Introducing the New Neumann Automatic Collection

Utilitarian watches are common in the microbrand market today, so it's always nice to find a model with a more refined and classic design.

The Swedish brand Neumann has built its design concept around such watches, adding unique details that we will examine in their second collection - Automatic. At first glance, these are neo-vintage everyday watches with basic yet sufficient functionality by modern standards. Upon closer inspection, their modernity becomes evident in both technical specifications and design - from the case shape to the abundance of satin-finished surfaces.

Design and Aesthetics of Neumann Automatic: Classic and Modern

When analyzing watches from different regions of the world, certain trends can be identified. From my own experience, I can note that Nordic brands prefer to create elegant watches suitable for daily wear. The uniqueness of Neumann lies in their delicate balance between classic and modern, where contemporary dial textures and finishes combine with timeless proportions and overall design. Essentially, these are typical everyday wristwatches in the style of the 1960s, reimagined for the tastes of 21st-century enthusiasts, retaining the design codes of a bygone era.

Case: Simplicity of Form and Modern Materials

The first thing that catches the eye is the approach to case design. Neumann chose a fairly simple profile reminiscent of vintage models from past decades. These are straight side edges of the case's middle part, rectangular lugs that smoothly curve towards the wrist, a medium-sized screw-down crown, and a domed sapphire crystal with a 'box' shape, adding a few millimeters to the overall thickness. Combined with the screw-down case back, the Automatic provides water resistance up to 100 meters - a more than sufficient figure for this type of watch, adding an extra touch of modernity.

The case is entirely satin-finished, except for the crown, which enhances the model's modern look despite its classic form. Of particular interest are the narrow and thin lugs, positioned slightly inward relative to the horizontal edges of the case, visually making the case more rounded. The dimensions of the watch - 38 mm in diameter, 45 mm 'lug to lug,' and 11.9 mm thick - fit perfectly into modern standards for everyday watches and are suitable for most wrists.

Dial: Texture and Detailing

Unlike the relatively simple case, the dial draws attention with its complex texture. The main decorative element is the so-called 'reverse clous de Paris' pattern, consisting of pyramid shapes stamped directly onto the dial. The brand calls it a 'honeycomb' pattern. In the six versions of the Automatic, the sword-shaped hour and minute hands have a satin finish, while the second hand is in a contrasting color. For example, on the model with a mustard-yellow dial, the second hand is blue, adding an extra accent and highlighting the modern style.

Particularly noteworthy is the prevalence of satin-finished details on the dial and case, which gives the watch a modern character. At the same time, the shape of the hands and hour markers is classic. Combined with the dial's texture and numerous satin-finished elements, they look modern and visually legible, making the Automatic a versatile watch for everyday wear. Additionally, the watch features an easily readable date window at the 'three o'clock' position and luminescent accents on the hands and dots outside the hour markers.

Movement and Technical Specifications

Inside the Neumann Automatic is the popular Japanese automatic Miyota 9015 caliber, operating at 4 Hz with a power reserve of 42 hours. The 9000 series movements are known for their thinness, reliability, and relatively affordable price compared to their Swiss counterparts. The Miyota 9015 is a reliable choice for everyday watches, although it cannot be seen due to the solid case back.

Bracelet and Clasp: Classic in a Modern Execution

To maintain the vintage style, the Automatic Neumann is equipped with a three-link stainless steel bracelet in an Oyster style with straight lugs and a classic clasp with two buttons and two micro-adjustment holes. Pins are used to attach the links, and half-links allow for precise fitting. Such a bracelet is typical for microbrands of past years, which are gradually transitioning to screw link constructions and tool-free micro-adjustment mechanisms. Nevertheless, this system perfectly matches the design and concept of the Automatic.

Pricing and Availability of Neumann Automatic

The six versions of Neumann Automatic - Pearl, Yellow, Pink, Green, Blue, and Black - are available for order through a Kickstarter campaign that runs until June 6, 2026. Prices start at €464 / $540 USD / $753 AUD.