Marcus Hanke
[PuristSPro Moderator]
11296
The "San Marco" was a complete family of different models ...
... among which the GMT watches were but a part. So the "San Marco" series included the famous enamel dial models in both, cloisonné and plain enamel with guilloche base, and the various GMT models in round cases, including those for the ladies. If I recall correctly, there were also San Marco chronographs in earlier times.
At some time ago, it was decided to discontinue the name "San Marco" as a complete line. The San Marco Gigante was the last watch under that name.
Technically, there were no changes at all, between the GMT watches under the "San Marco" flag, and what is now more technically called "Dual Time". It is the same movement, based on the ETA 2892A2, with UN's own GMT and big date mechanisms (both invented by Ludwig Oechslin).
Regarding the diameters, already under its old designation, there were already various diameters available, but none larger than 40mm. Now the standard diameter of the Dual Time is 42mm with a small second, while the 40mm versions still have the central sweep second.
The only real difference between old and new are the casebacks. While the new ones feature a sapphire displayback, the older ones had a solid caseback with the San Marco lion beautifully embossed, as is shown here on a San Marco Lady GMT:
Personally, I preferred the old caseback version, since the 2892 is not a beautiful movement, but a nicely made caseback is something worth to look at.
Hope this helps,
Marcus
This message has been edited by Marcus Hanke on 2009-01-28 00:09:07
San Marco GMT and New GMT Big Date differences?
Various UN GMT's
The "San Marco" was a complete family of different models ...
UN ENAMEL