Manime’s new La Méridienne just might be the unique GMT watch you’re looking for
Tom AustinThere appears to be a trend developing in the independent brand space around GMT watches right now, where they don’t seem to look anything like traditional GMT watches at all. Among many other enthusiasts, I’m a massive GMT advocate, but there’s certainly something to be said for exploring the less obvious, less red-and-blue side of GMTs, especially those with an integrated bracelet. The new Manime La Méridienne is a perfect example, combining the practicality of an additional timezone complication with design cues drawn from 1970s travel watches, and the era’s most influential integrated-bracelet sports watches.
This isn’t the first time we’ve seen this swooping, curved silhouette from Manime. Back in 2023, we covered the three-handed and rather stylish La Fidèle, the brand’s first integrated-bracelet watch, so it’s fair to say this new model isn’t an example of Manime following the crowd. The brand has been developing this design direction for a while now.
The case
The La Méridienne isn’t just repurposing the older case, though. There are some important differences that set it apart, especially since this is a GMT and therefore needs to carry a different movement. Importantly, the 316L stainless steel case’s overall diameter is the same at 38mm, while the lug-to-lug measurement has, in fact, been reduced by 0.2mm to a more than reasonable 42.2mm. This is offset by a slight increase in thickness from 11.25mm to 11.4mm, which is impressive, considering the movement is over 1mm thicker this time around.
The minimal increase in thickness is largely due to the use of a solid, engraved caseback over the La Fidèle’s transparent number. Had Manime opted for an exhibition caseback again, it certainly would have been even thicker. This does, however, mean that the La Méridienne’s case functionality has been revised, now delivering 100 metres of water resistance instead of 200, but it still retains a screw-down crown and an anti-reflective sapphire crystal. The case is even treated with a hardened, scratch-resistant coating rated at 1,200 Vickers.
The dials
The dial on the La Méridienne builds on the simplicity of the previous model by adding a few more elements while ensuring it remains legible and allowing the colour choice to shine through. A major hurdle over the original is that this model has a date display to contend with, so Manime has chosen to place it at six, keeping things symmetrical.
The applied hour markers are a combination of polished, dagger-like markers and oversized Arabic numerals, evoking the dial details of watches that inspired it, such as the 1960s Rolex Oyster Perpetual. The chapter ring cleverly showcases the 24-hour ring, which, while it can’t be rotated for an extra time zone, is a perfect place for it compared to the traditional external rotating GMT bezels on other watches.
Manime is offering five different dial variations for the La Méridienne, all charming and characterful, and all luxuriously finished with a bold sunburst. For the models with polished, steel-coloured dauphine hands and indices, there are a deep navy blue and a fine, taupe-like, gold-coloured dial, while the sumptuous green, bold red and inky black models are equipped with contrasting gold-coloured dial furniture. The result is a classic look with bags of character, no matter your preference.
The movement
As I mentioned previously, the La Méridienne features a closed caseback, and honestly, I don’t mind. I’d much rather see it save some precious fractions of a millimetre in thickness than display the Miyota 9075 automatic inside. Not because it’s not a great movement, but because it’s just not all that to look at. The caseback itself is highly detailed with a central Manime logo and a world-timer motif, playing into the watch’s travelling intentions.
The Miyota 9075 is a solid, dependable true GMT movement, delivering a 42-hour power reserve while beating at 28,800 Vph. Manime even takes the time to regulate the movements in-house, guaranteeing an accuracy of +15/-5 seconds per day, which is an interesting detail you rarely see at this level.
The bracelet
The bracelet on the La Méridienne is interesting, as its integrated design clearly draws inspiration from iconic 70s watches while also having a distinctly futuristic look, especially with its clean, hidden-link stainless steel design. It also tapers quite aggressively from the head of the watch, swooping down from 22mm to 16mm, giving the watch an unusual overall profile. It’s secured by a signed butterfly clasp, which, unusually, features a micro-adjustment, something that is still surprising at this price point but becoming more and more common.
The verdict
GMT’s are a favourite complication of mine, and I know I’m not alone in thinking that. This trend of escaping the confines of traditional GMT watch aesthetics is interesting, and it’s giving watch brands another avenue to explore in an expanding market where standing out is increasingly challenging. Manime’s La Méridienne is a great example, delivering a slick combination of 60s and 70s design with a functional, additional-timezone complication that is unique, stylish, and affordable.
Unusually, there’s more than enough colourway choice, too, which means there’s something for everyone. The La Méridienne is an extremely stylish GMT that definitely won’t have anyone questioning you wearing it with a suit, anyway.
Manime La Méridienne pricing and availability
The Manime La Méridienne launches via Kickstarter on June 9th, initially for €487 before tax for the first 48 hours, followed by €520 before tax for the rest of the campaign. Shipping is expected to begin in October 2026. Price: €650 (excl. tax, post Kickstarter)
| Brand | Manime |
| Model | La Méridienne |
| Case Dimensions | 38mm (D) x 11.4mm (T) x 42.2mm (LTL |
| Case Material | 316L stainless steel, scratch-resistant coating |
| Water Resistance | 100 metres |
| Crystal(s) | Sapphire front |
| Dial | Blue, red, black, green, taupe, sunburst |
| Lug Width | 22mm |
| Bracelet | Flat-link steel bracelet, shrouded lugs |
| Movement | Miyota 9075, automatic |
| Power Reserve | 42 hours |
| Functions | Hours, minutes, seconds, date, GMT function |
| Availability | Available now |
| Price | First 48 hrs pre-order: €487 (excl. tax) Pre-order: €520 (excl. tax) RRP: €650 (excl. tax) |
Made in partnership with Manime. However, the opinions expressed in this article are our own in accordance with our Editorial policy.