October 30th 2024
Riding on the success of Tudor’s collaboration with the Marine Nationale, the Tudor Pelagos FXD GMT Zulu Time is the newest addition to the FXD line. This model builds on the partnership between Swiss watchmaker Tudor and the French Naval Aviation, aiming to deliver an aviation-focused design that allows pilots and flight crew to monitor “Zulu Time”—or GMT—while keeping the Pelagos line’s rugged charm.
Military Precision Meets Dive Watch Excellence
True to the Pelagos line, the FXD GMT Zulu Time offers a suite of high-performance features, including Tudor’s robust in-house movement, clear legibility, and rugged durability. The watch embodies the qualities that made Tudor’s Black Bay series a hit in the under-$5,000 market. Unlike the Black Bay, however, the Pelagos line takes a bolder approach in design, making the FXD GMT a standout with its military-inspired fixed lugs, durable straps, and titanium case.
Why “Zulu Time”?
“Zulu Time” is the aviation term for GMT, or Greenwich Mean Time, and its use prevents confusion in global operations across different time zones. The orange GMT hand on this watch remains set to Zulu Time, offering a fixed reference point for international coordination, with the hour hand adjustable in one-hour increments without disrupting the movement.
A Glow for Night Missions
For nighttime visibility, the FXD GMT Zulu Time is equipped with Swiss Super-LumiNova lume. The local hour, minute, and seconds hands glow blue, while the GMT hand’s triangle tip and bezel numerals glow green. This dual-color luminescence is both functional and striking, enhancing the watch’s legibility during low-light situations.
Design and Durability: A Nod to Naval Heritage
With a 42mm titanium case, water resistance to 200m, and a sapphire crystal, the FXD GMT is engineered for performance. The Aéronautique Navale logo on the back and a unique strap inspired by French Naval Aviation’s colors reinforce its military heritage. Inside, the MT5652-U movement offers a 65-hour power reserve, anti-magnetic silicon balance spring, and dual certifications as a COSC-certified and METAS-certified Master Chronometer.
Pricing and Final Thoughts
Priced at €4,690 EUR, $4,625 USD, or 4,350 CHF, the Tudor Pelagos FXD GMT Zulu Time offers a compelling package for fans of high-performance dive watches and military aesthetics. While some might still yearn for a smaller version, the FXD GMT combines aviation functionality with Tudor’s rugged style, making it a unique addition to the Pelagos line.