Split Watches Expands Into GMT Territory With Its Most Accessible Collection Yet
After turning heads with the bold and fully luminous In The Skies chronograph earlier this year, British independent brand Split Watches is heading in a new direction with the launch of its first GMT collection. The new range marks an important step for the brand, introducing a more travel focused platform while also delivering its most accessible mechanical watches to date.
For those familiar with Split, the move feels like a natural evolution. While the brand built its early reputation on colourful chronographs and unconventional design language, the GMT collection leans more heavily into everyday practicality without losing the personality that has defined the company since launch.
Powered By A True Traveller GMT Movement
At the heart of the collection is the Miyota 9075 automatic calibre, one of the most desirable GMT movements currently available in the independent watch space. Unlike standard caller GMT movements, the 9075 features independently adjustable local hour jumping, making it significantly more useful for frequent travellers crossing time zones.
That functionality has become increasingly sought after in recent years, particularly as enthusiast buyers look for genuine travel ready watches without stepping into luxury price brackets typically dominated by Swiss brands.
For Split, choosing the 9075 appears to be a deliberate decision to prioritise real world usability rather than simply adding another complication for marketing purposes.
A Different Side Of Split
The GMT collection also introduces a slightly cleaner and more restrained aesthetic compared to the MC Chronograph and In The Skies releases.
Available in four colourways including black, blue, green and beige, the watches take inspiration from landscapes and cultural references connected to both the United Kingdom and United States. The result is a range that feels versatile enough for everyday wear while still carrying the storytelling approach that has become central to the Split identity.
Case proportions remain wearable at 40mm, positioning the collection firmly within the sweet spot for modern sports watches.
More Than Just Another Microbrand GMT
One of the more interesting aspects of Split Watches remains the philosophy behind the brand itself.
Founded by industry veteran Edward Margulies alongside Dara Amjadi, Split was created as a reaction against the exclusivity and status driven culture that often dominates luxury watchmaking. Mental health awareness, openness and genuine human connection sit at the centre of the company, with charitable initiatives remaining part of its broader mission.
That messaging has helped Split carve out a distinct identity within an increasingly crowded microbrand landscape.
Winding Things Up
The GMT category is one of the most competitive areas in watchmaking right now, particularly around the sub £1,000 segment. That makes launching a new GMT far more challenging than it might appear on paper.
However, Split Watches has a few advantages working in its favour. The Miyota 9075 remains one of the strongest traveller GMT movements available at this level, the design language feels genuinely separate from the endless stream of vintage Rolex homages, and the brand itself continues to bring a more personal narrative than many of its competitors.
Following the success of In The Skies and the original MC collection, the new GMT range feels less like an experiment and more like the next stage in Split's growth. For collectors looking for a practical GMT with a strong independent identity, this could prove to be one of the more interesting British releases of the year.
Retail pricing begins at £795.00
