Leica’s $6,775 ZM 11 Watch is Inspired by Light and Shadow
Leica has announced the ZM 11, a stylish luxury watch that channels Leica’s legendary photographic reputation and builds upon Leica’s other watches, including the ZM 1 and ZM2 models inspired by the Leica M11 Monochrom and the Leica L1 and L2 timepieces released last year.
“The Leica ZM 11 is a testament to our profound photographic legacy, reflecting our iconic design language along with other hallmarks of our esteemed camera heritage. The ZM 11 bridges the craftsmanship of watchmaking with the essence of photography, promising a new perspective from every angle,” explains Leica.
Among the highlights of the ZM 11 is Leica’s proprietary Easy-Change locking strap system, a “technical replica” of Leica’s camera lens change system, allowing the wearer to quickly swap between different watch straps to fit their selected activity. Available strap options include stainless steel, titanium, rubber, and fabric. To release the attached strap, users press the signature red dot on the watch’s underside.
The top of the watch is also especially impressive from an aesthetic perspective. The face incorporates a dual-layered dial that uses a grill to create a gradient effect depending on the user’s perspective and angle. The watch even changes its apparent hue as it is moved.
Of course, no company can artfully describe its products quite like Leica. “The brushed indexes are accentuated by gleaming edges and luminous Super-Luminova A1 filling. The hands, exquisitely diamond-cut and subtly faceted, blend deep brushed and sandblasted finishes, striking a balance between clarity and aesthetic allure. A black ring, echoing the esteemed lens artistry of Leica, nestles between the glass and bezel, letting light gracefully traverse the dial. Every meticulous detail reflects Leica’s iconic design language and the remarkable expertise and passion of our specialist partners,” the company explains.
The watch’s movement is powered by the Leica Calibre LA-3001, built in collaboration with Swiss watch movement developer Chronode. The Swiss-made movement has sandblasted bridges and brushed chamfers and sports a Ruthenium plating to deliver a “modern and distinctive touch.”
The self-winding movement operates at 28,800 beats per hour and features 35 jewels. It promises extreme accuracy and has a 60-hour power reserve.
The Leica ZM 11 is a 41mm watch available in three dial colors, Launch Edition (black and red colorway), Coffee Black (brown gradient with gold accents), or Midnight Blue (blue dial with white accents). The watch is water resistant to 100 meters, and the front sapphire promises durability.
The Leica ZM 11’s decidedly modern yet sporty style does not come cheap. Pricing starts at $6,775 and can cost as much as $8,150, depending on the selected watch and strap. While the ZM 11 is pricey, it is worth noting that the Leica ZM 2 released earlier this year starts at $15,500. Leica says the ZM 11 will be available at select Leica Stores in November.
Image credits: Leica
