The UNIMATIC x Massena LAB U1-MLBN is a friends and family exclusive version of the U1-MLB, our third and final watch in a trilogy of three collaborations with UNIMATIC following the release of both ML6 and MLM in 2020.
ML6, with its red triangle on the bezel and its tropical dial was born from a question: "what would a UNIMATIC watch from the 1950s look like today?” MLM, with its blue dial and bezel, was inspired by the dive watches issued to the French Navy in the 1960s.
MLB “Bund” represents a final evolution and is inspired by the dive watches of the 1970s, particularly the cult Blancpain “Bund”, which was issued to the West Germany’s Bundeswehr Kampfschwimmers, a group of elite special forces of the West German Navy.
MLB features an all black dial, with a black on black “ghost" signature to maximize the legibility of its ivory Super-LumiNova indices. Like the “Bund” of the 1970s, the dial of the MLB is characterized by a large, distinctly orange minute hand to differentiate it from the hour hand, both of which are luminous.
The rotating bezel of the MLB features a single, large plot of Super-LumiNova at 12 o’clock, which is referred to as a “sterile bezel”.
MLBN, available only to our family and friends, is an all-black take on the MLB and features a matte black DLC-plated stainless steel case, an all-black DLC-plated bezel, and a matching black TPU strap.
On its case back, MLBN is engraved with a submarine sonar motif, along with its limited-edition number. MLBN is delivered with two straps: one in black and another in burnt orange, both made in Italy from TPU and signed UNIMATIC.
MLBN is a limited-edition of 80 pieces exclusive only to our family and friends.
Information:
Reference: U1-MLBN
Limited: 80 Pieces
Bracelet: Black TPU strap and Orange TPU Strap
Case Size: 41.5mm x 13.6mm Thickness
Lug Width: 22mm
Case Metal: Stainless Steel DLC Plated
Movement: NH35 - Automatic
Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds
Box and Papers: Box and Papers
Crystal: Sapphire
Bracelet size: 7.75”
Condition:
Case has light normal wear. Straps have no wear. Bezel has a couple marks. 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.
