The Best Of German Watch Brands At Second Movement

01 Sep, 2023

The Best Of German Watch Brands At Second Movement

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Within the world of horology, a realm where precision and elegance converge to create incredible masterworks, Swiss watches have long held the limelight. From Patek Philippe to Audemars Piguet, primarily Swiss ateliers dominate the industry, captivating everyone with their precise and luxurious watchmaking. Yet, even though a bit under the radar, lies a slew of German watch brands that have effectively carved a niche for themselves – a legacy that ought to be celebrated more.

Boasting a standard where precision becomes an art form and every tick of the hand resonates with centuries of tradition, German watchmakers represent the sentinels of sophistication and refinement. While Swiss watches may be revered for their opulence, German watchmaking has chosen a different path by displaying impeccable accuracy and attention to detail with incredible engineering. Over time, this attention to detail and precision has surpassed limits by seamlessly weaving together engineering prowess and artistic finesse to craft timepieces that transcend mere functionality.

At the heart of this tale lies the town of Glashütte, which has emerged as the epicentre of German watchmaking, becoming almost as iconic as the Swiss Jura Mountains. With many noted maisons laying their foundations in this quaint little town, approximately 23% of the population in the city is involved in fine watchmaking. Over the years, Glashütte has emerged as a manifestation of German precision, innovation and unwavering commitment towards impressive engineering.

So, come with us as we embark on a captivating journey of exploring German horology through watch brands that have been monumental in leading the German world of luxury watchmaking to the heights it has reached today.

1. A. Lange & Söhne

Founded in the heart of Glashütte, Germany, in 1845 by Ferdinand Adolph Lange, A. Lange & Söhne has etched its name into the annals of horological greatness with a heritage steeped in precision and innovation. Emerging from the storied tapestry of German watchmaking, the brand resurged after German reunification in the 1990s, which heralded a new era of horological excellence. A. Lange & Söhne’s watches are an embodiment of history and craftsmanship, inspired by the elegance of historic pocket watches. From the iconic Lange 1 collection, characterised by its off-centred dial and asymmetrical layout, to the innovative Zeitwerk series with its digital-inspired displays, making this the first wristwatch to display the time in jumping numerals, each creation exudes the brand’s distinctive character.

The brand’s commitment to precision and design has earned it a slew of prestigious awards, including the Zeitwerk winning the L’Aiguille d’Or Grand Prize at the Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève a decade ago, solidifying its status as a true paragon of luxury watchmaking. From its intricate movements to its dedication to perfection, A. Lange & Söhne stands tall as an icon of horological artistry, captivating fans and collectors alike with its unwavering pursuit of perfection.

2. Nomos Glashütte

Genius German watchmaking does not need a heritage of multiple centuries to establish its presence and name in the horological world, and Nomos is proof of that. Founded considerably recently in 1990, just after the fall of the Berlin Wall, this young brand has rapidly ascended the ranks, heralded for its minimalist design philosophy inspired by the Bauhaus movement. Nomos watches are a testament to the harmonious union of form and function, with an emphasis on clean lines and uncluttered dials. From the iconic Tangente with its slim cases and timeless aesthetics to the Metro collection, which infuses playful design elements with classic restraint, each watch is a canvas of modern horological expression.

3. Junghans

Established in 1861 in the picturesque town of Schramberg, Germany, Junghans had emerged as a pivotal presence in the industry over the years. In particular, for its role in crafting and perfecting radio-controlled timepieces, a significant contribution to the modern horological innovation. Incorporating a harmonious blend of contemporary design and nostalgic allure, the atelier often draws inspiration from its own historical archives to make elegant timepieces. Most prominently, the Max Bill quartz collection, a tribute to the classic Bauhaus art style, encapsulates the brand’s minimalist ethos. The Meister collection, on the other hand, honours Junghans’s heritage with timeless aesthetics that resonate across generations.

The brand’s accolades for design and innovation bear testament to its commitment to crafting timepieces that merge tradition with contemporary sensibilities. Its Meister Chronoscope won the best entry-level watch of the year at the GQ Time Award 2015 in Germany. With minimal yet tastefully artistic designs, Junghans thrives at horological ingenuity, weaving together a rich history with a modern outlook that resonates with collectors who seek unique and artful timepieces.

4. MeisterSinger

Much like Nomos, MeisterSinger is yet another brand that is a relatively new entrant in the world of luxury horology. However, that is no hindrance, as since its establishment in 2001, MeisterSinger has emerged as a distinctive figure in watchmaking. It embraces a singular vision celebrating a slower and more deliberate approach to timekeeping. Inspired by historical timekeeping devices, MeisterSinger timepieces embody a unique charm fully reflected in their eccentric and unique dial designs.

Due to this distinct and uncommon layout, the entire range of MeisterSinger watches, characterised by its singular time display, draws a niche following among those who appreciate a more contemplative piece. And in the 22 years it has been in existence, this innovative design has earned the maison a whopping 34 awards, including the Red Dot Design Award and the German Design Award.

5. Union Glashütte

The 1800s was a glorious century for German watchmaking, for this century was when, among others, this now-prominent house took its first steps. With roots dating back to 1893, Union Glashütte is a testament to the enduring legacy of German watchmaking excellence. Nestled in the heart of Glashütte, the brand’s creations are infused with the heritage and craftsmanship of the region. Drawing inspiration from traditional Glashütte watchmaking while incorporating contemporary elements, Union Glashütte watches offer a balance between timeless aesthetics and modern functionality. In the atelier’s own words, “…its collections are a testament to Glashütte’s rich history of watchmaking.”

The history of Glashütte reflected in its collection is as diverse as anything. Its Belisar collection, with its sporty and versatile timepieces, caters to those seeking adventure and precision. The Noramis captures the essence of classic watch design, making it the perfect mix between watches suited for business and pleasure, albeit with a touch of colour.

6. Montblanc

Probably everyone is familiar with Montblanc as a luxury pen manufacturer, gracing the pockets and stationery collections of the posh and stationery enthusiasts. But it was in 1935 that the house expanded from manufacturing just pens to leather goods, and finally, in 1997, the first Montblanc watch was unveiled. While the brand is still synonymous with its range of luxury pens, connoisseurs are well aware of the achievements and innovations of the watchmaking division, producing high-quality watches that embody the brand’s values accurately.

But it is not just the brand’s own values that form the inspiration for these luxury watches. The Montblanc 1858 collection pays homage to vintage Minerva watches, emanating a rugged and adventurous spirit. Meanwhile, the Star Legacy captures the essence of classical watchmaking with timeless designs. Montblanc watches attract a discerning clientele who value refinement and style across their accessories. The brand’s watches have garnered recognition for design and craftsmanship, cementing Montblanc’s position as a watchmaker that has successfully expanded its image and previously established reputation in one arena to become one of the most renowned houses in German horology.

Wrapping Up

With histories that stretch across centuries and designs that bridge tradition and modernity, these six watchmaking brands from Germany craft not just timepieces but also stories of heritage, inspiration and dedication. From the heart of Glashütte’s legacy to the forefront of modern luxury, the chronicles of A. Lange & Söhne, Nomos Glashütte, Junghans, MeisterSinger, Union Glashütte and Montblanc intertwine craftsmanship and vision to present watches that can be considered pieces of art. In their intricate mechanisms and timeless designs, they etch a legacy that stands as a tribute to the craftsmanship and ingenuity that define German horology to its core.