Unimatic Modello Tre U3-AS Apollo Soyuz
For years, space nerds have had a single watch at the center of their lives: the Omega Speedmaster Professional. This, as we all know, is the “Moonwatch,” officially sanctioned by NASA for spaceflight, and an object of desire for many who see astronauts, particularly Apollo era astronauts, as heroes and great explorers. It’s almost the stuff of myth, and makes it easy to forget that the history of space exploration reaches far wider than the Apollo missions. The latest watch from Unimatic is a great reminder of that, and highlights a mission tangentially related to Apollo, but with implications far different than those of the projects that got Americans to the moon. Let’s take a look at the all new Unimatic Modello Tre U3-AS Apollo Soyuz.
As you can see, the watch itself is a chronograph, powered by the Seiko VK-64 Mecha-quartz chronograph movement, combining the timekeeping benefits of quartz with the mechanical feel and action of an old-school mechanical chronograph (note that the subdial at 9:00 is a 30 minute totalizer, while the register at 3:00 is a 24 hour indicator, a unique quirk of this particular movement). The watch is fitted with a somewhat unusual rotating tachymeter bezel, which allows users to determine time and pace over a distance of consecutive miles. As with all Unimatic watches up to this point, the timepiece is designed as a function first tool with a compelling design layed over it – the Modello Tre has a screw down crown and 300 meters of water resistance, as well as a case finish that is entirely brushed and a double domed sapphire crystal. The case measures 40mm in diameter, and a relatively slender 13.7mm tall (including the domed crystal) thanks to the use of the Mecha-quartz movement. For a chrono-diver with 300 meters of water resistance, that’s fairly discrete.
Information:
Pre-Owned: Unimatic Modello Tre U3-AS Apollo Soyuz
Reference: U3-AS
Limited: 200 Made
Bracelet: Black Cordura strap and Black laser etched buccaneer leather two piece strap
Case Size: 40mm x 13.7mm Thickness
Lug Width: 22mm
Case Metal: Stainless Steel
Movement: Seiko VK64 - MecaQuartz
Functions: Hours, Minutes, date, chronograph
Box and Papers: Both
Crystal: Sapphire
Bracelet size: 7.75”
Condition:
Case has light normal wear with nothing notable. Blue strap has very little wear and black is unworn. Dial, hands, and crystal have no wear. Watch is running spec.
History of Unimatic Watches
Founded in 2015 by Giovanni Moro and Simone Nunziato, UNIMATIC has quickly risen as an innovative force in horology, blending minimalist design with robust functionality. The two met at the Politecnico di Milano and shared a passion for vintage Seiko watches. Despite following different career paths initially, their continued dialogue about watches led to the creation of UNIMATIC. Starting as a side project, their first limited run of 300 pieces gained significant exposure when Colette in Paris began carrying their products. A pivotal article by Hodinkee further catalyzed UNIMATIC's transformation from a hobby into a serious business.
UNIMATIC's philosophy centers on functional minimalism, stripping away unnecessary elements to focus on essential design and functionality. Each watch is pressure-tested to withstand depths of 300 meters, exemplifying their commitment to durability. The brand's collaborative approach between Moro and Nunziato has resulted in a cohesive design language, emphasizing refinement and functionality over decoration. UNIMATIC has grown organically, relying on word-of-mouth and strong designs rather than traditional marketing. Their commitment to Italian craftsmanship and local production has positioned them at the forefront of a new era in Italian watchmaking. As they continue to evolve, UNIMATIC remains a unique and influential player in the watch industry.
