Top Watch Complications Explained: Chronographs, GMTs, Dive Features & More

Watches are more than just timekeepers—they’re tools, instruments, and even statements of personal style. One of the biggest factors that elevates a watch from simple to exceptional? Complications.

In horology, a complication refers to any function beyond telling the time. From tracking multiple time zones to calculating speed, these features showcase the marriage of form and function. In this guide, we break down the most useful watch complications—and show how La Touraine builds them into durable, stylish timepieces for the modern explorer.

⏱️ Chronograph: The Stopwatch Feature

A chronograph is a popular complication that adds a stopwatch to your watch. It typically includes pushers to start, stop, and reset the timer independently from the standard timekeeping function. Great for athletes, travelers, and anyone who values precision.

Note: While La Touraine offers timepieces with precision quartz movements, our current lineup does not include a chronograph-specific model. However, many of our models offer advanced functionality, like GMT tracking and tachymeter bezels, designed with everyday utility in mind.

🏁 Tachymeter: Calculate Speed with Style

A tachymeter is a scale usually located on the bezel or dial. It allows the wearer to measure speed based on time traveled over a fixed distance. This feature has a strong motorsport heritage and is perfect for racing enthusiasts and adventure seekers.

Heritage Racer – A bold, mechanical watch with a tachymeter bezel and hand-wound movement. Inspired by racing’s golden era, it’s made for those who live life in the fast lane.

🌍 GMT Function: Track Multiple Time Zones

The GMT complication is one of the most practical features for today’s connected, global lifestyles. It allows you to read two time zones simultaneously, using a separate 24-hour hand that tracks a secondary location—perfect for frequent flyers or remote workers.

Commodore GMT – A travel-friendly quartz GMT watch with bold style and reliable accuracy. Designed for those who need to stay on time—wherever they are in the world.

🌊 Dive Watch Features: Built for Adventure

Dive watches include several key complications: water resistance (typically 100m+), unidirectional rotating bezels to track elapsed dive time, and luminous dials for visibility in low light. But they’re not just for divers—these features make dive watches ideal everyday wearers.

Maritimer – A rugged quartz dive watch rated for 100m water resistance, with bold indices and durable construction. Whether you’re near water or navigating city life, the Maritimer is built to endure.

⏳ Simplicity Meets Style: The Legacy

Not every watch needs a complication. Some are designed to deliver streamlined style with essential functionality. If you prefer a clean, reliable quartz timepiece that elevates your day-to-day look, the Legacy delivers.

Legacy – A classic quartz watch with refined styling and minimalism in mind. Ideal for everyday professionals who want understated sophistication on the wrist.

💡 Why Watch Complications Matter

• GMT tracks two time zones at once—perfect for travelers or remote teams.
• Tachymeter lets you measure speed with a quick glance.
• Dive features add durability and style you can rely on anywhere.
• Minimalist quartz watches like the Legacy prove that less can still be more.

🧭 Why Choose La Touraine?

We build timepieces that combine purpose-driven design with long-lasting materials like sapphire crystal, 316L stainless steel, and reliable quartz or mechanical movements. Whether you’re timing laps, catching flights, or keeping things classic, La Touraine has a watch made for your lifestyle.

🛒 Explore Our Collection

Ready to find the complication that fits your story? Browse our full lineup and discover what sets La Touraine apart.