BY JOVAN KRSTEVSKI
Leica is back in the watch game with a fresh take on its ZM lineup, and this time, it’s bringing more color to the mix. The ZM 12 follows in the footsteps of the ZM 11 but dials up the personality with bolder color choices and a sportier aesthetic.
The case measures 39mm x 13mm, featuring a circular design with a sloped bezel and an oversized crown at 3 o’clock. What stands out the most are the quasi-integrated lugs; flat, wide bars at 12 and 6 o’clock that lead directly into the bracelet. The bracelet itself has a scale-like texture.
Available in Blue Orange, Silver Grey, Olive Black, and Chocolate Black, the ZM 12 moves away from Leica’s usual monochrome style. It keeps the ZM 11’s dual-layered dial but adds a small seconds subdial at 6 o’clock. Blue Orange is the boldest, Chocolate Black feels refined with rose gold accents, while Silver Grey and Olive Black balance sporty and subdued tones.
Under the hood, Leica has stuck with the LA-3002 automatic movement, developed in collaboration with Chronode. It runs at 28,800 vph (4Hz), has 38 jewels, and delivers a solid 60-hour power reserve. Accuracy is rated at -4/+6 seconds per day, and the movement has been tested in five positions, putting it in the same ballpark as many certified chronometers.
The steel Leica ZM 12 models (Silver Grey, Olive Black, and Blue Orange) start at $6,250, and the titanium Chocolate Black model is priced at $7,000. Silver Grey, Olive Black, and Chocolate Black are available now, with the Blue Orange model arriving in April.
