The best Bauhaus watches | Automatic | Comparison | Junghans | Max Bill
The best Bauhaus watches with automatic movement from Junghans, Max Bill & Co. in TOP-10 comparison
Bauhaus watches are without a doubt one of the most popular types of watch. The basic idea of the Bauhaus style “Form follows function” is reflected in the clocks. Reduction and minimalism in design as well as the focus on functionality are their characteristics. So what could be more natural than to look at Bauhaus watches with mechanical movements?
In this article we refer to Bauhaus watches with automatic movements that are available for purchase on Amazon. This excludes, for example, the well-known Nomos and Sternglas watch collections, as the current status (08/28/2021) is that the brands do not offer their models on Amazon.
The origins of the watches and the associated manufacturers are classified and what you should pay attention to when buying your Bauhaus watch.
Bauhaus watches are without a doubt one of the most popular types of watch. The basic idea of the Bauhaus style “Form follows function” is reflected in the clocks. Reduction and minimalism in design as well as the focus on functionality are their characteristics. So what could be more natural than to look at Bauhaus watches with mechanical movements?
For real watch lovers, there is no way around an automatic watch in the long run. These are not exactly cheap and also require a lot of maintenance. Still who on Value, precision, consistency and craftsmanship stand for, an automatic watch is a must-have. If you are still interested in a Bauhaus watch with quartz movement, I can recommend our articles on Bauhaus watches for men with quartz movement.
In 2019 the Bauhaus celebrated its 100th anniversary. On the occasion of this, some brands brought out anniversary editions. Brands such as Nomos, Junghans or Sternglas are the focus of attention. We also appreciate the watches from Junghans and Nomos. Nevertheless, we would like to point out alternatives. Because in addition to these two manufacturers, there are also alternatives that we will now highlight for you.
In this article we refer to Bauhaus watches with automatic movements that are available for purchase on Amazon. This excludes, for example, the well-known Nomos and Sternglas watch collections, since according to the current status (January 21, 2021) the brands do not offer their models on Amazon.
The origins of the watches and the associated manufacturers are classified and what you should pay attention to when buying your Bauhaus watch.
Which purchase criteria should you consider before making your purchase
The movement is the heart of every wristwatch. This applies in particular to automatic watches. An automatic watch movement is a mechanical movement. In contrast to the quartz movement, the “automatic” is not powered by a battery. The elaborate construction of the movements ensures the character and individuality of the watch and makes the hearts of every watch enthusiast beat faster. Accordingly, when buying an automatic watch, you should especially examine the built-in movement.
The components of an automatic movement can vary depending on the manufacturer. Nevertheless, all clocks run according to the same principle: the conversion of kinetic (kinetic energy) into potential energy (elevator energy). Kinetic energy is therefore obtained by moving the wrist. The arm movement exerts a torque on the ball-bearing rotor of the watch and this force is transferred to the winding mechanism, i.e. to a tension spring. Because energy is generated by moving the wrist, it is not necessary to constantly wind the watch manually. A slip coupling prevents the watch from overwinding with constant arm movement. The watch has a power reserve so that it also runs when it is not being moved, such as overnight. This ensures that the clock continues to run for a certain period of time without the supply of energy. Depending on the model, this time is between 35 and 60 hours. Therefore, it makes more sense to buy an automatic watch if the watch is to be worn every day.
To start with, you should pay attention to the power reserve when buying. This should be at least 40 hours. The accuracy, i.e. the precision of the watch, depends on several factors and can vary. Depending on the watch, the rate deviation is -20 to +30 seconds per day. The frequency of the balance wheel is a feature to look out for when buying. The balance wheel is a swinging spiral that determines the clock’s beat. The higher the frequency, the smoother the second hand moves, which increases the accuracy. Most cheaper clocks have 21,600 vibrations per hour, but there are also some clocks with 28,800 vibrations per hour. Another factor to consider are the stones (“jewels”). The number of stones indicates how many bearing stones are built into the movement. These stones hold the gears and journals and thus also increase the precision of the movement. However, more jewels do not automatically make a better movement.
The functions vary depending on the movement. The basic functions are the hour, minute and central seconds displays. In addition, the watch can have a 24 hour display, a stop watch or a power reserve display. However, these also affect the look and you should consider which functions you want your watch to have before buying. High-quality movements have a stop second. With its help it is possible to set the clock to the second.
Which purchase criteria should you consider before making your purchase
The movement is the heart of every wristwatch. This applies in particular to automatic watches. An automatic watch movement is a mechanical movement. In contrast to the quartz movement, the “automatic” is not powered by a battery. The elaborate construction of the movements ensures the character and individuality of the watch and makes the hearts of every watch enthusiast beat faster. Accordingly, when buying an automatic watch, you should especially examine the built-in movement.
design
The basic principle of the Bauhaus “form follows function” is of course also reflected in the design. True to the motto, “What works beautifully”, the focus is on the functionality of the watches. The design, however, is limited to the essentials. Straightforward and simple, yet geometric shapes should be affordable for “ordinary” people. No flashy colors or decorative elements are used.
Further Purchase criteriasuch as watch glass, quality of the watch strap, watch height and water resistance can be found in our article “The best men’s watch up to 200 euros“ Read
design
The basic principle of the Bauhaus “form follows function” is of course also reflected in the design.
Top10 – Bauhaus watches Automatic with short description in comparison
Now you know what to look for when buying an automatic watch. In the following we present 10 popular models on the market in Bauhaus design and include our own experiences as well as customer reviews from the web.
The 10 best automatic Bauhaus watches in my opinion:
Stars
Place 10: Bauhaus automatic models Ref. 2162
Brand: bauhaus*
“Bauhaus” is the newest brand from POINTtec. The watch manufacturer from near Munich also counts the brands “Iron Annie” and “Zeppelin” among its members. In 2019 POINTtec took over the long-standing production partner VEB Uhrenwerke Ruhla, including its Bauhaus building and a clock museum. Now he advertises with Bauhaus watches manufactured in the company’s own Bauhaus building in the traditional watch city. The watch series under the label “bauhaus” was presented for the first time in 2020 at inhorgenta Munich. It consists of eight quartz and three automatic models.
Conclusion:
Despite the reduction, a real eye-catcher for the price of239,99 EUR * you get with the Automatic series 2162 * from bauhaus a watch affordable watch in functional Bauhaus design. An attractive overall package for all fans of simple designs who still want to enjoy the date and day displays.
What we like:
☑ Weekday display
☑ Made in Germany
☑ 5 bar water resistance
☑ 8 mm case height
Where do we see potential:
➖ Movement: accuracy, stop second
Stars
9th place: Zeppelin men’s watch with leather strap series LZ129 Hindenburg ED. 1
Brand: Zeppelin*
Another brand from POINTtec is Zeppelin. This was founded in 2002 and its name is intended to commemorate the pioneers in aviation history. Zeppelin claims to offer classic elements with high production quality.
Conclusion
Classic but not boring, cheap but high quality components, such as the mineral crystal and the 5 ATM water resistance. This corresponds to the Zeppelin LZ129 Hindenburg Ed. II 8062-1 * the functional zeitgeist of the Bauhaus in perfection. The movement was saved, but this is also reflected in the price. Also in the with an average of stars, the enthusiasm for the design Made in Germany is particularly evident.
What we like:
☑ classic design
☑ Made in Germany
☑ Price-performance ratio
Where do we see potential:
➖ Movement: accuracy, stop second
Stars
8th place: Junkers Bauhaus 41mm men’s watch analogue automatic power reserve
Brand: Junkers *
Junkers stands for pilot’s watches and at the same time, in the spirit of Hugo Junkers, I have committed to the Bauhaus style. Hugo Junkers was a proponent of the Bauhaus movement and made spaces available to the artists to realize their ideas. At the same time he allowed the Bauhaus philosophy to flow into his own projects. To date, more than 20 Junkers collections have appeared, all of which are dedicated to Junkers aircraft, in particular the JU 52, or the achievements of Professor Hugo Junkers.
Junkers also originated from POINTtec in 1997, but the latter gave up the brand name in 2020 after a legal dispute. The brand name and the logo are now only sold by Junkers Uhren GmbH.
Model: Junkers Bauhaus 41mm men’s watch analogue automatic power reserve *
Price:780,00 EUR *
The anniversary watches with the inscription “100 years of Bauhaus”, which Junkers Uhren GmbH has already deposited as the manufacturer, are available with automatic movements with white, black and blue dials as well as leather and metal straps. They are visually characterized by the 24 hour display and the power reserve display on the dial.
Here are the most important facts at a glance:
- plant : Miyota 9132, 26 jewels, frequency: 28,800 A / h, power reserve 40 hours.
- Functions : Date, hour, minute, central second, 24 hour display, power reserve display, stop second
- casing : polished stainless steel, diameter: 41 mm, height: 13 mm, weight: 73 g, hesalite glass, glass bottom, water-resistant to 3 atm
- strap: Brown leather strap with pin buckle
The blue dial with white pointers or indices, in combination with the silver case and brown leather strap, looks very modern and of high quality. The additional displays on the dial are delicately designed so that it does not appear overloaded and remains true to the Bauhaus style. Nevertheless, one should have good eyesight, because the displays and the indices are kept very small.
The dial is covered by a domed hesalite glass, a type of plastic that is unfortunately very prone to scratches. However, it is lighter than sapphire crystal. The curvature leads to an optical enlargement of the dial.
The installed Miyota 9132 belongs to the 9100 caliber family and has more functions than the 821A caliber, which is installed in the Hindenburg from Zeppelin. In addition to the hour, minute and center seconds, it has a date and 24-hour display and has a stop-second function, which can be used to set the watch to the second. The power reserve of 40 hours is represented by an energy indicator. The average rate deviation is approx. -10 or +30 seconds.[/read]
Conclusion:
The beauty of technology – The “100 Years of Bauhaus” – Anniversary watch * With its filigree design, it fully corresponds to the Junkers slogan. For the price you get a solid watch with good workmanship. Above all, the additional functions of the 24 hour display as well as the display of the power reserve and the stop-second are real pluses for a watch in this price segment. The glass and the water density are average.
What we like:
☑ Filigree dial
☑ Stop second
☑ M Goodbye in Germany
Where do we see potential:
➖ Plastic glass
➖ Waterproof to 3 atm
Stars
7th place: Orient Men’s Analogue Automatic Watch with Leather Strap FAC0000CA0
Brand: Orient*
Even if Bauhaus design is more of a German specialty, brands from other countries also venture onto the market and try to score points with reduced design. One of these brands is “Orient” which comes from Japan and attracts attention with a clear design at an affordable price. As a watch manufacturer, Orient is one of the well-known, stable brands in Japan and has been the third and fourth largest manufacturer of wristwatches in recent years.
Conclusion
The Orient FAC0000CA0 * is a solid entry-level watch at an affordable price of299,66 EUR * Euro. There is a noble appearance and a middle class automatic movement. When it comes to glass and water resistance, compromises have to be made.
What we like:
☑ Beautiful design
☑ Date display
☑ Favorable price
Where do we see potential:
➖ Mineral glass
➖ Waterproof to 3 atm
Stars
Rank 6: Men’s watch with leather strap series 100 years Bauhaus automatic date Power Reserve 5066-2
Brand: Iron annie *
The Iron Annie brand was founded by POINTtec in 2017 when the dispute over the license agreement with the Junkers brand was in the room. As with Junkers, Iron Annie combines the topics of aviation and Bauhaus. The name goes back to the Junkers machine (JU 52 aka Aunt Ju), affectionately named “IRON ANNIE” by an American. “Like its legendary role model, Edition Iron Annie stands for robustness, reliability, technical innovation and striking design,” emphasizes Will Birk from Pointtec.
Conclusion
A high-quality overall package – the automatic 5066-2 from Iron Annie looks similar to the Junkers anniversary version. It also has the same clockwork. Compared to the Junkers, however, it has a scratch-resistant mineral glass and is also waterproof of 5 atm. However, the additional advertisements and the logo are very present, which lovers of the reduced style might not like.
What we like:
☑ Miyota 9132
☑ Waterproof to 5 atm
☑ M Goodbye in Germany
Where do we see potential:
➖ Reduced design expandable
Stars
5th place: Men’s Wristwatch Analog Mechanical Watch Automatic Movement with Domed Glass Calendar Bauhaus Ø42mm – FM202
Brand: FEICE *
Founded in 2009, Feice is a fairly young Chinese watch manufacturer that does not reflect the cheap image of “Made in China”.
With a focus on quality and, above all, individuality, Feice soon relied on watches in the Bauhaus style and used the tried and tested Chinese Seagull movements. These are similar to those made by the Swiss manufacturer ETA and also have a glass bottom.
Conclusion
The FEICE FM202 * unites minimalist design and high-quality technology based on the basic principle of the Bauhaus style: “What works is beautiful”. For the price a beautiful automatic watch in the Bauhaus style. The only downer is the water resistance of only 3 ATM.
What we like:
☑ Domed dial
☑ Stopwatch, power reserve display
Where do we see potential:
➖ Waterproof 3 atm
➖ Power reserve of 35 hours
Stars
4th place: LACO Classic Hall 40 (unisex)
Brand: Laco *
Laco´s main focus is, similar to Junkers and Iron Annie, on pilot watches.
With the Laco Classics series, there are also Bauhaus-style watches in the range. Modern designed and straightforward functional watches or newly interpreted classics – this series offers classic models that are based on the Bauhaus style and are manufactured in Germany.
Conclusion
Straightforward design and qualitative components – that’s what the Classic Hall 40 * from Laco completely for the Bauhaus style. No additional displays disturb the simple dial. Instead, the focus is on high-quality components and the flat and precise movement.
What we like:
☑ Unisex
☑ No frills design
☑ Made in Germany
Where do we see potential:
➖ Additional functions
Stars
Place 3: BOTTA Design UNO Plus men’s one-hand watch analogue automatic with leather strap 810000
Brand: BOTTA *
A contemporary Bauhaus design – can that work? BOTTA shows the transfer of Bauhaus design into the 21st century and relies on technical innovations and high quality standards. BOTTA goes one step further with minimalism and omits the minute hand. For that reason alone, the Botta UNO should not be missing in this ranking.
Conclusion
“Genetic relationship instead of optical backdrop” – the BOTTA UNO Plus automatic * is a statement for a relaxed approach to time and belongs in our ranking with the innovative and simple design and technology. In keeping with the Bauhaus DNA, the design is not supposed to be copied here, but rather developed according to the Bauhaus criteria. The “Handmade in Germany” label also emphasizes the high level of manual work involved in production.
What we like:
☑ One-pointer principle
☑ Sapphire crystal
☑ Made in Germany
☑ Weight of only 75 g
Where do we see potential:
➖ price
Stars
Place 2: Hamilton Intra-Matic
Brand: Hamilton *
Hamilton is originally a US company that was founded in 1893. Today it belongs to the Swatch Group, which includes Nomos Glashütte.
The Hamilton Intra-Matic is available in various versions, ranging from 700 euros to 900 euros.
Conclusion
“American origin with Swiss precision” – the Hamilton Intra-Matic impresses with its high-quality and at the same time flat movement and a power reserve of 50 hours. The design is classically reduced, but the colored details tend to create a retro look.
What we like:
☑ 50 hours power reserve
☑ Sapphire crystal
Where do we see potential:
➖ Weight of 164 g
Stars
1st place: Junghans
Brand: Junghans *
Finally, the Max Bill from Junghans, a Bauhaus classic of the Bauhaus watches, should not be missing. Junghans was founded in Schramberg in 1861 and has stood for precision and manufacturing quality from the start. Even today, the focus is on craftsmanship combined with high design standards.
Conclusion
“Watches … as timeless as it could be without forgetting the time.” Junghans MAX BILL Automatic Analog 027 / 4002.44 * of the brand Junghans. A clear design, high-quality sapphire crystal and one of the most tried and tested movements – these components make up the design classic.
What we like:
☑ High quality clockwork
☑ Sapphire crystal
☑ Made in Germany
Where do we see potential:
➖ Waterproof of 3 atm
➖ Weight of 250 g
➖ Glass bottom
Comparison table of the best Bauhaus watches with automatic movement
To better illustrate the components already partially mentioned above, I have once again summarized the interesting features of all compared wristwatches in a clear table. You can get more information about each watch by clicking on the picture or the link at the price of the watch.
| Modell | Bauhaus Herrenuhr Automatik 2162* | Zeppelin Herrenuhr mit Lederband Serie LZ129 Hindenburg ED. 1 8060* | Junkers Bauhaus 41mm Herrenuhr Analog Automatik Gangreserve* | ORIENT FAC0000CA0* | Iron Annie 5066-2* |
| Preis | 239,99 EUR* | Price not available* | 780,00 EUR* | 300,20 EUR* | 381,82 EUR* |
| Uhrenglas | Mineralglas | Mineralglas | Hesalithglas (Acrylglas) | Mineralglas | Gewölbtes Mineralglas K1 |
| Uhrwerk | Miyota Kaliber 8285, 21 Steine, Frequenz: 21.600 A/h, Gangreserve: 42 Std., Gangabweichung -20/+40 | Miyota Kaliber 821A, 21 Steine, Frequenz: 21.600 A/h, Gangreserve 42 Std. | Miyota 9132, 26 Steine, Frequenz: 28.800 A/h, Gangreserve 40 Std. | Kaliber: F6724 japanisches Automatik-Uhrwerk, 22 Steine, Frequenz: 28.800 A/h, ca 40 Std. Gangreserve | Miyota Kaliber 9132, 26 Steine, Frequenz: 28.800 A/h, Gangreserveanzeige: 40h |
| Gehäusebreite | 41 mm | 40 mm | 41 mm | 41 mm | 41 mm |
| max Gehäusehöhe | 13 mm | 11 mm | 13 mm | 12 mm | 12 mm |
| Armband | Handgearbeitetes. Italienisches Lederarmband in Maisfarbe mit „bauhaus“-Prägung, Dornschließe | Schwarzes Lederarmband | Braunes Lederarmband mit Dornschließe | Schwarzes Leder, gepolstert und genäht mit polierter Dornschließe | Schwarzes Lederarmband |
| Wasserdichte | 5 ATM | 5 ATM | 10 ATM | 3 ATM | 5 ATM |
| Funktionen | Minuten, Stunde, Zentralsekunde, Wochentaganzeige, Datum | Stunde, Minute, Zentralsekunde, Datum | Datum, Stunde, Minute, Zentralsekunde, 24 Std. Anzeige, Anzeige der Gangreserve, Sekundenstopp | Polierter Edelstahl, Durchmesser: 41 mm, Höhe 12 mm, Gewicht: 210g, gewölbtes Mineralglas, geschraubter Deckel, wasserdicht bis 3atm | Datum, Sekundenstopp, Zentralsekunde, 24 Std. Anzeige, Gangreserve |
| Modell | FEICE FM202* | Laco Damen- u. Herrenarmbanduhr m. Lederband Ø 38-40mm* | BOTTA Einzeigeruhr UNO (44 mm)* | Hamilton Intra-Matic H38735751* | Junghans MAX BILL Automatik 027/4002.44* |
| Preis | 215,99 EUR* | Price not available* | Price not available* | Price not available* | Price not available* |
| Uhrenglas | Mineralglas | Mineralglas | Saphirglas | Mineralglas | Gewölbtes Mineralglas K1 |
| Uhrwerk | Seagull, 28 Edelsteine, Energiezufuhr durch Drehen der Krone, Gangreserve 35 Std. | Laco15 auf Basis des Miyota Kaliber 9015, 24 Steine, Frequenz: 28.800 A/h, Gangabweichung -10/+20 Sekunden pro Tag | ETA 2824-2 „Swiss Made“ Automatik-Uhrwerk, 25 Steine, Frequenz: 28.800 A/h, 38 Std. Gangreserve | ETA 2892-A2 „Swiss Made“ Automatik-Uhrwerk, 21 Steine, Frequenz: 28.800 A/h, 50 Std. Gangreserve | Kaliber J800.1 basiert auf ETA 2824-2 „Swiss Made“ Automatik-Uhrwerk, 25 Steine, Frequenz: 28.800 A/h, 38 Std. Gangreserve |
| Gehäusebreite | 42 mm | 38 mm | 44 mm | 42 mm | 38 mm |
| max Gehäusehöhe | 11 mm | 10,3 mm | 8,8 mm | 10 mm | 10 mm |
| Armband | Braunes Lederarmband | Schwarzes Kalbsleder, Bandbreite 18mm, Bandanstoß: 45,6mm | Vegetabil gegerbtes Lederarmband | Schwarzes Ziegenlederarmband | Silbernes Milanaise-Armband mit Sicherheitsfaltschließe |
| Wasserdichte | 3 ATM | 5 ATM | 5 ATM | 5 ATM | 3 ATM |
| Funktionen | Stunde, Minute, Zentralsekunde, Stoppuhr, Energie Anzeige, Datum-Anzeige um 6 Uhr | Stunden, Minuten, Zentralsekunde, Datum | Einzeigeruhr, Datum | Minuten, Stunden, Datum | Stunden, Minuten, Sekunden, Datum |
Soeren, founder of MNMA
Conclusion & recommendation My TOP-3 Bauhaus watches with automatic movements
We have now presented you with different Bauhaus-style watches in different price segments. The thought of the Bauhaus was, among other things, that the reduction leads to a cost-effective production and thus everyone can afford good design. We were particularly impressed by the watches in the middle or lower price segment in terms of design and features.
Here comes our TOP 3:
Top 1: The Laco Classic Hall 40 * has the Bauhaus DNA
The design is straightforward and the focus is on high quality components and the flat movement. This makes the Classic Hall 40 the epitome of the Bauhaus style and our 1st place.
Top 2: The Iron Annie “100 Years of Bauhaus” anniversary collection * is an attractive overall package
The Iron Annie Automatic 5066-2 has a number of displays and a stop-second. With a stylish design, mineral glass and a water resistance of 5 atm, it has a great price-performance ratio and thus secures second place in our ranking
Top 3: The Botta UN * and the relaxed approach to time
The slightly higher price is definitely justified by high quality components. The technical and philosophical highlight of the watch is definitely the one-hand principle, which should lead you to slow down everyday life.
What are Bauhaus watches – type and origin
The Bauhaus was an art school founded by Walter Gropius in Weimar in 1919. In 1925 it moved to Dessau as the “Hochschule für Gestaltung”, where “Das Bauhaus” is still located today. The aim of the then new direction was to combine handicraft and art. In contrast to the “Art Deco” movement that had prevailed until then, which relied on playful forms, the Bauhaus design stood for an industrial and minimalist look. Basically, houses and furniture were designed in simple, symmetrical shapes, with the idea of reduction. “Only perfect harmony in terms of both the technical function and the proportions of the forms can produce beauty,” says Walter Gropius.
Simple symmetrical forms, straight lines and simplicity are also what characterize the Bauhaus style to this day. Watchmakers have also adopted this style. Despite the fact that clocks were perfectly suited to the Bauhaus as both functional and aesthetic objects, clocks were of no relevance during the Bauhaus era. The style was not adopted by watch manufacturers until decades later. Ladies and gentlemen’s watches in the Bauhaus style impress with their simple elegance and a subtle look, which gives them an exclusive touch. Due to the simple design, the Bauhaus watches are the perfect accessory for men and women for every style and occasion.
Danger:
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