W&W 2024 NOMOS Tangente 38 Date – 175 Years Watchmaking Glashütte: 31 Colorful Models

At Watches and Wonders Geneva 2024, NOMOS Glashütte presented the iconic Tangente model in 31 different color compositions at once.

An icon is an icon is an icon. What is there left to say? NOMOS Glashütte has long been known for its color expertise. But now, at Watches and Wonders in Geneva, the watchmaking company has presented its bestseller Tangente, which has remained unchanged for more than three decades, in color. Or rather—in colors. The special edition Tangente 38 date – 175 Years Watchmaking Glashütte is a collection of 31 different colorful versions of the classic watch, each limited to 175 pieces and regulated according to chronometer values.

The icon in color

Color reflects individuality and diversity; it is invigorating and vibrant. Changing an icon so drastically, even refining it, is not without risk. But Tangente 38 date remains appealing in its standard version and is a celebration of fine watchmaking in these 31 different colorways. This special edition brings personality and joy to the world of Haute Horlogerie, as well as a wide range of emotions and moods. Each watch bears its own special name and has its own story— Ariel, Zirkus, Haifischgrau, and Schlossgrün are just a few of their playful German names. From the range of 31 watches, there is a perfect match for every personality.

Color as an investment

The joy of mechanical watches should be accessible to as many people as possible. That is why the price of these colorful limited-edition watches is lower than that of the standard model. Bringing individuality to the wrist and diversity to the world of fine watchmaking are important to NOMOS Glashütte. Which is why the watchmaking company is investing in both.

The date movement DUW 4101

The hand-wound caliber DUW 4101—made by NOMOS in Glashütte, Germany, regulated according to chronometer values, and equipped with the NOMOS swing system—ticks inside Tangente 38 date. NOMOS received its first patent for the date mechanism of DUW 4101. The mechanism is integrated into the movement and the date ring is placed around the movement, so the date window on the dial is particularly large and located at the very edge. This is a hallmark of NOMOS watches with a date function, as is the date window matching the color of the main dial. The rich tradition of over 175 years of watchmaking in Glashütte is now being celebrated exactly 31 times in color, with a watch for every day of the month.

Tangente 38 Datum Zirkus – Ref. 179.S1

The soft cream tone of the dial forms the circus ring, surrounded by the blue tent with a red tip. This beautifully playful watch reminds us of the circus that used to perform in every town, no matter how small, with poodles, acrobats, and magicians. It looks cheerful and familiar—with accents of primary colors accentuating the design. A feat that is perhaps rarely achieved, making it a triple somersault for Tangente Datum, a watch that makes us all feel magical.

Tangente 38 Datum Love – Ref. 179.S2

This timeless shade of red is inspired by the stunningly beautiful color often found in the cafés of Berlin's elegant Charlottenburg district. A subtle hint of brown gives it just the right amount of warmth and depth to lovingly balance the cool, light blue of the numerals on a meringue white background. As the name suggests, this watch is ideal for showing love—as a gift to celebrate a milestone moment in life or as a sign of affection for that special someone every day.

Tangente 38 Datum Stop – Ref. 179.S3

A rich and bright lipstick red that brings fire to the wrist. In this color scheme, Tangente Datum Stop mirrors its sister model Tangente Datum Go: the shade of green tomatoes and a warm white dial can also be found here, but they appear more delicate in reverse order. Stop fits elegantly with both classic and very modern styles. No matter what you are wearing today, Stop can hold its own, coordinate effortlessly, and command attention.

Tangente 38 Datum Go – Ref. 179.S4

The idea for the cheerful shade of green comes from canned green tomatoes, our favorite vegetable, for which we often have an immense appetite. The typography in tomato red on a straightforward background in a warm shade of white complements it perfectly. We discovered this combination in a Baude (local Saxon dialect for mountain hut) in the Osterzgebirge mountains, on the tiles of an old and unexpected wood-burning stove. The rich green could also be found in the lush grass growing at the hut's door and traffic lights signals. And now you can sport a permanent Go on your wrist!

Tangente 38 Datum Peace – Ref. 179.S5

The design of this dial is similar to Tangente Datum Love, but the prominent blue tones give Peace a cooler appearance. The neutral off-white tone of the main dial is ideal for the peaceful coexistence of blue and red around it—creating a particularly well-balanced watch, which pays homage to the exceptional skill of the NOMOS watchmakers in Glashütte, Germany.

Tangente 38 Datum Kanari – Ref. 179.S6

Cheerful canary yellow is a color associated with early, still slightly cool summer days—and can be found in an even brighter version on our Tangente Datum Lemonbiscuit model. This watch is a ray of sunshine for the wrist, clear yet delicate. Tangente Datum Kanari also mimics the plumage of the bird that bears almost the same name. With cooler undertones than many yellows, Kanari looks fresh, reminiscent of the 1950s and 60s. However, it clearly feels very much at home in today's world—and tomorrow and the day after tomorrow will be just the same. Crafted in the tradition of 175 years of Glashütte watchmaking, this watch is jewelry and a functional tool for all time.

Tangente 38 Datum Bubblegum – Ref. 179.S7

Pink is in such hot demand at NOMOS Glashütte that we created this watch: A cheerful timepiece that is far from sweet and sugary with its yellow sub-seconds dial. Instead, it looks like it came straight out of an art museum, dressed in silk. This watch is imaginative, bold, and incredibly modern. However, anyone who dismisses Bubblegum as a strictly feminine watch is mistaken. This Tangente Datum can be combined with a suit and tie. Try it, you'll see—courage is good for you.

Tangente 38 Datum Katzengold – Ref. 179.S8

The effect of this watch is invigorating, both for the wearer and for admirers a few meters away. As the name suggests, Katzengold has a dial in warm, golden yellow that shines intensely on the wrist, set off in a highly modern way by a sub-seconds dial in pink. The dial seems to be carrying a little bit of sunshine in it—so make sure to wear this watch to brighten up gray rainy days.

Tangente 38 Datum Mauvegrün – Ref. 179.S9

Mauve is a pale purple named after the mallow flower, which belongs to the lilac family. It has long been a fashionable color among royal court circles and has always attracted a lot of attention— some historians even refer to the 1890s as “the mauve decade.” This rich lavender shade is feminine and charming, but with a subliminal hint of black, which gives it a sophisticated touch. The green in the name of the watch and in its outer ring may also be reminiscent of the violet-green leaves of broccoli. Together, the two colors steer towards coolness, while always being luxurious, modern, and clever.

Tangente 38 Datum Lemonbiscuit – Ref. 179.S10

This creamy yellow takes its name from the favorite afternoon snack of the old favorite uncle of a NOMOS watchmaker. Like this colleague today, the uncle has been making the finest mechanical timepieces in the tradition of over 175 years of watchmaking: Since 1845, little has changed in the fine craft—and yet much has been improved and precision perfected. One thing is certain: This watch, limited to 175 pieces worldwide, would also have made the uncle very, very happy.

Tangente 38 Datum Schulhausweiß – Ref. 179.S11

This white appears almost translucent and its name is reminiscent not only of the whitewashed walls of old classrooms, but also of the bright blank sheet of paper that still waits patiently for the blue ink of our homework. As one of the most neutral watches in the new Tangente Datum series, Schulhausweiß is clear, unobtrusive, and very easy to style. With its sand-colored sub-seconds dial and large date window, the timepiece is highly practical, but still has a distinctly different character than the white silver-plated models from NOMOS Glashütte. This color is restrained, timeless, and familiar; a wonderfully soft off-white.

Tangente 38 Datum Flamingopink – Ref. 179.S12

This true pink tone is named after the colors of the long-legged birds that can be found ever more often on European shores: flamingos. They prefer to stand on one leg, as their special physique ensures that standing this way requires almost no effort—the pink birds can even anchor themselves in the water while sleeping. The very lively, cheerful shade of Tangente Datum Flamingopink attracts attention, especially when combined with white on this graphicinspired dial—but it will also always create a calm, charming aura with a soft neutral shade or dark blue.

Tangente 38 Datum Poporange – Ref. 179.S13

This bright color looks particularly spectacular when the watch is combined with white or a (preferably almost black) dark blue—our favorite contrast! Brave people can also wear Tangente 38 Datum Poporange tone-in-tone, with reference to 1970s fashion and the music of the era. However, the slight touch of black tones down the color somewhat, making it particularly appealing. Only on the sub-seconds dial does orange break through in a clear version: a tone reminiscent of 18th century orangeries or the Californian sun. Tangente Datum Poporange is a watch that is characterized by its straightforward design and is guaranteed to brighten up the wearer's wrist, every day.

Tangente 38 Datum Rambazamba – Ref. 179.S14

A spirited, warm red. The name of this fiery shade was originally used to describe wild parties. Always in the mood to celebrate, Rambazamba now brings joy to every wrist—brightening up more reserved, understated outfits and well suited to anything more extrovert as well. Rambazamba can hold its own anytime and anywhere. As the date window at six o'clock, in the exact same shade of red, reminds us every day.

Tangente 38 Datum Pompadour – Ref. 179.S15

This muted shade of pink is reminiscent of the boudoirs of yesteryear, of discussion groups with a progressiveintellectual touch, and of weekends in the country enjoying the finer things in life. While Tangente Datum Pompadour is —like all watches from NOMOS Glashütte— a deeply democratic and modern wristwatch, it still has a touch of exclusivity about it. The combination of the antique pink tone with a dark gold ring and the royal blue typography is certainly a special one, and not one that you will forget in a hurry.

Tangente 38 Datum Super Sardine – Ref. 179.S16

Like many of our new watches, the dial of Tangente Datum Super Sardine is not just blue or just green or just white. The largest area here is a blue that features a significant proportion of green pigment. A small amount of black gives our classic timepiece its vintage character. The result is a watch that provides color, even for people who are otherwise afraid of too much color and embracing fashion; a watch for people who perhaps already consider themselves a classic—or have firmly resolved to become one at some point.

Tangente 38 Datum Boje – Ref. 179.S17

This bright orange dial says “hello” loudly and cheerfully. In combination with a dark blue sweater, for example, Tangente Datum Boje is a very modern and dynamic watch. And like almost all NOMOS designs, it is also gender neutral. More than just a footnote: this watch is particularly eye-catching thanks to its cream-white minute track, the sub-seconds dial (with an orange tone that is in the shade), and the date display, which is also bright orange. For us, this is a particularly desirable example of the 31 new versions of the Tangente Datum.

Tangente 38 Datum Lakritze – Ref. 179.S18

This watch looks just like licorice tastes and is therefore named after the famous candy made from licorice roots: Tangente Datum Lakritze is a warm, dark version of the famous NOMOS classic with a touch of dark green. As is often found in a bag of licorice, a touch of color is spread across the almost-black dial—in the form of a red date and a dove-blue outer ring. A masculine-looking timepiece for watch wearers who do not like things too colorful, but still need a little color on the wrist.

Tangente 38 Datum Tiefseegrau – Ref. 179.S19

Tangente Datum Tiefseegrau, with a dial color that could also be described as off-black, conjures up images from the depths of the ocean: giant squid, Greenland sharks, lantern fish, and other creatures that prefer to live in the dark. The versatile accent color around the edge, which highlights the minute scale, brings us back to the surface and to reality. Here, the watch has a decidedly interesting appearance—intimate, dark, clever, sometimes even a little dramatic. And it allows us to rediscover what makes the design of this famous Glashütte watch such a classic. Because in deep sea gray, we recognize each of its elements and yet see them as if for the very first time.

Tangente 38 Datum Haifischgrau – Ref. 179.S20

Straightforward and almost architectural: Gray defines this watch design, with contrasting elements visibly structuring the dial. Sharks, lead, and graphite come to mind when describing the color of this Tangente Datum. However, sharks came closest for us. The predator, which roams lagoons and other bodies of water in tropical regions, has an elegant gray upper side and a much lighter underside—just like this watch. Tangente Datum Haifischgrau is a good choice when practicality is desired and niceties are unnecessary.

Tangente 38 Datum Pastell – Ref. 179.S21

Our most demure watch is reminiscent of powder, heirloom roses, and the yarn used in haute couture ateliers. However, although Tangente Datum Pastell appears delicate, it has a distinct character and stands out clearly against the cream and pink tones that we often see. Combined with a vintage shirt and pared-down French or Japanese clothing, this watch is also suitable for the wrists of men who have long outgrown stereotypes.

Tangente 38 Datum Delfin – Ref. 179.S22

Blue like the inflatable dolphins floating on crystal clear pools, the kitchens of old farmhouses, or vintage racing bikes from Italy; this is a cheerful, welcoming, and extremely lively color. Tangente Datum Delfin seems inspired by many things that we associate with good memories. The color intensity of this extraordinary watch is similar to Tangente Datum Boje in fluorescent orange: both are bold, intense, and radiate positivity. Here, however, the sub-seconds dial in gray ensures that the dolphins do not get overexcited and start doing backflips—as it provides a grounding and necessary counterpoint.

Tangente 38 Datum Frostblau – Ref. 179.S23

The name of this fresh, frosty shade of blue—which really is blue in any light— is reminiscent of the icy coastline found in northern Norway; you can almost hear the seagulls crying overhead, fighting over the washed-up remains of a crab. Although this shade is quite light in color, it can appear masculine and dark. A fantastic color, especially if you combine it with muted tones such as brown, olive green, black, light gray, and navy. On almost any wrist, however, Tangente Datum Frostblau creates an effect that can be described as sophisticated and relaxed.

Tangente 38 Datum Schneesturm – Ref. 179.S24

Schneesturm is free of color and associations. Well: almost. Because unlike other colors, such a pure white succeeds in unfolding a powerful effect all by itself. Nevertheless, we have added some cool gray blue to the sub-seconds dial on this Tangente Datum, and swirled some black around it—as black always accompanies white impressively. Bearing some similarities to Tangente Datum Super Sardine, the result is a watch with a vintage character that highlights and strengthens the layout of the classic watch design. Not that it needed enhancing, of course.

Tangente 38 Datum Ariel – Ref. 179.S25

A light, rather warm gray-blue like the moon of the planet Uranus of the same name: Tangente Datum Ariel brings long distances, the open sky, and vastness of space to mind. But also cool spring days, when soft sunlight shines through skylights. The color combination of ground hazelnut and light blue unfolds its complex effect on almost all wrists; it appears calm, composed, and smart.

Tangente 38 Datum Schlossgrün – Ref. 179.S26

We owe this cultivated masculine green to formal English gardens, specifically the luscious ivy found on their walls, and the peeling paint on the window frames of the country house where our design department spent a weekend years ago. Its soul is familiar and comforting like an old friend who now lives abroad— and as warming as rum cocktails enjoyed by the fireplace. This color is deep and rich, evoking treasured memories of wonderful times spent in beautiful places. Nevertheless, Tangente 38 Datum Schlossgrün is straightforward, despite its elegant appearance, and comes with the polish of impeccable manners, rather than airs and graces.

Tangente 38 Datum Ziegelblau – Ref. 179.S27

This bold, striking red with an undertone of brown is inspired by the old brickwork buildings that some NOMOS employees pass by on the way to work. Fortunately, however, there are still many buildings in eastern Germany whose facades have been left untouched by renovations and weatherproof plastering; facades that are not yet equipped with the latest range of improvements available from DIY stores. This brick red is genuine, intensely rich, and inviting. The warming color is slightly interrupted by the sky blue of the sub-seconds dial of this watch, as if you were looking at the sky through a hole in the wall: this blue gives Tangente Datum Ziegelblau—and the wrist that wears it— a special energy.

Tangente 38 Datum Sportbunt – Ref. 179.S28

Tangente Datum Sportbunt was created in reference to the vintage GDR tracksuit lovingly owned and worn by our in-house watch designer Thomas; the watch is also reminiscent of 70s fashion in general, Olympic rings, and the bright and cheerful days of youth. With its rich pigmentation, the dial colors of Tangente Datum Sportbunt create a particularly charming version of this classic watch.

Tangente 38 Datum Dunkelbunt – Ref. 179.S29

Often appearing more blue than black, this dial of this watch has a softer appearance than pure black would, with an unsurpassed depth in all lighting conditions. The typography in orange and blue is reminiscent of lanterns swinging above party guests on warm summer evenings. During the day, Tangente Datum Dunkelbunt will make a striking first impression, while remaining relaxed and straightforward. A watch that's easy to understand— and yet remains unmatched.

Tangente 38 Datum Chili - Ref. 179.S30

The most intense red of our red watches is named after the spicy pepper that should never be missing from the pantry. Tangente Datum Chili is fiery—but also a little glamorous, and on some days very similar to the bright red of fingernails and lips. Of course, this watch makes a great impression when boldly combined with olive green, pink, or black. As well as all shades of red, because they coordinate beautifully with each other. Tangente Datum Chili adds a little spice to any outfit and therefore works particularly well with all-white minimalist fashion styles. And so: This is a bold watch for virtually every day.

Tangente 38 Datum Nachtgesang – Ref. 179.S31

This fascinating shade of midnight blue lends a luxurious touch to the wrist of the person wearing it. Tangente Datum Nachtgesang is particularly effective when worn in the evening—as the perfect watch to bring the day to an elegant close. The date display and a very fine outer ring are not luminous, but still shine in purple, giving the whole dial an electric charge. You can almost hear the energy humming in the background, just as the name suggests: Nachtgesang translates into English as “night song”.

Technical specifications

NOMOS Tangente 38 date – 175 Years Watchmaking Glashütte

References: 179.S1-31

Case

• Material: Stainless steel, bipartite
• Diameter: 37.5 mm
• Thickness: 6.8 mm
• Glass: sapphire crystal glass
• Sapphire crystal glass back
• Water-resistant to 30 meters

Dial and hands

• 31 diffirent colour schemes
• Rhodium-plated hands

Movement

• DUW 4101 (adjusted according to chronometer standards)—in-house built NOMOS caliber with manual winding and date indicator
• Diameter: 14 ¼ lines (32.1 mm)
• Thickness: 2.8 mm
• Number of jewels: 28
• Power reserve of 42 hours

Functions/Indications

• Hours, minutes, small seconds
• Date

Strap and buckle

• Textile strap, woven, waterproof
• Lug width 19 mm

MSRP: EUR 1'925

For more information, please visit nomos-glashuette.com