We’re back with another edition of The Cultivated Wrist and this time we’re talking about travel watches that will get you around in style. What makes a great travel watch? Obviously, the ability to tell time in multiple time zones is a big plus, but other, more overlooked features fit the bill as well. Let’s take a look at some expected, and some unexpected picks that offer something for everyone.
There can’t exist an article about travel watches without including a Rolex GMT. For this list, we are loving the 16713 “root beer” GMT Master II. Not only does it house Rolex’s legendary 24 hour hand and bezel, it’s got some serious style to boot that only gets better with age (and usage). Act fast on this one as Bidding is getting tight with the current low Ask at $8,500.
Perhaps the finest of under-the-radar timepieces, the Grand Seiko SBGR299 (it’s not a fax machine, we swear) makes for a great travel companion despite its lack of dual time complication. This is a watch that will largely go unnoticed to anyone who is not a watch enthusiast, and who doesn’t appreciate a bit of discretion while traveling? Bonus points for not having a date complication, so setting a different timezone is a hassle-free exercise. This example currently has a low Ask of $3,280.
If you’re the kind of traveler that cares more about comfort over making a fashion statement, and isn’t shy about pocketing a few extra bags of peanuts, this G-Shock might be for you. It’s big, it’s brash, and it’s easy to manipulate on the fly. Best of all, the lowest Ask is just $114 at the moment.
Jaeger LeCoultre Master Dual Time
This Master Dual Time is a classy travel companion from Jaeger-LeCoultre, featuring the in-house caliber 975H (fun fact, this movement utilizes a balance spring from A. Lange & Sohne), and the ability to track time in multiple timezones simultaneously. Not only is this watch easy to use, it’s easy to wear at 40mm in diameter, a svelte case, and leather strap. There’s a low Ask of $6,500 on this example right here.
