Moritz Grossman 37 Arabic Vintage

The watch industry is a fascinating realm where artistry and mechanics intertwine. It's a world populated by brands both historic and modern, each striving to capture the essence of time in their own unique way. Among these, Moritz Grossmann stands out, not with boisterous declarations or ostentatious displays, but with a quiet confidence that speaks volumes about its dedication to traditional craftsmanship and understated beauty. The new 37 Arabic Vintage exemplifies this philosophy perfectly, offering a watch that rewards careful observation and a deep appreciation for the finer details.



To truly understand the 37 Arabic Vintage, we must first delve into the history of Moritz Grossmann himself. Born in Dresden in 1826, Grossmann was a visionary watchmaker who dedicated his life to advancing the art of horology. He was not only a gifted craftsman but also a respected teacher and author, his treatise "On the Construction of a Watch" considered a seminal work in the field. Grossmann's legacy lived on through his meticulously crafted pocket watches, renowned for their precision and elegant simplicity.



Fast forward to the 21st century, and the Moritz Grossmann manufacture in Glashütte, Germany, continues to uphold the founder's principles. Each watch is crafted with an unwavering commitment to quality, incorporating traditional techniques alongside modern innovations. This dedication is evident in the 37 Arabic Vintage, a timepiece that seamlessly blends historical inspiration with contemporary design elements.



One of the first things that captures the eye when encountering the 37 Arabic Vintage is its dial. Crafted from untreated German silver, it possesses a unique anthracite hue that shifts subtly in different lighting conditions. This effect is achieved through a process of deep engraving and thermal treatment, giving the surface an almost velvety texture. Imagine the soft, muted tones of a vintage photograph, where the blacks are rich and deep, yet with a hint of underlying warmth. This is the visual experience offered by the 37 Arabic Vintage's dial.



Against this understated backdrop, the raised Arabic numerals, scales, and historic Grossmann logo stand out with remarkable clarity. The numerals themselves are a testament to the brand's respect for horological tradition. Their elegant curves and balanced proportions evoke a sense of classicism, reminiscent of antique pocket watches from a bygone era. The decision to use Arabic numerals is not merely an aesthetic one; it's a nod to the historical significance of this numerical system, which revolutionized mathematics and paved the way for countless scientific advancements.



The numerals, along with the scales and logo, are meticulously brushed, adding another layer of visual depth to the dial. This subtle detail creates a pleasing contrast with the polished steel hands, which glide effortlessly across the dial, pointing the way to the present moment. The hands themselves are crafted by hand, their straight, unadorned design emphasizing legibility and functionality.



The case of the 37 Arabic Vintage is equally refined. Made from stainless steel, it features a brushed finish that complements the matte dial perfectly. With a diameter of 37 millimeters, it strikes a harmonious balance between classic proportions and modern wearability. This is a watch that will sit comfortably on a variety of wrist sizes, its understated elegance making it suitable for both casual and formal occasions. The case design is also a nod to the brand's Benu line, known for its balanced proportions and timeless aesthetic.



Flipping the watch over reveals another dimension of its beauty: the movement. Visible through the sapphire crystal case back, the manufacture calibre 102.1 is a testament to Moritz Grossmann's dedication to mechanical excellence. This hand-wound movement features a classic 3/5 plate construction, a hallmark of traditional Glashütte watchmaking. The movement's intricate details, including the hand-engraved balance cock and screwed gold chatons, are a feast for the eyes of any watch enthusiast.



The 37 Arabic Vintage is more than just a beautiful object; it's a meticulously engineered instrument designed to measure time with exceptional accuracy. The movement incorporates an uneven escapement specifically designed for its size, along with a modified regulation system, ensuring optimal performance and reliability. This attention to detail is characteristic of Moritz Grossmann's approach to watchmaking, where every component is crafted with the utmost care and precision.



Completing the watch is a brown strap made from high-quality Kudu leather. This choice of material adds a touch of rugged sophistication, its natural texture and warm tones echoing the vintage aesthetic of the dial. The strap is both comfortable and durable, ensuring that the 37 Arabic Vintage can be enjoyed for many years to come.



At the heart of the 37 Arabic Vintage beats the manufacture calibre 102.1, a hand-wound movement that exemplifies the brand's commitment to traditional Glashütte watchmaking. Measuring a mere 26mm in diameter and 4mm in height, this compact powerhouse is a marvel of micro-engineering. Its construction, based on the classic 3/5 plate architecture, not only provides structural integrity but also allows for a clear and unobstructed view of the movement's intricate components.



One of the defining features of the calibre 102.1 is its use of an uneven escapement. This type of escapement, rarely seen in modern watchmaking, is a testament to Moritz Grossmann's dedication to horological tradition. Unlike the more common Swiss lever escapement, the uneven escapement provides a more consistent impulse to the balance wheel, resulting in improved accuracy and stability over time. The escapement is further enhanced by a modified regulation system, allowing for precise adjustments to the watch's rate.



The movement's finishing is equally impressive, showcasing the meticulous hand-craftsmanship that defines Moritz Grossmann's approach. Visible through the sapphire crystal case back, the calibre 102.1 is a feast for the eyes. The plates and bridges are adorned with Glashütte ribbing, a traditional decorative technique that adds both visual appeal and structural rigidity. The balance cock, a key component of the escapement, is meticulously engraved by hand, a testament to the skill and artistry of the watchmakers.



Further enhancing the movement's visual appeal are the screwed gold chatons, used to secure some of the jewels. These tiny, gold settings not only add a touch of luxury but also serve a functional purpose, ensuring the precise alignment of the jewels and reducing friction within the movement. The attention to detail extends even to the screws, which are heat-blued to a distinctive brown-violet hue, a hallmark of Moritz Grossmann watches.



Beyond its technical and aesthetic merits, the calibre 102.1 also boasts impressive performance. With a power reserve of 42 hours, it provides ample autonomy for daily wear. The movement's accuracy is further ensured by its adjustment in five positions, a rigorous testing process that guarantees optimal performance regardless of the watch's orientation.



Returning to the exterior of the watch, the 37 Arabic Vintage's case is crafted from stainless steel, a material chosen for its durability and resistance to corrosion. The case measures 37mm in diameter, a size that strikes a perfect balance between classic proportions and modern wearability. It's a watch that will sit comfortably on a variety of wrist sizes, its understated design making it suitable for both casual and formal occasions.



The case's brushed finish complements the matte dial perfectly, creating a harmonious aesthetic that is both refined and understated. The lugs, which connect the case to the strap, are gently curved, ensuring a comfortable fit on the wrist. The crown, used to wind the watch and set the time, is subtly engraved with the Moritz Grossmann logo, a discreet reminder of the brand's heritage.



Completing the watch is a brown strap made from high-quality Kudu leather. This choice of material is not only aesthetically pleasing but also practical. Kudu leather is known for its durability and resistance to wear, making it an ideal choice for a watch strap. Its natural texture and warm tones complement the vintage aesthetic of the dial, while its supple feel ensures optimal comfort on the wrist.



The Moritz Grossmann 37 Arabic Vintage is priced at 39,700 euro, a reflection of the exceptional craftsmanship and technical sophistication that goes into its creation. It's a watch that will appeal to discerning collectors who appreciate the finer details and the enduring value of traditional watchmaking.