NOMOS Ludwig Neomatik 75 Jahre Grundgesetz

The world of German watchmaking boasts a rich history, filled with renowned brands that have been crafting exquisite timepieces for generations. Among these, Nomos Glashütte stands out for its contemporary approach to watchmaking, expertly balancing tradition with technical innovation. The brand's Ludwig collection exemplifies this philosophy, offering a line of classic dress watches that are both stylish and sophisticated. In 2021, NOMOS unveiled a special edition within the Ludwig series, the Ludwig Neomatik 75 Jahre Grundgesetz, to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the German Basic Law.

For those unfamiliar with the brand, NOMOS is a relative newcomer to the watchmaking scene, established in 1990 in Glashütte, Germany, a town steeped in watchmaking history. Roland Schwertner, a photographer with a passion for timepieces, founded the company with the aim of creating high-quality, yet affordable, mechanical watches. From the outset, NOMOS embraced innovation and established itself as a pioneer in the development of in-house movements. This commitment to vertical integration, where a significant portion of the watch's components are manufactured in-house, has become a hallmark of the NOMOS brand.



The Ludwig series, named after King Ludwig II of Bavaria, is known for its clean and minimalist aesthetic. The watches feature a round, stainless-steel case with thin lugs and a slender profile. The dials are uncluttered, with crisp indices and slender hands. This design philosophy is evident in the Ludwig Neomatik 75 Jahre Grundgesetz. The watch features a white, silver-plated dial with black Roman numerals for hour markers. A subtle detail on the dial is the inclusion of a golden section symbol at the 6 o'clock position. This symbol is a nod to the German Basic Law, also known as the Grundgesetz.

The case back of the Ludwig Neomatik 75 Jahre Grundgesetz is where this special edition watch truly distinguishes itself. Crafted from sapphire crystal, it offers a clear view of the inner workings of the watch, specifically the NOMOS DUW 6101 neomatik caliber. This automatic movement is a testament to NOMOS' dedication to in-house production. Interestingly, for this particular edition, the DUW 6101 caliber has been adjusted to meet chronometer standards, signifying its exceptional precision.



But perhaps the most significant feature on the case back is the inscription. Encircling the movement is the engraving "Die Würde des Menschen ist unantastbar" (Human dignity shall be inviolable), the first article of the German Basic Law. This inscription serves as a lasting reminder of the importance of this cornerstone of German democracy.

Let's turn our attention back to the watch's case back. The wide sapphire crystal window puts the in-house DUW 6101 neomatik caliber on full display. NOMOS is a champion of in-house movement production, and the DUW 6101 is a prime example of this. The movement stands out for its innovative date mechanism. Most watches incorporate a date disc towards the center of the movement. However, NOMOS has engineered the date mechanism in the DUW 6101 to feature a date ring that encircles the entire movement, positioned further toward the outer edge of the dial. This unique design feature not only allows for a larger and more prominent date window at the 3 o'clock position but also contributes to the movement's remarkably slim profile, measuring a mere 3.6 mm in height.



Furthermore, the DUW 6101 caliber in the Ludwig Neomatik 75 Jahre Grundgesetz has been adjusted according to chronometer standards. This means that the movement has undergone rigorous testing by an official chronometer testing agency, ensuring its exceptional precision and accuracy. For watch enthusiasts, a detail like this is a testament to NOMOS' commitment to crafting watches of the highest quality.

Let's turn the watch over and take a closer look at the front. As mentioned previously, the watch face features a white, silver-plated dial and a set of slender black Roman numerals marking the hours. The numerals are slightly off-center, lending the dial a dynamic and playful touch. The date window at the 3 o'clock position features the same Roman numeral font, maintaining a cohesive and visually balanced look. The date can be quickly adjusted with the crown, showcasing the thoughtful design that prioritizes both form and function.



Framing the dial is a thin bezel, which flows seamlessly into the elongated lugs of the case. This creates a sense of fluidity across the watch's design. At 40.5 mm in diameter, the stainless-steel case feels substantial on the wrist without being overbearing, making it a great choice for a classic dress watch. And with a thickness of just 7.7 mm, the watch comfortably slides under shirt cuffs, a practical touch for formal occasions.

Of course, no dress watch is complete without a refined and durable strap. The Ludwig Neomatik 75 Jahre Grundgesetz comes fitted with a black, remborde strap made from Horween Genuine Shell Cordovan leather. This type of leather, sourced from the hindquarters of horses, is known for its exceptional strength, beautiful texture, and ability to develop a rich patina over time. The strap's remborde construction, which involves folding the leather over itself and stitching it together, lends it a subtle hint of sportiness, adding to this watch's versatility. The NOMOS winged clasp, made of stainless steel, provides a secure and fuss-free closure.



Before concluding, it's worth delving into the broader significance of the German Basic Law and its 75th anniversary. The Basic Law, or Grundgesetz, serves as the constitution of Germany. Adopted in 1949, it outlines the fundamental rights and freedoms of German citizens while establishing the foundation of the country's democratic political system. The first article of the Basic Law states that "Human dignity shall be inviolable." This simple yet profound statement encapsulates the cornerstone of the constitution. This powerful inscription on the case back of the NOMOS Ludwig Neomatik 75 Jahre Grundgesetz is not mere decoration; it's a constant reminder of the fundamental values that underpin a just society.

Limited to only 75 pieces, the NOMOS Ludwig Neomatik 75 Jahre Grundgesetz strikes an exquisite balance between understated refinement and horological complexity. It's a watch that speaks to those with a keen eye for detail and an appreciation for both traditional craftsmanship and modern innovation. More than just a timepiece, this particular edition of the Ludwig reflects a broader commitment to the principles that have safeguarded German democracy for over three-quarters of a century.