For the avid traveler, a world time complication provides utility, elegance, and mechanical intrigue — all in a form that fits snugly on the wrist.

While top-shelf marques such as Patek Philippe have been producing world timers in small production runs for nearly a century, this whimsical complication remains rare compared to, say, the chronograph. And while many contemporary examples are more pedestrian, there are, however, several maisons that produce truly exemplary, imaginative takes on this useful travel accessory.

Arnold & Son is one such company. Relaunched in 1995 to revive the designs and style of famed 18th-century English clockmaker John Arnold, they build extraordinary timepieces that capture the imagination. This Globetrotter in steel is a perfect example.

Housed in a 45mm stainless steel case with a domed, sapphire crystal, a signed crown, and a smooth bezel, its captivating dial features lacquered and brushed elements in a beautiful, tonal blue, with a domed representation of the Earth that rises from the center. It also features a large bridge feature that bisects the globe sitting beneath it into northern and southern hemispheres from the 3 o’clock to 9 o’clock positions. An outer Roman numeral hour track, and an inner 24-hour track with dual 'mystery' indicators provide the time in multiple time zones simultaneously, in a most playful and elegant form. 

Power for the Globetrotter Steel comes from their in-house movement, Calibre A&S6022. Visible via a sapphire crystal display caseback, it’s a beautifully decorated automatic engine beating at 4 Hz with a 24-hour power reserve.

Paired to a hand-stitched blue alligator leather strap and limited to 88 pieces, this is an incredibly creative feat of watchmaking that sticks out in a crowded market. This example is in brand-new condition, unworn, and comes complete with its kit.