Leica L1 And L2 Reference Signature Features From The Brand’s Rich…

Leica presents the LEICA L1 and LEICA L2 watch models that focus on quality and design, functionality and durability, engineering excellence and long-term vision: which are the guiding principles of Leica Camera AG.

The design of the LEICA L1 and LEICA L2 – two remarkable timepieces with a patented push crown – draws inspiration from previous engineering masterpieces made in Wetzlar. The watches’ exterior was conceptualised by Professor Achim Heine, who has designed numerous Leica products in the past – giving him a profound understanding of the company’s aesthetic principles.

As a result, the L1 and L2 contain subtle references to signature features from Leica’s rich history. These include, for example, the delicate design of the watch hands and applied indices, the shape of the intricate stainless-steel case, the special knurling on the crowns, and the domed watch glass that recalls the front element of a camera lens. Both models are powered by a complete newly developed mechanical movement with manual winding.

The movement is visible through the transparent sapphire crystal back. Maintaining the ‘Made in Germany’ designation was extremely important to Leica, which is why the company entered into a partnership with Lehmann Präzision GmbH. As a result, the movement and most of the watches’ components were developed and produced in the Lehmann factory in Germany’s Black Forest region, ensuring an exceptional level of manufacturing.

“Together with Markus Lehmann, we expanded and fine-tuned the idea of the push crown. In contrast to conventional designs – whereby the crown must be pulled out to stop the movement and adjust the time – we wanted the crown to be pressed down, like the release button of a camera. The moment you push the crown, the watch stops and the small second hand jumps to zero. Another click releases the movement again. This is an unusual detail that perfectly fits in with Leica.”
Professor Achim Heine

“I am very happy that this long-term project is now ready to be presented. I believe that, together with our partners, we have succeeded in developing a watch ‘Made in Germany’ that is representative of Leica and embodies the values of our premium brand.”
Dr. Andreas Kaufmann, Chairman of the Supervisory Board and majority owner of Leica Camera

“We have previously built precision machines for Leica, independently of this project. It has, of course, been very interesting to work with Leica in two such different areas – whereby the watch project was, and is, a project very close to my heart.”
Markus Lehmann, Managing Director of Lehmann Präzision GmbH

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