Introduced in 2018, the Nomos Autobahn is a distinctive timepiece from one of the leading Glashütte watch companies. Known for its automotive-inspired design, the Nomos Autobahn fuses sporty, modern aesthetics with minimalist elegance and functionality. The daring design approach of the Nomos Autobahn sets it apart while maintaining fidelity to Nomos’ signature Bauhaus ethos.
Created in partnership with the esteemed industrial designer Werner Aisslinger, it embodies the sleek, aerodynamic contours reminiscent of high-speed automobiles and the classic charm of vintage dashboard instruments.
Its name, “Autobahn,” reflects the high-performance nature found on the famous German highways known for their sections with unrestricted speed limits.
Design - 44 / 100
The Nomos Autobahn is a new design in the German Bauhaus watch catalogue. Its striking aesthetic sets it apart from other Nomos watches as well as competitor models. With visually captivating and functional details, this watch commands attention.
The curvature of the dial is a standout feature, which gives the Nomos Autobahn a three-dimensional effect. Similarly, a slightly recessed subdial adds further depth. To reinforce the Autobahn theme, the date complication at 6 o’clock resembles a three-lane motorway. Each of the 3 limited edition models is also named after a major German autobahn: A3, A7, A9. However, the real showstopper on the dial are the 8 lume blocks displayed in a 240-degree arc from 8 to 4 o’clock – symbolising sunset to sunrise. Besides looking epic in the dark, it also makes the Nomos Autobahn the perfect companion for a late-night drive.
There is a good variety of dial colours, in non-limited and limited variants. All have identical polished stainless steel cases with thin polished bezel. A display case back reveals a beautifully decorated DUW 6101 calibre. Limited editions feature engraved case backs with individual numbering, as well as dedicated bracelets. Normal versions get a choice of textile or metal straps which Nomos generally offers for its watches. The silver dial version struggles with dial-to-hand contrast, particularly on the hour hand. Other versions provide better contrast with darker dials and contrasting hands. Overall, the Nomos Autobahn maintains excellent proportions, stays true to Bauhaus design principles, offers a balance of form, function, and automotive inspiration.
Utility - 42 / 100
Nomos Neomatik calibre DUW 6101 is a self-winding mechanical movement with an integrated date complication. It includes hacking seconds for precise time-setting and a quick-set date mechanism for easy adjustments. With no functional bezel, there is no clutter on the dial making it very easy to read. The three-day date window, a distinctive feature, may require a moment’s focus compared to a traditional single-date display—keep your eyes on the middle number!
Both the front and back of the Autobahn are protected by sapphire crystal, with the domed front crystal featuring an anti-reflective coating for enhanced clarity. A 100-metre water resistance is a welcome feature and provides confidence for everyday wear and occasional water exposure – splash, shower or swim.
In low-light conditions, the luminous hour hand and eight lume blocks provide exceptional legibility, which sets the Nomos Autobahn apart from competitors. When fully charged, these luminous elements create an unmistakable night-time display and reinforce its automotive inspiration.
Nomos positions the Autobahn as a premium timepiece, reflected in both its build quality and pricing. The Director’s Cut editions are especially exclusive, with only 175 pieces per variant, totalling 525 watches across the collection.
Offered with a textile strap as standard with a pin and steel buckle closure or one of 2 optional steel bracelet designs with a locking clasp for added security. The Director’s Cut versions receive dedicated stainless-steel bracelets. As one of the larger Nomos watches, at 41 mm diameter, 10.5 mm height and 59.6 mm lug-to-lug, its size should not be underestimated. Despite having a normal diameter for a modern watch, its length can definitely affect who can wear it comfortably.
Ultimately, the Nomos Autobahn delivers essential functionality while staying true to minimalist principles. It prioritises clean aesthetics and modern simplicity over complex utility, making it a compelling choice for those who appreciate design-driven horology and a unique German Bauhaus watch.
Craft - 44 / 100
The Nomos Autobahn upholds the high standards of craftsmanship expected from any Glashütte watchmaker. It blends modern construction and materials with traditional finishing. Some elements are signature Glashütte finishes like the rhodium-plated surfaces, perlage finish and Glashütte ribbing, blue tempered screws, as well as golden engravings on the rotor.
At the heart of the Autobahn is the in-house DUW 6101 Neomatik calibre, with 21,600 beats per hour (3 Hz), 27 jewels and 42 hours of power reserve. Unlike standard date movements, DUW 6101 integrates the date complication on the outside of the movement. While this increases overall diameter, it reduces thickness considerably. First introduced with the Autobahn, the DUW 6101 is an evolution rather than a revolution, aligning with Nomos’ philosophy of movement consistency across its range. It is engineered for reliability, precision, and easy servicing through the Nomos global dealer network. Built to match or exceed Chronometer standards of precision, it ensures high accuracy and long-term dependability.
There are a total of 6 possible dial configurations, including 3 limited editions.
- Ref 1301 – silver-plated dial, white lume blocks, orange accent hands
- Ref 1301.S1 “Director’s Cut A3” – white dial, orange lume blocks, blue accent hands (limited 175 units)
- Ref 1301.S2 “Director’s Cut A7” – dark blue dial, yellow lume blocks, red accent hands (limited 175 units)
- Ref 1301.S3 “Director’s Cut A9” – black dial, black lume blocks, red accent hands (limited 175 units)
- Ref 1302 “Midnight” – blue dial, white lume blocks, orange accent hands
- Ref 1303 “Sports” – grey dial, blue lume blocks, orange accent hands
Included with the limited edition Nomos Autobahn Director’s Cut was an exclusive steel bracelet design. Although the cases are exclusively polished stainless steel, the combination of dial colours, lume variations, and strap choices ensures a good level of customisation. Super-Luminova blocks available in a few different colours is a unique feature specific to the Nomos Autobahn. A playful departure from the usual understated minimalist style.
As always, Nomos watches prioritise meticulous craftsmanship, attention to detail, and engineering excellence—blending Glashütte’s watchmaking heritage with bold, modern design.
Value - 42 / 100
Nomos offers the Autobahn Neomatik 41 Date at around €4000 with a 2-year all-inclusive warranty. On the pre-owned market, prices typically range between €3,000 and €5,000, depending on condition, configuration, and completeness of the set. Given the depreciation from retail, buyers may find better value purchasing second-hand, unless they prefer the peace of mind that comes with a first ownership and factory warranty.
Among the standard editions, the silver dial variant (Ref. 1301) appears to be rarer but often sells for less. Meanwhile, the “Sports” grey and “Midnight” blue dials are highly desirable and more commonly available. When it comes to the Director’s Cut limited editions, all three models hold their value exceptionally well – with Ref 1301.S1 version (A3 white dial) proving the hardest to find.
The Nomos Autobahn faces tough competition from other brands offering more complications, higher-end materials or more prestige at this price point. While the craftsmanship and design are excellent, the cost may be high for some. While the Nomos Autobahn excels in accuracy, legibility, and unique design, its €4,000 price tag places it among competitors offering more complications, premium materials, or stronger brand prestige. To stay within the Nomos family, plenty other models have similar functions (automatic + date) but are more affordable. Some even use the same DUW 6101 calibre! However, no other model has the visual impact a Nomos Autobahn offers.
A key piece within Nomos watches, it introduced an innovative design, the DUW 6101 calibre, and the notable collaboration with designer Werner Aisslinger. It’s rare that a model with no predecessor is released as a first-of-its-kind and is instantly recognised as such. As Nomos evolves further, a first-generation Autobahn is already a piece of German Glashütte watchmaking history.
Collector Score - 43 / 100
Ideal for those seeking a bold, design-driven timepiece with an automotive-inspired aesthetic. Whether already a Nomos collector or looking for a sportier, more dynamic alternative to traditional Bauhaus watches, the Nomos Autobahn stands out. With its sleek curves, luminous arc, and modern craftsmanship, it’s a stylish, distinctive choice for those who appreciate innovative watchmaking with a unique personality. Whether you are drawn to design, minimalism, automotive culture, or fine watchmaking, the Nomos Autobahn stands out as a statement piece unlike any other Nomos watch.