Hanhart Racemaster GTM | Hands-On Review

Hanhart Racemaster GTM

It is no secret that I have a soft spot for Hanhart Watches. This Hanhart Racemaster GTM is no different. I have long been saying that Hahhart makes not only amazing watches but the value is incredible and this latest model I am reviewing only reaffirms that. This model is more expensive than most Hanhart watches but that does not mean you are not getting any less, if anything, you are getting more than you pay for. I have wanted to get this watch in my hands for quite some time and as you can probably already guess, I was not disappointed. While this watch is not the typical dive watch and a little larger than I normally wear at 45mm, it is easily one of my favorite watches and one of my favorite Hanhart pieces as well.

Hanhart Racemaster GTM Specifications:

• 45mm HDSPro Hardened Case
• 16mm Thick
• 24mm Lug Width
• 53mm Lug to Lug
• Modified 7750 Automatic Movenent-(Hanhart 4212)
• 42 Hour Power Reserve
• Convex Sapphire Crystal
• 100 Meters Water Resistant
• Racing Calfskin Leather Strap with Red Backing

Price at Watchbuys $3,260

https://www.watchbuys.com/store/pc/Hanhart-Racemaster-GTM-Single-Button-Chronograph-p2143.htm

Hanhart Website:

https://www.hanhart.com/en/

There are 3 versions of the Hanhart Racemaster but the GTM is a little different as it is the only monopusher, meaning only one chronograph button, and of course, it is the famous anodized aluminum button that Hanhart is known for. All versions are made of HDSPro Hardened Steel, which makes this model much more scratch resistant than regular stainless steel. It is also 3 times harder than 316L Stainless Steel and Nickel free. Being 45mm and 16mm thick, it is easy to knock this watch around, so it is good to know it can take more abuse than others. As usual, the machining and finishing are impeccable, and I would expect nothing less. Everywhere you look and this watch is just absolutely beautiful. $3,000 (or more in this case) is not chump change and a lot of money for many to spend on a watch but this is one of those watches that you really can see where your money went and it feels like more of a $5,000 watch in every way.

Obviously, at this price tag, most expect a better than average movement and that is what you will find in the Racemaster GTM. Each version of the Racemaster has its own unique movement and in this case is the Hanhart 4212, a Valjoux 7750 specifically modified to accommodate the single pusher chronograph. Unlike a lot of watches that choose to show off their movement with an exhibition case back but Hanhart decided to go with a gorgeous solid case back that shows off their racing heritage with the crossed checkered flags.

The dial of the Racemasters is unique in that the subdial registers are pushed all the ways to the edge of the dial and it is a different look than most chronograph watches I have come across. All variants in the Racemaster series have a red hour and minute hand, despite having different color minute scales. The blue minute scale on the GTM is without a doubt my favorite. Normally a black dial, blue ring, and red hands would not be my first choice, but with this watch, it just works. The dial is clean, crisp and easy to read, and of course, the single pusher Chrono button makes it easy to use as well.

Comfort is important for me when it comes to wristwatches and these days I really like maximum comfort. If a watch looks great but after an hour I find it to be cumbersome or just plain uncomfortable, it negates everything else. That is not the case with this watch at all. Despite it being larger than I wear these days, I find the GTM to be fantastic on the wrist. The racing style leather strap is made of premium leather, wraps around the wrist like butter and for a nice little touch, has a red leather backing; a great subtle detail. Another nice touch is the custom stainless buckle. It isn’t anything outlandish or crazy but is not a standard thumbnail buckle either.

While the lume on this model is not going to compete with any dive watch, I was surprised it had any lume at all. As you can see below, if you need to tell the time in the dark with the Hanhart Racemaster GTM, it shouldn’t be an issue.

This really is one of those watches I can go on and on about. There is just so much detail to look at an admire and while it is a little flashy and not a pilot or field watch, the Racemaster pays tribute to the motor racing Hanhart was associated with in the 60s and 70s. For me though, while this is a racing-inspired watch, it is not over the top or gimmicky in its design, which allows it to be worn for many different occasions, including just every day casual wear. This is flat out a striking watch that should be worn and not left in the watch box.

I have another Hanhart in hand for review as well, a Pioneer TwinControl Chronograph with a gorgeous cream dial that will be published in the coming months, but for me, this Racemaster GTM is where it is at. This model and the Pioneer One are definitely my favorites from the Hanhart lineup, at least currently. This watch has it all, a unique modified movement, hardened steel, great colors, superb finishing, a fantastic strap, convex sapphire crystal and much more. This is a watch to not only be worn but to be appreciated and passed down to someone as a family heirloom.