Nomos Zürich Weltzeit Ref. 805

In-Depth Review

# The Nomos Zürich Weltzeit Ref. 805: A Refined Proposition for the Traveling Professional

For nearly a century, Nomos Glashütte has pursued a distinctly minimalist approach to watchmaking that privileges clarity and precision over ornament. The Zürich Weltzeit Ref. 805 exemplifies this philosophy while tackling a genuine practical need: reliable timekeeping across multiple time zones without sacrificing elegance. Launched in 2014, this watch features a 24-hour world time complication executed with characteristic German restraint—the dial displays all major time zones around its perimeter, allowing wearers to track simultaneous time across the globe with a single glance. The in-house DUW 5201 movement, operating at 21,600 vph with a respectable 42-hour power reserve, delivers the dependable performance expected at this price point. At 39.9mm with a modest 10.9mm thickness, the case strikes an ideal balance between presence and wearability, while the blue dial—neither aggressively loud nor anonymous—provides genuine visual interest without compromising legibility.

This watch targets the internationally-minded professional: executives managing distributed teams, consultants shuttling between continents, or simply those who value practicality married to refined aesthetics. The Horween Shell Cordovan strap elevates the package considerably, suggesting luxury without ostentation. In its segment, the Ref. 805 competes directly against established alternatives like the Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra 150M Worldtimer and the more accessible Citizen Eco-Drive Satellite Wave, though it carves its own territory through design purity and in-house manufacturing. At current market prices around $4,600, it represents measured value for collectors seeking substance over swagger.