GMT Hands: The Fourth-Hand Pressing Guide
Author: Funny Items
Release time: 2026-08-26 05:08:11
View number: 15
The Fourth Hand Challenge
Pressing the GMT hand is the trickiest step in four-hand builds — it sits lowest in the stack but requires the most precision. Here is the specific technique.
Why GMT Hands Are Different
- Largest center hole: fits over the entire hand stack — alignment errors are less forgiving
- Pressed first: every subsequent hand sits above it; mistakes compound upward
- 24-hour scale reference: misalignment shows against the dial's ring immediately
The Pressing Sequence
- Set movement to exactly 12:00 local time
- Set the GMT hand to 12 on the 24-hour scale (or your preferred reference)
- Select the correct die — largest opening that contacts only the GMT hand's base
- Press with minimal pressure — the GMT hand seats on a friction post, not deep channels
- Verify: rotate crown through positions; GMT should move independently at position 1
Common GMT Hand Issues
| Symptom | Cause |
|---|---|
| Crown position confusion — see our troubleshooting guide | |
| Pressed off-angle — lift with remover tool and retry | |
| Insufficient press force or wrong die size spreading the bore |
Dial requirements for the GMT hole in our pairing guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular tweezers to position before pressing?
Yes — brass tweezers won't scratch. Position precisely, then bring the press down straight.