Just announced: new Leica ZM 12 watches (39mm)


Leica just announced new ZM 12 watches with a smaller case (39mm) compared to the ZM1 models:

  • Smaller & lighter 39mm case available in stainless steel and titanium
  • Clean, symmetrical dual dial design with no date complication
  • Easy-change system for straps and bracelets
  • 100M Water Resistance and a 60-Hour Power Reserve
  • Refined Leica Calibre LA-3002 Movement
  • Four new dial colors

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Additional information is available at Reddotforum:

  • New 39mm Case Size in Titanium & Stainless Steel: The ZM12 is 15% lighter than the ZM11, enhancing comfort and versatility while preserving the series’ proportions and signature elegance.
  • 4 New Dial Colors: Featuring diamond-cut hands and polished indices filled with Swiss Grade A Super-LumiNova for exceptional legibility, even in low-light conditions.
  • New Seconds Dial: Designed with an intricate concentric circle pattern, this small seconds subdial enhances visual balance and seamlessly aligns with the watch’s modern sports aesthetic.
  • 8 New Straps: Each strap is meticulously handcrafted in Leica’s artisanal workshop, blending modern technology with traditional craftsmanship.
  • 100M Water Resistance and a 60-Hour Power Reserve: Engineered for explorers who venture into challenging weather conditions, ensuring reliability in any environment.
  • 5-Year International Warranty: Providing confidence in Leica’s commitment to quality and longevity.
  • Inspired by Leica Photography: The dual-layered dial design is reminiscent of the interplay of light and shadow on a camera’s shutter, reflecting Leica’s heritage.
  • Leica Easy Change System: Allows effortless strap changes with a secure, tool-free mechanism inspired by the Leica M6 lens release.
  • Double-Domed Sapphire Crystal: Echoing the optics of Leica lenses, providing exceptional clarity and scratch resistance.
  • Refined Movement: The Leica Calibre LA-3002 was developed over an 8-month period, undergoing extensive testing and refinement to meet Leica’s exacting standards.
Caliber Leica LA-3002 in collaboration with Chronode SA, Switzerland
Movement type Mechanical automatic, self-winding
Jewels 38 jewels
Frequency 28,800 A/h, 4 Hz
Power reserve Approximately 60 hours
Precision -4/+6 seconds per day, measured in 5 positions
Classic function Hours, minutes, and small second at 6 o‘clock
Complications None
Special feature Easy-Change System (strap change)
Material 316L stainless steel or grade 5 titanium
Case diameter 39 mm
Thickness 13 mm
Weight Stainless-steel case: 66 g | Titanium case: 52 g
Water resistance 100 m | 10 ATM (ISO 2281 standard)
Crown Screw-down crown, with time-setting mode
Dial Dual-layered dial with inner bezel and printed minute track
Front glass Double-domed sapphire crystal, with hardened anti-reflective coating on both sides
Case-back glass Single-domed sapphire crystal, with inside laser print
Hands and indices Indices and hands filled with Swiss Grade A Super-LumiNova
Bands Vulcanized rubber straps | Fabric straps | Integrated 316L stainless-steel or grade 5 titanium bracelet
Buckle Rubber and textile straps: Leica tang buckle with logo engraving, in 316L stainless steel or grade 5 titanium
Metal bracelets: Butterfly clasp with 2 pushers in 316L stainless steel or grade 5 titanium
Warranty 5-year international warranty


Timeless elegance in 39 mm – with small seconds and four unique dial options.

The launch of the new Leica ZM 12 watch collection refines the essence of simplicity, staying true to Leica’s design principles with a fresh take on minimalism. Building on the foundation of the ZM 11, the ZM 12 introduces a thoughtful evolution of the dual-layered dial, welcoming a new collective of Leica lovers with its smaller size. With every second, it serves as a reminder to look at things from a new perspective.

A modern interpretation of iconic design, the Leica ZM 12 collection strikes the perfect balance between form and function. Among the key distinctions between the ZM 11 and the ZM 12 collections is the smaller 39 mm case, crafted with stainless steel or titanium, depending on the model. The watches feature classic timekeeping functions with a small seconds subdial at 6 o’clock, adding symmetry to the overall aesthetic. The dual-layered dial comes to life through an interplay of light and shadow, which creates depth, allowing the ZM 12 to captivate from various angles in an exploration of colour. Swiss Grade A Super-LumiNova illuminates the indices and hands, ensuring exceptional legibility even in challenging lighting conditions.

Engineered in close collaboration with the renowned Swiss movement specialists at Chronode, the exceptional automatic Leica Calibre LA-3002 is fitted with 38 jewels. The ZM 12 impresses with a timekeeping accuracy of -4/+6 seconds per day and boasts a remarkable power reserve of approximately 60 hours. The movement operates at a frequency of 28,800 beats per hour and is measured in five positions to ensure the highest precision at all times.
“Every addition to the ZM Watch Collection is an opportunity to showcase our philosophy of merging technical excellence with minimalist design,” said Dr. Andreas Kaufmann, Chairman of the Supervisory Board at Leica Camera AG.
The Leica ZM 12 collection features four models, each with its own distinct style and character: ZM 12 Steel Blue Orange, ZM 12 Steel Silver Grey, ZM 12 Steel Olive Black, and ZM 12 Titanium Chocolate Black. Interchangeable straps provide wearers with the flexibility to personalise their watch aesthetic, allowing them to express their individual style or transform their look to suit the occasion.

Each strap is meticulously handcrafted in Leica’s artisanal workshop, blending modern technology with traditional craftsmanship. Two exceptional materials have been used to create the watch straps. The first is a premium technical textile that is durable and resilient, offering exceptional strength and longevity. The beige fabric features a unique, eye-catching pattern that adds a touch of sophistication to the wrist. The second is high-quality rubber crafted from a robust material, offering excellent durability and comfort. Its bright orange hue and distinctive inverted “Clous de Paris” pattern make it ideal for those looking to make a bold style statement.
Over 150 years later, Leica has been synonymous with innovation, engineering excellence, and timeless design. The new Leica ZM 12 watch collection embodies these values, continuing a long-standing tradition of functional design, fine mechanical craftsmanship, and an unwavering commitment to exceptional quality, resulting in extremely reliable and iconic products.

The Leica ZM 12 Steel Silver Grey, ZM 12 Steel Olive Black and ZM 12 Titanium Chocolate Black will be available globally at Leica Stores, the Leica Online Store and authorised dealers starting February 27, 2025. The Leica ZM 12 Steel Blue Orange will be available starting April 17, 2025. The recommended retail price will be starting at € 6,650.00 including VAT.

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