"November-Four-Four-One-Hotel-Tango off Oscar-Charlie-Whiskey at Two-Three-Four-One Zulu."
Every pilot will recognize those words and understand why I have both an affection for and need of a good GMT watch. Amongst mechanical versions, I've had everything from the classic Rolex GMT Master (three different models, at one time or another) to a Longines Grand Vitesse GMT. This new Zixen joined the fold because it not only helps me keep straight my relationship with Universal Standard Time, but it is good at depths up to 1000M (which makes it safe for swimming here in the Gulf of Mexico). And, because of the attached photos, it almost goes without saying that it is a very attractive watch.
Zixen seems to be an excellent boutique watch company, with some very nice and reasonably priced offerings (even more reasonably priced with their current holiday special). And this particular watch is one I am very, very pleased with. I might even add a dive watch at a later date.
I know this post is a paean to a grand addition to my collection, but I do need to point out a couple of "if only" qualifiers: 1) Why, oh why, do watch makers using butterfly clasps (which I dearly love) not uniformly provide one or two half-links for micro-adjustment? Some of us like a comfortable, "Goldilocks" fit (not too tight, not too loose ... just right) and that is impossible without half-links. 2) Why modify an ETA calibre 2836 for the GMT function when the redoubtable calibre 2893 is available off-the-shelf and would provide, at least in this Zixen configuration, an accurate three-time-zone capability. The 2836 is almost impossible to zero-set and forget quick-setting it on a trip. I will depend on the outer bezel and settle for two-time-zone only usage.
But other than those two issues, I think this is an excellent watch (especially for the price) and look forward to bringing some Zixen "siblings" home to join it.
Cheers,
Rob
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