A Closer Look at the Unimatic U3 Dive Chronograph
The Italian watchmaker Unimatic is a microbrand that is starting to come into its own as a name of distinction in the realm of horology. Their dive watches are noteworthy creations that are deserving of a closer inspection. The brand has announced the release of a new example that we have our eye on in particular. If you’ve not yet heard of them it’s time that you did. Although the reputation of the small watchmaker is maturing, it’s been one of the best-kept secrets in the watch world, but it’s time to reveal the dynamic features and merits of the Unimatic U3 Dive Chronograph, also referred to as the Modello Tre-U3A.
The case
The signature aesthetic of the Unimatic U3 Dive Chronograph begins with the case, unique in both front and back. Two variations are offered for the Unimamtic US Dive Chronograph with The A case crafted of solid 316 steel in a brushed finish and the AN in a black DLC. The diameter of the case is 40mm in width and 13.7mm in thickness for each. There is a space of 51mm lug to lug.
The case back is made of the same materials used in the front. It features the signature Unimatic world timer engraving with the individual progressive numbers for each distinction of the limited edition series for each variant of the design. The screwed in case back is a recessed style measuring 2mm in thickness that creates the ideal aesthetic with the curved case. The screw down crown measures 8mm and the chrono pushers are screw-in style with a fat 5.5mm size.
The bezel
The bezel is made of aluminum with a minimal design. It measures 41.5mm in a mono-directional style rotation featuring 120 clicks.
The dial
A matte black dial presents the ideal background for good contrast and high legibility of the watch face. There is no date on the dial and it is treated with faux aged Super-LumiNova lume. Gilt-style markings characterize the chronograph in a small size. The dial is presented in a two-eyed vintage style with a cream lume application and gilt trims to complete the minimalist appearance.
The Movement
The movement that powers the U3’s chronograph is a Seiko VK64 Mecha-quarts type that offers a traditional mechanical chronograph movement at a reduced cost. It’s a hybrid that has been successfully applied in other successful watch brands with Chrono seconds hands in incremental 1/5 jumps. It’s a battery-powered quartz with a chronograph actuation that is mechanical style, operating at a frequency of 32,768 Hz. The functions of the movement are hours, minutes, Chrono minutes, Chrono hours (maximum of 24 hours, and central Chrono seconds.
The glass
The glass is a sapphire crystal that is 2.5mm in thickness in a double domed style. It has been treated with an anti-reflective coating on the inside of the lens.
The strap
Both versions of the Modello Tre or U3 Diver Chronographs come with a strap that is made of black Cordovan leather with an additional Unimatic nylon Nato strap with matching hardware. The straps are made in Italy and each features a brushed SS signed custom buckle with a 22mm strap.
Other details
Each of the Unimatic U3 Dive Chronographs are water resistant up to 300 meters or 1000 feet. The use of high-quality gaskets, the screw down crown, screw down Chrono pushers and the double-domed, extra thick sapphire crystal combine together to give this diver its extended water-resistant depth capacities. Each of the watches has passed a stringent testing to ensure that they are as advertised.
Limited Edition
The Unimatic U3 Dive Chronograph is offered n two variations with a strictly limited edition for each. Every example features detailed engravings on the case back that distinguishes its place in the production process. The U3-A model is limited to a total production of just 600 units and the retail price for each is set at €525, while the black DLC U3-AN is offered in a smaller quantity in its limited production of just 300 units which are offered for €625. Each watch offered by the Unimatic brand comes with a 24-month limited warranty that protects against any defects in the materials or the manufacture of the watch when used under normal conditions that do not exceed the recommendations.
