Nomos Zürich Automatic Ref. 802 vs Nomos Zürich Weltzeit Ref. 805

SpecificationNomos Zürich Automatic Ref. 802Nomos Zürich Weltzeit Ref. 805
BrandNomosNomos
CollectionZürichZürich
Reference802805
CategoryDressDress
Movement TypeAutomaticAutomatic
CaliberNomos EpsilonNomos DUW 5201
Power Reserve42h42h
Frequency28,800 vph21,600 vph
Case Diameter39.7mm39.9mm
Case Thickness9.8mm10.9mm
Case MaterialStainless SteelStainless Steel
CrystalSapphire crystalSapphire crystal
Water Resistance30m / 98ft30m / 98ft
Weight54g56g
MSRP$4,080$5,580
Market Price$3,400$4,600

In-Depth Comparison

The Nomos Zürich Automatic Ref. 802 and the Nomos Zürich Weltzeit Ref. 805 represent two compelling options in the luxury watch market. Both timepieces have earned devoted followings among collectors and enthusiasts, but they approach horology from distinctly different perspectives. Let's break down how these two watches compare across the key dimensions that matter most to buyers.

Heritage And Brand Prestige

Nomos and Nomos is a brand that needs no introduction. Comparing two models from the same manufacturer comes down to purpose, design philosophy, and intended use case. Both watches hail from Germany, benefiting from the region's deep horological tradition. This particular Zürich reference was introduced in 2012, while this Zürich reference debuted in 2014. The Nomos Zürich Weltzeit Ref. 805 is the newer release, potentially featuring more modern technology and finishing.

Movement And Mechanics

At the heart of the Nomos Zürich Automatic Ref. 802 beats the Nomos Epsilon caliber offering a 42-hour power reserve running at 28,800 vph with 26 jewels. The Nomos Zürich Weltzeit Ref. 805 is powered by the Nomos DUW 5201 with a 42-hour power reserve operating at 21,600 vph featuring 33 jewels. Both watches offer identical power reserves, making them equally practical for daily rotation.

Dimensions And Wearability

The Nomos Zürich Automatic Ref. 802 features a 39.7mm case at 9.8mm thick with a 48.5mm lug-to-lug measurement, crafted in Stainless Steel. The Nomos Zürich Weltzeit Ref. 805 comes in at 39.9mm and 10.9mm thick with 48.5mm lug-to-lug, constructed from Stainless Steel. Both watches are virtually identical in diameter, so wrist presence will be comparable. At 54g, the Nomos Zürich Automatic Ref. 802 is the lighter of the two.

Materials And Construction

The Nomos Zürich Automatic Ref. 802 uses a Sapphire crystal crystal paired with a Fixed polished bezel, while the Nomos Zürich Weltzeit Ref. 805 features Sapphire crystal crystal with a Fixed polished bezel. On the wrist, the Nomos Zürich Automatic Ref. 802 comes on a Horween genuine Shell Cordovan leather strap with Pin buckle, while the Nomos Zürich Weltzeit Ref. 805 is fitted with Horween genuine Shell Cordovan leather strap featuring Pin buckle.

Water Resistance And Capability

The Nomos Zürich Automatic Ref. 802 is rated to 30m / 98ft and the Nomos Zürich Weltzeit Ref. 805 to 30m / 98ft. Both watches share the same water resistance rating, making them equally suited for aquatic activities.

Pricing And Value

At retail, the Nomos Zürich Automatic Ref. 802 lists for $4,080 compared to $5,580 for the Nomos Zürich Weltzeit Ref. 805. The Nomos Zürich Automatic Ref. 802 is the more accessible option at MSRP, saving $1,500 at retail. On the secondary market, the Nomos Zürich Automatic Ref. 802 trades around $3,400 while the Nomos Zürich Weltzeit Ref. 805 commands approximately $4,600.

The Verdict

Choosing between the Nomos Zürich Automatic Ref. 802 and the Nomos Zürich Weltzeit Ref. 805 ultimately comes down to personal priorities. For dress occasions and smaller wrists, the Nomos Zürich Automatic Ref. 802 is more versatile. Both watches are exceptional timepieces that will serve their owner well for generations. We recommend trying both on the wrist at an authorized dealer before making your final decision, as comfort and emotional connection are ultimately just as important as specifications.