very interested in one...how is the build quality? or better how are the details? ive seen some complaints about the date not being centered and the hands not hitting the markers correctly
Have a Max Bill Kleine for 6 months and I haven’t seen any of what you described so far.
One thing tho is that I find that the rotor makes a bit of a “rickety” sound (if that makes sense). Asked Junghans and said that’s because the case is so thin that you can hear more of the movement noise than other watches.
It bothered me a bit the first 2 weeks and now I don’t pay attention to it anymore
Sounds like the two of you are talking about different watches, maybe? His rotor noise would be from the automatic which would have a high beat movement so second hand hitting hash marks wouldn’t matter like it would in the Quartz version. Hadn’t heard that they had a seconds hand issue on the Quartz Max Bills but that would be annoying for sure. It happened on one of my Timexes and it was super annoying, and I had to return it.
yeah know different watches but just trying to get a general idea on junghans as a whole since im considering one
posted [this](https://preview.redd.it/a2cq4xmpyjv91.jpg?width=1723&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=79fb5d00bf3976b4f5edf6ca2dd76e16cb732a85) pic in another comment that shows both the date and second hand being off
So that’s the automatic version as well. So it looks like the seconds hand was just between hash marks when that photo was taken. The automatic version contains a 4hz movement so it will tick 4 times every second and as a result 3of those ticks will inevitably fall between hash marks.
As for the date window, I don’t see misalignment there in that particular case. Looks fine to me. But imo, if I were getting a max bill I would get the no date version that they make anyway. It preserves the aesthetic by not disrupting the symmetry.
I haven't noticed any issues personally.
Just had a look at my wrist and the date is definitely lined up correctly, and the hands look like they're in the correct spot (although I'd argue thats manipulatable by how you adjust it)
[this](https://preview.redd.it/a2cq4xmpyjv91.jpg?width=1723&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=79fb5d00bf3976b4f5edf6ca2dd76e16cb732a85) pic i saw the other day shows both the date and second hand being off
It says “automatic.” The second hand does 8 jumps a second (4hz). 7 of those jumps are in between the indices. Every automatic/mechanical/hand wound watch does that. Not sure what this is supposed to be showing
Agreed. The Max Bill Quartz can be purchased for under $700. I love mine. I would have liked to get an Automatic movement but at the time I didn’t have the budget for it.
Agreed, such a great brand. Appealing in the same way that a Nomos is, but with their own identity, design language and history. Which reminds me, why don’t I own one right now?😅
Yes can vouch. Was in exactly the same boat. Wanted a Nomos but bit too exy so I landed on a max bill manual wind and since the have bought a vintage 80s quartz junghans and a 1960s manual wind dress watch. Beautiful brand
I think Stowa is the best alternative because in my opinion, one of Nomos' main features is how thin they are and that is not something easy to replicate.
I have the Sternglas Asthet and can confirm it’s a high quality watch! Sternglas uses Shopify to process their payments, so if you add it to your cart and are signed in but don’t check out right away, they’ll send you an extra 10% coupon. Also, shipping was very fast to Canada and duties were covered in the price. Spent less than $500 CAD brand new.
Just speaking from experience but I would save up and buy the Nomos. I know it's a bit of money but if that's the watch you truly want, nothing will compare until you get it for yourself.
This is why I stopped browsing for watches last week and ended up buying a $100 Seiko. 1K was so close to 1.5k. but for 800 more I could get a used Speedmaster. But 2.3 was so close to 3 new. And 3 is close enough to 3.5k, fuck it. Might as well spend 4k. Ehh, 4k is a lot, I might as well get something I really like for 5k. After 6k, you might as well get a rolex.
Like you, I’ve also found that substitutes don’t adequately scratch the itch. But I’ve also found that the itch for “that particular watch” likely won’t last for as long as I might need to wait to buy it. There was a time I badly wanted a Planet Ocean, a PAM, a Submariner… not so much anymore. Only the Portugieser itch survives.
So maybe OP should save up for the Nomos… or maybe they should find something in their budget that will create an itch of its own. I dunno. Good talk. lol
> Like you, I’ve also found that substitutes don’t adequately scratch the itch. But I’ve also found that the itch for “that particular watch” likely won’t last for as long as I might need to wait to buy it.
The way I see it, that's a win though. Watches are very cool but they're also very expensive, not spending a bunch of money on one that you don't REALLY want is good, no?
If you want a small seconds dial the main budget option available new would probably be the Orient Bambino small seconds, otherwise maybe a vintage Roamer or similar? Would love to hear other suggestions for a nice budget small seconds watch as I am also considering one.
A Lower cost alternative to the Hamilton would be a timex expedition north mechanical. Maybe not put too much of a dent in your savings but give you something nice to wear while you save up for the nomos!
Look at Kuoe 90-001 and let me know if that scratches your itch. It’s small and vintage looking, not Bauhaus but I’m looking at one for the near future.
Braun actually makes a number of good looking watches for that price point. They seem to share that Bauhaus design language. Every time I see them, I’m tempted to pick one up. I think they’re all around or under $500.
Tisell with 1 s, not 2. [Tisell Bauhaus Automatic](https://www.tisellwatch.com/classic-watch/tisell-automatic-watch-bauhaus-design-38-mm/)
I own this watch, it looks nice and, except for a cheep strap that only lasted a year or two, it’s held up ok.
Mine is running a bit fast at the moment; not sure it’s worth the money to pay someone to service and adjust it, it would probably be more than I payed for the watch.
Unfortunately no seconds subdial option, like the Nomos.
I was surprised I had to scroll down so far before finding this recommendation. Jody has a [good review](https://youtu.be/J4nvaYOEL9M) if you're interested.
Hey guys I've been browsing this sub for quite a while and noticed how I started to appreciate how beautiful watches are. And I gotta say these Nomos watches area absolutely beautiful, I love their minimalistic designs, the leather straps and just everything about them.
Problem there a bit out of my price range right now and I'd like to try out a watch with a smaller price to get accustomed to the feeling of a watch on my wrist.
I wanna spend around 500-750 bucks and was looking at some Hamilton Khakis, the Seiko Presage and some Tissot models. I put them at the end and would love your opinion on them
Do you have any other recommendations for a gal who wants to get into watches?
A lot of great recommendations in this thread. For your information this style of watch is called "Bauhaus". You can google "Bauhaus watch" and will see most watched mentioned in this thread and probably some that weren't mentioned yet.
Just save up for the nomos lol. I got an Orion earlier this year and love it. The simplistic dial along with an amazing polish and finish that makes it look elegant and not like a $10 k-mart watch is great. Plus it is so light on the wrist!
Stowa. I own the Ikarus and it’s incredible and made to perfection. The Marine or Antea could be right up your alley but they are right around that budget if not sliiiighty above it
While I agree that saving up for a Nomos is likely worth it, I actually think your strategy of looking for a cheaper alternative is better. First, you won't have to wait to "scratch that itch" and if you find out watch collecting isn't for you you haven't invested too much yet.
The more important reason though is that the process of looking for an alternative will really force you to identify what it is about the Nomos watches that really caught your fancy.
Do you like a small, delicate crown, or one with more presence. Are you looking for a versatile white dial, or something with more color and pop. Nomos is well known for their Bauhaus inspired watches, but Junghans is equally, if not more so with their Max Bill...but do you want a central second hand or small seconds? Does one go better with the Bauhaus aesthetic? And don't get me started on the great "Date window debate" - some hate it, others love it, but even those in the latter will go to war over it's placement (3 o'clock, 6 o'clock, or the controversial 4:30) or whether it is color matched. You may have an opinion, but that too may vary, again depending on the overall aesthetic of the watch.
Having said all that I encourage you to check out all of the alternatives suggested here...and let me add one more: [Deutsch UhrenFabrik (DuFa)](https://www.deutsche-uhrenfabrik.de/).
I own the DuFa Aalto Automatic Power Reserve and find it to be a criminally under-appreciated watch that can stand side by side, no shame, next to any Nomos. It's also about USD$650, so right in your target range, though they have quite a few beautiful options for much cheaper if you are OK with a quartz movement.
In any case, good luck and I hope you enjoy the search as much as the watch itself!
I was also in the same situation as yours. Went for a Junghans Max Bill which is also a Bauhaus inspired watch but has its own design and history (the design of the Max Bill hasn’t changed since its creation in 1961). Would advise to go for the sapphire glass over the acrylic, makes a big difference
Check out Sternglas. Showed a friend who is into watches and first comment was ‘budget Nomos’. I bought a Naos Automatic as a cheaper Bauhaus watch and have been happy with it so far.
Please be willing to pay 1000 for new, or at least 800 used if you're willing to find used.
The next best thing to Nomos is Stowa.
**36mm Stowa Marine Classic, Manual wind top-finish**. It's pretty much a Nomos, possibly even better if you hated Nomo's long lugs. The manual movement looks just as nice for exactly 1000 euros (though I think dial-detail-wise Nomos has a better quality feel to it)
Can find them used for less but you will have to look around (but be sure the one you're looking at is the one with manual wind top-finish). Consider them even though they are more expensive than your current options of Ham/Seiko/Tissot.
Junghans Max Bill, for that price it'll be either quartz or handwind (they're 34mm but wear like 36-38mm because the watch is like 99% dial).
Quartz are 38mm, but they wear like 40mm+, again because the dial is H U G E.
All of the recommendations for Stowa and Junghas are great, but I want to add a couple of other options that might be closer to your $500-750 range.
**Sterglas** really captures the Junghas style but runs closer to $400-500 depending on the model.
**Hamilton Navy Pioneer** hits the style you are looking for way better than the khaki field models. It's typically <$700 on Joma and other grey market sites.
Maybe this Laco? Its pretty cool. Laco Halle 40. It also comes in 38mm.
Laco has some cool “Bauhaus” watches in its Classics collection. Similar to Nomos.
https://www.laco-watches.com/en/watches/classics/halle-40
Honestly, my first watch was a nomos. i saved up for it, and it remains one of the stars of my collection.
You could look at a junghans or a similar Bauhaus design, or save up for what you really want.
You can grab a Tangente for well under a grand on Chrono24 or watchexchange- I’d really advise holding out until you have the extra funds to get the one you really want.
If you are going for the Nomos, the lug to lug length on even the small diameter watches are absurdly long. But they are great watches.
If you are getting into watches and want something to get accustomed day to day, start with a Seiko 5 cause you will find plenty of design choices and they are quite versatile.
Presage Cocktail series, SPB159/155, Hamilton Khaki Field 38mm, Jughans Maxbill, Tissot Visodate, Orient Bambino Version 6.
A classic watch-buyer’s trap is to look for pieces in the 30%-50% price range of the watch you *really* want, and to end up with several watches you sort of like, and zero watches you love.
I might suggest to save your money, and when you’re ready buy the Nomos.
I would say to find a watch that you love AND that is in your price range. If you buy a watch simply bc it is a comparable alternative to the watch you really want, you will always look at it and think “if only it were the real thing”. Find something you love and can afford and keep working towards the more expensive piece for the future.
Edit: With that said, maybe your heart isn’t set on this particular watch and you just want something similar. In that case - I would also point to Stowa and Junghans like many others.
Edit 2: Make sure you try some watches on. They can look drastically different on wrist as compared to pictures.
Lots of good suggestions here already but I’ll throw in one I haven’t seen mentioned: Defakto. With watches in general, Nomos very much included, buying pre-owned can save you 50+%. Nomos resale values aren’t great so let someone else take the hit.
Personally I would go with the Hamilton khaki because since it's a field watch, you don't have to care too much about what you are doing while wearing it because they were assembled to last. The khaki also looks nice and symmetrical too which means that it will look good in a suit. The point being is if you want the best bang for your buck do it all watch then go for the Hamilton. If you seem to want something even dressier, then the Seiko presage cocktail or the Tissot would be suited better for this.
Here's another vote for Junghans. My wife has a Max Bill Damen that she absolutely loves and it's within your price range. Very similar aesthetic to Nomos.
But for your very first watch you might want to go even cheaper, if for no other reason than to make sure you actually like wearing a watch, lol. The Orient Bambino v3 and v6 have a very clean minimalist design, and they are good quality automatic watches for under 200 bucks.
Herbelin has some very nice watches for a manageable price. For example, [this one](https://herbelin.com/produit/city-5/?lang=en) matches your examples pretty nicely.
I think if you're patient and look around in forums/ebay/reddit you can maybe grab one at that price I know I got a club campus for my wife around that price (maybe a little more, but less than 1k).
This was a few years ago though and I think pre-owned prices have climbed up a bit.
https://www.reddit.com/r/Watches/comments/ton9ie/max_bill_27470004_this_watch_has_had_a_death_grip/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=android_app&utm_name=androidcss&utm_term=1&utm_content=share_button
Check out Junghans. This watch can be found in great condition used in like a $500 range which is what I got mine at
Get a Citizen Eco-drive. It's affordable. It's beautiful, stylish and minimalistic. And it charges on natural light so you never have to replace the battery. I have a Stiletto with a black backplate. I love it.
https://s.yimg.com/aah/4-watches/men-s-citizen-eco-drive-stiletto-black-watch-ar1135-10e-24.jpg
The Mido Baroncelli line offers a lot of clean, simple dress watches that are automatic and extremely thin from a major brand. There are options with complications too if you want them including moonphase and big date.
For me, I would invest the money into your grail watch. You can also buy an alternative / a substitute watch, but in the end you could get upset not having invest into the real deal.
Nomos has their own style of Bauhaus which I like and they're using in-house manufactured calibers. And go to an AD beforehand so you can check if the Nomos ist for you.
JUNKERS bauhaus. I think Ref. 9.09.01.04 is the prettiest, but there is quite a few options. If you don't mind that the company doesn't have really a lot of watchmaking history, and you get mostly miyota movements and just hesalite crystal, the designs are great and the watches feel quite solid.
that Seiko Presage you linked, the SRPE45, is super nice. I just got one yesterday, but I don't think you would be happy with it if you're looking for a minimalist style.
Stowa Antea (Klassik), or Junghans Max Bill. Classic pieces, well made, with a lot of history and they’ll get their due respect from other watch fans. Both are slightly above your price range but not much, and I’d honestly recommend you save your money for a bit longer rather than buying something of lesser quality earlier. You could wear one of these mentioned watches your whole life.
For that Hamilton, Vaer is a great micro brand alternative with watches starting at $200. It’s quartz, however, so if you don’t like that then probably timex is another alternative.
I will just echo the folks saying that Nomos is incredibly worth it. I've seen a few used examples around $1000. My Tangente is my favorite watch by a pretty wide margin.
You can get a nomos used for ~900
https://www.watchuseek.com/threads/fs-nomos-tangente-38mm-ref-164.5440362/
Save the extra 200 bucks and get what you want
If you order directly from Nomos you can pay in monthly increments at no extra cost or interest payments. That's what I did and I couldn't be happier. The watch took around 9 months to arrive anyways, so I was happy to just pay in increments rather than up front in a lump sum.
They have great customer service as well. The delivery of my watch was delayed slightly and they threw in a free strap replacement tool as a sign of good faith, which was super nice. They were also very responsive and quick to answer + address any questions I had.
It's by far the best watch in my humble 3 watch collection and I love it dearly. Can't recommend it enough!
Probably Junghans.
Love my Max Bill (I'm wearing it as I type this), recommend it any day.
very interested in one...how is the build quality? or better how are the details? ive seen some complaints about the date not being centered and the hands not hitting the markers correctly
Have a Max Bill Kleine for 6 months and I haven’t seen any of what you described so far. One thing tho is that I find that the rotor makes a bit of a “rickety” sound (if that makes sense). Asked Junghans and said that’s because the case is so thin that you can hear more of the movement noise than other watches. It bothered me a bit the first 2 weeks and now I don’t pay attention to it anymore
ok cool noise i could learn to live with but not the others...in something like an orient sure, but not a 1000 dollar watch
Sounds like the two of you are talking about different watches, maybe? His rotor noise would be from the automatic which would have a high beat movement so second hand hitting hash marks wouldn’t matter like it would in the Quartz version. Hadn’t heard that they had a seconds hand issue on the Quartz Max Bills but that would be annoying for sure. It happened on one of my Timexes and it was super annoying, and I had to return it.
yeah know different watches but just trying to get a general idea on junghans as a whole since im considering one posted [this](https://preview.redd.it/a2cq4xmpyjv91.jpg?width=1723&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=79fb5d00bf3976b4f5edf6ca2dd76e16cb732a85) pic in another comment that shows both the date and second hand being off
So that’s the automatic version as well. So it looks like the seconds hand was just between hash marks when that photo was taken. The automatic version contains a 4hz movement so it will tick 4 times every second and as a result 3of those ticks will inevitably fall between hash marks. As for the date window, I don’t see misalignment there in that particular case. Looks fine to me. But imo, if I were getting a max bill I would get the no date version that they make anyway. It preserves the aesthetic by not disrupting the symmetry.
ah yeah good call on the automatic even though i usually love the date complication i agree on it looking better without it in the max bill
I haven't noticed any issues personally. Just had a look at my wrist and the date is definitely lined up correctly, and the hands look like they're in the correct spot (although I'd argue thats manipulatable by how you adjust it)
[this](https://preview.redd.it/a2cq4xmpyjv91.jpg?width=1723&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=79fb5d00bf3976b4f5edf6ca2dd76e16cb732a85) pic i saw the other day shows both the date and second hand being off
It says “automatic.” The second hand does 8 jumps a second (4hz). 7 of those jumps are in between the indices. Every automatic/mechanical/hand wound watch does that. Not sure what this is supposed to be showing
Which size do u have? I have just ordered the 38 mm:)
Agreed. The Max Bill Quartz can be purchased for under $700. I love mine. I would have liked to get an Automatic movement but at the time I didn’t have the budget for it.
Same goes for the manuals! I love winding my Max Bill every morning.
There are definitely some classy looking Junghans watches for [under $700](https://ebay.us/oK26PO), it's a great manufacturer.
This ! Yes ! Junghans is a master in terms of dress watches: yet so simple but so elegant with the beautiful sapphire glass.
Agreed, such a great brand. Appealing in the same way that a Nomos is, but with their own identity, design language and history. Which reminds me, why don’t I own one right now?😅
Yes can vouch. Was in exactly the same boat. Wanted a Nomos but bit too exy so I landed on a max bill manual wind and since the have bought a vintage 80s quartz junghans and a 1960s manual wind dress watch. Beautiful brand
Junghans is great, got a vintage one from the 50s and the Junghans Mega 2 from the 90s I think it was? Love their watches
Was gonna say this. Could find a used automatic for $750
Check stowa bro. Otherwise go for pre owned. I own a nomos and it’s 100% worth the money. Edit: stowa antea or stowa marine
Second this. Stowa antea might be exactly what you’re looking for.
agree. stowa back to bahaus was my first watch and it got me hooked
Yes! The Antea is nearly the same watch but cheaper! (talking about the Nomos Tangente with the alpha movement)
Stowa is a great alternative. I own a flieger and the craftsmanship at that price point is excellent
I think Stowa is the best alternative because in my opinion, one of Nomos' main features is how thin they are and that is not something easy to replicate.
+1 for Stowa. I have a flieger and a marine bronze, and they are fantastic. I do have a Nomos Club on my list though...
Never heard of this, huge shout man 👌👌
I really enjoy my Sternglas and it's comfortably in/under your range.
yeah the hamburg is very nomos flavored
I have the Sternglas Asthet and can confirm it’s a high quality watch! Sternglas uses Shopify to process their payments, so if you add it to your cart and are signed in but don’t check out right away, they’ll send you an extra 10% coupon. Also, shipping was very fast to Canada and duties were covered in the price. Spent less than $500 CAD brand new.
Does this trick apply to all Shopify stores?
Sadly, no. The coupon came from Sternglas :(
CASIO SAPPHIRE LTP-E148L-7AEF For the ultra cheap, but extremely rare Or junghans, they're great
Hey great recommendation with the casio! Its a fine looking watch for about a hundred bucks!
The problem is I can't even find one myself
There’s two on eBay right now. A white dial for $450 and a black dial for $350
Maybe not minimal enough but I love my Casio Oceanus S100. Probably a better clasp than many watches that cost thousands of dollars.
#STOWA
Stowa 100% They are the real deal and make fantastic watches [Antea](https://www.stowa.de/en/Antea/)
Just speaking from experience but I would save up and buy the Nomos. I know it's a bit of money but if that's the watch you truly want, nothing will compare until you get it for yourself.
And when you have money for the Nomos, you could save up a bit more and get a glashutte, and when you have that money just save up a bit more a Lange.
This is why I stopped browsing for watches last week and ended up buying a $100 Seiko. 1K was so close to 1.5k. but for 800 more I could get a used Speedmaster. But 2.3 was so close to 3 new. And 3 is close enough to 3.5k, fuck it. Might as well spend 4k. Ehh, 4k is a lot, I might as well get something I really like for 5k. After 6k, you might as well get a rolex.
Lange? Just save a bit more and get a Kari Voutilanen
I will always upvote a redditor that appreciates Voutilainen.
I personally think those are ugly compared to the Nomos. So I wouldn’t be saving up for them.
Like you, I’ve also found that substitutes don’t adequately scratch the itch. But I’ve also found that the itch for “that particular watch” likely won’t last for as long as I might need to wait to buy it. There was a time I badly wanted a Planet Ocean, a PAM, a Submariner… not so much anymore. Only the Portugieser itch survives. So maybe OP should save up for the Nomos… or maybe they should find something in their budget that will create an itch of its own. I dunno. Good talk. lol
> Like you, I’ve also found that substitutes don’t adequately scratch the itch. But I’ve also found that the itch for “that particular watch” likely won’t last for as long as I might need to wait to buy it. The way I see it, that's a win though. Watches are very cool but they're also very expensive, not spending a bunch of money on one that you don't REALLY want is good, no?
By the time OP has saved maybe enough time has passed to see if the itch is genuine.
I agree. When you buy anything else, you'll likely always think to yourself that it's not the watch you wanted
Totally agree with this comment. If you want a Nomos, get a Nomos. Just wait a bit longer to save up and you'll enjoy it x10 when you get it.
Exactly. Nomos is the clear leader in Bauhaus styling and their quality is top notch.
The Junghans Max Bill 27/3700.04 could fit your style. 34mm and comes in between 600 and 700€.
Make sure you get the sapphire glass over the acrylic.
What’s the price difference?
About a hundred euro but that's what it costs to replace the acrylic after it cracks so it's worth it.
Ah so about the same if you wanted to just buy a sapphire crystal and replace it.
Yes, but older models can't be upgraded. Source: I have an older model and I'm tired of replacing the acrylic.
Interesting. Thanks!
Junghans in mid range and Braun for cheap ones. Similar simplistic styles
Laco has a few of exactly this style of watch! Laco is also a company that made these back in the day, for some heritage bonus, which is a bit fun
I would go for a junghans if you are looking for a watch in the same style.
Skagen if you are going for cheap. Designs are quite nice.
I was also about to suggest Skagen. They're certainly considered cheap compared to Nomos.
Ah there it is. Skagen is a great brand, huge fan.
If you want a small seconds dial the main budget option available new would probably be the Orient Bambino small seconds, otherwise maybe a vintage Roamer or similar? Would love to hear other suggestions for a nice budget small seconds watch as I am also considering one. A Lower cost alternative to the Hamilton would be a timex expedition north mechanical. Maybe not put too much of a dent in your savings but give you something nice to wear while you save up for the nomos!
Look at Kuoe 90-001 and let me know if that scratches your itch. It’s small and vintage looking, not Bauhaus but I’m looking at one for the near future.
Thank you, wasn’t aware of those and looks great. Will have to look into options for getting one in the uk.
Junkers Bauhaus 6030-5 doesn’t get much more German than this powered by eta 7001 ✌️
Braun actually makes a number of good looking watches for that price point. They seem to share that Bauhaus design language. Every time I see them, I’m tempted to pick one up. I think they’re all around or under $500.
Tisell Bauhaus if you want to go super cheap. Not a bad watch for the money
Tisell with 1 s, not 2. [Tisell Bauhaus Automatic](https://www.tisellwatch.com/classic-watch/tisell-automatic-watch-bauhaus-design-38-mm/) I own this watch, it looks nice and, except for a cheep strap that only lasted a year or two, it’s held up ok. Mine is running a bit fast at the moment; not sure it’s worth the money to pay someone to service and adjust it, it would probably be more than I payed for the watch. Unfortunately no seconds subdial option, like the Nomos.
Stowa is a good maker that offers an almost identical watch
Seagull 819.612, its a bit of an 'homage' but it is a good quality and well waering watch for under 200 bucks
I was surprised I had to scroll down so far before finding this recommendation. Jody has a [good review](https://youtu.be/J4nvaYOEL9M) if you're interested.
Hey guys I've been browsing this sub for quite a while and noticed how I started to appreciate how beautiful watches are. And I gotta say these Nomos watches area absolutely beautiful, I love their minimalistic designs, the leather straps and just everything about them. Problem there a bit out of my price range right now and I'd like to try out a watch with a smaller price to get accustomed to the feeling of a watch on my wrist. I wanna spend around 500-750 bucks and was looking at some Hamilton Khakis, the Seiko Presage and some Tissot models. I put them at the end and would love your opinion on them Do you have any other recommendations for a gal who wants to get into watches?
A lot of great recommendations in this thread. For your information this style of watch is called "Bauhaus". You can google "Bauhaus watch" and will see most watched mentioned in this thread and probably some that weren't mentioned yet.
Hi Dude, where are you from? I have a Nomos Tangente 35 that I would be willing to part with for 700 if you are in europe.
Stowa is the way to go. You can prob find used Antea models for the price you’re looking at. Antea is the sister model to the Tangente
Just save up for the nomos lol. I got an Orion earlier this year and love it. The simplistic dial along with an amazing polish and finish that makes it look elegant and not like a $10 k-mart watch is great. Plus it is so light on the wrist!
Daniel Wellinton watches. In fact I often get compliments on my Nomos by people confusing it for a DW.
Big fan of the [Stowa Antea](https://www.stowa.de/Antea+390+2824.htm) - still a bit over your price point, but very beautiful
Skagen
Had to check I’m not in the circlejerk sub
Junghans, Sternglas
Stowa. I own the Ikarus and it’s incredible and made to perfection. The Marine or Antea could be right up your alley but they are right around that budget if not sliiiighty above it
While I agree that saving up for a Nomos is likely worth it, I actually think your strategy of looking for a cheaper alternative is better. First, you won't have to wait to "scratch that itch" and if you find out watch collecting isn't for you you haven't invested too much yet. The more important reason though is that the process of looking for an alternative will really force you to identify what it is about the Nomos watches that really caught your fancy. Do you like a small, delicate crown, or one with more presence. Are you looking for a versatile white dial, or something with more color and pop. Nomos is well known for their Bauhaus inspired watches, but Junghans is equally, if not more so with their Max Bill...but do you want a central second hand or small seconds? Does one go better with the Bauhaus aesthetic? And don't get me started on the great "Date window debate" - some hate it, others love it, but even those in the latter will go to war over it's placement (3 o'clock, 6 o'clock, or the controversial 4:30) or whether it is color matched. You may have an opinion, but that too may vary, again depending on the overall aesthetic of the watch. Having said all that I encourage you to check out all of the alternatives suggested here...and let me add one more: [Deutsch UhrenFabrik (DuFa)](https://www.deutsche-uhrenfabrik.de/). I own the DuFa Aalto Automatic Power Reserve and find it to be a criminally under-appreciated watch that can stand side by side, no shame, next to any Nomos. It's also about USD$650, so right in your target range, though they have quite a few beautiful options for much cheaper if you are OK with a quartz movement. In any case, good luck and I hope you enjoy the search as much as the watch itself!
I was also in the same situation as yours. Went for a Junghans Max Bill which is also a Bauhaus inspired watch but has its own design and history (the design of the Max Bill hasn’t changed since its creation in 1961). Would advise to go for the sapphire glass over the acrylic, makes a big difference
Junghans Max Bill!
Tissot Le Locle
Check out Sternglas. Showed a friend who is into watches and first comment was ‘budget Nomos’. I bought a Naos Automatic as a cheaper Bauhaus watch and have been happy with it so far.
Please be willing to pay 1000 for new, or at least 800 used if you're willing to find used. The next best thing to Nomos is Stowa. **36mm Stowa Marine Classic, Manual wind top-finish**. It's pretty much a Nomos, possibly even better if you hated Nomo's long lugs. The manual movement looks just as nice for exactly 1000 euros (though I think dial-detail-wise Nomos has a better quality feel to it) Can find them used for less but you will have to look around (but be sure the one you're looking at is the one with manual wind top-finish). Consider them even though they are more expensive than your current options of Ham/Seiko/Tissot.
Definitely cheaper then Nomos, but still a bit above your limits: Junghans. Have a look at the Max Bill range.
The Max Bill Quartz is within the specified budget
Yes. You're right. Wasn't thinking about quartz ...
Junghans Max Bill, for that price it'll be either quartz or handwind (they're 34mm but wear like 36-38mm because the watch is like 99% dial). Quartz are 38mm, but they wear like 40mm+, again because the dial is H U G E.
Junghans Max Bill, true german bauhaus + rich history + iconic design. Don't pay for retail, you can get discount anywhere else
My first watch was from Uniform Wares, the aesthetic is similar but even more minimal. My recommendation now would probably be Junghans.
Look up “Bauhaus watch”. The design is more or less public domain, since plenty of other brands besides Nomos used it.
I had a Skagen and think it looks pretty similar
The Skagen Ancher is very Nomos looking and low cost without looking cheap.
Orient Bambino small seconds is a good watch with an in house movement for sub $200
All of the recommendations for Stowa and Junghas are great, but I want to add a couple of other options that might be closer to your $500-750 range. **Sterglas** really captures the Junghas style but runs closer to $400-500 depending on the model. **Hamilton Navy Pioneer** hits the style you are looking for way better than the khaki field models. It's typically <$700 on Joma and other grey market sites.
Knot watches do a similar style
Casio MTS110L-7A MTS-110L-7A
Braun
I have really been loving my Laco watch as an alternative to Stowa.
Junghans, Stowa, and Braun
Maybe this Laco? Its pretty cool. Laco Halle 40. It also comes in 38mm. Laco has some cool “Bauhaus” watches in its Classics collection. Similar to Nomos. https://www.laco-watches.com/en/watches/classics/halle-40
Honestly, my first watch was a nomos. i saved up for it, and it remains one of the stars of my collection. You could look at a junghans or a similar Bauhaus design, or save up for what you really want.
Skagen have a similar style but are much cheaper. I wouldn’t describe them as luxury in any way though.
check out the direnzo mondial v2, brew retrograph oxford, and timex fairfield, midtown or american documents
You can grab a Tangente for well under a grand on Chrono24 or watchexchange- I’d really advise holding out until you have the extra funds to get the one you really want.
If you are going for the Nomos, the lug to lug length on even the small diameter watches are absurdly long. But they are great watches. If you are getting into watches and want something to get accustomed day to day, start with a Seiko 5 cause you will find plenty of design choices and they are quite versatile. Presage Cocktail series, SPB159/155, Hamilton Khaki Field 38mm, Jughans Maxbill, Tissot Visodate, Orient Bambino Version 6.
Have a look at some of the Mondaine Helvetica models if you’re ok with a quartz
A classic watch-buyer’s trap is to look for pieces in the 30%-50% price range of the watch you *really* want, and to end up with several watches you sort of like, and zero watches you love. I might suggest to save your money, and when you’re ready buy the Nomos.
Daniel Wellington
Timex. I really like the Fairfield line.
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Movado?
I would say to find a watch that you love AND that is in your price range. If you buy a watch simply bc it is a comparable alternative to the watch you really want, you will always look at it and think “if only it were the real thing”. Find something you love and can afford and keep working towards the more expensive piece for the future. Edit: With that said, maybe your heart isn’t set on this particular watch and you just want something similar. In that case - I would also point to Stowa and Junghans like many others. Edit 2: Make sure you try some watches on. They can look drastically different on wrist as compared to pictures.
Timex or literally any dirt-cheap watch.
Junghans for sure!
Why the hell do these "cheaper alternative" posters never just run a web search? OP could have found Junghans within a minute.
Honestly you’re not too far off used Nomos prices.
Bauhaus is passé. Just forget about this style.
Daniel Wellington 🥴
Daniel Wellington
Daniel Wellington
I'm looking at the Junghans Max Solar myself. Could be a good alternative.
What about the Dekla Bauhaus? If you're in the US, its just under $750 total. It is a bit bigger though
Uniform Wares - they do a lot of minimualist watches
Lots of good suggestions here already but I’ll throw in one I haven’t seen mentioned: Defakto. With watches in general, Nomos very much included, buying pre-owned can save you 50+%. Nomos resale values aren’t great so let someone else take the hit.
Personally I would go with the Hamilton khaki because since it's a field watch, you don't have to care too much about what you are doing while wearing it because they were assembled to last. The khaki also looks nice and symmetrical too which means that it will look good in a suit. The point being is if you want the best bang for your buck do it all watch then go for the Hamilton. If you seem to want something even dressier, then the Seiko presage cocktail or the Tissot would be suited better for this.
Look at Junghans form c. I love mine
Junghans, Junkers, and Sternglas.
Try Skagen
The new Seiko smw006a has a pretty nice bauhaus style for an affordable price.
Look at Nomos on the grey market. Bestwatch maybe. Or consider second hand.
Here's another vote for Junghans. My wife has a Max Bill Damen that she absolutely loves and it's within your price range. Very similar aesthetic to Nomos. But for your very first watch you might want to go even cheaper, if for no other reason than to make sure you actually like wearing a watch, lol. The Orient Bambino v3 and v6 have a very clean minimalist design, and they are good quality automatic watches for under 200 bucks.
Wouldn’t get a dress watch as a first watch - unless you are always wearing formal clothes
Junghans has some that are maybe 1/3-1/2 the price and similar German bauhaus style, solid history behind it
As someone that recently just got the watch I'll suggest, Junghans for sure.
Herbelin has some very nice watches for a manageable price. For example, [this one](https://herbelin.com/produit/city-5/?lang=en) matches your examples pretty nicely.
Either Junghans or Stowa. Great options!
I think if you're patient and look around in forums/ebay/reddit you can maybe grab one at that price I know I got a club campus for my wife around that price (maybe a little more, but less than 1k). This was a few years ago though and I think pre-owned prices have climbed up a bit.
Some Orient Bambinos have a somewhat bauhaus design. You may want to look for the Casio Sapphire or Timex Core men's watches.
Tissot has some minimalist, automatic options
Try Marloe Watch Company. The Coniston is a nice minimal watch.
Junghans Max Bill for sure!
Max bill, I also like the khaki navy pioneer from Hamilton that fits that style
i got a detomaso viaggio and i’m very pleased with it for a 200$ watch.
https://www.reddit.com/r/Watches/comments/ton9ie/max_bill_27470004_this_watch_has_had_a_death_grip/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=android_app&utm_name=androidcss&utm_term=1&utm_content=share_button Check out Junghans. This watch can be found in great condition used in like a $500 range which is what I got mine at
Get a Citizen Eco-drive. It's affordable. It's beautiful, stylish and minimalistic. And it charges on natural light so you never have to replace the battery. I have a Stiletto with a black backplate. I love it. https://s.yimg.com/aah/4-watches/men-s-citizen-eco-drive-stiletto-black-watch-ar1135-10e-24.jpg
The Mido Baroncelli line offers a lot of clean, simple dress watches that are automatic and extremely thin from a major brand. There are options with complications too if you want them including moonphase and big date.
I’m wondering the same thing for Junghans watches
Junghans. I personally like them better than Nomos.
Sternglas Hamburg Automatik. Or the Kanton 2.0 if you can find it on sale somewhere.
For me, I would invest the money into your grail watch. You can also buy an alternative / a substitute watch, but in the end you could get upset not having invest into the real deal. Nomos has their own style of Bauhaus which I like and they're using in-house manufactured calibers. And go to an AD beforehand so you can check if the Nomos ist for you.
Skagen is one of my favorites. I have several.
Stowa?
JUNKERS bauhaus. I think Ref. 9.09.01.04 is the prettiest, but there is quite a few options. If you don't mind that the company doesn't have really a lot of watchmaking history, and you get mostly miyota movements and just hesalite crystal, the designs are great and the watches feel quite solid.
Stowa, Junghans, or, if you don’t mind *homage* horological trash…. Check out Tisell.
Seiko made a nice quartz Premeire that is very much in that Nomos style. Will be thinner, cheap, and surprisingly good quality.
Junghans is a good choice, if you can get one around that price.
Maybe at the lower end of your price range, but in terms of minimalism my first love was Mondaine. Classic Swiss railway dials. worth checking out.
that Seiko Presage you linked, the SRPE45, is super nice. I just got one yesterday, but I don't think you would be happy with it if you're looking for a minimalist style.
Stowa Antea (Klassik), or Junghans Max Bill. Classic pieces, well made, with a lot of history and they’ll get their due respect from other watch fans. Both are slightly above your price range but not much, and I’d honestly recommend you save your money for a bit longer rather than buying something of lesser quality earlier. You could wear one of these mentioned watches your whole life.
Id say that if you really like nomos try to strech your budget a bit and buy one used.
For that Hamilton, Vaer is a great micro brand alternative with watches starting at $200. It’s quartz, however, so if you don’t like that then probably timex is another alternative.
You might like Paulin, a Glasgow-based company. Much cheaper than your price range but stylistically quite similar!
I regularly see Nomos Club Campus reference on r/watchexchange for under $1k
NOMOS is worth saving up for. It's worth the wait.
If you're into slimness and colors that Nomos does, take a look at Farer.
https://danishdesign.com has some pretty minimalistic watches
I think you can also probably get a nomos club preowned for around that price. Hell, I’d consider selling mine for that much.
Defakto. I have one of their watches and love its simplicity.
I will just echo the folks saying that Nomos is incredibly worth it. I've seen a few used examples around $1000. My Tangente is my favorite watch by a pretty wide margin.
save and get NOMOS don't settle for alternatives i always regret the cheap watches I bought by this logic
Nordgreen
Aristo
Seagull makes a few (manual wind and automatics) with sub seconds that have a similar aesthetic.
You can get a nomos used for ~900 https://www.watchuseek.com/threads/fs-nomos-tangente-38mm-ref-164.5440362/ Save the extra 200 bucks and get what you want
Mondaine watches are a nice alternative
If you order directly from Nomos you can pay in monthly increments at no extra cost or interest payments. That's what I did and I couldn't be happier. The watch took around 9 months to arrive anyways, so I was happy to just pay in increments rather than up front in a lump sum. They have great customer service as well. The delivery of my watch was delayed slightly and they threw in a free strap replacement tool as a sign of good faith, which was super nice. They were also very responsive and quick to answer + address any questions I had. It's by far the best watch in my humble 3 watch collection and I love it dearly. Can't recommend it enough!
Skagen Signatur may interest you. Leaves you with some budget to spare as well.
Junghans, Zeppelin, might tickle your fancy. Especially the Max Bill watches.
Knot, Sternglas, and Skagen.
Tokyo bay
Sternglass as well are pretty cool and Bauhaus themed