It began as a school in the early 1900s, and gradually evolved into an art movement. The ‘Bauhaus approach’, which even the II. World War could not destroy, is carried to the wrists with German watches. Here is how...
The word Bauhaus is a combination of the words ‘bauen’ (build) and ‘haus’ (home) and simply means building a house. The German architect Walter Gropius, providing education in almost every branch of design such as art, architecture, graphic, interior, and industrial founded the school in 1919. Bauhaus, which stands more than a school, has become a modern art movement with its new approach to architecture and design.
Bauhaus Manifesto – April 1919
“So let us, therefore, create a new guild of craftsmen, free of the divisive class pretensions that endeavored to raise a prideful barrier between craftsmen and artists!”
Form Follows Function
With the birth of Bauhaus, the concept of ’form follows function’ was born. The concept defends that the form of a structure or an object must first serve its function and purpose. Designers implement this understanding by using geometric forms, limiting sameness and staying away from decoration.
The Bauhaus movement adopts the ‘reality of matter’ as a fundamental principle meaning that the material should be used most appropriately and correctly and its nature should not be changed in any way.
Characterized by economic consciousness, simplicity and focusing on mass production, the Bauhaus movement has a lasting influence on modern and contemporary art. However, it is not evident in architecture only but also in all fields of life and handcraft today.
Bauhaus, which is defined by the combination of art and artisanship, focuses on the purpose of bringing art back into daily life. To achieve this, typical Bauhaus designs are based on balanced forms and abstract shapes.
Bauhaus Inspirations in Watchmaking
Bauhaus movement naturally inspires watchmaking, as watches are a part of everyday life. However, how do we know that precious German watches, and even some Swiss brands, are influenced by this trend?
Accessibility
Many Bauhaus inspired timepieces are available at relatively affordable prices. This pricing method is also used for making the watches available virtually for everyone. Influenced by the Bauhaus movement, the brand intends to share with all segments of society.
Elegant Fonts
The elegant fonts used on the dials often indicate Bauhaus design. Herbert Bayer, who graduated from Bauhaus, identified the typography of Bauhaus in 1925.
Small Bezels Accompanying Large Dials
Small bezels support the clean appearance of the dials. For this reason, many of the Bauhaus-inspired watches look larger than they are.
Functionality
Many Bauhaus watches are resistant to water and shocks.
Minimalistic Design
The Bauhaus watches are unobtrusive and have a modern look. By the way, do not be fooled by the fact that you have such a design; they are both elegant and highly legible.
