SpotlightTwo Dates In One Day: Nomos Tangente 2date
The Nomos Tangente 2date not only debuts its DUW 4601 calibre, overall its 12th calibre, but also showcases two kinds of date displays on the same dial
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In the relationship parlance, a ‘double date’ implies a joint meetup between you and your partner with another couple. In the horological terminology, however, a ‘double date’ has always meant two larger-than-usual apertures placed side by side on the watch dial, displaying the date of the day in large Arabic numerals. This is also called ‘big date’ or ‘grand date’. Watch titles such as Tudor Glamour Double Date, Frederique Constant Classic Power Reserve Big Date Manufacture or Maurice Lacroix Aikon Master Grand Date Technicolour were self-explanatory. Nomos Glashütte, however, gave a new dimension to the term, by offering two date displays; one through the window format, and the other through an innovative patented ring date. The brand carried this dual date feature in two previous iterations fitted with Nomos Neomatik calibres, namely the Metro Neomatik 41 Update and the Tangente Neomatik 41 Update timepieces. Their latest and third timepiece to imbibe this duality is the Nomos Tangente 2date that runs on the debutant DUW 4601 calibre—the 12th Nomos calibre. Available in two colours, the Tangente 2date is a continuum of the typical Bauhaus-inspired minimalist language that the brand is reputed.
Double Delight: Tangente 2date
The Tangente 2date comes in white and dark blue variants, perhaps indicative of day and night, or just the two colours most compatible with any wardrobe. Both dials have contrasting timekeeping elements. The white silver-plated dial showcases the Arabic numeral hour markers in Tangente typography and indices, minute track, small seconds counter and the brand logo in back, and a red tone reserved for the date displays. The galvanised dark blue dial additionally has a glossy, sunburst texture, with silvery white hour markers, hands, sub-dial markings and the logo. Both variants offer two types of date display. The first one is the conventional double date, occupying the six o’clock spot. The second, slimmer and more dramatic, called the patented date ring as the date ring is placed around the movement. On the dial, it encircles the outer minute track, shows the entire month via 1-31 Arabic numerals with their corresponding dash that gains colour against the said date for the day. The white variant indicates both date versions in red tone, while the dark blue dial, showcases its double date in silver.
Debutant Calibre Blessed By The Sun
Unlike the Metro and Tangente Neomatik versions with the patented date ring, the 41mm cases, the Nomos 2date opts for an unconventional case size at 37.5mm in stainless steel, which falls in the inclusive, unisex realm. This case encloses the brand-new hand-wound DUW 4601 calibre, developed at the Nomos atelier at Glashütte, and was first unveiled at the 5th Forum Nomos Glashütte in October 2024. This new movement impresses with its redesigned skeletonized balance cock, the mainspring barrel offering upto 52-hour power reserve, and a quick-change date function; pull the crown into the second of three positions. Through the sturdy sapphire crystal glass caseback with antireflective coating, one can admire the Nomos swing system, its fine blue balance spring with sunbeam ribbing, and 23 jewels.
The Nomos Tangente 2date has a secure grip over the wrist, thanks to its black Horween Genuine Shell Cordovan leather strap attached to a stainless-steel winged clasp.
The Nomos Tangente 2date In A Nutshell
- Case: Stainless steel, 37.5mm; sapphire crystal glass caseback with antireflective coating
- Functions & Display: Big date and patented date ring displays; Hours, minutes, small seconds
- Movement: Hand-wound DUW 4601 calibre; 52 hours of power reserve; quick-change date function; 23 jewels
- Strap: Black Horween Genuine Shell Cordovan leather strap
FAQs
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Why is a date window important on a watch?
More than being important, a date window on a watch is a practical complication, allowing the wearer to quickly read the date without needing a separate calendar. Apart from its function, it also makes much for the form, contributing to the overall aesthetic balance of the watch face. It remains a sought-after feature among watch enthusiasts for its convenience, not to mention the traditional appeal of this complication.
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Are ultra-thin watches better?
There is no definitive 'better' when it comes to thin vs thick watches, as it really comes down to personal preference. Thin watches, like the Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Ultra-Thin, have a slim fit and versatility that can make them appealing for many wearers, especially those who prefer a light profile watch for their wrist. Ultra-thin watches also require expert craftsmanship to achieve a slim profile, resulting in a higher price tag.
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What is a small seconds dial in wristwatches?
Small seconds in wristwatches appear on a sub-dial that displays a dedicated seconds hand. A small seconds dial not only adds a visual distinction to the watch face but also enhances legibility. The small seconds complication is particularly valued in high-end timepieces.
