UMF-Ruhla MELKUS GMT Quartz

Melkus GMT – Sporty Precision “Made in Germany”
Limited Edition by UMF-Ruhla (499 pieces)

The new Melkus GMT by UMF-Ruhla is a sporty tribute to one of East Germany’s most iconic automobiles: the legendary Melkus RS 1000. It combines dynamic motorsport-inspired design with reliable German watchmaking at an outstanding price point of 199 € RRP.

Racing-inspired design

The robust 42 mm stainless steel case with crown protection immediately conveys a sporty character. The black dial blends motorsport aesthetics with excellent readability:

• Racing perforated hands with luminous tips
• Fluorescent markers for visibility in the dark
• Red second hand & red GMT hand
• Date display at 3 o’clock
• Outer minute track with instrument-style markings

A scratch-resistant sapphire crystal ensures durability, while the screwed stainless steel case back featuring a raised RS 1000 relief gives the watch its unmistakable identity.

Reliable functionality – the Ronda 505.24H GMT

Inside ticks the proven Swiss Made Ronda 505.24H, a robust 4-hand quartz movement with an independently adjustable second time zone (GMT).

• GMT hand for a second time zone
• Swiss reliability and long service life
• High accuracy and everyday dependability

With its 10 ATM water resistance, the watch is suitable for everyday use and beyond.

Motorsport heritage on your wrist

The black racing perforated calfskin strap with red stitching recalls the design of vintage sports car steering wheels. It wears comfortably and complements the dial perfectly.

Limited Edition – 499 pieces worldwide

Each watch is part of an exclusive small production run. This makes it a collector’s item—especially for enthusiasts of German automotive and watchmaking history.

The inspiration: the legendary Melkus RS 1000

This watch pays tribute to a true icon of East German automotive engineering:

Designed by racing driver and constructor Heinz Melkus, the Melkus RS 1000 was hand-built between 1969 and 1979. Its striking wedge shape, signature gullwing doors, and lightweight fiberglass body made it a unique presence on the roads and racetracks of its time.

Powered by a lightweight 3-cylinder two-stroke engine and optimized aerodynamics, the RS 1000 delivered remarkable performance. Today, it remains one of the most sought-after collector cars from the former GDR—a symbol of passion, ingenuity, and engineering ambition.

The vehicle photographs shown in my shop feature the original Melkus RS 1000 owned by Michael Blum.
My sincere thanks to Mr. Blum for providing this outstanding photo motif, which captures the true spirit of this watch.

Conclusion

The Melkus GMT by UMF-Ruhla is a sporty, durable, and visually striking timepiece designed for motorsport fans and enthusiasts of German engineering. With sapphire crystal, Swiss movement, 10 ATM water resistance, and a strictly limited run of 499 pieces, it offers exceptional value for money.

A remarkable watch for fans of the Melkus RS 1000, collectors, and anyone looking for a sporty and high-quality timepiece “Made in Germany.”