Affordable GMTs have been steadily gaining traction over the past few years, and Erebus is now joining the conversation with a model that aims to blend functionality, compact sizing, and strong value. The new Erebus Ascent 40 GMT marks the brand’s latest addition to their Ascent line, featuring a true GMT movement and a design that’s versatile enough for both travel and daily wear.

A New Chapter in the Ascent Line

The Ascent 40 GMT continues Erebus’s design language of clean, functional sports watches built for modern use. Following previous models in the Ascent collection, this latest release refines proportions and adds one of the most desirable complications among enthusiasts — a true GMT.

This means that the local hour hand can be independently adjusted while keeping home time set, making it a genuine traveler’s companion rather than just a “caller” GMT. The addition of the Miyota 9075 movement puts Erebus among the few microbrands offering a true GMT in this price range.

Refined Design and Everyday Wearability

As the name suggests, the Ascent 40 GMT measures 40 mm in diameter, with a 46 mm lug-to-lug and a thickness of 12.4 mm, striking a comfortable balance for a wide range of wrists. The case is made from 316L stainless steel, featuring a mix of brushed and polished surfaces for visual contrast without feeling flashy.

A fixed brushed bezel surrounds a double-domed sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating, while the 100 m water resistance ensures practicality beyond just travel use. Erebus offers the Ascent GMT in eight enamel dial colors, ranging from understated black and white to bolder shades like blue, green, and salmon. Each version includes a color-matched date wheel, maintaining the clean symmetry of the dial. The watch comes on a newly designed O-style bracelet with female end links for better drape.

True GMT Functionality

Powering the Ascent 40 GMT is the Miyota 9075, one of the few affordable automatic movements offering true GMT functionality. This movement allows the wearer to jump the local hour hand in one-hour increments without stopping the seconds hand — a hallmark feature of high-end travel watches.

Operating at 28,800 vph and offering a 42-hour power reserve, the 9075 has quickly become the go-to option for microbrands seeking reliable, traveler-ready performance. Erebus’s implementation appears clean and well-finished, with the movement visible through a sapphire case back.

Final Thoughts

With its balanced proportions, enamel dials, and genuine GMT functionality, the Erebus Ascent 40 GMT stands out as one of the more compelling new releases in the sub-$1,000 category. The inclusion of multiple strap options and thoughtful design details suggests Erebus is listening closely to enthusiasts’ feedback.

While the watch is still in the pre-order phase, and real-world impressions will tell the full story, on paper it looks like one of the strongest value propositions in the affordable GMT space right now. If Erebus delivers the same finishing quality their renders promise, the Ascent 40 GMT could become a go-to recommendation for anyone seeking a capable, travel-ready watch without breaking the bank.

Specs, Pricing & Availability

Brand: Erebus

Model: Ascent 40 GMT

Dial: Enamel, 8 color options

Case Material: 316L stainless steel

Diameter: 40 mm

Thickness: 12.4 mm

Lug-to-Lug: 46 mm

Crystal: Double-domed sapphire with AR coating

Case Back: Sapphire display case back

Water Resistance: 100 m

Bracelet/Strap: Stainless steel “O-style” bracelet

Lug Width: 20 mm

Movement: Miyota 9075 automatic, true GMT

Power Reserve: 42 hours

Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds, date, GMT

Price: US $629 (pre-order)

Availability: Pre-orders open now; deliveries expected April 2026

Limited Edition: Not limited