A derivative of the 6.35mm (.25 caliber) Model 1910 designed by Josef Nickl, it uses 7.65mm (32 ACP) ammunition.

The original side-latch model created some potential problems when field stripped as the trigger could be removed, but would be difficult to replace because of the spring pressure on it.

The New Model's change to the striker mechanism also made it easier to determine if the pistol was cocked.

[3] The pistol was single action, and striker-fired, with the trigger connected to a bell crank lever which rotated around its center to disengage from the striker sear, allowing it to fly forward under spring pressure and discharge the cartridge.

This feature ensures quick reload as there is no need to operate the slide to put the pistol into action, since once a loaded magazine was inserted, the slide would automatically close and the pistol would be ready to fire.