Nomos Metro Gangreserve Ref. 1100 watch

Nomos Metro Gangreserve Ref. 1100

Nomos Metro · Ref. 1100

About This Watch

The Nomos Metro Gangreserve Ref. 1100 is the alternate colorway of the groundbreaking Metro, featuring a silver-toned dial with blue and red accents on the power reserve indicator that creates a slightly different mood compared to the white dial version. "Gangreserve" is the German word for power reserve, and in naming this variant Nomos subtly emphasizes the watch's most distinctive feature — that elegant arc at three o'clock that tracks the DUW 4401's remaining mainspring energy. The silver dial has a warmer, more metallic quality that catches light differently than the crisp white of the Ref. 1101, giving this version a slightly more dressy, traditional character. Red replaces orange in the power reserve gradient, moving from red (empty) through white (mid) to blue (fully wound), creating a visual traffic-light logic that communicates at a glance. The DUW 4401 inside is identical to its sibling — the same fully in-house hand-wound caliber with its distinctive bridge architecture visible through the exhibition caseback. Both Metro references debuted simultaneously, and while the white dial version tends to receive more press coverage, the Gangreserve Ref. 1100 has developed its own devoted following among collectors who appreciate its slightly more subdued, sophisticated take on Mark Braun's seminal design. The 38.5mm case diameter and 7.6mm thickness create a wearing experience that balances modern presence with dress-watch elegance.

In-Depth Review

# The Nomos Metro Gangreserve Ref. 1100

German watchmaking tradition finds its modern expression in the Nomos Metro collection, where disciplined design philosophy meets technical competence. The reference 1100 exemplifies this approach through its restrained 38.5mm stainless steel case and silver dial accented with subtle blue and red elements that nod to the brand's Leipzig heritage. The in-house caliber DUW 4401 powers the watch with respectable specifications: 42 hours of power reserve, 21 jewels, and a 21,600 vph frequency that keeps timing accurate without excessive power consumption. A power reserve indicator and small seconds subdial provide functional information without cluttering the dial's architectural clarity. The Horween Shell Cordovan leather strap adds tactile quality befitting this price tier, while the sapphire crystal and 30-meter water resistance establish realistic expectations for a dress watch focused on legibility and wearability rather than diving credentials.

The Metro 1100 appeals to collectors seeking intellectual watchmaking outside the Swiss mainstream. This is a watch for professionals who appreciate mechanical timekeeping but reject unnecessary complications, for individuals who value manufacturing transparency and favor German engineering ethics. Its 7.6mm thickness and precise case proportions ensure comfortable daily wear under shirt cuffs, whether paired with business attire or casual dress. Against competitors like the Sinn 556 or Longines DolceVita, the Nomos occupies distinctive middle ground—more design-focused than Sinn's tool-watch practicality, yet more affordably accessible than Longines' heritage positioning. At current market prices around $2,750, the Metro 1100 represents intelligent value for those prioritizing movement finishing and case refinement over brand recognition.

Specifications

Movement

Movement TypeManual
CaliberNomos DUW 4401
Power Reserve42 hours
Frequency21,600 vph
Jewels21

Case

Case Diameter38.5mm
Case Thickness7.6mm
Case MaterialStainless Steel
CrystalSapphire crystal
BezelFixed polished
Dial ColorSilver with blue and red accents
Lug Width19mm
Lug-to-Lug47.5mm

Features

Water Resistance30m / 98ft
Bracelet/StrapHorween genuine Shell Cordovan leather strap
ClaspPin buckle
Weight44g
Complications
Small secondsPower reserve indicator

Pricing

Retail (MSRP)
$3,260
Market Price
$2,750