Tudor Pelagos FXD GMT: A Precision Tool Watch for French Naval Aviation

Tudor’s renowned Pelagos FXD platform, initially crafted for the Marine Nationale's diving needs, has now evolved to suit the specific requirements of French Naval Aviation. The latest addition, the Pelagos FXD GMT, is designed as a robust tool watch that tracks Zulu time (UTC) alongside local and an additional third time zone, marking a first in the Pelagos lineup.

The Legacy of Tudor and the Marine Nationale

Since the 1950s, Tudor has partnered with the Marine Nationale, supplying diving watches that meet the demanding needs of naval troops. The first model in the Pelagos FXD line, launched in 2021, introduced “FiXeD” strap bars for enhanced durability, reinforcing Tudor's reputation for reliability in extreme conditions. Now, in 2024, the FXD family expands to meet the specific needs of Aéronautique Navale, France’s naval aviation division.

Tracking Zulu Time: The Pelagos FXD GMT’s Core Functionality

Zulu time, also known as Universal Time Coordinated (UTC), is an essential reference for all aviators and is displayed by the Pelagos FXD GMT through a bright orange hand. This hand makes a full 24-hour rotation around the dial, providing a quick reference to international aviation time. Tudor’s iconic “Snowflake” hour hand, adjustable through the winding crown, shows local time and makes it easy to adapt when crossing time zones. Additionally, a third time zone can be tracked using the 24-hour bezel in combination with the Zulu time hand.

Durable Design with Enhanced Luminescence for Low-Light Conditions

The Pelagos FXD GMT’s dial is designed with clear functionality in mind, differentiating the hour, minute, and second hands from the 24-hour hand using a blue and green luminescent contrast. The bi-directional bezel emits a green glow, ensuring a sharp distinction between local and Zulu time, even in low-light conditions.

A Robust Titanium Case Built to Withstand Naval Conditions

Crafted with a 42mm grade 2 titanium case, the Pelagos FXD GMT is both rugged and lightweight, with fixed strap bars for additional durability and a water-resistance of up to 200 meters. The fully brushed finish gives the watch a refined matte look, while the case back, made from grade 5 titanium, is engraved with the emblem of Aéronautique Navale, a tribute to its origins.

Precision Movement with the Tudor Manufacture Caliber MT5652-U

Powering the Pelagos FXD GMT is the caliber MT5652-U, a high-performance self-winding movement certified as a Master Chronometer by METAS. This certification ensures exceptional precision, anti-magnetic resistance up to 15,000 gauss, and a 65-hour power reserve, reflecting Tudor’s commitment to accuracy and reliability.

A Tribute to French Naval Heritage with a Unique Strap

The one-piece fabric strap of the Pelagos FXD GMT is woven by the Julien Faure company in France, using 19th-century Jacquard looms. The strap color reflects the flight suits of French Naval Aviation pilots and is equipped with a titanium pin buckle, maintaining the watch’s robust yet classic design.