Hands On With The New Tudor Pelagos FXD GMT 'Zulu Time'

The Tudor Pelagos FXD GMT 'Zulu Time' showcases Tudor's expanding vision for the FXD lineup, venturing beyond just dive watches. The first Pelagos with a GMT complication, this watch continues the brand’s collaboration with the French Navy while introducing utility and design tweaks that set it apart from previous models. What inspired these changes, and how does the 'Zulu Time' fit into the broader story of the Pelagos lineup? Let’s take a closer look.

A Closer Look at the Case and Dimensions

At first glance, the ‘Zulu Time’ may look like a familiar watch, because in many ways, it is. The case dimensions are nearly identical to the original FXD, with a 42mm diameter and 52mm lug-to-lug measurement. However, the new model is slightly thinner at 12.7mm—an impressive feat considering the added complexity of a GMT movement (more on that in a moment). The subtle reduction in thickness enhances wearability without compromising much of anything.

On the caseback, you’ll find ‘Éronautique Navale’ inscribed above an anchor insignia and ‘M.N.24,’ denoting Marine Nationale 2024. These details serve as a nod to its French military partnership and hint at its potential collectibility. For watch enthusiasts, the caseback inscriptions alone make the 'Zulu Time' worth a second look. Always read the caseback!

GMT Functionality and Movement

Image Source: Tudor

The GMT complication is the star of the show here. Equipped with an independently adjustable local hour hand and a bright orange-red 24-hour hand, the watch allows users to track a second time zone. The bi-directional 24-hour bezel, featuring a matte black ceramic insert, allows tracking a third time zone. This makes the ‘Zulu Time’ a practical companion for travelers and professionals navigating multiple time zones.

Powering the watch is Tudor’s MT5652-U, a METAS-certified Master Chronometer movement. With a 65-hour power reserve, silicon hairspring, and strong anti-magnetism, you can rest assured that the movement is as tough as the rest of the watch. The MT5652-U, based on the MT5652 found in the Black Bay Pro and Black Bay GMT, takes things up a notch with METAS certification.

Design Highlights

The ‘Zulu Time’ has the clean modern aesthetic you've come to expect from the Pelagos collection but features beige lume and text, paired with subtle orange-red accents on the 24-hour hand and 'PELAGOS GMT' text AT 6 o'clock. This color palette creates somewhat of a vintage look, paying homage to mid-century military GMTs. The choice of beige lume over stark white is particularly noteworthy, lending the watch a softer, more understated look compared to other Pelagos models.

The titanium case, a hallmark of the Pelagos line, keeps the watch ultralight and durable. I didn't get to weigh this one, but it likely falls between 80 and 90 grams. Paired with a one-piece fabric strap secured by titanium hardware, the ‘Zulu Time’ is just as comfortable as it is robust, making it ideal for daily wear.

A Step Forward for the FXD Line

The ‘Zulu Time’ is a thoughtful evolution of the FXD series, building on the success of models like the Alinghi Red Bull Racing collaboration. By introducing a GMT complication, Tudor further expands the Pelagos collection beyond just divers, all while maintaining professional-grade performance.

Final Thoughts

The Tudor Pelagos FXD GMT ‘Zulu Time’ is, in our opinion, the brand's best release of 2024. Tudor took its beloved Pelagos diver, gave it a GMT complication, made it thinner than the time-only version, and gave it with one of the coolest Pelagos color palettes to date. The ‘Zulu Time’ offers yet another exciting glimpse into the potential of the FXD lineup.

What do you think of Tudor’s latest creation? Let us know in the comments below, and if you already own an FXD, explore our selection of single-pass and NATO-style straps to give it a fresh look.