Just wanting a GMT
So, the NH34 has been out for a while, but I delayed starting a build with that movement, as I:
a) Lacked a real reason for a GMT. (Heck, basic math will do with a regular watch.)
b) Didn't want to spend extra money.
Then I noticed nh34 movements becoming reasonable on AliExpress, as well as some often-used handsets, dials and cases. There was one that looked like a rough approximation of a GS, calling it a homage would be an exaggeration. I was able to procure for around $80. (Not including the 19mm strap that I'm still waiting on.) The 31mm dial and the corresponding case were rather inexpensive.
What I found out was the following:
1) Setting the GMT hand was easy with the right-sized hand tool. There is a little slop when setting the tool in 1 hr increments, so the position may be slightly off now and then.
2) I lost the second hand while checking the watch with a timegrapher. It took quite some force to install the second second hand. (No pun intended.) Not sure if that is a feature of the NH34, but it was rather odd.
3) The dial was very plain, no texture whatsoever, but it was at least tasteful.
4) The $29 case is actually a sandwich structure of 3 layers, held together by 6 screws. The dial-size is non-standard at 31mm, but should also be able to use some Omega knock-off dials as well. It's a bit of a pain to put together, as there are ways not to fully seat the screws, especially since the gaskets can compress some. It's a good idea to check the case from the size to see if everything aligns.
5) I also found the amplitude to be a little higher with the NH34 than with my last NH35s. Not sure if that is an accident or by design.
I also realized that I am unable to communicate the concept of a GMT watch to my wife and my daughter. They don't quite comprehend why somebody may need something like this. Well, so be it.
Otherwise I'm still waiting for a 19mm wristband, and will start wearing this watch once that shipment arrives.
EDIT: @reviewsfornerds has posted a video about this very build.
If you figure out an explanation for the gmt need please share it. I can't quite understand it either. Best I have heard is, "if 3 hands are good than 4 must be better."
If you figure out an explanation for the gmt need please share it. I can't quite understand it either. Best I have heard is, "if 3 hands are good than 4 must be better."
A time zone may be a +/-12 hour difference to your local time, and you only have 10 fingers?
Wait a sec, I just checked my hand.
Wait a sec, I just checked my hand.
See, now you know what the term "GMT hand" really means.
I am glad I don't have to show my toes.
Looks very classy, I like it. 👌
When I decided to build a GMT, it was originally supposed to be sort of a "purist" 24 hour build, so no traditional hour hand. It was for my Snoopy space themed watch, so a 24 hour watch made sense (to stick with the theme). Unfortunately, the dial I already purchased was set up for a traditional 12 hour format, so you would have to strictly rely on the bezel for hour indication. Also, I couldn't find a GMT hand that was "robust" enough to stand alone as an hour hand. So it morphed into a regular GMT.
I said all that as an excuse, so one could have a reason for a GMT movement, at least. 😂 I could understand the need for one. I use a twelve hour dual time bezel at work. If I didn't start work in the evenings, around 0000 Zulu time, I could see how I might prefer a GMT hand to make conversions less confusing.
As a side note, The first NH34 I received had a loose cannon pinion. The second one I received was okay, but I notice a lot of slack in the GMT wheel which can sometimes cause the hand to not line up correctly. I guess that's what you get for lower cost mechanical movements.
Yup ! Got the same parts… but had to dismantle mine cuz I was bored lol…
Here’s a green version…except the gmt and seconds hand
Looks very classy, I like it. 👌
When I decided to build a GMT, it was originally supposed to be sort of a "purist" 24 hour build, so no traditional hour hand. It was for my Snoopy space themed watch, so a 24 hour watch made sense (to stick with the theme). Unfortunately, the dial I already purchased was set up for a traditional 12 hour format, so you would have to strictly rely on the bezel for hour indication. Also, I couldn't find a GMT hand that was "robust" enough to stand alone as an hour hand. So it morphed into a regular GMT.
I said all that as an excuse, so one could have a reason for a GMT movement, at least. 😂 I could understand the need for one. I use a twelve hour dual time bezel at work. If I didn't start work in the evenings, around 0000 Zulu time, I could see how I might prefer a GMT hand to make conversions less confusing.
As a side note, The first NH34 I received had a loose cannon pinion. The second one I received was okay, but I notice a lot of slack in the GMT wheel which can sometimes cause the hand to not line up correctly. I guess that's what you get for lower cost mechanical movements.
Yes, I think there is some definite slack, but it doesn't seem all that obvious while looking at the watch, but you can tell when you set the GMT hand. Overall, especially in this price category, there is little reason to complain.
That's beautiful. Thanks for sharing