How to Use and Set a GMT Watch with a TMI NH34 Movement

Introduction

The NH34 caliber from TMI (Time Module Inc.), a Seiko subsidiary, is the GMT evolution of the popular NH35A. It incorporates an independent GMT hand that allows reading two time zones simultaneously, making it the ideal companion for travelers and people who work with teams in different countries.

In this guide, we explain how to set your PANTER GMT watch with an NH34 caliber, how the screw-down crown works, and how to get the most out of the dual time function.

The Screw-Down Crown

Like the NH35A, PANTER GMT watches with the NH34 caliber feature a screw-down crown that ensures the watch's water resistance.

How to unscrew it:

1. Hold the watch firmly.
2. Turn the crown counter-clockwise (towards you) until you feel it release.
3. Once free, you can pull it out to the different positions.

⚠️ Important: Never manipulate the crown when the watch is wet. Always make sure it is dry before unscrewing it. After any adjustment, screw it back in completely to maintain water resistance.

The 4 Crown Positions of the NH34

The NH34 has 4 crown positions, one more than the NH35A, dedicated to the independent adjustment of the GMT hand:

• Position 0 (pushed in, screwed down): Normal use position. The watch automatically winds with wrist movement. You can also manually wind it by turning the crown clockwise.
• Position 1 (first click): Adjusting the GMT hand independently, in 1-hour increments. Turn clockwise to advance, counter-clockwise to go back. The minute hand and local time do not move.
• Position 2 (second click): Adjusting the date. Turn clockwise to advance. Avoid doing this between 9 PM and 3 AM to avoid damaging the mechanism.
• Position 3 (third click, fully pulled out): Adjusting the local time and minutes. The second hand stops for precise synchronization.

Step-by-step: how to set the NH34

1. Unscrew the crown by turning it counter-clockwise until it releases.
2. Manual winding (recommended if it has been stopped for a while): With the crown in position 0, turn it clockwise about 20-30 times.
3. Set the local time: Pull to position 3 (third click). Turn until the correct time is set. The second hand stops: synchronize to the exact second and push the crown back in.
4. Set the date: Pull to position 2 (second click). Turn clockwise until the correct date is set. Do not do this between 9 PM and 3 AM.
5. Set the GMT hand: Pull to position 1 (first click). Turn in 1-hour increments until it points to the desired second time zone.
6. Screw down the crown: Push it in and turn it clockwise gently until it is securely sealed.

How to Read Dual Time

• Local time: Hour and minute hands, as usual.
• Second time zone: Observe the GMT hand (triangular tip or different color) on the 24-hour bezel. The 24-hour scale allows you to distinguish AM (6-18) and PM (18-6).

Practical example:

If you are in Madrid (UTC+2 in summer) and want to see the time in New York (UTC-4 in summer), there is a 6-hour difference. If it's 3 PM in Madrid, it's 9 AM in New York. Set the GMT hand to 9 AM on the bezel.

Maintenance Tips

• Always ensure the crown is properly screwed down before water activities.
• Approximate power reserve: 41 hours. Use a watch winder if you don't wear it daily.
• Do not adjust the date between 9 PM and 3 AM.
• If the GMT hand does not advance in clean 1-hour increments, have the watch checked.

Conclusion

The NH34 caliber turns your PANTER GMT watch into a precise tool for tracking two time zones. With a little practice, adjustment is quick and intuitive. Questions? Email us at info@panterwatch.com.