NOMOS Glashütte Watches

About NOMOS Glashütte Watches

Classic simplicity, in-house engineering perfection, and uncharted value are phrases that surmount NOMOS’s minimalist 30-year tradition of watchmaking.
NOMOS adheres to a Bauhaus design philosophy, which means all their watches are only built to look as they are intended to function – no blurry lines or unnecessary decorations. What’s more, the entire production of NOMOS watches is done in-house by creatives and designers in Glashütte.
Despite this, NOMOS’ commitment to the concept of the Deutsche Werkbund design school means they produce high-quality timepieces for less cost than competitors.
The brand also receives grants from the government to keep this tradition. So, regardless of function, NOMOS watches depict elegance, simplicity, and class for astounding value prices.

NOMOS Glashütte History

NOMOS’s relatively short but illustrious story began shortly after the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1990. The founder, Roland Schwertner, founded the brand in the German town of Glashütte. Glashütte is a small town with a watchmaking tradition of over 175 years and is placed under special protection, which gave the brand a huge credibility score from the onset.
With the stage set for NOMOS in an iconic location, they had a reputation and standard to live up to. And that they did. The watchmaker quickly became the world’s largest manufacturer of mechanical watches and received over a hundred design awards. More impressively, the majority of the production and assembly are done by hand.
Surprisingly, the brand’s biggest feat was yet to come. In 2014, NOMOS released the trademark SWING system, which is the proprietary escapement or “heart” of its movements. It was touted as “similar to landing on the moon”. This was earth-shattering at the time as Swatch was the sole supplier to the watch industry.
What makes NOMOS a gem to enthusiasts is how they provide high-end luxury watches at mouth-watery, affordable prices. For instance, slim profile manual and automatic movements with chronometer accuracy are considered luxuries reserved for super-expensive timepieces.
Through the years, the Glashütte-based watchmaker still maintains a Bauhaus style in its principle – meaning simple, minimalist watches with clean lines, sleek casing, high legibility, and classic appearance.

NOMOS Glashütte Collections

NOMOS Glashütte boasts a diverse range of collections, each echoing the brand's ethos of simplicity, functionality, and beauty.

NOMOS Glashütte Tangente Collection

This is the Glashütte-based watchmaker’s most extensive and popular collection. It offers an array of hand-wound and automatic movements, but it’s the refreshing, simple dials that captivate most enthusiasts.
The minimalist blend of bold Arabic numerals with slim baton indices, cornflower-blue hands, and syringe hands is captivating.
These sleek watches also feature finely polished cases, angular lugs, and galvanized dials that attract surrounding light beautifully. Paired with the right strap, Tangente watches are capable of being a statement timepiece, dinner watch, or luxury everyday watch.
The Tangente Neomatik Midnight Blue is the third-place winner in the Business Class division at Austria’s Chrono Awards.

NOMOS Glashütte Orion Collection

The Orion collection is not too different from the Tangente line. It’s essentially a bulkier version with a more pronounced round case and straight lug design.
They have the same dial outlay with the 60-second window at 6 o’clock. However, NOMOS Glashütte’s Orion has a wider selection of dial designs, dial colors, case materials, and bracelet strap options.
Aside from these features, Orion and Tangente use identical movements and similar case sizes ranging from 35mm to 41mm. Typically, but not always, the model names from either collection will also carry the case size, for example, Orion 35 Gold or Tangente 38.

NOMOS Glashütte Club Collection

The NOMOS Club is another masterpiece collection from the esteemed German watchmaker. It’s a marriage of tradition, precision, and class with a bold, sophisticated, sporty appeal.
The Club Neomatik line is NOMOS’ first collection to carry a stainless steel case.
Despite their sporty build, NOMOS Glashütte Club watches stay on brand with a simple dressy appeal. They have a thick case and heavy bezel for robustness yet remain slim overall. These cases have a clean, glossy, and reflective finish with a bilingual dial that retains a classy touch to the Club.
The Club Sport Neomatiik 42 Date ref. 781 is an award winner at the Capital Watch Award.

NOMOS Glashütte Metro Collection

Another versatile piece from NOMOS, but with a vintage-inspired dial for adventure seekers.
A standout feature of the Metro collection is its protruding wire lugs. They give the round case a retro-industrial look that’s unique to the Metro line.
Also, they don’t have numeral or stick hour markers but small circles at cardinal hours. And a large 60-second marker surrounding the bezel.
In NOMOS style, the dial is clean and decluttered yet artistic and detailed.
But trust NOMOS to add an appealing color-blocking effect, however subtle, in these watches. It varies by model, but this effect is prominent in the NOMOS Metro ref. 1101 with a power reserve indicator.

NOMOS Glashütte Ahoi Collection

The NOMOS Ahoi collection is like a bigger brother to the Tangente collection. However, this big brother is a fan of sports and adventure, as the Ahoi collection is NOMOS’ take on a classic sports watch.
The NOMOS Ahoi comes with a whopping 200m of water resistance, making it capable for diving. One noticeable difference between the Ahoi and Tangente collections is the large crown protectors, which ensure your watch won’t get damaged from impacts.
The Ahoi collection also has a bunch of limited edition models with subtle differences, like the 550 Diet Ziez (DZ) – slightly darker dial – and Doctors Without Borders models – with red 12.

NOMOS Glashütte Tetra Collection

The Tetra collection is another masterpiece from NOMOS, being the only line of square watches. This is a refreshing change from the simplistic round cases synonymous with NOMOS Glashütte.
Contrary to the looks, Tetra watches are small and dapper, measuring about 30mm wide, 40mm long, and only 6.3mm thick. Of course, there are varying sizes to cater to other preferences.
The Tetra line is predominantly unisex-inclined with a variety of dial colors in shades of pink to gray to purple. And the Tetra 406 has an open sapphire case back.

NOMOS Glashütte Minimatik Collection

This collection was designed by Simon Hussein and used to introduce NOMOS’s DUW 3001. They use the super-rare Swing System to guarantee maximum accuracy and precision.
The award-winning Minimatik comes in a colorway of only three different dials. They’re stylish but somewhat too youthful, with dashes of bright colors on the dial and hands. But the polished silver casing makes up for it.
Perhaps their major feature is an ultra-thin height of only 3.2mm. This is a testament to NOMOS' commitment to offer the best work of engineering at the best possible price.

NOMOS Glashütte Lambda Collection

The NOMOS Lambda collection represents one of the German watch brand’s elite timepieces. Its tripartite design – three-piece – gold case, an outlandish dial, and a mechanical movement.
They have a gentle circular curve with only the crown breaking the flow. There’s also a silver-plated that’s uncluttered despite having a large lambda-shaped power reserve indicator window and a seconds window.
The Lambda collection completes its sophistication by using a hand-wound mechanical movement. This DUW 1001 caliber has a power reserve of up to 84 hours and can be tracked down to the last hour before it needs rewinding.
They are only made with precious metals like rose gold and yellow gold.

NOMOS Glashütte Autobahn Collection

Another work of art from NOMOS, the Autobahn Collection, has some of the prettiest luxury sports watches. This dial is one-of-a-kind. It has luminous striping representing the German and a seconds window that resembles the tachometer in a classic sports car.

They are available in three custom-made strap designs, called the director’s cut bracelet. The Autobahn has a 100-meter water resistance capacity, like the Club collection.

Finally, Autobahns use a DUW 601 caliber guaranteed with NOMOS accuracy and precision. It has a unique date window that allows you to see the preceding and succeeding dates.

The Autobahn Neomatik 41 ref 1303 is an award winner at the Capital Watch Award.

NOMOS Glashütte Tangomat Collection

The Tangomat collection is simply a Tangente with a bigger self-winding movement. This same movement in the Tangomat won NOMOS the award of manufactory in 2005.
The dial is almost identical to the Tangente, except in the GMT model. It has a timezone display and a pusher near the crown that activates a different timezone. GMT models use the DUW 5201 with a world timer function but largely the same aesthetics.
All in all, the Tangomat is a simplistic collection with viewer variations, precisely nine models, which include best-sellers like GMT, ruthenium, and some limited edition models.

NOMOS Glashütte Zürich Collection

The Zurich Collection is any traveler’s dream. Aside from the NOMOS precision, its main attraction is its world-time function, which boasts 24 timezones.
Despite the complication, the NOMOS Glashütte collections still exude simplicity. The dial features the names of major city timezones you can switch to. It also sports square hour markers and two triangular action points at 12 and 3 o’clock.
A small disc at 3 o’clock keeps time in your home time zone and is unaffected by the pusher. Identify your travel timezone by the name of the city in the arrow crosshair at the 12 o’clock position.
The Zurich has a 39mm stainless steel case that’s relatively thick at 10.5mm since it’s housing the NOMOS caliber ξ (Xi) with a world time indicator.

NOMOS Glashütte Ludwig Collection

The Ludwig collection is named after Ludwig Mies van der Rohe. He was a famous German architect known for his modern and minimalist designs, just like NOMOS.
In the same way, Ludwig watches have a clean, classical, and functional style. It follows the Bauhaus principle of keeping it simple.
Ludwig watches have unique oversized Roman numeral makers and finely -polished stainless steel cases. Despite having oversized markers, they maintain a small profile measuring only 35mm wide and 6.5mm thick.
They are available in many luxury variations, including yellow gold with Mocca dial, yellow gold case, champagne dial, and more.

NOMOS Glashütte Lux Collection

The Lux collection is one of NOMOS’ Glashütte’s more aesthetic offerings.
The collection has six models, all in tonneau-shaped stainless steel or rose gold case and only 34mm wide and 38mm long. While still minimalistic, the separation of the markers from the dial allows users to admire the galvanized backdrop of several bright-colored options.

How Much Do NOMOS Glashütte Watches Cost?

NOMOS Glashütte offers a spectrum of price points, catering to both budding watch enthusiasts and seasoned collectors. One thing’s for certain, though: their timepieces are renowned for offering significant value for the money.

Best Selling NOMOS Glashütte Watches

NOMOS Glashütte has several standout pieces that have and continue to captivate watch aficionados globally.

NOMOS Glashütte Tangente (ref. 101)

The Tangente 101 is a flagship of NOMOS Glashütte's dedication to minimalist timepieces. It’s been touted as the watch of choice for writers and architects for its slim, light, professional-looking construction.
The case is only 35mm wide and 6.2mm thick, which is small by regular standards and comfortable to wear while working. The dial is silver plated with a galvanized finish and features Arabic numeral markers every two hours except at 6 o’clock.
The 101 model comes with an exceptionally accurate manual wound caliber. There are other models with automatic caliber and open case back (ref. 139) options.

NOMOS Glashütte Metro (ref. 1101)

The Metro 1101 is easily the most beautiful model from the collection and one of the best sellers. Almost every NOMOS newcomer fell in love with either this Metro or a Tangente.
Its most unique feature is the power reserve indicator above the hands. The unison of green and red just has a refreshing look aside from being highly functional. It indicates the energy level of its 42-hour-lasting hand-wound caliber to the last hour.

NOMOS Glashütte Club Campus 38 Night (ref. 736)

This NOMOS Club Night 736 is youthful and one of the most value-packed everyday luxury watches money can buy.

It earned the nickname “Anthracite” for its unique dark gray dial that’s achieved using galvanized ruthenium - a dark, reflective precious metal used only in high-end timepieces.

Functionally, it’s sublime. You can change among NOMOS’s plethora of options as you please. Also, it’s water resistant up to 100 meters, so it can go everywhere. To maximize legibility, the Arabic and Roman indices are extra bold and turn bright in low-light environments.

NOMOS Glashütte Orion 38 Silver (ref. 379)

The NOMOS Orion is an instant attraction if you want a dress watch that can be worn everywhere. It has a classical dressy look but with NOMOS' flawless Bauhaus appeal.
It features gentle curves around the case to the lugs that guarantee comfortable wearability and exude class. The case is polished, the dial galvanized, plus gold-plated hands and indices display a beautiful play of light on the gray dial and silver sub-dial.
Specifically, its 38mm wide and 8.9mm thick case comes together beautifully with a leather strap and can be almost unnoticeable on the wrist.
In this model, you can also see the renowned hand-wound alpha caliber through its sapphire case back.

NOMOS Glashütte Ahoi Neomatik Atlantic (ref. 567)

This Ahoi Neomatik sports NOMOS’s innovative Neomatik DUW 3001 caliber. A high-precision automatic movement that also uses NOMOS’ trademark Swing escapement. It’s often spotted on the hands of NOMOS factory workers as the go-to work watch.
Aside from its award-winning movement, this Ahoi is extremely sporty yet dressy. Its Atlantic blue dial has a rustic vintage look outdoors but appears classy and sophisticated with a deep blue hue in dim light.
This model comes in an open case back to allow enthusiasts a glimpse of the DUW 3001 caliber.

NOMOS Glashütte Movements

The art of movement manufacturing is where NOMOS truly shines. The Swiss watchmaker prides itself in making all its movements in-house.
Perhaps NOMOS’s most significant achievement is making a proprietary escapement—the NOMOS swing system. The Swiss watchmaker offers a balance of manual and automatic movements to cater to different preferences but has no quartz movement watches. So its traditional culture is untainted.
It has a few powerful and surprisingly affordable hand-wound movements in its arsenal that are capable of chronometer-level accuracy. NOMOS automatic movements, also called “Neomatik”, are exceptionally thin and very precise.

NOMOS Glashütte Colors

With a design philosophy rooted in simplicity, NOMOS Glashütte has perfected the art of blending neutral colors with brighter hues.
Their mainstream models primarily have simple neutral shades like silver, white, brown, and gray, with a galvanized finish to add a shiny effect.
On the other hand, their collections also feature models with jovial yet bold colors like pink, orange, yellow, blue, and purple.
Regardless of the color shade, NOMOS Glashütte strives to leave an imprint of minimalism with a blend of modernism in its watches.

NOMOS Glashütte Watch Materials

NOMOS Glashütte skillfully marries traditional craftsmanship with innovative materials. Predominantly, stainless steel graces the watch cases, chosen for its robustness and aesthetic versatility.
NOMOS is quite strict with its metal options, predominantly using stainless steel and a handful of white gold and yellow gold watches.
Dials, clear and legible, are often protected under the sapphire crystal for their scratch-resistant properties. They are also galvanized, which further protects them and adds a shimmering aesthetic.
Strap options are abundant, from the luxurious Shell Cordovan and velour leather, perlon, suede, textile, rubber, and stainless steel to the director’s cut sports bracelet.

NOMOS Glashütte Watch Types

NOMOS Glashütte brings versatility to dressy watches. While it excels in classic minimalist watches, it skillfully retains this culture in sportier timepieces.
While the Tangente, Orion, and Ludwig are more for the classic Bauhaus loyalists, they’ve embraced sportier vibes in the Ahoi and Metro. They also have something for speedsters and car fanatics with their Autobahn models.
The independent Swiss brand glorifies thrill seekers and modern watch lovers with the Metro. It also offers GMT watches like the Lambda and Lux to travelers.
NOMOS stands out in how its Bauhaus culture is reflected in all its collections, regardless of complications or functions. NOMOS Glashütte Watch Complications
Considering they are focused on creating simple-to-use watches, NOMOS, unsurprisingly, only has a few basic complications.
Its most common complication is a date window, mostly seen conveniently at 6 o’clock, to avoid breaking the timekeeping flow. This basic function is rather difficult because NOMOS has the date ring around the movement.
Another NOMOS watch complication is its world time function. It allows the user to change time zones at the click of a pusher and is seen in Tangomat GMT and Zurich World Time.
Also, their Lambda collection boasts a power reserve indicator tracking its 84 hours of energy.

NOMOS Glashütte Partnerships & Brand Ambassadors

NOMOS Glashütte rather focuses on producing high-quality watches than endorsements. To them, their timepieces speak for themselves.
However, NOMOS partners with the Development Bank of Saxony (SAB). Its partnership with SAB results in undisclosed funding as a business in the former Eastern block. It allows them to focus on things that matter, like this one, continuing to provide well-made and well-priced watches that matter to NOMOS.
In addition, release some press releases and publications promoting the brand. In one of them, Author of Little Book, Garry Shteyngart, said he’ll always recommend a NOMOS watch as an unofficial ambassador. He also mentioned NOMOS as the brand that gives an “oh my God, you know NOMOS” moment if you meet another wearer.

Buying NOMOS Glashütte Watches

Purchasing a NOMOS Glashütte watch is a seamless experience. You can explore collections directly on NOMOS's official website and get them shipped out in a few days.
Shipping with an authorized dealer can be slightly longer, depending on your location. However, you’ll be helping a brick-and-mortar store stay in business.
Alternatively, you can visit an authorized dealer like Exquisite Timepieces to have a feel of the watch before purchase. We offer free insured shipping on all NOMOS watches and a free Scatola Del Tempo Viaggio case for orders above $2,000.
As a trusted retailer, ETP ensures 100% authenticity and full warranty options.

Caring for Your NOMOS Glashütte Watch

Acquiring a NOMOS Glashütte timepiece is an investment in timeless craftsmanship and engineering. Regular maintenance is essential to keep your prized possession valuable for decades to come.
It's recommended to service a NOMOS watch every 5 years, even if it’s in perfect working condition. Depending on how you maintain your NOMOS, it can be earlier or later.
At Exquisite Timepieces (ETP), we believe if you care for your watch, it will care for your wallet. Simple routine tips like cleaning gunk out, avoiding magnetic fields, and wounding before the power reserve runs out go a long way.
If your NOMOS Glashütte watch has noticeable defects, ETP offers a free estimate to avoid the delay and costs of reaching out directly to NOMOS.

NOMOS Glashütte FAQ

Is NOMOS a Swiss brand?

NOMOS Glashütte is a German entry-level luxury watch manufacturing from the town of Glashütte. It produces high-quality timepieces that rival many Swiss luxury watch brands.

Is NOMOS a respected brand?

NOMOS is a respected brand by many enthusiasts and watch collectors for its simple and minimalist designs.

Why is NOMOS so expensive?

While NOMOS watches are moderately expensive, their prices are justified. They pride themselves in expert craftsmanship from Glashütte, the home of watchmaking. Also, they use award-winning in-house movements and the best materials on the market.

Are NOMOS watches worth the money?

NOMOS watches are worth the money. They are the conceptions of renowned designers and the handwork of world-class craftsmen in Glashütte.

Find your new NOMOS Glashütte watch with Exquisite Timepieces

The theme for NOMOS watches and anyone eyeing one is a clean-looking timepiece with minimal decorations, traditional production, and a portable build.
With Exquisite Timepieces, not only are you assured an authentic piece, but the shopping experience is elevated with a full warranty, expert guidance, and complimentary insured shipping.
Walk into our Florida store or visit the website to browse our extensive collection of NOMOS Glashütte watches.