It’s been awhile since we took a trip into the Ocean7 catalog (you can see our other reviews here), and today, we’re revisiting one of my favorite models that’s had a very nice update done to it.
The model in question, of course is the LM-5 GMT, which is a new version of the LM-5 that we reviewed here. As with that model, here we’ve got the great construction, fit and finish that we’ve come to expect from Ocean7. And while this shares a lot with the previous LM-5, this is definitely it’s own creature.
Most obviously, of course, is the fact that a GMT complication has been added. To me, this is, simply put, one of the most useful complications you can add (after a date display). While not everyone needs to track a second timezone, it’s very handy to know where in a 24-hour cycle a movement is, for when you inevitably have it run down and need to set the date and time.
The next most obviously change has to do with the sapphire bezel. Here, it’s gone from a quieter black, to what is more commonly referred to as a “Pepsi” bezel (the numbering on it has changed as well). Aside from adding some color to the watch, it’s also a handy divider between day and night. The final (at least, noticeable) change has to deal with the indices. On the GMT, they’ve gone from being numerals to being sticks (each style serves it’s own purpose; I’ll leave it to you if this is a positive or negative).
All told, these changes will add $150 to the price of the regular LM-5, bringing the total to $849 on the carbon fibre leather strap (store page). There is a milainese bracelet upgrade available as well ($150), or you could get both strap and bracelet for $249 extra. As with the original LM-5, I have no reservations about recommending this watch. This has a truly nice mix of styling, function and features in a compact package – not to mention that lumed sapphire bezel. Whether you’re looking for a diver, a dressier piece for the office, or just a great everyday watch, this can easily cover your bases.
