UNIMATIC and Massena LAB have constructed a popularity for creating limited-edition timepieces that mix revolutionary design with wealthy storytelling. Their newest collaboration, nevertheless, would possibly simply be the best one but. The UNIMATIC x Massena LAB U1-SPG “NASA Artemis” Restricted Version watch is a tribute to NASA’s Artemis program, showcasing a vibrant deep orange dial contrasted in opposition to a glossy black case – a mix that’s as daring because the mission it honors.
The colour scheme of the U1-SPG attracts direct inspiration from the NASA Artemis program, a groundbreaking house exploration initiative aimed toward returning people to the Moon. Launched in 2017, the Artemis program had its first profitable uncrewed flight, Artemis I, in 2022, paving the best way for future crewed missions. The following milestone, Artemis II, is ready to be the primary crewed flight of the marketing campaign, with a scheduled launch date in 2026. The rockets used within the Artemis program, most notably the Area Launch System (SLS), characteristic a hanging burnt-orange hue on the core stage – a shade ensuing from the spray-on foam insulation that protects the rocket from excessive temperatures throughout launch. Whereas the rockets historically pair this orange with white, UNIMATIC and Massena LAB have chosen to swap that with a deep black Cerakote case, giving the watch a daring and futuristic edge.
The U1-SPG’s case is crafted from Cerakote, a high-performance ceramic-based coating usually used within the aerospace and automotive industries attributable to its distinctive resistance to corrosion, abrasion, and impression. This remedy not solely ensures that the watch can face up to the trials of every day put on but additionally lends it a refined matte end that enhances the colourful orange dial. Measuring 41.5mm in diameter and 13.2mm in thickness, the case is supplied with a 120-click unidirectional bezel, additional reinforcing its practical design.
The face of the U1-SPG continues the NASA narrative with meticulous consideration to element. The dial options the enduring NASA “worm” emblem in white, including an unmistakable nod to the house company’s storied historical past. As a GMT watch, it contains an extra 24-hour hand, permitting the wearer to trace a number of time zones – an important characteristic for astronauts and house fans alike. Surrounding the dial are 24-hour markers, including to the watch’s utility and enhancing its space-inspired aesthetic.
To make sure most legibility and sturdiness, the U1-SPG is fitted with a sapphire crystal that’s handled with an anti-reflective coating on the inside, lowering glare and making it simpler to learn in brilliant situations.
Flip the watch over, and also you’ll uncover one other nod to the Artemis program. The case again options the official NASA Artemis emblem, commemorating the mission’s bold objectives of creating a sustainable human presence on the Moon and paving the best way for future missions to Mars. Every watch can also be individually numbered, emphasizing its exclusivity – with solely 99 items accessible worldwide.
Beneath the floor, the U1-SPG is powered by the Seiko NH34A computerized motion – a dependable and sturdy mechanism that options 24 jewels, a frequency of 21,600 vibrations per hour (vph), and a 42-hour energy reserve. Recognized for its sturdiness and precision, the NH34A ensures that the watch stays as practical as it’s trendy, making it a real collector’s merchandise.
With its connection to NASA’s subsequent period of house exploration, it’s no shock that the UNIMATIC x Massena LAB U1-SPG “NASA Artemis” Restricted Version bought out virtually instantly after its launch. Priced at $1,295, the watch rapidly captured the eye of each horology fans and house exploration followers. Nevertheless, when you’re nonetheless hoping to safe one, Massena LAB has a waitlist accessible on their web site.
For extra data on the UNIMATIC x Massena LAB U1-SPG “NASA Artemis” watch, go to massenalab.com or unimaticwatches.com.
Pictures courtesy of Massena LAB and UNIMATIC.
