Leica, a name historically associated with photographic excellence, is making significant strides in the realm of sophisticated mechanical timekeeping. Through the introduction of its ZM 1 and ZM 2 watch collections, the brand is showcasing its dedication to high-precision horology. These distinguished timepieces feature Leica's innovative in-house movements, the manually wound Caliber LH-10 and Caliber LH-20, which were meticulously developed alongside German engineering experts Lehmann Präzision. While the watches incorporate visual cues from Leica's iconic camera designs, the true marvel lies within: movements crafted to introduce novel concepts, enhanced functionalities, and a distinctive German approach to contemporary mechanical watchmaking.

Leica's journey into modern watchmaking was spearheaded by Dr. Andreas Kaufmann in 2015, driven by a vision for an entirely in-house creation. This commitment led to the development of watches from the ground up in Germany, adhering to the same principles that define Leica's cameras: mechanical accuracy, functional clarity, and minimalist industrial design. The collaboration with Markus Lehmann of Lehmann Präzision GmbH, a specialist in high-tolerance machining from the Black Forest, was crucial. Together, they embarked on crafting a serious mechanical watch that embodies Leica's profound engineering philosophy, ultimately culminating in the creation of Leica's unique in-house calibers.

The Caliber LH-10 and LH-20 were engineered specifically for the ZM 1 and ZM 2 models. Each movement is meticulously hand-assembled, comprising 253 or 280 components depending on the model, featuring 26 jewels, and boasting a 60-hour power reserve. Every movement undergoes Leica's rigorous five-axis regulation process, ensuring exceptional stability across various positions. The extensive manual finishing, adjustment, and inspection required for each movement inherently limit production, explaining why the ZM 1 and ZM 2 are released in select annual quantities rather than mass production. A standout innovation in these calibers is Leica's patented push-crown system, which replaces the conventional pull-out crown with a press-to-activate mechanism. Adorned with a ceramic red dot, this crown allows the wearer to stop and reset the small seconds hand with a single press, engaging the setting mode. A subsequent press reactivates the mechanism after time adjustment. This design aims to provide a more intuitive and accurate time-setting experience, echoing the tactile feedback of a Leica camera's shutter release, resulting in a system that is faster, less prone to error, and mechanically distinctive within the contemporary watch industry. While both manual-winding Leica movements share a fundamental architecture, their specific functions vary according to the watch they power. The LH-10 in the ZM 1 manages hours, minutes, and small seconds, complemented by a power-reserve display, a movement-status indicator integrated with the push-crown, and a rapid-set date. The LH-20, designed for the ZM 2, expands on this, incorporating a second time zone displayed on an internal 12-hour bezel, paired with a synchronized day/night indicator. These German-made ZM 1 and ZM 2 watches prominently feature the design language found across Leica's camera range. Both models boast the distinctive red-dot push-crown, a domed crystal reminiscent of a camera lens, and robust stainless-steel cases shaped like a Leica top plate. The typography on the dial and caseback mirrors the font used on Leica M6 cameras, while the crowns and pushers integrate the forms and textures of familiar camera controls. Even the power-reserve display draws inspiration from photography, featuring converging blades that evoke a mechanical shutter.

The distinction of the LH-10 and LH-20 movements lies in their nature as purpose-built calibers, conceived exclusively for Leica's watch program, rather than being mere adaptations of existing ébauches or private-label constructions. For a brand venturing into mechanical watchmaking on its own terms, these movements establish a significant foundation. They represent German-made mechanisms that embody the same rigorous engineering principles found in Leica's renowned cameras. As Dr. Andreas Kaufmann aptly states, this project signifies "A watch made in Germany that embodies the values of our premium brand." This commitment to innovation and heritage underscores Leica's enduring pursuit of excellence across all its precision instruments, showcasing that true craftsmanship transcends categories and consistently elevates standards.