These GMT watches from Rolex, Patek Philippe, Bell & Ross, and Tudor get the job done in absolute style

A distinctive 24-hour display dial nods to the brand’s historical Chronometro Gondolo timepieces produced in the 1920s but with an updated take. Here, things are topsy-turvy, with noon found at the 12 o’clock position, and midnight at six o’clock, to maximise the legibility of the daytime hours. Even more intriguing is that this Calatrava Travel Time sees both the local- and home-time hour markers using the 24-hour display, unlike conventional GMTs where it’s just the home time that is shown in the 24-hour format.

A new, patented three-position crown allows Patek Philippe to do away with correction pushers and maintain the design’s elegant profile. Pull it out to the first position to set the local time in one-hour increments in either direction. Pull it out again to set the home time and stop seconds. Then, push it all the way back in to wind the watch (it offers a 48-hour power reserve) — easy as pie. A navy blue dial with hand-laid rose gold appliques complete the picture.