One might believe it to be a survivor from the Titanic! However, the Darkmoon Unico is indeed a brand new watch, conceived by the Italian brand U-Boat. It stands out due to a special treatment, which, in addition to making each piece unique, gives the impression that it has spent many years underwater…
Unico, a unique watch… as its name suggests!
If it occupies a discreet location at the show every year, the U-Boat brand always manages to attract the curious and enthusiasts to its Watches & Wonders booth. This was once again confirmed at the 2024 edition, with the presentation of the Darkmoon collection, which is already growing with the arrival of a new and surprising model: Unico.
True to its name (which inevitably makes us think of Hublot), this watch stands out for its uniqueness, as if it emerges from the depths of the sea, unexplored abysses, and places forgotten by time. Italo Fontana, the designer passionate about vintage objects and stories shaped by time, put all his know-how into the creation of this unique 44mm watch.
This newcomer at U-Boat stands out with its PVD bronze steel case, manually treated with various superimposed acids to achieve an oxidized and aged effect. This technique also applies to the dial, protected by a high-quality anti-reflective domed sapphire glass. As often, the case is fully filled with oil, according to the innovative concept dear to the Italian brand, combined with a compensation bubble and a domed dial. This not only protects the mechanism but also provides a surprising three-dimensional visual effect!
The back of the casing reveals an innovative locking system (Locking Ring System) allowing quick replacement of the battery of the Swiss quartz movement Ronda 712.3, lubricated in an oil bath. And to make the experience even more complete, a laser-engraved QR code allows you to immerse (online!) in the U-Boat universe.
Waterproof up to 50 meters, the Darkmoon Unico watch features a distressed leather strap with natural cognac color processes, handmade in Tuscany. This numbered edition is available for 1500€.
The “submarine” watches in U-Boat’s DNA
Founded by Italo Fontana, U-Boat is an Italian watch brand that draws its inspiration from the maritime and military world. Although it was not established until 2000, its history actually goes back much further, to 1942. At that time, the Italian Navy asked Ilvo Fontana to create a sturdy watch designed for the battlefield. But his prototype ultimately remained in the archives and it was his grandson Ilvo who resumed the project at the dawn of the 21st century
Quickly, U-Boat watches stand out for their imposing size, bold design and advanced technical features, like this case filled with oil. Robust, atypical and readable under all conditions (even underwater, especially underwater!), these models have allowed this young brand to carve out a place of choice in the small world of independent watchmakers. Its repeated presence at an event like Watches & Wonders attests to its success and the interest it arouses among enthusiasts.
