Tudor Unveils The All-New Pelagos FXD GMT 'Zulu Time'

Tudor is back at it with another FXD. The all-new Pelagos FXD GMT ‘Zulu Time' – made in collaboration with the French Navy's aeronautics component – marks the very first GMT complication in the Pelagos family. As Tudor continues to expand, evolve, and experiment with the FXD line, the ‘Zulu Time’ is a welcome addition with its dual-time functionality.

The Basics

The Tudor Pelagos FXD GMT ‘Zulu Time’ shares nearly the same case dimensions as the original Pelagos FXD. Both measure 42mm in diameter and 52mm lug to lug. However, the ‘Zulu Time’ is .05mm thinner than its time-only predecessor at just 12.7mm thick. That difference may sound miniscule, but it's quite impressive given the addition of a GMT complication. More on that movement later.

Consistent with all other non-carbon Pelagos watches, the case is made of grade 2 titanium. Combined with a one-piece fabric strap, secured with titanium hardware, this is an ultralight watch for its size.

Like the original Pelagos FXD, the ‘Zulu Time’ is made in collaboration with the French Navy: this time their aeronautics component. 'Aéronautique Navale' is inscribed on the caseback above its anchor insignia and 'M.N.24' to represent "Marine Nationale 2024". I imagine these 2024 variations are/will be in high demand. Always read the caseback!

Of course, the novelty here is the GMT functionality. You’ll notice a fourth orange-red hand that reads 24-hour time. In tandem with an independently adjustable local hour hand, this allows you to track a second time zone. We also have a bi-directional rotating 24 hour bezel, equipped with a matte black ceramic insert, that allows you to track a third timezone. If you’re interested in (or confused by) these mechanics, check out our guide on how to use a GMT complication.

Inside the titanium case, you will not find the same movement as this year's Tudor Black Bay 58 GMT. Instead, you’ll find the Master Chronometer MT5652-U. The automatic ‘flyer’ GMT movement features 65 hours of power reserve and a silicon hairspring to combat magnetism.

If you're a nerd like me, that movement probably sounds familiar. It's actually based on the the MT5652 found in the Black Bay Pro and Black Bay GMT. The "-U" suffix denotes METAS Master Chronometer certification. 

First Impressions of the Tudor Pelagos FXD GMT ‘Zulu Time’

Watch nerds have long prophesied that Tudor would make a Pelagos GMT . . . and here we have it . . . and it's a knockout. The simplicity of this design – silver-tone case, matte black dial, beige lume/dial text, and two splashes of orange-red – make for a watch that, in my opinion, will look just as good decades down the line.

Tudor's choice of beige over stark white is notable here. The lume's hue appears similar to that of the Pelagos LHD, but to me, it reads more vintage inspired on the 'Zulu Time'. Paired with subtle orange-red accents as opposed to bright red, the watch looks like Tudor's Black Pelagos FXD if it had sat in the sun for a couple decades. 

Although I love the simplicity of this design, I’m excited for any and all carbon-cased, colorful, collaborative Pelagos GMTs that we may see in years to come (or months, at the rate that Tudor is moving). Still, I’m happy to see the Pelagos GMT inaugurated in a largely familiar fashion, down to the Marine Nationale connection. 

What do you think of the new FXD 'Zulu Time'? Let us know in the comments below, and if you already have an FXD, check out our selection of single-pass and NATO-style nylon straps.