Nomos Orion "1989" 38mm (2015)

[pdpmojo]

Introduced in the fall of 2014, the Nomos Orion 1989 celebrates the 25th year of the fall of the Berlin Wall (November 9, 1989). Two months afterwards, in 1990, the Nomos Glashutte brand was born.



The Dial:
The first thing that catches your eye is the dial. They call it "November gray" and I've had it on the wrist for a week now and I still find myself staring at what seems like a sea of gray. I can't put my finger on what it is about the color (matte) and the texture (like eggshell) but it's truly something. The indices are yellow gold but almost look like rose gold. Contrast is good and the hands are easily discernible. There's no luminous material anywhere on the dial, but then again, its not that kind of watch. Simple and elegant, perfect for the less hectic days.



The Movement:
Beating behind the sapphire case back is Nomos' in house constructed (but not designed) alpha movement. A 17 jewel manual wind featuring a three quarter plate and Glashutte stop. The latter producing some of the most satisfying winding feedback that I've ever felt on any watch (PP included). It's a click click click sensation so crisp and Germanic that I encourage you to try for yourself if you don't believe me. The finishing is typical Nomos, or in other words, detailed and elaborate. This is a definite case of business in the front and party in the back.



The Strap:
The Orion 1989 comes equipped with a suede strap labeled on the underside only "Nomos Glashutte" and "allerglegeschutzt HANDMADE IN GERMANY." The strap is thick and extremely comfortable, I actually prefer it to the Horween shell cordovans normally supplied with other Nomos watches.



Wearability:
This is one watch that simply disappears on the wrist. By a large margin, this is the thinnest watch I have ever owned. It is dressy but it doesn't look out of place with a pair of jeans and sweater. The suede strap makes this one quite versatile.



Conclusion:
An excellent addition to my collection and yours. It's not for your diving days or flying days. You won't strap this piece on to drive 100 mph at the Nürburgring or walk on the moon (though there's nothing stopping you). It's not concerned with the time in China, today's date or the current phase of the moon. It's the perfect watch for your less hectic days. Cheers.