Precision, Innovation, and German Craftsmanship Since 1861
đŠ Founding and Early Growth (1861â1880)
The Junghans Clock Company was founded in 1861 in Schramberg, in Germany’s Black Forest region, by Erhard Junghans and his brother-in-law, Jakob Zeller-Tobler. Originally named Zeller & Junghans, the company initially produced clock componentsâespecially brass partsârather than complete timepieces.
Following Erhard Junghans’ death in 1870, his wife and sonsâmost notably Arthur Junghansâtook over and shifted the companyâs focus to the manufacture of complete clocks. Inspired by American mass-production techniques, Arthur modernized the production process and introduced standardized parts, setting the stage for Junghans to become a major force in clockmaking.
By 1876, Junghans began stamping its clocks with a signature eight-pointed star logo, now one of the most recognized symbols in horology.
đ Rise to World Leadership (1880â1910)
By the turn of the century, Junghans had become one of the largest clock manufacturers in the world. In 1903, it officially became the largest clock factory on Earth, employing over 3,000 workers and producing more than 3 million timepieces annually.
During this period, Junghans expanded its range to include:
- Wall and mantel clocks
- Alarm clocks
- Regulator clocks
- Pocket watches (introduced in the 1880s)
Junghans was especially noted for its accuracy, affordability, and elegant design, which appealed to a growing international market.
âąď¸ Embracing Innovation (1910â1930)
Junghans consistently pursued technological advancement. In 1912, it began producing wristwatches, entering a market that would soon dominate the 20th century. The company also invested in precision timekeeping, creating marine chronometers and observatory clocks for navigation and scientific use.
By the 1920s, Junghans was producing clocks and watches under various model lines and had become a symbol of German quality craftsmanship.
âď¸ Challenges and Survival (1930â1950)
Like most European manufacturers, Junghans faced serious challenges during the Great Depression and World War II. During the war, it was requisitioned for military production, including the manufacture of timing mechanisms and precision instruments for the German military.
Despite these difficulties, Junghans resumed civilian production shortly after the war ended, reestablishing itself as a major manufacturer in the global timekeeping market.
⨠Design and the Bauhaus Era: Max Bill (1950â1970)
One of the most celebrated chapters in Junghans history came in the 1950s and 1960s with its collaboration with Swiss architect and designer Max Bill, a disciple of the Bauhaus movement.
Max Billâs clock and watch designsâespecially the minimalist wall clocks and wristwatchesâbecame iconic examples of mid-century modernism. These pieces are still produced today under the âJunghans Max Billâ line and are prized for their clean, timeless aesthetic.
In this era, Junghans also produced the first German quartz clock and developed radio-controlled technologies that would later become the cornerstone of its reputation for precision.
đĄ Innovation in Radio-Controlled Timekeeping (1970â1990)
In the late 1980s, Junghans introduced a major horological breakthrough: the first radio-controlled table clock in 1985, followed by the first radio-controlled wristwatch in 1990, the Mega 1.
These developments solidified Junghansâ reputation as a leader in timekeeping precision, combining traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge electronics.
đ Ownership Changes and Brand Revival (1990âPresent)
After experiencing financial difficulties in the late 20th century, Junghans changed ownership several times. In 2009, the brand was acquired by Dr. Hans-Jochem Steim and his son Hannes Steim, who revitalized the company and brought production back to Schramberg.
Today, Junghans continues to produce high-quality wristwatches, clocks, and limited-edition collector pieces. Its collections include:
- Max Bill (modern Bauhaus design)
- Meister (classic mechanical craftsmanship)
- Form, Milano, and Erhard Junghans (varied modern and traditional styles)
- Radio-controlled models and solar-powered watches
Junghans watches are now distributed in more than 50 countries, and the company has regained its place as a respected name in German and global horology.
đ§ Legacy of Junghans
For over 160 years, Junghans has remained synonymous with precision, innovation, and timeless design. Whether through their early industrial clocks, their iconic Bauhaus timepieces, or their groundbreaking radio-controlled watches, Junghans has left an indelible mark on the history of timekeeping.
Collectors prize vintage Junghans clocks and watches for their reliability and aesthetics, while new customers appreciate the brandâs blend of modern technology and traditional craftsmanship.
Junghans is not just a clock companyâit is a story of resilience, creativity, and the enduring beauty of time measured well.
