Leica announces ZM11 watch inspired by play of light and shadow
Although entirely separate products, mechanical watches and analog cameras undeniably have a spiritual connection – at their core, both are functional, precision instruments with complex mechanical inner workings. Between shutter releases and chronograph push-buttons, focus rings and crowns, indented dials and rotating bezels, the parallels are endless. So it’s no surprise that Leica, a company that cherishes its legacy of analog manual-focus cameras, is expanding its watch collection with the launch of the new ZM 11. Its previous watches, the ZM 1 and ZM 2 from last year, were no gimmicky branding exercise, and the new ZM 11 is an equally serious timepiece.
While last year’s models were overtly camera-inspired in looks and functionality, the ZM 11 has a subtler design that captures the interplay of light and shadows. Its dual-layered dial changes its appearance based on the viewing angle, in an attempt to mimic “the subtle charm of sunlight passing through blinds”. A tasteful blend of diamond-cut facets, brushed and sandblasted finishes, and a minute marker ring uncannily resembling Leica’s lens markings adorn the dial. The lens-like domed sapphire crystal completes the look.
Also noteworthy is the innovative Easy-Change strap change system integrated into the case lugs, which mirrors Leica cameras’ lens release system. One releases the strap simply by pressing a button featuring Leica’s signature red dot. The case comes in Grade 5 titanium or 316L stainless steel with 100 m water resistance, and strap options include titanium, stainless steel, rubber and fabric.
The automatic movement, proudly displayed through a sapphire crystal back, was developed specifically for this watch in collaboration with Swiss manufacturer Chronode, and has a 60 hour power reserve.
Starting November this year, The ZM 11 will be available at select Leica stores in three variants – the Titanium Launch Edition with black and red dial (limited to 250 pieces), the Titanium Coffee Black with a warm-black dial, and the Steel Midnight Blue with a blue and black dial. Prices range from US$6,775 for the steel variant with rubber or fabric band, to US$8,150 for the titanium models with full titanium band.
You can buy the equally elegant but smarter and more affordable Withings Scanwatch Horizon hybrid smartwatch with ECG, heart rate and oximeter on BestBuy.
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