How to Use an NH34 GMT Watch

Track multiple time zones with precision and clarity.

The NH34 GMT movement allows you to track a second time zone using a dedicated 24-hour hand.

Once you understand how it works, it becomes one of the most practical complications in modern watchmaking.

What Makes a GMT Watch Different

An NH34 GMT watch includes:

• Standard hour and minute hands → Local time

• GMT hand (fourth hand) → Second time zone (24-hour format)

• 24-hour bezel or chapter ring → Reference scale

  
  

Understanding Crown Positions (NH34)

GMT Watch Crown Positions

• Position 1 → Winding

• Position 2 → Date / GMT hand adjustment

• Position 3 → Time setting

  
  

How to Set Local Time (Main Hands)

Step 1: Pull Crown to Position 3

• Pull the crown all the way out

• The second hand stops (hacking)

Step 2: Set Your Local Time

• Rotate the crown to move hour/minute hands

• Ensure correct AM/PM by passing midnight

Step 3: Push Crown Back to Position 0 (or continue to GMT setup)

How to Set the GMT Hand (Second Time Zone)

Step 1: Pull Crown to Position 2

• Pull crown one click out

• This controls the GMT hand independently

Step 2: Rotate Crown to Set GMT Time

• Turn the crown to move the GMT hand

• Align it with your second time zone on the 24-hour scale

👉 Example:

• 14 on bezel = 2 PM

• 02 = 2 AM

Step 3: Push Crown Back In

• Return to Position 1

• Screw down if applicable

How to Read a GMT Watch

This is where most people get confused—so keep it simple:

• Main hands → Your current local time

• GMT hand → Second time zone (24-hour format)

👉 The key difference: The GMT hand only makes one full rotation per 24 hours

This allows you to distinguish:

• Day vs night

• AM vs PM

Using the Bezel (If Rotating)

If your watch has a rotating bezel:

You can track a third time zone.

• Rotate bezel to offset hours

• Read GMT hand against new position

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Confusing 12-hour vs 24-hour reading

• Not confirming AM/PM when setting time

• Moving GMT hand without understanding reference scale

• Forcing the crown

Pro Tips

• Set GMT hand to home time when traveling

• Use bezel for temporary third time zone

• Always set time first, then GMT