Going back in time and around the world with the Zodiac Aerospace GMT

Zodiac is one of those brands that disappeared for awhile, and now they’ve been back with a vengeance. Sure, they’re owned by Fossil now, but they’ve got a deep catalog to pull from, since vintage reissues seem to be where it’s at these days (works for the car companies, why not watches?) The most recent watch from them – just announced at BaselWorld – is the Zodiac Aerospace GMT.

The Zodiac Aerospace GMT is a watch design that first leapt off the page in 1966, coming from the popularity of the Super Sea Wolf. This is most evident in the design of the dial and bezel. The blocky handset and indices scream 1960s to me, and I dig that the same style was carried over to the GMT hand. A further continuation of the original design is in the 24-hour bezel. On one of the variants, it’s in black and grey, just like the original. This, of course, gives you the day/night transition. But what fun is a reissue if you don’t play around with it some?

That’s where the second variant of the Zodiac Aerospace GMT comes in, with a light blue and bright orange bezel bringing a welcome splash of color to the design. This is the one that catches the eye, and brings – along with the color – some feeling of a more relaxed nature. I also think it’ll lend itself quite nicely to strap changes if you want a change of pace from the included bracelet. With 20mm lugs, your options are all but endless.

Remaking a watch like the Zodiac Aerospace GMT also means you get some modern amenities, like a new movement (in this case, the ETA2893-2) tucked into the 40mm steel case. Modern machinery can also result in tighter tolerances, so I’d be hopefully that this new version would be at least as robust as the original. With 200m WR and stainless steel construction, the $1,695 Zodiac Aerospace GMT looks to be a rather able travel companion. Just make sure your trip is after March 28th, when the watch is expected to ship. We’re also working to get in a loaner for review, so we’ll be able to give you a more in-depth take should that occur. ZodiacWatches.com

Watch Overview

Brand & Model: Zodiac Aerospace GMT
Price: $1,695

Who’s it for?Me. Oh, and you know, anyone who likes some groovy 60s vintage style on their travel watch
Would I wear it? From what I see in these photos, yes, yes indeed
What I’d change: Hard to make suggestions here, since it’s based off the original (a homage, you might say). Maybe a lighter-colored dial as well?