Unimatic has unveiled the U1-MLB, representing the third and final diver produced in collaboration with Massena LAB. Inspired by the Blancpain Fifty Fathoms 3H “Bund” dive watch issued to the West German Bundeswehr Kampfschwimmers of the 1970s, the watch was a special version of the Fifty Fathoms that Blancpain produced on commission from the West German Navy to equip its elite combat divers. This new Unimatic x Massena LAB U1-MLB highlights the most recognizable features of the Blancpain Fifty Fathoms 3H and pushes everything else to the background. From the prominent orange minute hand, black on black “ghost” signature, and the “sterile” black bezel, it is a tribute to the original. The hour markers are designed in typical Unimatic fashion, with horizontal bars at the cardinal positions and oversized circles in between. As a result, it is highly legible and delivers the Unimatic charm while honoring the Blancpain.
As with prior U1 models, the case measures 41.5mm in diameter and 13.6mm in thickness and offers 300 meters of water resistance. Also, the Unimatic x Massena LAB U1-MLB is powered by the Seiko NH35 movement, beating away with 41 hours of reserve. The watch is supplied with a black and orange TPU strap, fitted between a 22mm lug span. The U1-MLB is limited to only 200 pieces.
For more on Unimatic, check out the Unimatic and Grimoldi Milano Modello Uno U1-GM.
