When you think of Leica, those iconic cameras probably spring to mind first. But the legendary German manufacturer has been inching their way into the watch world too. Their journey from precision optics to precision timekeeping just hit another milestone with the announcement of their new ZM 12 collection. And with their name becoming commonplace on timepieces, it seems Hollywood has taken notice.

Just last weekend, “Aquaman” star Jason Momoa turned up at Saturday Night Live’s glittering 50th Anniversary celebration wearing the Leica Watch ZM 1 Gold Limited Edition on the red carpet. The spot, first identified by Nick Gould aka @niccoloy, was an exciting addition to Momoa’s tailored Valentino suit, and marked a stunning Leica debut that caught eagle-eyed watch collectors by surprise.

 

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Introducing the new Leica ZM 12 collection

Let’s be honest — when Leica first ventured into watchmaking, some skeptics wondered if a camera company could really make waves in the notoriously traditional watch world. But with each new release, they’ve been steadily winning over even the most dedicated horological purists.

Their ZM 12 collection builds on what made the ZM 11 special while addressing the feedback they received. The most obvious change? They’ve shrunk things down a bit. The new 39mm case size makes these watches more wearable for more people. However, this downsizing trend isn’t unique to Leica — plenty of Swiss watchmakers have been moving away from the oversized watch trend of the 2000s. 

The ZM 12 collection offers four distinct iterations, which includes a vibrant rendition in Steel Blue Orange. If your style leans more conservative, the Steel Silver Grey comes in as a classic monochromatic option (and looks the best of the bunch with a bracelet fit, we reckon).

For something with a bit of rugged character, the Steel Olive Black brings those military-inspired tones, while over at the top end, the Titanium Chocolate Black pairs lightweight titanium with rich chocolate tones for a sophisticated statement piece.

On design, Leica has doubled down on their signature dual-layered dial construction, creating depth that changes as light hits it from different angles. You can put that to a photographic reference, akin to how photographers manipulate light and shadow to create dimension in their images.

As Dr. Andreas Kaufmann, Chairman of the Supervisory Board at Leica Camera AG, puts it: “Every addition to the ZM Watch Collection is an opportunity to showcase our philosophy of merging technical excellence with minimalist design.”

A self-winding movement developed by Chronode for Leica

Pop the hood on the ZM 12, and you’ll find the automatic-winding Calibre LA-3002 that Chronode developed for Leica. The Swiss movement specialist has developed movements for HYT and independent watch brand, Fleming, including designing the wandering double moon phase module for the Hermès Arceau L’Heure de la lune.

The Calibre LA-3002 ticks along at 28,800 beats per hour and delivers timekeeping accuracy within -4/+6 seconds daily, as well as a weekend-proof power reserve of about 60 hours. 

All these watches come with straps you can easily swap yourself — no tools needed. They’ve created these straps in their own workshop, using either a super-durable technical fabric with a distinctive pattern or this high-grade rubber featuring an inverted “Clou de Paris” texture. 

Three models — the Silver Grey, Olive Black, and Titanium Chocolate Black — will hit Leica Stores, their online shop, and authorized dealers starting today (February 27), while the vibrant Blue Orange model will follow a bit later, landing on April 17, 2025. As for pricing, these position themselves firmly in the premium segment, starting at S$9,740 (including GST). 

For photography enthusiasts who already have an emotional connection to Leica, these watches offer another way to carry that affinity on their wrist. But increasingly, the appeal extends beyond the photo community to anyone who appreciates thoughtful design and mechanical excellence.

Tech Specs: Leica ZM 12

Movement: Self-winding Leica LA-3002 in collaboration with Chronode SA; 60-hour power reserve
Functions: Hours and minutes; small seconds
Case: 39mm ×13mm; stainless steel or grade 5 titanium; water-resistant to 100m
Dial: Dual-layered dial
Strap: Vulcanized rubber / fabric / integrated bracelet in steel or titanium
Price: From SGD 9,740