Löbner Watches: A Triumph of German Watchmaking Heritage & Precision Reborn

Rejuvenating a bygone watch brand can be a remarkable feat, requiring a meticulous balancing act. While some brands may not merit a revival and others carry too much or too little historical significance, there are a few that strike the perfect balance. Among this unique cohort is Löbner Watches, a German watchmaker established in the 19th century. Despite being lost to the annals of history following World War II, the brand carries an extraordinary legacy and made a triumphant return in 2023 in Munich. The reborn Löbner successfully pays homage to its rich heritage while presenting a fresh, contemporary feel.

Löbner’s association with racing and timekeeping was formalised in 1891, with the creation of a large racecourse clock in Berlin. Ranging up to two meters tall, these clocks granted readability across the racetrack. They improved on previous designs by enabling the precise measurement of time to the tenths of a second. Electromechanical control powered these much-admired racecourse clocks, providing a significant leap from the manual mechanical clocks previously used for official timekeeping. Löbner’s innovative watchmaking approach set the clocks a class apart, extending its reputation for exacting precision and timeless aesthetics.