Unimatic UT4-B

The UT4-B draws from a previously released limited edition field watch by Unimatic – the UT4-AA – which introduced the slimmer 12.05mm profile and the 360° protection system to a quartz movement within the brand's catalog for the first time. But the UT4-B is a far cry from a reissue of a previous model and maintains its own unique identity when compared to its predecessor which feels a touch sportier and decently more versatile in its look and feel. While we have no qualms with the brand's commonly used 21st-century brutalist dial designs that rely on blocky hour symbols, there is something about the sans serif Arabic numerals on the UT4-B's dial that reads as softer, more approachable, less serious in a refreshing way. The splash of pale green around the outer dial and in the hands adds to the easygoing feeling, which stands apart nicely from the dominant color palette that leans heavily on the more austere hues of blacks, whites, and greys. Super-LumiNova-filled hands and triangle hour accents allow for easy reading day or night.  This watch sports a monoblock bezel construction which further enhances the streamlined design aesthetic that's representative of Unimatic at its best. The stainless steel case has a sandblasted finish that adds a pleasant and rich sense of texture, and with its diameter of 40mm, promises to look great on a variety of wrist sizes. Drilled 22mm lugs harken to early field watches and are perfect for the enhanced security that NATO-style straps provide.  The military appeal of the UT4-B is not only an aesthetic choice but is integral to the utility of its design. The UT4-B gets its rugged toughness from its newly reimagined construction system, which consists of a shell made of a special blend of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) material that holds the movement and dial atop a protective ring that imparts the watch with the strength to withstand extreme stressors while keeping the timepiece itself light and bulk-free.  In order to achieve the U.S. military standard 360° degree drop protection, the UT4-B was put to the test, subject to upwards of 26 drops on all sides and angles to ensure that it would come out of some pretty rough treatment unscathed and still functioning. Thankfully, the UT4-B passed with flying colors and is officially MIL-SPEC certified (MIL-STD 810 H Proc IV "Transit drop" to be specific). Information: Reference: UT4-B Limited: 300 Pieces Bracelet: Green TPU Strap Case Size: 40mm x 12.05mm Thickness Lug Width: 22mm Case Metal: Stainless Steel Movement: Seiko VK31 - Quartz Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds Box and Papers: No Box or Papers - Watch Only Crystal: Sapphire Bracelet size: 7.5” Condition: Case has light normal wear with nothing notable. Strap has no wear. Dial, hands, and crystal have no wear. Watch is running within 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.