The Bauhaus design principle of “form follows function” has left an indelible mark on modern aesthetics, and nowhere is this more elegantly expressed than in watchmaking. Bauhaus watches champion minimalist dials, clean typography, and a complete absence of superfluous decoration. The result is timeless wristwear that prioritizes clarity and legibility, proving that true style is often found in simplicity.
This curated selection celebrates the enduring legacy of Bauhaus design across a spectrum of brands and price points. From accessible quartz models that capture the essence of the style to high-end mechanical timepieces where German engineering meets artistic purity, there is a Bauhaus-inspired watch for every enthusiast. We have compiled a range of options that honor the movement’s core tenets while offering distinct personalities and features.
Our Curated Selection of Bauhaus Watches
- Bulova Men’s Classic Rectangle 2-Hand Quartz Watch
- Graf Zeppelin LZ129 Hindenburg Automatic Watch
- Nomos Tangente 38 Galvanized White Silver-Plated Dial
- Nomos AHOI Atlantik Datum Automatic Atlantic Blue Dial
- Bauhaus Men’s Aviation Automatic Watch Black
- Zeppelin Uhr 100 Jahre Chronograph Alarm Leuchtblatt
- Laco Watch Pilot Automatic Movement Augsburg Men’s
- Braun Mens Chronograph with Date Analogue Quartz Watch
- FEICE Bauhaus Mechanical Watch Men’s Analog Waterproof
- Sternglas Naos Automatic Watch with Leather Strap
Bulova Men’s Classic Rectangle 2-Hand Quartz Watch
The Bulova Classic Rectangle watch draws inspiration from vintage Art Deco and Bauhaus design, offering a tailored and understated look. Its distinctive rectangular case, paired with a two-tone black ion-plated stainless steel finish, creates a sophisticated and versatile profile. The minimalist two-hand dial ensures excellent legibility without any distracting elements.
Powered by a reliable quartz movement, this watch prioritizes accuracy and low-maintenance wear. It’s an ideal choice for someone seeking a dress watch that bridges the gap between classic inspiration and modern reliability. This timepiece proves that accessible watches can still capture the refined essence of Bauhaus principles.
Graf Zeppelin LZ129 Hindenburg Automatic Watch
This Graf Zeppelin timepiece combines Bauhaus clarity with the intricate appeal of a mechanical movement. The clean, white dial features subtle railroad minute tracks and elegant blued steel hands, while the power reserve and 24-hour subdials add functional complexity without cluttering the aesthetic. It is a watch that respects tradition while offering modern horological features.
The automatic movement means it is powered by the motion of your wrist, eliminating the need for a battery. Paired with a high-quality leather strap, this watch offers a fantastic entry into the world of German automatic watches, providing both visual interest and mechanical sophistication.
Nomos Tangente 38
The Nomos Tangente 38 is often considered a quintessential modern Bauhaus watch. Its galvanized white silver-plated dial is a masterpiece of minimalism, featuring crisp, printed numerals and slender, needle-like hands. The 38mm case diameter offers a classic, versatile size that works well on a variety of wrists.
Protected by a highly scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, the dial remains pristine over time. Housed within is a meticulously finished in-house manual-wind movement, a testament to Nomos Glashütte’s watchmaking prowess. This is a timepiece for the purist who appreciates impeccable design and top-tier German engineering.
Nomos AHOI Atlantik Datum Automatic
The Nomos AHOI Atlantik presents a more robust and sporty take on the brand’s signature Bauhaus design. The captivating Atlantic blue dial provides a rich, deep color while maintaining the clean, legible aesthetics the brand is known for. It includes a practical date function, seamlessly integrated at the 3 o’clock position.
As a watch with 200 meters of water resistance, the AHOI is built for adventure without compromising on style. It features a secure crown system and a highly legible dial, making it a sophisticated yet capable tool watch. This model demonstrates how Bauhaus principles can be adapted for an active lifestyle.
Bauhaus Men’s Aviation Automatic Watch
This watch from the brand “Bauhaus” directly embraces its design heritage with a focus on clean, pilot-style legibility. The black dial features large, contrasting numerals and a simple minute track, ensuring time can be read at a quick glance. The stainless steel case and black leather strap create a classic, utilitarian look.
It is equipped with an automatic movement, offering the appeal of a self-winding mechanical watch at an accessible level. This model is an excellent choice for those who appreciate the straightforward, functional design of flieger watches, which share the Bauhaus philosophy of purpose-driven design.
Zeppelin Uhr 100 Jahre Chronograph Alarm
The Zeppelin 100 Jahre Chronograph is a feature-rich timepiece that blends vintage aesthetics with modern functionality. Its white dial, with a subtle textured finish, houses multiple complications including a chronograph, an alarm, and a date window, all arranged in a balanced and harmonious layout.
Made in Germany, this watch reflects decades of watchmaking expertise from the Ruhla region. The combination of useful features like a stopwatch and an alarm with its classic design makes it a standout piece for those who value both form and a wide range of functions in their timepiece.
Laco Watch Pilot Automatic Augsburg
Laco is a brand with a rich history rooted in the design of German pilot’s watches, a genre that shares the Bauhaus emphasis on function. The Augsburg model features the iconic flieger dial: a stark, black face with highly legible Arabic numerals and a clean, uncluttered layout.
Powered by a reliable automatic movement and offering 5 ATM water resistance, this watch is built for daily wear. It represents a piece of horological history, delivering the authentic, no-nonsense tool watch aesthetic that is perfectly aligned with a utilitarian design philosophy.
Braun Mens Chronograph with Date
Braun is a brand synonymous with the functional design principles of Dieter Rams, a spiritual successor to the Bauhaus school. This chronograph exemplifies this with its stark, black dial, clear typography, and logical layout of subdials. The iconic yellow chronograph hand provides a subtle but effective splash of color for improved functionality.
The 40mm matte black stainless steel case is lightweight and comfortable. As a quartz chronograph, it offers precise timekeeping and stopwatch functions with minimal maintenance. This watch is a modern icon of minimalist and user-centered design.
FEICE Bauhaus Mechanical Watch
The FEICE watch offers an incredible value proposition for enthusiasts seeking an automatic mechanical watch with a pure Bauhaus design. Its dial is a study in minimalism, featuring only essential hour markers and hands without any extra decoration. The unique 2.5D domed mirror enhances the visual depth of the watch.
Through its transparent case back, you can observe the intricate automatic movement with its 28 jewels at work. This feature adds a layer of mechanical fascination to the clean-faced design. It is an ideal entry point into the world of automatic watches for those who admire the Bauhaus style.
Sternglas Naos Automatic Watch
The Sternglas Naos is a contemporary German timepiece that fully embraces the Bauhaus ethos. It features a perfectly round, polished stainless steel case that houses a stunningly simple dial. The dial uses fine lines and understated numerals to achieve a look that is both modern and timeless.
Powered by a reliable automatic movement, the Naos offers the satisfaction of mechanical watch ownership. Paired with a high-quality leather strap, it presents a cohesive and sophisticated package. This watch is for the individual who seeks a minimalist design that doesn’t compromise on quality or presence.
How to Choose a Bauhaus Watch
When I first started looking at Bauhaus watches, I was drawn in by their clean look, but I quickly realized there’s more to them than just a simple dial. The philosophy of “form follows function” is the heart of it. This means every element on the watch has a purpose, with no unnecessary decoration. If you’re thinking about getting one, here’s what I focus on to find a good one.
The dial is the main event. Look for a clean, uncluttered layout. You’ll typically see thin, applied stick indices or simple painted markers. The hands are often slender, leaf-shaped, or needle-thin to match the minimalist aesthetic. A small seconds sub-dial is a common feature, adding a touch of classic watchmaking without complicating the view. True to Bauhaus principles, the color palette is usually restrained. Think white, black, silver, or a soft cream. A splash of color might appear on a seconds hand, but it’s always deliberate and functional, not just for show.
Next, consider the case. Bauhaus watches are generally not bulky statement pieces. They tend to have slim profiles that slide easily under a shirt cuff. The cases are often simple and polished, with a focus on elegant proportions rather than intricate detailing. The size is important too; a classic diameter for a dress watch, like 38mm to 40mm, often works best to maintain that balanced, understated look on the wrist.
The type of movement is a big factor in the price. You can find fantastic 10 Bauhaus watches (From Budget to Luxury Picks) with reliable Japanese or Swiss automatic movements that won’t break the bank. As you move into the luxury tier, you’re paying for in-house manufactured movements, which are engineered, decorated, and assembled to a much higher standard. For the ultimate in slimness, some brands use quartz movements, which is a perfectly functional choice that stays true to the minimalist ideal.
Finally, don’t forget the strap. A black or brown leather strap is the classic partner for a Bauhaus watch, reinforcing its elegant and timeless character. However, a Milanese mesh bracelet can add a cool, modern touch, while a suede strap offers a more casual feel. The beauty of this style is its versatility. A great Bauhaus watch can be your go-to for the office, a formal event, or a weekend outing, all because of its foundational simplicity and focus on pure design.
FAQ
What exactly defines a “Bauhaus” watch?
It all comes from the Bauhaus school of art and design from early 20th-century Germany. The core idea was that an object’s design should be primarily based on its function. For a watch, this means a strict focus on legibility and simplicity. You’ll see a clean dial with no extra decoration, high-contrast colors for easy reading, and thin, precise markers and hands. It’s the opposite of a busy, complicated dive watch or a highly ornate dress watch. The beauty is in the pure, unadorned utility.
Are Bauhaus watches only for formal occasions?
Not at all. While they absolutely excel as dress watches, their inherent simplicity makes them incredibly versatile. I wear my own with a suit for work, but I also pair it with a simple t-shirt and jeans on the weekend. The minimalist design doesn’t clash with casual clothing; it just looks clean and intentional. Swapping the leather strap for a NATO or a perlon strap can instantly make it feel even more laid-back.
Why is there such a huge price range for these watches?
The price jump comes down to a few key things. First is the movement. Budget-friendly options use reliable, mass-produced mechanical or quartz movements. Luxury brands often manufacture their own movements in-house, with incredible finishing and precision, which costs a lot more. Second is the materials—moving from stainless steel to precious metals or using a sapphire crystal case back adds expense. Finally, you’re paying for brand heritage, design pedigree, and a higher level of hand-finishing. This is why you can find a great list of 10 Bauhaus watches (From Budget to Luxury Picks) that covers all price points.
Which brands are most known for the Bauhaus style?
Certain brands are synonymous with this look. Nomos Glashütte is a giant in the modern Bauhaus world, known for its in-house movements and crisp designs. Junghans is another key name, famously collaborating with Bauhaus designer Max Bill. For the originals and the ultimate in luxury, A. Lange & Söhne represents the pinnacle. On the more accessible end, brands like Sternglas, Junkers, and even certain models from Tissot offer fantastic entry points into the style.
Is a small seconds sub-dial a required feature?
No, it’s a very common feature but not a strict requirement. The small seconds, placed at 6 o’clock, is a classic element that adds visual interest and a nod to traditional watchmaking without complicating the dial. However, many pure Bauhaus designs opt for a central seconds hand because it’s the most direct and functional way to display that information. Both approaches are perfectly valid within the philosophy.
Can I get a good, affordable Bauhaus watch?
Absolutely. The beauty of a design philosophy based on simplicity is that it can be executed well at almost any price point. You don’t need expensive complications or ornate engravings. Many microbrands and established affordable brands create excellent watches with clean dials, reliable Japanese movements, and solid construction that perfectly capture the Bauhaus spirit without requiring a luxury budget.