U-BOAT Sommerso 300M

Here’s a new dedicated divers watch from U-BOAT, who are best known (at least here) for their U-1942 and U-42 models which were actually pretty interesting watches despite their exaggerated dimensions.

U-BOAT as a brand though, have never really managed to escape their fashion-watch roots and have struggled to be taken seriously, at least in the collectors market which caters for a more discerning pallet.



So can the new Sommerso change that or does it miss the mark – you be the judge. Starting with the case which has a modest (for a U-BOAT) 45mm diameter and is made from AISI 316L Stainless steel with a satin finish.

It features a rotating bezel with calibrated markers every five minutes interspersed with numbers every ten minutes from 10 to 50. On its left side is a distinguishing crown with a patented protective device.



On the right side of the case is a lever, which can be used to lock the bezel, so presumably it is a bi-directional bezel. The watch watch’s serial number plate is also fixed on the side of the case. The caseback is sealed with seven external screws.



Powering the Sommerso is an automatic mechanical 25 jewel movement with 28,800 vibrations per hour, 4 Hz and a power reserve of up to 38 hours. The movement has been personalized to U-BOAT’s specifications so that the stem is positioned at 9 o’clock – destro-style.



A Sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating and a lens on the date window protects the watch face which is composed of three superimposed dials, the upper one in black with luminous beige hands and markers plus an additional counter for the 24 hours of the day.



The Sommerso has a water-resistance to 300 meters and comes on a black strap in rubber with a lining in water repellent calfskin thanks to its Kodiak (nemo fans will know this) treatment.



So what do you think? For me it’s a miss, I’m afraid. The U-BOAT brand lacks the cachet that other brand playing at the same price point have and personally I just don’t like really dig the style.