Nomos Glashütte Orion Owner Review : Minimalist, refined and fair

When we think of Nomos, the Club or Tangente lines come to mind, but rarely the Orion. And yet, the Orion, launched in the late 90s, is perhaps, for me, the most Nomos of all Nomos watches. I was looking for a minimalist, refined dress watch that still remained modern. Two decisions had to be made: the diameter (35 or 38 mm) and the case back (solid or open). I find the 38 mm unbalanced around the small seconds hand, which is too close to the center. On this type of watch, with a very large dial opening and long lugs, unless you have a truly enormous wrist, it doesn't work. So, without hesitation, I chose the 35 mm. For reference, my wrist is almost 18 cm, and the 35 mm already has a strong presence. I hesitated for a long time between the solid case back and the sapphire crystal case back. I ultimately chose the solid case back because I value slimness, and the domed sapphire crystal adds 1.3mm, which is significant (mine is 7.4mm thick). This watch is exceptionally well-made with impeccable finishing. It features subtly faceted hour markers, blued hands, and a silver-plated galvanized dial. The dial is slightly domed, as is the minute hand at its tip, mirroring the slightly domed crystal. The rounded case shape is unique, with its long, slender lugs that give it its distinctive character. The watch is entirely polished, except for the rehaut, which is brushed. The manual movement is precise, and the winding feel is excellent. The crown is neither too small nor too large. The only thing I dislike about this watch is the strap. It's very well made, but I find it a bit too austere and staid. So I fitted a light gray nubuck strap to add a touch of modernity. I also find the movement rather noisy, but I think that's due to the very thin case and the limited water resistance. Almost flawless!