LIFESTYLE Time Zoned: The Rarest Time Zone on Earth
3 min
TUBS
A Lonely Time Zone
While the Howland and Baker Islands hold the exclusive title of being the only land masses associated with UTC−12:00, other inhabited territories also fall within this time zone’s longitudinal limits. Tonga, Wallis and Futuna, Chatham Islands, parts of Russia’s Chukotka Autonomous Okrug, Alaska, Fiji, Tokelau, and Samoa share a time zone with the rare duo. However, these places keep the time and date of neighbouring zones, leaving Howland and Baker Islands as the only remaining ones in UTC−12:00.
Time’s Final Frontier
As we eagerly countdown to New Year’s Eve, one can’t help but wonder how it would feel to be the last to bring in the New Year. While the islands are uninhabited, being 24 hours behind the Wake Island Time Zone, the first to welcome a new day, would make these celebrations a unique experience. So if you’re looking for an extended party, this might just be the place to be!
Where Deadlines are Timeless
Anywhere on Earth (AoE) – the name says it all. This clever calendar designation ensures that a deadline expires when the date passes everywhere on Earth. No need for complicated timezone calculations or Daylight Saving Time adjustments. For any given date, the last place on Earth where it remains valid is none other than Howland and Baker Islands, which means they also mark the International Date Line West (IDLW).
While at the moment the islands are not open to the public, if you ever find yourself searching for a unique adventure, don’t forget to pack a trustworthy partner. Our TAG Heuer Aquaracer GMT model —can keep track of multiple time zones simultaneously, and keep you company in the loneliest time zone on Earth.
