INTRODUCING: The Batavi Kosmopoliet GMT

James Robinson

Hailing from Amsterdam, Batavi watches are a microbrand keen on paying homage to the famous tool watches of yesteryear, with a modern and novel twist.

Hot on the heels of their handsome, fit-for-purpose dive watch, the Noordzee, the Dutch outfit has now set their sights on creating a GMT-equipped timepiece that aims to celebrate the faded bezels and heritage of some of the most iconic jet-setting timepieces from the ’60s and ’70s.

Called the Batavi Kosmopoliet GMT, this is a sports watch that, on paper at least, has all the ingredients to be a compelling timepiece for enthusiasts.

The watch’s dimensions, for example, mark it out as a veritable crowd-pleaser, thanks to a classically proportioned 39mm stainless steel case that measures a relatively inconsequential 12.5mm thick. The case also features polished, angular lugs that blend old world charm with contemporary flair, and, thanks to a screw-down crown and case back, 200 metres of water resistance.

The dial and bezel options also appear to be quite arresting, and from launch there will be three different combinations available – the “Medina”, which utilises a sunburst black dial with faded blue and pink bezel; the “Amsterdam”, which features a sunburst navy blue dial with light and dark blue bezel; and the “Los Angeles”, which utilises a sunburst maroon dial with ultraviolet purple and grey bezel. It’s also worth mentioning that, according to Batavi, the Medina Kosmopoliet GMT is the first watch in the world to use a 24-hour bezel that features Arabic numerals.

All three dials are adorned with circular hour indices that are ever so slightly recessed, and filled with yellowed Super-LumiNova C3. The accompanying sword-like handset also uses Super-LumiNova C3, as does the bright red GMT hand.

The Kosmopoliet GMT keeps the vintage looks going with a double domed sapphire crystal and, thanks to a sapphire crystal display case back, owners can also appreciate the mechanical movement on show.

Speaking of which, powering the vintage-inspired tool watch is ETA’s tried-and-true Calibre 2893-2. The robust self-winding movement serves up 50 hours of power reserve, 21 jewels and an operating frequency of 28,800 (4Hz) vibrations per hour.

The accompanying stainless steel bracelet has both polished and brushed elements, and, thanks to a 20mm lug width and a complementary watch tool, pairing the Batavi Kosmopoliet GMT should be a relative doddle.

There’s no word yet as to pricing or availability of this good-looking GMT watch; however, anyone interested can leave their info with Batavi by hitting this link … I know I will be.