Introducing the new TUDOR Pelagos FXD GMT

In 2021 TUDOR and the French Naval Aviation (Aéronautique Navale) celebrated their dynamic partnership with the launch of a striking new evolution of their iconic dive watch: the TUDOR Pelagos FXD. Engineered to meet rigorous operational standards, the new Pelagos FXD GMT is purpose-built with essential functions tailored for pilots navigating multiple time zones on extended journeys. Merging precision, resilience, and practicality, this model honours TUDOR’s storied connection with the French Navy, making it a coveted piece for aviation professionals and dedicated collectors alike.

The Pelagos Legacy

TUDOR first partnered with the French Navy in the middle of the last century, making reliable dive watches that would meet military specifications. This relationship gave way to the creation of the TUDOR Submariner model, which has since become imbued with an aura of timelessness for its rugged utility in diving. In 2024, TUDOR reflects the continuation of this tradition by serving French Naval Aviation personnel as they seek instrument-grade aeronautical tool watch solutions. Where the TUDOR Submariner was for Marine Nationale divers, the Pelagos FXD GMT caters to pilot-centric challenges. Whilst it may be envisaged on the wrist of a Navy Seal stealthily dispatched below the surface, this is not entry-level fare; these instruments are designed for use in high-altitude, low-pressure environments as well, with refined specifications to ensure tactical accuracy in aviation as well as in professional diving scenarios.

The FXD in Pelagos FXD

The “FXD” stands for the fixed lug bars that create a bond between strap and case — an element directly inspired by TUDOR’s past with military watches. Fixed lugs are built right into the case, rather than added on a traditional spring bar lug, and greatly increase durability — an absolute necessity in military uses. This design is an added measure of security to ensure the watch stays in place even when your life depends on it, whether that be vigorous training, high-speed flight 3 miles above the Earth or a “full throttle” approach for Naval Aviation pilots. Built of grade 2 titanium, the Pelagos FXD GMT features a 42mm case that is not only light but also very tough. Not only does the matte, anti-glare finish complement the military aesthetic but it also helps to eliminate reflections that could interfere with accurate operations during both low-light and high-glare environment activities.

GMT Functionality: A World-Time Companion

Built for Naval Aviation, The Pelagos FXD GMT serves those who frequent multiple time zones as efficiently and effectively as possible. Arguably the most important aviation function of all though, is that included GMT ability (which keeps track of three distinct time zones), meaning pilots who often cross international borders can quickly switch effortlessly from one to another. Traditional hour, minute, and second hands show the primary time zone but there is also a red GMT hand which can be used to indicate secondary home or local time. Furthermore, a bi-directional 24-hour bezel can spin around to help pilots monitor another time zone other than their original two sets in the previous model; this is useful for those who carry out global operations or adhere to the Universal Coordinated Time (UTC), widely used within aviation.

Honoring the legacy of French Naval Aviation, this model features a green woven fabric strap that seamlessly marries refined aesthetics with robust functionality. The strap’s military-inspired design adds to the watch’s rugged character, offering comfort and breathability for extended wear. Its unique shade mirrors the iconic green of French Naval Aviation flight suits, while its craftsmanship—woven in France on 19th-century Jacquard looms by the esteemed Julien Faure company in the St-Etienne region—ensures unmatched quality, durability, and comfort. This distinctive detail deepens the connection between the timepiece and the storied heritage of French Naval Aviation.

TUDOR COSC-Certified MT5652-U Calibre

Powering the Pelagos FXD GMT is TUDOR’s in-house caliber with a 65-hour power reserve, officially certified as a Swiss chronometer by the Contrôle Officiel Suisse des Chronomètres (COSC). Its self-winding mechanical movement has been built for precision even in the most extreme situations. It is also METAS-certified and resistant to magnetism as well as water in all of its 40mm glory. Of particular note is the METAS certification, which guarantees resistance to magnetic interference of up to 15,000 gauss and an essential quality in aviation environments where watches must have antimagnetic properties so as not to be affected by airport communication systems.

Tribute To A Tradition Through Innovation

With the Pelagos FXD GMT, TUDOR is paying tribute to a long-standing tradition with the French Navy and innovating by meeting new requirements in today’s French Naval Aviation. Marrying the diving heritage of the Pelagos collection with functions specific to aviation, TUDOR has succeeded in creating a watch that not only connects two worlds—aerial and aqueous—but also reaffirms its long-standing partnership with French military equipment.

The Pelagos FXD GMT is the image of military-grade robustness, tuned to better serve today’s evolving aviation requirements. If you are an aviator, a diver, or simply love watches, this timepiece is synonymous with the dedication of TUDOR for quality and function ensuring that every second matters no matter where on Earth.

Discover the new full TUDOR range and explore this remarkable timepiece in person, contact us to book an appointment at one of our Watches of Switzerland boutiques.