15 Bauhaus Watches Worth Checking Out

One of the greatest things about watchmaking is how greatly it has evolved over the years. With the advent of industrialization and modern tech, this is especially true of the last century. While traditional, classic-style timepieces are still loved and used today, innovations in designs and technology have opened new doors for watchmakers. Today, collectors and enthusiasts have countless watch options to choose from, all with different aesthetics and specifications.

A perfect example of this would be the rise of Bauhaus watches. These Bauhaus models do not necessarily follow the same stylistic codes as older, quintessential timekeepers, yet the Bauhaus watch style has been consistently gaining popularity and leverage in horology in the past few decades. Today, we will be focusing on this particular design phenomenon and everything you need to know about it. For those whose interests are piqued, we have also curated a list of the top 15 Bauhaus watches you should definitely consider adding to your collection.

All About the Bauhaus Movement 

The term “Bauhaus” can be used to refer to a number of different, but related, things. First of all, Bauhaus is both a design movement that originated from Germany back in the early 1900s and the name of the school that started this movement. It started out as a school dedicated to art, with the main goal being to bring together different forms of art whilst eradicating the social distinctions attached to them as well. Bauhaus designs are characterized by abstract elements like simple geometric shapes and contrasting colors.

Today, Bauhaus in watchmaking is used to refer to a simple, minimalistic design that is highly influenced by the original design movement. One of the greatest things about Bauhaus watches is their ability to balance contemporary style with practicality. Bauhaus watches focus a lot on essential, abstract design elements instead of traditional ornamentations, stripping down models to the bare minimum in order to achieve a more elegant aesthetic and functional layout. Bauhaus watches have become increasingly popular today, especially with the recent rise of minimalism in art, lifestyle, and the like.

Elements of Bauhaus Watches

Before we get into the list of best Bauhaus watches proper, let us take a look at some common elements and characteristics typically found in these watches.

Only the Bare Necessities 

The beauty of the Bauhaus design lies in its balance of functionality and art. As such, one of the main characteristics of Bauhaus watches is that they use only what is deemed absolutely essential. This means that the watch face of a Bauhaus watch is very simple and typically has little to no ornamentations or complex complications. Instead of diamond-set bezels and heavily patterned dials, the dials of Bauhaus watches have straightforward, minimalist layouts with modern details instead.

Slim Cases 

This element is not something that applies to all Bauhaus watches, but it is definitely quite common. Oftentimes, Bauhaus watchmakers opt for relatively slim cases because that is what goes well with the simple and minimalist aesthetic of the Bauhaus watch’s dial. A slender case allows the already stripped-down watch face to still stand out and not be overpowered by the other components of the watch. In addition, it also adds a certain elegance and modernity to the entire timepiece. 

Contemporary Dial Components 

Finally, Bauhaus watches tend to possess more contemporary dial components. In a lot of watches today, you can find Roman or Arabic numerals in classic typefaces, oversized hour markers, and quintessential-looking hands with luminescent coatings. These are all traditional watch elements that have been used for centuries now. Bauhaus watches, however, favor a shift towards more modern, organic design codes. Slim fonts, simple and minimalist shapes, and subdued colors are some of the more prominent details found in Bauhaus watches.

15 Best Bauhaus Watches

1. Junghans Max Bill Ref. 027/3702.04

Let us start off this list with the Junghans Max Bill Ref. 027/3702.04, which serves as a classic representation of a Bauhaus watch. Thanks to its monochromatic overall design, it boasts a very sleek and contemporary look. This model comes in a 34mm stainless steel case paired with a quintessential black leather strap. The black dial features slim sword-shaped hands, Arabic numerals in a simple geometric typeface, and stick indices that make up the minute track on the rim of the dial. Underneath this straightforward exterior, you will find the J805.1 caliber, a manual-winding movement with a 42-hour power reserve. 

If you are looking for a truly authentic Bauhaus watch, this Junghans Max Bill piece might just be what you need. Even better, it retails at an affordable price of just $729 USD.

2. Nomos Glashuette Tangente 38 Ref. 165.S4

Next, we have a striking model from one of the best brands for Bauhaus watches, Nomos Glashuette. The Nomos Glashuette Tangente 38 Ref. 165.S4 is a simple and lovely option for those who enjoy quieter timepieces. This watch comes in a 37.5mm stainless steel case and a leather bracelet in black. Its dial has a lovely pastel beige hue, with the minute track, in particular, having a pastel red backdrop. It is furnished with thin black hands, elongated Arabic numerals in a modern font, stick indices, and a small seconds counter at 6 o’clock. This Nomos Glashuette Tangente watch is powered by a manual-winding, Alpha manual caliber with a 43-hour power reserve.

For $1,749 USD, you get this versatile and casual watch which makes for a great everyday accessory.

3. Skagen Melbye Ref. SKW6007 

Even though Skagen is a Danish brand that draws inspiration from its Scandinavian roots and lifestyle, a lot of its models can pass as Bauhaus watches. The Skagen Melbye Ref. SKW6007, for example, is a rather minimalist timepiece that makes use of essential timekeeping elements in a creative way.

This Skagen Melbye piece has a 40mm stainless steel case along with a sophisticated mesh bracelet of the same material. The grey dial features luminescent silver hands, slim indices, Arabic numerals, and an inner minute track in vibrant orange. You can also find a three-hand system and a day-date display, outlined in silver, both of which are driven by a quartz movement. 

If you prefer unique, Bauhaus-inspired watches, you simply have to fork out $175 to get your hands on this lovely timepiece.  

4. Junghans Max Bill Chronoscope Ref. 027/4008.04

The Junghans Max Bill Chronoscope Ref. 027/4008.04 is a more multifunctional and understated approach to Bauhaus watches. Since it makes use of just the bare essentials, the design of its watch face truly stands out. This Junghans Max Bill model has a 40mm stainless steel case and a calf leather strap in suave grey. The stark white dial showcases slim hands, Arabic numerals in a contemporary, compact font, stick indices, a day-date display, and two sub-dials. All these are powered by a self-winding, J880.2 caliber that boasts an excellent power reserve of 42 hours. 

With a price tag of $2,059, this Junghans watch is a worthy and reliable investment for all true Bauhaus enthusiasts out there. 

5. Nomos Glashuette Tetra Neomatik 39 Ref. 422

The Nomos Glashuette Tetra Neomatik 39 Ref. 422 serves as a distinct and more unconventional Bauhaus watch. Even at a single glance, it is bound to make an impression since it does not follow the build of a traditional timepiece.

This Nomos Glashuette Tetra watch comes in a 46mm square-shaped, stainless steel case paired with a black leather strap. Its midnight blue dial consists of thin silver hands, slim indices, trendy Arabic numerals, and a small seconds counter at 6 o’clock, with a vibrant red hand that adds a striking contrast to the watch face. Underneath this stylish, modern watch face, you can find a DUW 3001 automatic caliber with a power reserve of up to 42 hours. 

While Bauhaus watches are already considered somewhat unorthodox, this model takes it to a whole new level — thanks to its distinct shape and sharper colors. If you want a creative, unique accessory, you can purchase this watch for around $3,980 USD! 

6. Sinn Classic Timepieces 1739 Ref. 1739.012

In comparison to the other models on this list, the Sinn Classic 1739 is probably the closest to a traditional analogue timepiece. It does not utilize typical modern-day elements, such as unique fonts or subtle pops of color, yet it fulfills the most important criteria of Bauhaus watches: using only the bare essentials for optimal functionality. This Sinn piece is presented in a 39mm stainless steel case along with a black calfskin leather bracelet. The matching black dial is furnished very simply, with just slim stick-shaped hands and hour markers in silver. This watch is powered by a self-winding DIN 8309 caliber.

If you cannot decide whether to go for a traditional watch or for a Bauhaus model, the Sinn Classic 1739 serves as the ideal in-between. You can get it for around $2,329 USD! 

7. Nomos Glashuette Metro 1112

Here we have another piece from Nomos Glashuette, but this time, in the form of the Metro 1112 model. This watch is the perfect combination of fun, casual, and straightforward. It boasts a stylish and versatile aesthetic that is easy to pair with any style and is sure to pop against any outfit.

This Bauhaus watch comes in a sleek, silver 38.5mm stainless steel case with a quintessential black leather strap. Its dial has a dark grey hue. It is wonderfully contrasted against ultra-thin silver hands, pastel green geometric circles in lieu of hour markers, green Arabic numerals for the minute track, and a small seconds counter with a sharp red seconds hand. Underneath this handsome watch face, you can find an in-house Alpha caliber that follows a manual-winding movement.

For around $1,825 USD, you can get this laid-back and well-crafted Bauhaus watch.

8. MeisterSinger New Vintage Ref. NE903N_SV12

The MeisterSinger New Vintage Ref. NE903N_SV12 serves as a vintage-inspired take on Bauhaus watches. This MeisterSinger New Vintage watch has a 36mm stainless steel case and a textured leather strap in dark brown that enhances its old-school look. The nostalgia-influenced ivory dial also stands out, with its Arabic numerals in a basic font, a minute track made up of stick indices, a circular date window at 6 o’clock, and the signature MeisterSinger singular hand. This model is equipped with an automatic ETA 2824-2 movement with a 38-hour power reserve.

If you are a fan of both Bauhaus designs and vintage aesthetics, this watch is a perfect blend of both. You can get it for around $1,295 USD!  

9. Sternglas Chrono White 

Next up, we have the Sternglas Chrono White which is basically a Bauhaus version of the ever-so-popular panda dial. This watch has a slightly more sophisticated look, with a masculine vibe that is not often seen in Bauhaus watches. This model comes in a 43mm stainless steel case paired with a cattle leather strap in mahogany. The white dial consists of luminescent hands, boxy Arabic numerals, a subtle minute track on the outer rim, a square date window at 6 o’clock, and a chronograph display with two black sub-dials. All of these functions are driven by a quartz chronograph movement, the Miyota 0S21 caliber.

Retailing at just $285 USD, this is a great option for those who want a Bauhaus watch with a robust and slightly sportier feel.

10. Stowa Antea Back to Bauhaus 365 Limited Silver

The Stowa Antea Back to Bauhaus 365 Limited Silver is another retro-inspired Bauhaus piece. This is a simple and versatile addition to one of Stowa’s longest-running collections. It comes in a 36.5mm polished stainless steel case and a hand-stitched leather strap in grey. This is paired with a quintessential, solid silver dial adorned with Arabic numerals in a modern typeface, circular black minute markers, and sleek blued steel hands. On the underside of the watch, you can find a half-transparent caseback which gives you a glimpse of its automatic ETA 2824-2 caliber.

With a price tag of approximately $1,300 USD, this is definitely one of the most authentic Bauhaus watches you should not miss out. 

11. Defakto Kinetik Standard

The Defakto Kinetik Standard is a very robust and powerfully-built Bauhaus watch. It stands out with its dark exterior, giving it a suave, masculine look. This model is presented in a 39mm stainless steel case, paired with a black leather bracelet. This is paired with a rugged black dial which consists of an hour and a minute track, both in the form of stick indices, along with skeletal bar-shaped hands coated in Super-LumiNova for improved visibility in the dark. A red seconds hand helps add a splash of vibrant color to this Defakto piece. The underside of the watch is comprised of a see-through caseback, allowing you to observe the watch’s automatic ETA 2824-2 caliber.

If you want a cool and robust Bauhaus watch, you can get this piece for just $835 USD. 

12. Uniform Wares M37 PreciDrive

Next up, we have the Uniform Wares M37 PreciDrive, which is bound to be a hit with anyone who prefers customizable Bauhaus watches. It has a rather bare and simple watch face, so it can easily go with many different straps, For this particular model, you have 17 options to choose from like straps in grey, blue, black, tan, etc.

This Uniform Wares watch comes in a 37mm stainless steel case with an interchangeable bracelet of your choosing. Moreover, its white dial is adorned with diamond-cut hands, slim applied hour markers, and a minute track with stick indices on the outer rim. This watch is driven by a powerful ETA F03.401 Precidrive movement.

If you want a versatile Bauhaus piece that you can play around with, make sure to check out this piece for around $600 USD.

13. Junkers 9.11.01.03 Series 100 Years Bauhaus

This Junkers 9.11.01.03 Series 100 Years Bauhaus watch is possibly the most complex-looking model on this list. What makes it a great Bauhaus model is that it showcases a perfect balance between multi-functionality and a minimalistic design which shows that you can have additional complications without your watch looking too busy.

This Junkers piece has a 41mm stainless steel case paired with a leather band in brown and a scratch-resistant Hesalite crystal. The rustic silver dial has Arabic numerals in a modern typeface, long stick indices, luminous silver hands, a 24-hour counter, a power reserve indicator, and a date window. These impressive functions are powered by an automatic Miyota 9132 caliber with a power reserve of 40 hours. 

This watch retails at approximately $575 USD.

14. Braun Gents BN0265 Classic Chronograph 

Yet another highly functional Bauhaus watch is the Braun Gents BN0265 Classic Chronograph. This model has received critical acclaim for its excellent design, with actual awards like the iF Design Award in 2019 and Red Dot Design Award in 2020 to prove it.

This Braun watch features a 40mm matte stainless steel case paired with a sporty leather strap in black. The matching matte grey dial comes with black stick hands, slim hour markers, a unique date window at 6 o’clock, and a chronograph display with two submerged sub-dials. It is equipped with a hybrid mesa-quartz movement which enables it to utilize both a quartz crystal movement and mechanical chronograph caliber in order to power the watch. 

The best part is that you can get this award-winning watch for just $370 USD.

15. A.Lange & Sohne 1815 Thin Honeygold “Homage to F. A. Lange”

Last but certainly not least, we have a gorgeous piece from A.Lange & Sohne, the 1815 Thin Honeygold “Homage to F. A. Lange”. This watch has a slightly more quintessential look, but it is a must-have inclusion on this list considering the German brand’s role as a key figure in bringing together Bauhaus designs and watchmaking.

This particular model features a 38mm honey gold case paired with an aged alligator leather strap in brown. The white dial has copper hands and Arabic numerals in a fancy typeface. Underneath this elegant exterior, you can find a well-oiled Caliber L093.1 that keeps the watch running.

This lavish Bauhaus-inspired piece retails at around $38,000 USD.

Final Thoughts 

Hopefully, the article has given you a better perspective of the true essence of Bauhaus watches. Even though classic timepieces are still the go-to option of many people, Bauhaus watches have been consistently gaining ground, especially with the modern shift towards minimalism. Indeed, the rise of Bauhaus timepieces is a strong example of the diversity and growth that the watch industry has undergone over the years.

Photo Credits: WatchShopping and Official Brand Sites

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