Nomos Metro 38 Ref. 1101 vs Nomos Zürich Automatic Ref. 802
| Specification | Nomos Metro 38 Ref. 1101 | Nomos Zürich Automatic Ref. 802 |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | Nomos | Nomos |
| Collection | Metro | Zürich |
| Reference | 1101 | 802 |
| Category | Dress | Dress |
| Movement Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Caliber | Nomos DUW 4401 | Nomos Epsilon |
| Power Reserve | 42h | 42h |
| Frequency | 21,600 vph | 28,800 vph |
| Case Diameter | 38.5mm | 39.7mm |
| Case Thickness | 7.6mm | 9.8mm |
| Case Material | Stainless Steel | Stainless Steel |
| Crystal | Sapphire crystal | Sapphire crystal |
| Water Resistance | 30m / 98ft | 30m / 98ft |
| Weight | 44g | 54g |
| MSRP | $3,260 | $4,080 |
| Market Price | $2,800 | $3,400 |
In-Depth Comparison
The Nomos Metro 38 Ref. 1101 and the Nomos Zürich Automatic Ref. 802 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 Metro reference was introduced in 2014, while this Zürich reference debuted in 2012. The Nomos Metro 38 Ref. 1101 is the newer release, potentially featuring more modern technology and finishing.
Movement And Mechanics
At the heart of the Nomos Metro 38 Ref. 1101 beats the Nomos DUW 4401 caliber offering a 42-hour power reserve running at 21,600 vph with 21 jewels. The Nomos Zürich Automatic Ref. 802 is powered by the Nomos Epsilon with a 42-hour power reserve operating at 28,800 vph featuring 26 jewels. Both watches offer identical power reserves, making them equally practical for daily rotation.
Dimensions And Wearability
The Nomos Metro 38 Ref. 1101 features a 38.5mm case at 7.6mm thick with a 47.5mm lug-to-lug measurement, crafted in Stainless Steel. The Nomos Zürich Automatic Ref. 802 comes in at 39.7mm and 9.8mm thick with 48.5mm lug-to-lug, constructed from Stainless Steel. The Nomos Metro 38 Ref. 1101 wears more compactly on the wrist, making it potentially more suitable for smaller wrists or those who prefer understated proportions. At 44g, the Nomos Metro 38 Ref. 1101 is the lighter of the two.
Materials And Construction
The Nomos Metro 38 Ref. 1101 uses a Sapphire crystal crystal paired with a Fixed polished bezel, while the Nomos Zürich Automatic Ref. 802 features Sapphire crystal crystal with a Fixed polished bezel. On the wrist, the Nomos Metro 38 Ref. 1101 comes on a Horween genuine Shell Cordovan leather strap with Pin buckle, while the Nomos Zürich Automatic Ref. 802 is fitted with Horween genuine Shell Cordovan leather strap featuring Pin buckle.
Water Resistance And Capability
The Nomos Metro 38 Ref. 1101 is rated to 30m / 98ft and the Nomos Zürich Automatic Ref. 802 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 Metro 38 Ref. 1101 lists for $3,260 compared to $4,080 for the Nomos Zürich Automatic Ref. 802. On the secondary market, the Nomos Metro 38 Ref. 1101 trades around $2,800 while the Nomos Zürich Automatic Ref. 802 commands approximately $3,400.
The Verdict
Choosing between the Nomos Metro 38 Ref. 1101 and the Nomos Zürich Automatic Ref. 802 ultimately comes down to personal priorities. For dress occasions and smaller wrists, the Nomos Metro 38 Ref. 1101 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.