Leica Dives Into Horology With Clever L1 and L2 Models

Leica Dives Into Horology With Clever L1 and L2 Models

Published: June 23, 2018 | By: American Luxury Staff

Leica cameras are exquisitely built, tough-as-nails, and utilitarian. The German camera company just presented the products of its first foray into the world of haute horology, and the timepieces don’t fall far from the tree.

Leica brought designer Achim Heine on board to develop the pieces. The watches boast the same level of craftsmanship displayed in the brand’s stellar cameras, and, in classic Leica style, are as unpretentiously named as prototypes: L1 and L2.

Both pieces boast 41mm stainless steel cases and similarly utilitarian designs. While the L1 is the more basic model, the L2 features a day/night indicator and rotating bezel. The hand-winding movements are sourced from machinery company Lehmann Präzision, the company Leica has turned to for years for camera components.

The circular dial on both models is accented with a power reserve indicator aperture, and a separate button dedicated to setting the date. A push-piece crown for initiating time-setting mode; most mechanical watches feature a crown that is pulled out and turned, so that is a unique departure from the norm, and reflects the thoughtfulness of design that is the hallmark of the company.

The L1 and L2 are vailable at select Leica stores, and start at around $11,600.

2439 June 23, 2018 Men, Watches June 23, 2018