Leica aims to turn photography aficionados into horology enthusiasts with its venture into watchmaking. Check out the Leica timepieces

In conjunction with the inauguration of the third phase of the German manufacturer’s ultra-modern manufacturing and administrative complex Leitz Park, Leica launches its watch line. The two pioneering models—the LEICA L1 and the LEICA L2—were designed by Professor Achim Heine, the same man who oversees the design of many Leica Camera products over the years and has extensive knowledge of the company’s design principles.

Tatler Asia
Above LEICA L1
Tatler Asia
Above LEICA L1 movement

Both the LEICA L1 and the LEICA L2 are mechanically highly complex and sophisticated creations. Design and technology complement each other perfectly in Leica watches. They are operated by a mechanical movement with manual winding, which has been newly developed and can be viewed through the glass case back made of robust sapphire crystal. The front glass is also made of the same scratch resistant material, and it is anti-reflective on both sides. Each model is equipped with the patented push-piece crown with a corresponding status display on the dial. The combination with the zero setting of the second hand is another special feature – the crown is therefore not only aesthetically appealing, but also adds a useful function to the watches.

The timepieces also bear Leica’s signature design elements: the elegance of the hands and indexes, the shape of the finely-detailed stainless-steel case, the special fluting on the crown and the cambered shape of the glass that is reminiscent of a camera lens.

Tatler Asia
Above LEICA L2
Tatler Asia
Above LEICA L2 movement

For Leica, the “Made in Germany” aspect is particularly important, hence the collaboration with Lehmann Präzision GmbH. The development, design and a large proportion of the components come from the manufacture.

The Leica watch was brought into fruition under the Ernst Leitz Werkstätten project. Founded by Dr. Andreas Kaufmann, Chairman of the Supervisory Board and majority shareholder of Leica Camera AG, it specialises in the design and manufacture of luxury products.

The LEICA L1 and the LEICA L2 will be available in selected Leica Stores as well as at watch dealers worldwide from autumn 2018. The L2 model will also be available in a version with an 18 karat rose gold case. To mark the occasion of the Ernst Leitz Werkstätten commencing operation, limited special models of the two stainless steel versions with a red dial will be released.

 

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