Glashütte Original is celebrating 180 years of watchmaking heritage, tracing its origins to 1845 when Ferdinand Adolph Lange established the town as a centre of German horology by applying the metric system and specialised measuring tools. This pioneering spirit led to the foundation of the German Watchmaking School in 1878, catalysing a regional transformation from mining to precision craftsmanship.
Over the following centuries, Glashütte watchmakers weathered wars, political upheavals and economic changes—yet maintained their dedication to quality. Post-World War II consolidation under VEB Glashütter Uhrenbetriebe and a resurgence after reunification in 1990 preserved core traditions.
Today, the brand has continued to evolve, marked by moments such as its 180-year tribute releases like Frosted Silver and Copper variants in the Senator Excellence Panorama Date line.
Glashütte Original cites its in-house academic roots and deep savoir-faire via its Alfred Helwig school and interdisciplinary tradition of master craftsmanship, ensuring the next generation of artisans uphold the region’s highest watchmaking standards.
What 180 Years Mean Today
● Groundbreaking technical precision from the 1845 adoption of metric measurement and mmicrometres● A legacy of resilience through world wars, nationalisation, and rebirth
● Extraordinary vertical integration: nearly every part made in-house
● Reinforcement of traditional know-how via watchmaking education
● Anniversary editions paying homage to a rich chronicle
Glashütte Original’s 180-year celebration is not just a milestone; it’s a reaffirmation of a vision that marries historical craftsmanship, meticulous precision, and ongoing innovation. It underlines why the brand remains a paragon of German horology, crafting timepieces that resonate with both legacy and modern refinement.
These 180 years remind watch lovers of the enduring value of heritage, resilience, and fully crafted authenticity, traits that set Glashütte Original apart in today’s luxury watch landscape.
To understand more about 180 Years of Glashütte Watchmaking, click here.
