The BBS-Inspired Union Glashütte Noramis Date Deutschland Klassik 2024

Part of the Swatch Group and close to sister brand Glashütte Original, Union Glashütte is a slightly more accessible take on German watchmaking, with a younger, sportier appeal – but still with great horological content. Over the years, the brand has built a strong connection with the world of classic cars. A partner of the ADAC Deutschland Klassik, Union introduced for the 2023 edition of the rally a cool, Fuchs-inspired Noramis watch (yes, with the classic Porsche wheel design). For the 2024 edition of this rally, the brand looks at yet another icon of German automotive, the classic BBS RS multi-part wheel, which now adorns the dial of the Noramis Date Deutschland Klassik 2024.

For the 2024 edition of the ADAC Deutschland Klassik, the rally is heading north – to Bremerhaven to be exact. Over the three days of the rally, from 22nd to 25th May, those taking part will experience one of Germany’s most beautiful regions, boasting pristine white beaches, impressive lighthouses, unspoiled coastline, dykes and the glistening sea. Union Glashütte is partnering with the rally and has once again come up with something creative for the limited-edition timepiece to mark the occasion. We had a 1960s Fuchs-inspired watch last year, now the brand turns up the volume and looks at the bold 1980s with a dial inspired by one of the most emblematic wheels ever created, the BBS RS with its multi-spoke, two-part design.

Using the classic Noramis Date as a base, this new Deutschland Klassik 2024 edition measures 40mm in diameter, with a thickness of 10.4mm. The steel case is brushed and polished, features a retro-styled box sapphire crystal on top and a sapphire caseback. As an alternative, an additional steel caseback can be fitted, which is engraved with a map of Germany – including Bremerhaven. Water-resistant is rated at 100m. It is worn on a padded black leather strap reminiscent of car interiors. 

What really matters is the dial, with its complex 3D effect based on the design of the famous RS wheel. Highly detailed, it features several finishes and contrasting colours to create a three-dimensional feel, including the 5 wheel nuts at the centre. There’s a date window, but for once its integration is non-intrusive and takes advantage of the wheel’s design. To give contrast and enhance legibility, the hands are two-tone and feature SLN tips.

At the heart of the Noramis Date Deutschland Klassik 2024 is the proprietary calibre UNG-07.S1. Based on a 2892 architecture, this automatic movement runs at a 2.5Hz frequency, stores a solid 60h power reserve and comes with an anti-magnetic silicon balance spring.

A limited edition of 200 pieces, this new Union Glashütte Noramis Date Deutschland Klassik 2024 will be available from selected retailers for EUR 2,780. For more details, please visit www.union-glashuette.com.