Ruhla is a German watch brand that was founded in 1892 in the town of Ruhla, in the Thuringian Forest. The company initially produced pocket watches and later expanded into wristwatches.
During World War II, Ruhla produced watches for the German military and gained a reputation for their precision and reliability. After the war, the company continued to produce high-quality watches with both mechanical and quartz movements.
In the 1960s and 70s, Ruhla became known for its innovative designs, which included watches with unusual shapes and bright colors. The brand also produced watches with unique features, such as built-in compasses and altimeters.
During the Cold War, Ruhla was one of the few watch brands in East Germany, and it was a popular choice among East German consumers. The brand produced watches for both military and civilian use, and many of these watches are now considered collectors' items.
After the reunification of Germany in 1990, Ruhla struggled to compete with other German watch brands and faced financial difficulties. The company eventually went bankrupt in 2012, and its assets were sold to other companies.
Today, Ruhla watches are still available from a few retailers and collectors. The brand's classic designs and innovative features continue to be appreciated by watch enthusiasts, and Ruhla watches remain a part of Germany's horological history.