing process, and if that’s not impressive enough, the brand also offers a generous 365-day return policy.

The Best Travel Accessories, Reviewed By Our Editors

The best wireless earbuds under $100 that offer style and function, why trust forbes vetted.

Our team at Forbes Vetted is comprised of seasoned editors, writers and researchers who not only love travel, but love to shop. We approach all of our travel product roundups with a discerning eye, focusing on quality, value and more, taking the time to assess products so you don’t have to. From the best luggage locks to the best carry-on backpacks , we spend countless hours researching, vetting and testing travel products to bring you the best of what’s on the market so you can make smart and informed shopping decisions for that next big trip or cruise . This story was written by contributor Becky Eaton , who regularly writes fashion, accessory and travel product guides for Forbes Vetted.

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6 Best Windshield Wiper Blades of 2024, According to Auto Experts

Rain, snow and bug guts are no match for these wiper blades.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

There’s nothing worse than getting stuck on the road during rainfall so heavy that you can barely see out your windshield. It’s one of the many reasons why it’s important to invest in high-quality windshield wipers that wipe water away effectively. Also, if you’ve noticed your windshield wiper blades have started leaving streaks behind or making pesky squeaking sounds when moving side to side, it may be time to consider replacing them.

Our top picks

Best Overall Windshield Wipers

Rain-x latitude water repellency.

best value windshield wipers

Goodyear assurance weatherready wiper blade.

Best Premium Windshield Wipers

Bosch automotive icon.

Best Silicone Windshield Wipers

Piaa 95055 super silicone wiper blade.

Best Windshield Wiper Set

Trico diamond 2.

Best All-Season Windshield Wipers

Valeo 900221b frameless.

After checking out our top picks, continue reading to find out whether new wiper blades are worth it and what to look for when shopping for new blades.

If you’re looking for better visibility on the road, these are the top wiper blades we recommend. The blades performed well in Car and Driver’s tests by removing water efficiently from the windshield without leaving behind streaks. The wipers also feature a hydrophobic coating that helps repel water in the first place.

Auto experts point out that installation could be a bit easier; they found that the locking clasp, albeit secure, was difficult to open. But we do appreciate that the universal adapter makes it compatible with most cars. Just make sure to purchase the correct size for your vehicle. (Remember: Driver's side and passenger's side wiper blades are often different lengths.) Drivers looking for a more premium pick made of silicone (versus rubber) can also consider the Rain-X Endura , which is better suited for harsher weather conditions thanks to its silicone design.

When it comes to auto equipment, Goodyear is a top brand with a long history. We like this pick for when it's time to swap out your blades but don't want to spend too much. Not only are these affordable, but they stood out in Car and Driver's tests for their vast range of adapters that are easy to interchange, making these an ideal choice for cars with a unique wiper arm design. On top of easy installation, the 22-inch version previously featured (now out of stock) did a great job of removing water from the windshield at all speeds. However, these wiper blades don't include bells and whistles of pricier options like rain repellency.

With more than 20,000 reviews on Amazon and an average 4.6-star rating, thousands of users say it's hard to go wrong with these wipers from Bosch. Though our partners at Car and Driver also like the more affordable Bosch Evolution wipers, this pick stands out for its durable design and top-notch performance. While we haven't yet tested the blades ourselves, online consumers rave about how long they last as well as their high-quality construction. Many point out how well they performed while driving through heavy rain as well as how easy they are to install.

Made of silicone rather than rubber, these windshield wiper blades are a great choice for anyone who values durability or lives in an area with frequent rainfall, heavy snow or extreme temperatures as these are more likely to stand the test of time . These blades feature a water-repellent coating to help keep raindrops off your windshield, and we appreciate the variety of adapters that come included. Also notable is that the silicone insert is replaceable so you don't have to swap your entire wiper when it's time, but keep in mind that some online reviewers claim these could have been easier to install.

While these windshield wipers may seem pricier than others, they actually come in a convenient set of two, so you don't have to worry about buying two separate blades. Car and Driver experts found that they did a good job at repelling water at all speeds in their tests, and that installation, including swapping the adaptors, was fairly easy. They also shared that the wipers were quiet and didn't leave behind streaks, though they point out that there is no locking clasp on the adaptors.

Winter, spring, summer and fall, these windshield wipers from Valeo can handle it all. They're graphite coated for smoother operation and the rubber blades are UV-resistant for durability. While we haven't tried them on one of our own cars yet, Amazon reviewers like how effectively they cleared water from their windshields for optimal visibility, while others rave about how long they've lasted. A universal adapter comes included for easy installation and, according to the brand, a vented frame should help optimize high-speed performance. Some online reviewers do, however, claim that the wipers occasionally produced squeaky noises.

How we chose the best windshield wiper blades

For this story, the product analysts at the Good Housekeeping Institute relied on our decades of expertise in testing autos and auto equipment, from the best home EV chargers and car paint sprayers to our favorite cars for parents like three-row SUVs . While we haven’t yet tested each windshield wiper formally in our Lab, our analysts reviewed popular picks among online consumers for factors like materials, design, price and more.

To learn even more about windshield wipers, we partnered with fellow Hearst brand, Car and Driver , whose auto experts have tested wiper blades firsthand. To narrow down the best ones, their pros simulated various degrees of rainfall, from light to heavy, with a garden hose, while trying each wiper speed setting. In addition to evaluating performance and how effectively water was removed from the car’s shield, factors like rain repellency, ease of installation, noise and price were considered.

Are expensive wipers worth it?

If you live somewhere that experiences frequent rainfall throughout the year or snowfall during the winter, it might be worth considering premium windshield wipers for the best performance. Pricier windshield wipers are usually made from silicone, which should not only last longer than blades made of rubber, but they are less likely to freeze to your windshield during colder months. According to our experts, the upfront investment for expensive wipers is typically worth it, though you can find some great value blades online that are efficient but likely lack a few extra features.

What to look for when shopping for the best windshield wiper?

✔️ Material: Windshield wiper blades are typically made from rubber or silicone. While rubber is a bit more affordable, it isn't quite as durable as silicone. So if you live somewhere with frequent rainfall or extreme temperatures, silicone blades may be a better investment in the long run. Also keep in mind that if you live somewhere with freezing temperatures during the winter months, silicone is less likely to freeze onto the windshield and more likely to remain pliable.

✔️ Size: Before purchasing wipers, double-check your car’s owner’s manual to find the wiper size that’s compatible. Inside the manual, there should be a wiper section that specifies this information. Note that often, the driver's side blade is longer than the passenger side blade. If you want to skip the hassle, you can always purchase a set of new wipers directly from your car's manufacturer by calling your local dealership. OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) wipers will be tailored to your car and should be easy to install, though they may be more expensive. ✔️ Durability : Windshield wipers don't last forever, and on average you can expect to change them every 12 months. If you start noticing that your wipers just aren't working like they used to, or are squeaking and leaving streaks behind, you may need to replace them sooner.

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

Media and tech reviews analyst Olivia Lipski oversees product testing and covers everything from consumer tech to autos, travel, home and more. She continues to stay on top of the industry’s latest innovations and helps readers make better buying decisions by testing and reviewing the best gadgets to hit the market. Not only does she regularly collaborate with the Good Housekeeping Auto Lab to evaluate some of the best family cars , but she also reviews handy car accessories and equipment.

To select the picks featured above, she consulted our partners at Car and Driver and the Hearst Autos Gear Team , who have more than 206 years of automotive publishing experience. Hearst Autos combines the forces, talent and knowledge of three of the largest, most influential automotive publications in the world: Autoweek, Car and Driver and Road & Track. The Hearst Autos Gear Team promises to deliver honest evaluations, hands-on tests and product reviews driven by decades of knowledge and experience.

Olivia (she/her) is a media and tech product reviews analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute , covering tech, home, auto, health and more. She has more than five years of experience writing about tech trends and innovation and, prior to joining GH in 2021, was a writer for Android Central, Lifewire and other media outlets. Olivia is a graduate of George Washington University, with a bachelor's degree in journalism, political science and French, and she holds a master’s degree in communications from Sciences Po Paris.

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Wisconsin will be cloudy during the eclipse. Here's where you can travel to see clear skies

We're just days away from witnessing a solar eclipse that will be visible in portions of the United States as the moon blocks the sun's light.

Milwaukee and Wisconsin are not on the eclipse's path of totality and will only experience a partial solar eclipse where the moon only covers part of the sun. But a cloudy forecast caused by a low-pressure system developing out of the west might make it difficult for Wisconsinites to catch a glimpse of some of the best views of the eclipse.

Some states in the path of totality, such as Texas and Oklahoma, are also forecasted to experience cloudy and rainy conditions. If you're looking to make last minute travel plans to seek out clear skies for the total solar eclipse, here's some locations with the clearest conditions closest to Milwaukee:

Where are the best chances for clear viewing of the full solar eclipse?

Clear skies in the path of totality are most likely in northern New England and Upstate New York, according to the National Weather Service . Clear skies have become more likely from southern Missouri into central Indiana, however there is still uncertainty, according to NWS as of Thursday.

What's the closest city from Milwaukee to dive to see clear skies during the full solar eclipse?

Located in central Indiana, Indianapolis will see the total solar eclipse on April 8 at 3:06 p.m. Indianapolis is the closet major city that Wisconsinites can drive to that will experience the total solar eclipse. From Milwaukee, Indianapolis is about a four-hour and 15-minute drive.

The National Weather Service is forecasting that clear skies are now more likely over Indianapolis and Central Indiana. Northern and southern Indiana are still expected to experience some clouds. Indianapolis is hosting several events for visitors looking to see the eclipse. For more information, you can visit their website at www.visitindy.com/events/eclipse/ .

Which states will experience cloudy skies and storms during the full solar eclipse?

Rain showers are possible near the path of totality during the solar eclipse across Texas , Oklahoma , Arkansas, Ohio , northwest Pennsylvania and western New York, according to NWS. Thunderstorms are also likely in the South-Central U.S. Monday evening and Tuesday. Severe weather and flash flooding could be possible and may result in hazardous travel conditions after the eclipse, NWS says.

Milwaukee-area indoor and virtual solar eclipse day events:

Even if the weather puts a damper on your eclipse plans, you can still mark the rare astronomical occasion with these indoor or virtual  events in the Milwaukee area :

• UW-Milwaukee : UWM will offer indoor activities, including a livestream of the total solar eclipse, free pizza, a photo booth and photo station, and a variety of astronomy-themed crafts, in the Union Ballroom from 1 to 3 p.m. on Monday. An outdoor eclipse watch and activities will take place, too, weather permitting.  More:  Solar Eclipse Viewing Party | Manfred Olson Planetarium .
• Milwaukee Public Museum : MPM will stream  NASA's live webcast  of the total solar eclipse and has indoor educational activities planned in the event of inclement weather. Outdoor viewing and activities are also planned. Monday, 12:30 to 3 p.m.  More:  2024 Solar Eclipse Watch | Milwaukee Public Museum .
• Brookfield Public Library : The library will host a free, indoor stream of NASA's live webcast in the library's community room. Monday, 12:30 to 3:30 p.m.  More: Brookfield Public Library • Solar Eclipse Streaming .

RELATED: When will the next total solar eclipse happen in Wisconsin after 2024?

Reporter Claire Reid contributed to this report.