Germany's watchmaking tradition rivals Switzerland's, but with a different philosophy: form follows function, minimalism over ornamentation, precision engineering above all. Nomos and Junghans both embrace Bauhaus design principles, but at vastly different price points and with different approaches.
Quick Overview
Nomos Glashütte
- Founded: 1990 (Glashütte)
- Movement: In-house
- Entry Price: ~$1,780
- Icon: Tangente
- Positioning: Luxury minimalist
Junghans
- Founded: 1861 (Schramberg)
- Movement: ETA/modified
- Entry Price: ~$400
- Icon: Max Bill
- Positioning: Accessible Bauhaus
Heritage & Identity
Nomos Glashütte
Nomos was founded after German reunification in Glashütte—the historic center of German watchmaking. They built in-house movement capability from scratch, achieving genuine manufacture status. Their designs reference Bauhaus principles filtered through contemporary sensibility.
Junghans
Junghans has 160+ years of history including becoming the world's largest clock manufacturer. Their Max Bill collection directly licenses designs from the legendary Bauhaus designer who created the originals in 1961. This isn't Bauhaus-inspired; it's actual Bauhaus design.
Movement Comparison
| Aspect | Nomos | Junghans |
|---|---|---|
| Type | In-house (Alpha, DUW) | ETA/Miyota modified |
| Finishing | Glashütte standard | Good (decorated) |
| Power Reserve | 43 hours | 38-42 hours |
| Caseback | Exhibition (most) | Solid (most) |
| Serviceability | Nomos centers | Any watchmaker |
Nomos's in-house Alpha caliber, finished to Glashütte standards, rivals movements costing much more. Junghans uses reliable ETA movements—workhorses that any watchmaker can service.
Winner: Nomos for movement; Junghans for practical serviceability
Flagship Comparison
| Feature | Nomos Tangente 38 | Junghans Max Bill Auto |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $2,020 | $1,050 |
| Thickness | 6.6mm | 10mm |
| Movement | In-house Alpha | ETA 2824-2 |
| Crystal | Sapphire | Hesalite |
| Design Pedigree | Nomos original | Licensed Max Bill |
💡 The Hesalite Choice
Junghans uses hesalite (acrylic) crystal for period-correct aesthetics—it's what Max Bill specified. This isn't cost-cutting; it's authenticity. Sapphire versions exist if you prefer.
Who Should Buy Nomos?
- In-house movements and exhibition casebacks matter
- Glashütte finishing appeals
- Ultra-thin cases are priority (6.6mm)
- Budget allows $1,800-$4,000
Who Should Buy Junghans?
- Authentic Max Bill design is the priority
- Budget is $400-$1,500
- Easy serviceability matters
- Design history over movement pedigree
Final Verdict
Buy Nomos if in-house movements, Glashütte finishing, and exhibition casebacks justify the premium. The Tangente competes with Swiss brands at higher prices.
Buy Junghans if authentic Max Bill design matters more than movement pedigree. At half the price, you get genuine Bauhaus history.
Nomos is the enthusiast's choice. Junghans is the designer's choice.
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