When it comes to Canadian watches, Tessé is gaining attention — and the Michel GMT is a compelling release. This watch combines bold design, solid specs, and a Swiss Sellita SW330-2 GMT movement at a price of around $1,500. This is one of those automatic GMT watches balances style and substance in a distinctly modern and unique way. The Michel GMT is available in 6 distinct colorways.
Below, I’ll share the specs, my real-world impressions, and why the Tessé Michel GMT deserves a spot in the conversation about the best watches coming out of Canada today.
Welcome to Worn & Tested!
Introducing StrapsCo’s new watch review series where we’ll be testing and reviewing both microbrand and big-brand watches in a range of budgets. This series aims to explore popular watches as well as shine a light on smaller brands that may not yet be on everyone’s radar.
My name is Rebecca, and I’ve been collecting watches for over 6 years now. I’ve handled more watches than I can count through my own personal collecting as well with StrapsCo. I love recommending people watches that match their style and budget and then some straps to go with it. I’ll be trying these watches extensively, pairing them with new straps, and then giving my thoughts.
Specs at a Glance
Movement: Sellita SW330-2 GMT movement (Swiss automatic, 28,800 vph, 56-hour power reserve)
Case: Stainless Steel case with 1200 HV Anti-Scratch treatment
Dimensions: 40 mm diameter, 10.8 mm thickness, 47.1 mm lug-to-lug
Crystal: Double-domed sapphire with anti-reflective coating
Water Resistance: 100 m (10 ATM)
Lume: Super-LumiNova X1
Origin: Designed in Canada & assembled in La Chaux-De-Fonds, Switzerland
Strap Width: 20mm (Perfect for easy strap swapping)
First Thoughts
I wore this watch during a recent trip to Minnesota—and yes, a 1-hour time difference is an excuse to wear a GMT! Despite being a somewhat seasoned watch collector, this was my first time wearing a GMT, and it was quite fun to set the watch to track both time zones.
The first thing that stood out to me was the dial color, a rich teal accented by bright orange markers and a matching GMT hand. The combination is playful without being flashy. I found the strap that came with the watch to be a bit big for me (a common occurrence) so I paired it with our Pro Mesh Strap before swapping later in the week to a grey Classic Suede. I even got compliments on the watch from my friends (who are not watch people) and they wanted to know more about it.
Side note—I love that the date wheel color matches the dial color. It’s just a small detail that makes the watch feel more cohesive.
Wearing Experience: A GMT for Real Life
The Sellita GMT movement felt smooth and reliable, and setting the 24-hour hand was intuitive once I got the hang of it. Admittedly, it did take me some time to wrap my head around the hour hand following 12-hr markers and the GMT hand following 24-hr markers. This same movement is used by other respected microbrands such as Christopher Ward and Farer, giving the Michel GMT serious credibility among true GMT watches.
Case Finishing & Fit
The case finishing is exceptional for the price point. The brushed surfaces feel premium and give it a modern, almost integrated-bracelet aesthetic when paired with straight-end straps. It reminded me of a more premium Seiko Recraft in overall vibe — a 70s inspired, cushion-style design with sharp brushing and polished accents.
On my 6-inch wrist, it wore comfortably but pushed my upper comfort range. Despite having a 40mm dial, it wears larger due to its larger case and bezel. The proportions are balanced, though, and the short lugs help it sit flatter than you’d expect with a case its shape.
I also really liked the engraved lines on the side of the case. It shows how much attention to detail was given during the designing process.
What does GMT stand for in watches?
GMT stands for Greenwich Mean Time, the time standard from which all other global time zones are measured. A GMT watch allows you to track more than one time zone at once which is perfect for travelers, pilots, or anyone coordinating across regions.
How do GMT watches work?
These watches use an additional 24-hour hand that circles the dial once per day, pointing to a 24-hour scale (either on the bezel or the dial itself). By rotating the bezel or adjusting the GMT hand, you can read a second time zone alongside your local time. Definitely a handy feature!
How the Tessé Michel GMT Compares
The Michel GMT is a unique and standout piece among microbrands. Tessé took a thoughtful approach: a versatile design, strong specs, and a reliable and well-known Sellita movement rather than a cheaper alternative.
While it’s not a “traveler’s GMT” (where the local hour jumps independently), the Sellita SW330-2 is an office GMT — perfect for tracking a second time zone or coordinating with colleagues overseas. It’s a smart choice for enthusiasts who want the functionality and character of a GMT, appreciate the 70s styling, and don’t want to spend thousands.
Final Thoughts
The Tessé Michel GMT stands out among Canadian microbrand watches. It combines vibrant design, excellent finishing, and a proven Swiss-made.
Sellita GMT movement in a package that feels cohesive and fun to wear.
If you’re looking for a practical travel watch with personality, this GMT from Tesse Watches is a fantastic option in its category and price range.
Just make sure your wrist can handle the larger case size — though I truly did enjoy wearing this watch on my 6-inch wrist. And don’t be surprised if you end up spending a few extra minutes admiring the finishing every time you check the time.
Is this a watch you’d consider picking up?
