The TUDOR Pelagos FXD GMT, nicknamed the “Zulu Time,” is a bold addition to TUDOR’s iconic dive watch collection. This model fuses high-performance engineering with deep historical roots, delivering a watch crafted for both military and civilian use. At first glance, the Pelagos FXD GMT stands out with its sleek, matte black dial and rugged titanium build, and beneath this aesthetic lies TUDOR’s high-grade craftsmanship and a feature-rich design, backed by its partnership with the French Navy.
A Quick Overview of the TUDOR Pelagos FXD GMT “Zulu Time”
The Pelagos FXD GMT comes in a 42mm titanium case, boasting durability and a lightweight feel. Its matte finish reinforces the watch’s military origins, making it a rugged yet stylish choice for adventure-seekers. This watch is equipped with TUDOR’s manufacture Calibre MT5652-U, which is certified by METAS, ensuring superb precision, durability, and anti-magnetic resistance. Its design is both functional and aesthetically pleasing, featuring a black dial with beige hour markers that give it a vintage feel, making it a versatile piece that bridges utility with style. The FXD GMT’s most distinct feature is its GMT complication, which allows it to track multiple time zones. The GMT function is especially useful for those who travel often or need to coordinate across different zones, like international business people or explorers. What’s more, the divers watch is water-resistant up to 200 meters, which, although less than TUDOR’s standard Pelagos models, is still sufficient for most aquatic activities, from swimming to light diving.
Rich Heritage: The History Behind the Pelagos FXD GMT
TUDOR has a longstanding relationship with the military, particularly the French Navy, also known as Marine Nationale. This collaboration dates back to the 1950s, when TUDOR supplied dive watches to the Marine Nationale for use in underwater missions. Over the years, TUDOR watches gained a reputation for durability and reliability, earning a trusted spot in military timepieces. The FXD models pay homage to this connection, reviving TUDOR’s military ties with a timepiece made to withstand the demands of tactical work and harsh environments.
The name “Zulu Time” refers to the aviation term for Greenwich Mean Time (GMT), which is often used as a universal reference time for aviation, military, and other operations requiring precise global coordination. This title reinforces the Pelagos FXD GMT’s purpose as a tool watch, fit for both practical use and as a testament to TUDOR’s military-inspired history.
What Are The Watch’s Main Features?
- Case and Build: The 42mm titanium case of the FXD GMT is both robust and comfortable, crafted from high-grade titanium to resist corrosion and minimise weight. The matte finish enhances the military-inspired look, and the screw-down crown offers an extra layer of protection for water resistance.
- Dial and Bezel: The watch’s matte black dial is designed for maximum legibility, with luminescent beige hour markers that give it a vintage touch. The hour, minute, and GMT hands are also luminescent, making it easy to read in low-light conditions. The bi-directional rotating bezel, marked in 24 hours, provides quick access to a second time zone — a feature that’s especially useful for those on the go.
- Movement: At the heart of the FXD GMT is the Calibre MT5652-U, a COSC-certified movement that is further certified by METAS, meaning it meets stringent standards for precision and resistance to magnetism. This movement also offers a 65-hour power reserve, making it a reliable companion for extended travel.
- Strap: TUDOR has chosen a fabric strap for the FXD GMT, featuring the French Naval Aviation roundel as a nod to its military inspiration. This strap is both comfortable and durable, designed to withstand wear while offering a lightweight, breathable fit.
- Water Resistance: The FXD GMT has a water resistance rating of 200 meters. This is because of its tactical focus, with the slightly reduced water resistance providing an adequate seal for the majority of recreational diving and water sports.
The GMT Function: More Than Just A Second Time Zone
One of the standout features of the Pelagos FXD GMT is its ability to track multiple time zones at the same time. The GMT hand is easily adjustable, allowing you to set a “home” time zone, while the bezel can be used to reference a second time zone. For those who frequently travel or have international contacts, this function is not only practical but also offers a distinct and purposeful look to the watch.
Price & Value
With a price tag of £4,000, the TUDOR Pelagos FXD GMT positions itself as a competitively priced luxury dive watch. Considering its METAS certification, the high-grade titanium construction, and its unique military-inspired design, it offers significant value for watch enthusiasts and collectors alike. The FXD GMT’s combination of heritage, functionality, and precision makes it a worthy investment for those who appreciate the durability and design of military-grade timepieces.
Who Is The TUDOR Pelagos FXD GMT For?
The FXD GMT is ideal for adventure-seekers, military enthusiasts, and anyone with a passion for functional timepieces. Its sturdy build, GMT functionality, and water resistance make it a perfect travel companion, whether you’re a frequent flyer, a diver, or simply a lover of finely crafted watches. The watch also appeals to collectors who value TUDOR’s history with the French Navy and want a timepiece that embodies both heritage and modern technology.
The TUDOR Pelagos FXD GMT At Deacons Jewellers
The TUDOR Pelagos FXD GMT “Zulu Time” is much more than just a watch — it’s a piece of history wrapped in modern engineering. From its lightweight titanium case and METAS-certified movement to its GMT function and military-inspired design, every element of this timepiece is crafted with precision and purpose. TUDOR has seamlessly blended its military legacy with the functionality that today’s watch lovers seek, creating a watch that’s both a collector’s item and a practical tool.
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