How to Set the GMT Hand on Your Balt-Pilot Worldtimer

By Tsao Baltimore | Baltimore Watch Company | Published: 2026-10-18

Category: How-to Guides

Learn to set the 24-hour GMT hand on your Balt-Pilot Worldtimer for tracking a second time zone. This step-by-step guide covers the crown positions, common mistakes, and tips for travel.

Quick Answer

Pull the crown to position 2 to set the 24-hour GMT hand independently. Turn the crown clockwise or counterclockwise to move the hand to the desired hour. Push the crown back to position 0 to secure the setting.

Understanding Your Balt-Pilot Worldtimer’s Crown Positions

The Balt-Pilot Worldtimer uses a screw-down crown to ensure water resistance. Before any setting, unscrew the crown counterclockwise until it pops out to position 1. Position 1 is for manual winding (if the watch has stopped). Position 2 (pulled out one click) adjusts the date. Position 3 (pulled out fully) sets the main time and stops the seconds hand. The GMT hand is set from position 2, but only after you’ve already set the main time and date.

When to Set the GMT Hand vs. the Main Hour Hand

The GMT hand on the Balt-Pilot Worldtimer tracks a second time zone on a 24-hour scale. Set it after you have already set the local time (main hour and minute hands) and the date. If you adjust the main time later, the GMT hand will move with it, so always set the main time first. The GMT hand is independent only when you are in crown position 2.

Step-by-Step: Setting the GMT Hand

Step 1: Unscrew the crown and set the main time: Unscrew the crown counterclockwise to position 1. Pull to position 3 (fully out) and rotate to set the local hour and minute hands. Stop the seconds hand for precise syncing. Push back to position 1. Common mistake: Setting the GMT hand before the main time will cause the GMT hand to shift when you later adjust the main time.
Step 2: Set the date: Pull the crown to position 2 (one click out). Turn clockwise to advance the date to the current day. Avoid setting the date between 9 PM and 3 AM local time, as the date-change mechanism may be engaged. Checkpoint: If the date changes at noon, your AM/PM is off. Advance the main time 12 hours and reset the date.
Step 3: Set the GMT hand to your second time zone: With the crown still in position 2, turn it counterclockwise to move the 24-hour GMT hand independently. Align the hand with the hour of your second time zone on the 24-hour bezel or dial. For example, if tracking UTC, set the GMT hand to the 24-hour marker for UTC. Common mistake: Turning the crown clockwise in position 2 may change the date instead of the GMT hand. Always turn counterclockwise for GMT adjustment.
Step 4: Screw the crown back securely: Push the crown fully into position 1, then press and turn clockwise until snug. Do not overtighten. A gentle turn until resistance stops is sufficient. Checkpoint: If the crown feels loose, unscrew and retighten. A loose crown can compromise water resistance.

Product Facts

Balt-Pilot Worldtimer Solar Flare DLC: The Balt-Pilot Worldtimer Solar Flare DLC is a limited edition of 50 timepieces in each colorway, featuring a fully lumed dial and a lightweight titanium case. The fully lumed dial makes the GMT hand and 24-hour scale readable in low light, which is especially useful when tracking a second time zone at night or in dark environments.
Balt-Pilot Worldtimer Solar Flare DLC

Balt-Pilot Worldtimer Solar Flare