When it comes to fine German watchmaking, few names command the same level of respect and admiration as Glashütte Original. Renowned for unparalleled craftsmanship and attention to detail, the name Glashütte conjures images of refined elegance and precision. No watch better exemplifies their ethos than their signature PanoMaticLunar, a dress watch with multiple complications that packs a whole lot of fine horology into a surprisingly reasonably priced package.
The History of Glashütte
The origins of Glashütte Original trace back to the town of Glashütte, located in the Ore Mountains of Germany. In 1845, local watchmaker Ferdinand Adolph Lange, founded the "Glashütte Watchmaking Company." Over time, Glashütte developed into a watchmaking center, and by the late 19th century, several other renowned watchmakers had set up shop in the area. However, in the 20th century, the focus shifted to mass production, and the level of craftsmanship and innovation that had characterized Glashütte's watchmaking heritage was compromised.
The fall of the Berlin Wall and the reunification of Germany heralded a new era for Glashütte's watchmaking. In the years following, a new generation of watchmakers and entrepreneurs attempted to restore Glashütte's reputation for fine watchmaking. One of the brands that emerged from this era is Glashütte Original, founded in 1994.
Now, let's dive into the watch that has emerged as their signature, the PanoMaticLunar.
The Dial
One of the most striking features of the PanoMaticLunar is its dial. The time display is split into two overlapping sub-dials, the larger one with the hour and minute hands in delicate blue steel and hand-applied indices, and the smaller one with the second hand in blue steel and printed time markers. Both dials feature engraved concentric circles that add a subtle depth. However, the true star of the show is the moon phase indicator, an elegant crescent-shaped cutaway with a blue steel indicator that immediately catches the eye despite its relatively small size. Finally, the typically German 'Panorama Date' window completes the look. The two digits of the date are executed as concentric discs, a smaller inner disc with the digits 0-3 and a larger outer disc with 0-9. This unique design allows both digits to lie on the same plane, separated only by the small curved space between the dials.
The Movement
Visible through the clear case back is the other striking feature of this watch: the Glashütte caliber 90-02, an in-house automatic movement. This is one of the most finely finished and visually sumptuous movements out there, especially at the PanoMaticLunar's relatively attainable price point of just over $10,000. One of its most distinctive features is its skeletonized rotor with a gold double-G logo and 21-karat gold oscillation weight that sits in a mesmerizing recessed channel studded with jewels and blue screws. Underneath the three-quarter plate is the stunning hand-engraved balance bridge, with Glashütte's signature duplex-swan-neck fine adjustment. If you're a horological enthusiast, these details are mouthwatering, and even if you're not, the intricate craftsmanship and exquisite design on display in the PanoMaticLunar are apparent to anyone.
In the world of fine watchmaking, the Glashütte PanomaticLunar is a true work of art that encapsulates the essence of German precision, craftsmanship, and design. Whether you're an avid collector or simply someone who appreciates the finer things in life, the Glashütte PanomaticLunar is an instant classic that is sure to start a conversation. At a price point just over $10,000, it's also one of the best-value watches within the high-end segment of the market, with a level of detail and finishing that usually isn't found for much, much more.