NOMOS’ impressive lineup grows by one more, thanks to the addition of a new dial variation of the Ahoi Neomatik 38 Date.
Glashütte-based NOMOS has been on an underrated yet undeniable roll this year. Though their releases aren’t quite as bombastic as other brands, they don’t need to be. NOMOS’ Bauhaus aesthetic speaks for itself – simple, yet effective – and when it doesn’t, then they add a spin on it. For example, how many watch brands have you seen release 31 limited editions at the same time? NOMOS has.
Related reading: NOMOS Glashütte Releases 31 New Limited Editions (Yes, Really)
While the expansion of the Ahoi line is nothing mind-blowing, the reputation that NOMOS upholds is close to such a description in terms of both aesthetics and tech specs for the price point. Last year, the Ahoi Neomatik 38 Date collection debuted in two colours celebrating the summer, aptly named Sand and Sky. This year, the duo becomes a trio with the introduction of the Atlantic colourway.
Originally coming in the Ahoi Neomatik 38 (no date) lineup, the Atlantic colourway (and textile strap to match) is a tasteful yet professionally legible combination of deep blue (representing the ocean), contrasted by beige indexes, orange small second hand, and the thin white minute track and Arabic numerals. The white hands, lumed alongside the indexes, are also in a simple baton style. The large date window, visible with white text, is also colour-matched, giving me and other colour-matched date wheel purists immense satisfaction.
The date wheel also comes with a patented quick-set date system thanks to the in-house calibre DUW6101 automatic movement. Visible through the display case back, the movement beats at a respectable 3Hz (21,600VpH) backed by a 42h power reserve. A completely in-house calibre at this price point is incredibly respectable, especially since NOMOS has also managed to manufacture their own escapement and balance bridge, even adjusting the watch to operate within Chronometer specifications.
All of this is protected by the Ahoi’s robust 200m water resistance and screw-down crown. NOMOS apparently thinks of everything, however, as not only is the crown protected by adjacent crown guards, but when unscrewed a red warning ring can be easily seen, allowing the user to make a quick adjustment before it’s too late.
Final Thoughts
NOMOS Glashütte’s new addition to their summer lineup has once again got me confused. This brand seems to have it all – an identifiable aesthetic, the in-house calibre with patented components, and an arsenal that could rival some of the best-established brands in the world. As I’ve said before, you have to be in the right mindset to be able to enjoy the Bauhaus aesthetic, but you can’t deny that NOMOS is excellent at what they do, no matter what you think of the design.
Adding the Atlantic colourway should only serve to refine the Ahoi lineup, and may honestly be a shoo-in for one of the most well-made GADA watches at the price point. AU$ 5,780 is exceptional for what they bring to the table, and I hope this brings but a few more eyes towards the level of excellence that NOMOS consistently operates at.
Reference: 518
Specification:
- Case Size: 38.5mm case diameter, 48.7mm lug to lug
- Case Thickness: 9.8mm
- Case Material: Stainless steel
- Dial: Atlantic – Deep blue with orange, beige, and white accents
- Movement: In-House automatic Cal. DUW 6101 movement, 3Hz (21,600VpH)
- Power Reserve: Approx. 42hours
- Water Resistance: 200m (20 bar)
- Crystal: Sapphire on front and case back
- Strap/Bracelet: Blue textile strap with steel pin buckle
