Every U-Boat timepiece is individually handcrafted in Italy by master watchmakers, dedicated to the highest level of precision engineering and finishing, where care and attention to detail are evident throughout the entire process. From the manufacturing to the final assembly of the watch. The U-Boat Sommerso Bronzo Ref. 8486 is the latest offering with its unique bronze case.
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U-boat Classico Sommerso Bronze 46mm Ref. 8486
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The U-Boat Sommerso Bronzo features a Swiss Made automatic movement. This 26 jewels ETA/Sellita movement is highly personalized to U-Boat specifications, allowing a 24 hours sub-dial display at 4 o'clock. The watch ticks at 28800BPH (4 Hertz) with a power reserve of 44 hours. And the time and date adjustments are made through the "destro" crown at the left side of the case, keeping with U-Boat unique canteen cap, covering over the screw-down crown.
The 46mm 316L full bronze case has a water-resistant of 300 meters, matching 120 clicks, uni-directional bezel that functions like most dive watches. It's bold look thanks to the height of 16.5mm and 51mm lug to lug distance - a sizing that exemplifies the main appeal of what U-Boat watches are about. As mention earlier, the trademark-protected special protective device at 3 o'clock is unique and eye-catching. Making it an instant statement on the wrist. Notably, on the other side is engraved with the "U-boat" name and a bronze plaque that indicates the serial number of the piece. Topping things off, a high-quality scratch-resistant flat sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating underneath.
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| Innovative crown release system (patented) at 8 o’clock for easy time and date setting |
Sitting within, the iconic numeral and baton hour markers are done so in a luminous beige tone, treated with SuperLuminova on its superimposed black dial. A matching date display blends nicely on the left side, and the unique 24 hours sub-dial balance off on the right. The handset is atypical U-Boat style, initially found on the Classico model. It is being used here in this new Sommerso collection, while the only difference is the contrasting red hour hand for the 24-hour display. Another signature touch would be to have a visible ruby sitting at 6 o'clock.
Flipping the watch over is a unique patterned screw-down case-back in bronze material. The design reminds one of a watertight hatch found in submarines, and a quirky naval mine is engraved in the center. With that, the whole Sommerso is genuinely a full bronze dive watch.
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SuperLuminova glows in the dark
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The U-Boat Bronze Sommerso comes with a 22mm vintage-themed brown leather strap with the Maison's logo. Laser-cut strap handmade from hand-finished calf leather and processed according to traditional artisan techniques gives the strap a naturally distressed look and feel, dark brown color. Finishes made with waxed cotton. Strapping the watch on is through a bronze tang buckle with special antiqued anti-corrosion treatment.
Overall, the Bronzo is a premium addition to the new Sommerso collection. This timepiece has won me over with its vintage design and superior U-boat styled case; I can't get my hands off it! This exquisite watch presents a compelling set of specs, and as quantities aren't limited, it is less difficult to get in on the action.
