World Time Watches You Can’t Miss: Hidden Gems in the Market

The Best World Time Watches You Should Know About

 

In a world that never stops spinning, the ability to keep track of time across different time zones has become essential. Whether you're a frequent traveler, a collector, or someone simply fascinated by fine watches, world time watches are more than just tools—they're also status symbols that speak to an international lifestyle. While mainstream names like Patek Philippe often steal the spotlight, there are several lesser-known brands and models that offer exceptional value, historical importance, and unique functionality. Here’s a closer look at some hidden gems that are worth your attention.

For an extensive roundup of GMT and travel watches showcased at Watches and Wonders 2025, be sure to check out Monochrome Watches’ recap for some of the most exciting releases in the travel watch category.

Enicar Sherpa Guide 600 GMT: The Explorer's Classic

 

Brand Backstory & Functionality

Founded in 1913, Enicar has always been synonymous with adventure. In the 1950s and 1960s, the brand made its mark by supplying rugged watches to legendary explorers. Most famously, Enicar provided watches to the Swiss team that conquered Everest in 1956. This connection with exploration paved the way for the launch of the Sherpa sub-brand, focusing on robust, reliable timepieces.

The Enicar Sherpa Guide 600 GMT is a stunning reflection of this heritage. Released in the 1960s, it features a rotating world-time bezel, which lets the wearer track time across 24 different time zones—a true game-changer for globetrotters of its time. The addition of a second hour hand for an extra time zone sets it apart from standard GMT watches.

Why It’s Special

As one of the pioneers of world-time functionality, the Sherpa Guide 600 GMT is not just practical but also a collector's dream. Its rugged design and relatively affordable price tag in today’s vintage market make it an attractive option for watch enthusiasts. If you're looking to own a piece of horological history, this is the watch for you.

Breguet Hora Mundi 3700: Elegance Meets Innovation

 

Timeless Craftsmanship & World-Time Mastery

When we talk about luxury watches, Breguet is often at the top of the list. Founded by the legendary Abraham-Louis Breguet in 1775, the brand revolutionized watchmaking with innovations like the tourbillon. The Breguet Hora Mundi 3700, released in 1996, is no exception, combining elegant design with cutting-edge world-time functionality.

With its 18kt gold case and intricate globe-patterned dial, the Hora Mundi 3700 exudes a level of craftsmanship that few watches can match. The dual function—simultaneously serving as a world-time and classical Breguet timepiece—gives it a unique place in the high-end horology space. For more insights into the Breguet Hora Mundi 3700, check out this in-depth review by Expert Watches, where they discuss its underappreciated value.

Why It’s Overlooked

Despite its exceptional craftsmanship, the Hora Mundi 3700 doesn’t get as much attention as its more famous Breguet siblings. However, for collectors who appreciate fine watchmaking, this model is an underappreciated gem. Its fusion of beauty and functionality makes it the perfect investment for someone who values both art and utility in their watch collection.

Bulgari Octo Roma World Time Ref. 103486: Modern Luxury

 

Innovative Design with Practicality

Bulgari is a name most often associated with jewelry, but its Octo Roma World Time Ref. 103486 is an exceptional example of the brand’s foray into horology. Unlike the ultra-thin Octo Finissimo, the Octo Roma offers a more substantial design while retaining the sleek, modern aesthetic Bulgari is known for.

The 41mm DLC-coated case provides a contemporary, blacked-out look, while the world-time complication makes it an ideal tool for travelers. Its minimalist design ensures it fits effortlessly from day to night, making it a versatile choice for those who appreciate understated elegance.

Why It’s Worth Noticing

While the Octo Roma is often overshadowed by its thinner sibling, the Octo Finissimo, its combination of sleek design and practical functionality sets it apart. This model is a hidden gem that deserves more attention, offering modern luxury at an accessible price for those in the know.

Jaeger-LeCoultre Shark Deep Sea Chronograph World Time: Vintage Excellence

 

The Golden Age of Tool Watches

Jaeger-LeCoultre has long been revered for producing some of the most exquisite timepieces in the world, but it also excels at creating functional tool watches. The Jaeger-LeCoultre Shark Deep Sea Chronograph World Time Ref. E2643 is a vintage piece from the 1960s that blends chronograph and world-time functionality, making it a rare and highly collectible model.

The Shark Deep Sea Chronograph E2643 features a 40mm stainless steel case with a swappable bezel that allows the wearer to track two different time zones. The movement inside, the Valjoux Cal. 72, was used in many top-tier watches of the era, making it a reliable and significant timepiece in the Jaeger-LeCoultre legacy.

Why It’s Special

This vintage chronograph is a true piece of history, combining water resistance, chronograph functionality, and world-time capabilities. It remains an underappreciated gem for collectors who recognize the significance of its design and utility.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a world-time watch?

A world-time watch is designed to display the time in multiple time zones at once. These watches usually have a rotating bezel or dedicated subdials to show the time in major cities worldwide, helping travelers keep track of time across the globe.

Q2: What makes the Enicar Sherpa Guide 600 GMT special?

The Sherpa Guide 600 GMT was one of the first watches designed specifically with world-time functionality for explorers. Its rotating bezel and additional hour hand made it a crucial tool for travelers, and its historical significance makes it a sought-after model today.

Q3: Why is the Breguet Hora Mundi 3700 often overlooked?

Despite its exceptional craftsmanship, the Hora Mundi 3700 is often overshadowed by more modern or visually striking models. However, its fusion of elegant design and world-time functionality makes it a standout piece for those who value both beauty and practicality.

Q4: How does the Bulgari Octo Roma World Time Ref. 103486 compare to other world-time watches?

The Bulgari Octo Roma offers a unique combination of sleek design and world-time functionality, making it a great option for modern travelers. Its minimalist aesthetic sets it apart from bulkier, more traditional designs, providing a stylish yet practical choice for global adventurers.

Q5: What makes the Jaeger-LeCoultre Shark Deep Sea Chronograph World Time special?

The Shark Deep Sea Chronograph combines chronograph functionality with world-time capabilities, making it a rare and valuable vintage model. Its rugged design and historical significance make it a must-have for collectors of vintage tool watches.

By exploring these hidden gems in the world of world time watches, collectors and travelers alike can uncover timepieces that combine beauty, functionality, and historical importance. Whether you're looking for a watch that tells the time in multiple zones or a piece of history, these models are sure to add value to any collection.