What an incredible watch fair! I can hardly remember a time when we invested so much time and energy into a WatchTime exhibition. But after three intense days in Düsseldorf, I can say with confidence: It was absolutely worth it!
With the UNO Edition 40, our new UNO LUMEN models, and the extraordinary UNO 24 Aerolith wall clock, we brought no fewer than seven new models to the show.
What will stay with me most, however, are the many personal encounters, fascinating conversations, and overwhelmingly positive responses to our work.
Seven New Models and a Spontaneous Idea
To celebrate the 40th anniversary of our UNO, we presented the three models of the UNO Edition 40 in their final production versions for the very first time.
We also introduced three new UNO LUMEN variants, combining our familiar single-hand principle with a fascinating luminous effect.
Our seventh new model was the UNO 24 Aerolith, a wall clock made from aluminum and natural mica schist, developed in collaboration with F.A.Z. Selection.
And because we wanted to demonstrate the unique luminous effect of the UNO LUMEN models as vividly as possible, we spontaneously decided to develop, engineer, and build a day-and-night simulation device. Just 14 days passed from the initial idea to the finished device!
Challenges like these are something I particularly enjoy. Having an idea, thinking it through, and ultimately turning it into something that actually works – that is exactly what I love about my profession.
We had also designed a particularly spacious exhibition booth this time. There were three of us at the show, and we brought an extensive selection of watches and straps. This allowed visitors to try almost any combination they wanted directly on their own wrists. Because I believe that only when you wear a watch can you really tell whether it is right for you.
Wall Clocks with Character and Substance
I was particularly curious to see how visitors would respond to our five wall clocks. Although I actually prefer to think of them as design objects that also tell the time.
The slate models in particular, including our new UNO 24 Aerolith, made a strong impression on many visitors. Their substantial materials, precise craftsmanship, and distinctive presence are simply experienced very differently in person than in photographs. I was naturally delighted that several visitors even decided to place orders on the spot.
These wall clocks are a project particularly close to my heart. The combination of natural stone formed millions of years ago and uncompromisingly modern design never ceases to fascinate me. Every piece of slate is different, making each clock truly unique.
For me, that is what design is all about: not simply creating variations of what already exists, but developing new ideas and transforming them into distinctive, original creations with character.
The Most Interesting Part Was the People
As exciting as our new models were, what I enjoyed most were the many personal conversations.
We had the pleasure of seeing many long-standing customers again and meeting numerous new visitors. Our conversations often went far beyond watches, touching on design, technology, materials, and, of course, our philosophy of approaching time with greater awareness and a sense of calm and confidence.
I was especially pleased to discover how many visitors were already familiar with our videos and podcasts. Several people told me how much they appreciated the factual, informative, and deliberately non-promotional nature of these contributions. That means a great deal to me, because I don't simply want to present products. I also want to explain the thoughts and ideas behind them.
Conversations like these give me a great deal in return. They show me that our philosophy is understood and shared, while also providing valuable inspiration for future projects.
Thank You – and Perhaps See You Soon in Königstein!
Of course, the three days at the fair were exhausting. But we returned home with many wonderful memories and a great deal of renewed motivation.
I would like to personally thank everyone who visited us in Düsseldorf. I truly appreciate it when people take the time to discover our work and share their thoughts with us.
And if you would like to experience our watches away from the bustle of a trade fair, we warmly invite you to visit our ZEITraum showroom in Königstein, preferably by prior appointment. Here, you can explore our models at your leisure, try them on, and exchange ideas with us in person.
Our newsletter keeps you regularly informed about new releases, special offers, and upcoming opportunities to visit our ZEITraum showroom.
I'm already looking forward to many more encounters and inspiring conversations.
Because as much as I enjoy developing new watches, I enjoy talking to people who are interested in the ideas behind them just as much.
Warm regards from Königstein,
Klaus Botta
