Part 3 - Moritz Grossmann
Moving on from relatively staid NOMOS, we headed up the hill to enjoy an entirely different experience.
Pausing to admire the image of Carl Moritz Grossmann on a commemorative plaque we all agreed that he was a strikingly handsome fellow.
Moritz Grossmann literally look down on the other manufacturers at Glashütte. The edifice opposite is Glashütte Original (of blued screws fame), with the headquarters of A. Lange & Söhne in the more traditional building just next door. The delivery truck at NOMOS can be seen to be having difficulty accessing the loading platform due to the inconsiderate parking of certain visitors.
It transpired that the tour at Moritz Grossmann was to be in German. Fortunately I achieved CSE Grade 3 in 1985 and have retained in memory most of what I learnt then, as you will probably be able to tell from my commentary.
This area is used for preparing fresh sweet treats to accompany the coffee during well earned breaks. The morning Eierschecke is almost ready. Ever attentive to detail, the result will be measured and examined by microscope to ensure that it meets demanding quality standards.
This device is used for injecting raisins into Stollen to provide an exact and uniform distribution.
Moritz Grossmann are innovators in the field of mechanically produced abstract art. By attaching colouring pens to the upper part of the machine and a canvas to the plinth, a clever algorithm results in aesthetically pleasing results as can be seen hanging on the wall in the background.
Another side product are high quality open razors constructed to a closely guarded secret design. Bearded gentlemen are employed to inspect and test each hand finished instrument. Due to the nature of the work this fellow will be taking the next four weeks as paid leave.
Here we see the pencil sharpening department. The emphasis is on quality rather than quantity, otherwise it would be a pointless endeavour.
This artisan is operating an automated hand moisturising machine, provided to ensure that employees digits are always in supreme condition.
We are all most impressed with the results.
Staff are encouraged to pursue their own interests. Those supple hands help our moisturising friend with his hobby of sleight of hand. Here a Euro coin has vanished right before our eyes, ta-da.
When he’s not doing magic tricks he puts a clever swirly pattern onto the toothy bits.
You need steady hands when making hands. This lady is very proud of hers, not even the slightest shake.
If you don’t have steady hands then you might stab yourself in the finger with those little pointy bits.
As many as three watches are produced annually. We finished our tour in the conference room for a hands on experience of the impressive workmanship. Designs are best described as eclectic.
It was a most enjoyable visit. Apologies for any errors in my translation, the German speakers in our group will be able to correct anything that I’ve interpreted incorrectly.