The German Miracle: Nomos

The German brand Nomos, which participated for the first time in the biggest watchmaking organization of the year, where Swiss brands dominate, was introducing its new models at a modest stand, in a corner far from the main brands. Here we are with the eye-catching new Tangente models with their colorful dials...

Although the beginning of my story of getting a Nomos dates back much further, the point where the feeling of pulling the trigger came was the Watches & Wonders 2024 fair. If you ask me the brand I visited most during the event, my answer would definitely be Nomos. The reason is very simple; I couldn't decide which one I liked best among the 31 Tangente models that differ from each other only by their dials.

I express my sympathy for German brands at every opportunity, and I never hesitate to make a bold statement like this: There is no doubt that when you compare a German watch sold at similar prices with Swiss brands, you will reach a much higher standard. This situation reaches its peak with Nomos because the watches have features found in much more expensive watches, despite their relatively affordable price tags.

Tangente 38 actually has a diameter of 37.5mm and has a very simply designed case. The technical information on Nomos's website is comprehensive and serves as a lesson for other brands. The thickness of the watch is only 6.8mm. Its length is 47.7mm. There are sapphire crystals on the front and back surfaces and the water resistance value is limited to 30 meters. 

Nomos is a brand based on the Bauhaus concept in its designs. As is known, Bauhaus emphasizes functionality rather than simplicity. This ensures that Nomos watches are completely free of unnecessary details. Of course, this brings with it original and stylish designs. All dial colors are different from each other. Although this is not Nomos's first attempt. The Super 30 collection, introduced 20 years ago, also had eye-catching dials and was a collection based on the 35mm diameter Tangente models. Frankly, the 37.5mm diameter value of the new series is a much more suitable measurement in my opinion.

The extraordinary colors of the dials, the date disc that is compatible with the dial, the elegant lugs, and much more are enough to make this watch one of the most indispensable in my collection. I chose the Poporange model, which uses different tones of orange because it makes me feel the groovy atmosphere of the 70s. The lack of any anti-reflective coating on the crystal allows the dial color to be displayed in all its nakedness, but it can make it difficult to read, especially outdoors.

The lug-width of the Tangente 38 models is 19mm. At this point, I can't help but wish it was 20mm because this watch is a strap monster and it is possible to reach an infinite number of straps with 20mm size. Still, the gray fabric that comes on the watch or the other options offered by Nomos impresses with their quality. 

One of my favorite things about Nomos is that they produce their movements entirely in-house. The fact that a watch sold for less than 2000 euros uses a manufacture movement deserves great appreciation. The caliber used in the watch is an ETA/Peseux 7001-based, highly refined, hand-wound movement. Nomos has also added a date feature to this movement, but it does not have a quick date-setting function. The 23-jewel caliber is only 2.8mm thick and has a power reserve of 42 hours. The feeling of winding is something that can't be explained but can be experienced. The Caliber Ref. DUW4101 can keep time at chronometer standards.

The fact that all these things I have described are found in a watch with a price tag of only 1925 EUR is not something we are used to in Swiss brands. Moreover, this watch is produced in limited quantities. Only 175 pieces of each color. This is what a limited-edition should be, right?