Timex downsizes its premium Atelier GMT to a 38mm case with Swiss internals

Timex continues to push beyond its budget-friendly roots with a more compact addition to its premium Atelier line. The newly announced GMT Première M1a brings the collection's distinctive skeletonized design down to a highly requested 38mm case size, offering a smaller alternative to the original 40mm GMT24 released earlier in the product cycle.

Apart from the size, the rest of the specs remain the same. The new 38mm GMT Première M1a features a stainless-steel case with a skeletonized architecture that deliberately exposes an IP gold middle section. 

This two-tone aesthetic carries over to the dial, which pairs a polished black enamel surface with gold hands, applied markers, and a matching crown. To track a second time zone, the watch utilizes a distinct black-and-green diamond-cut 24-hour inner ring, fully illuminated by Swiss LumiNova alongside the primary handset for nighttime legibility.

Powering the watch is a Swiss-made Landeron 24 GMT automatic movement, visible through a mineral glass exhibition caseback. The movement provides a standard 40-hour power reserve alongside a date complication. On the wrist, the watch measures 13.8mm thick with a 46.11mm lug-to-lug distance, protected on the front by a double-curved sapphire crystal treated with three layers of anti-reflective coating. It also maintains a practical 50-meter water resistance rating.

Timex is offering the new 38mm GMT in two distinct configurations. Buyers can opt for an 18mm stainless steel bracelet featuring self-adjustable, tool-less removable links and a butterfly deployant clasp, or choose a sportier, integrated NBR synthetic rubber strap.

The GMT Première M1a officially launches tomorrow, September 10, 2026. The stainless-steel bracelet model will retail for $1,450, while the rubber strap variant is priced slightly lower at $1,350. Both versions will be available directly through Timex's online boutique and select global retailers.