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Sinn U1, circa 2010
Sinn U1 Specifications
Manufacturer: Sinn Spezialuhren GmbH & Co. KG, Im Füldchen 5-7,
60489 Frankfurt, Germany
Model: U1
Reference number: 1010
Functions: diving rating 1000m/100bar; unidirectional rotating
bezel; quick set date
Movement: Self-winding ETA 2824-2;28,800 vibrations per hour;
25 jewels; Incabloc shock absorption; power reserve 40 hours
Case: Submarine steel, sand-blasted; tegimented steel hardened to
1500HV; sapphire crystal AR-coated, 3.5 mm thick
Band and clasp: Silicone rubber strap; secure folding deployant clasp
Dimensions: Diameter = 44 mm; height = 14.35 mm;
weight: 170 grams with strap and clasp; lug to lug 22mm
First impression, the U1 rocks, big time. Mind you, this is one huge chunky piece, yet it looks absolutely clean and elegant. I believe the elegance comes from its simple and uncluttered minimalist design. There are other variations (eg U1 Black, TEMPUS U1, SDR etc), but the classic U1 works for me. The ultra flat crystal is flushed to the same level as the bezel, hence gives a very uniform appearance. At times I even feel the crystal is not on the watch and I could touch the dial directly. This is due to the effective double AR-coatings. The dial has a pitch black matt finishing, which emits a deep glowing effect. It contrasts really well with the pure white markers and hands. The red literature on the dial says 'U1 Automatic' and underwater rating '1000m/100bar'. In addition, the newer 2010 version says 'Made in Germany' at the 6oclock position.
Looks aside, the U1 is a no-nonsense tool watch. Its tough. It looks tough and it sure feels tough. The case and bezel is not your usual 316L; it is actually tegimented special corrosion-resistant submarine steel (specially developed and used by the German Navy). The very same material that is used for the German 212 class nuclear subs. This alloy has peculiar properties indeed: it is antimagnetic, extremely resistant to sea water corrosion, and way harder than the classic 316L steel used by most other brands.
The watch weighs 170grams with the strap and clasp, and you almost constantly feel the presence of the U1 on the wrist. I like this substantial yet comfortable feel, the way any serious diving watch should be. The bezel turns very solidly on a 60-click per rotation. Crown screws down tightly, and is located at a unique 4oclock position.
Inside the U1, the movement is the ETA cal. 2824-2. Though not a COSC-certified Chronometer, it is surprisingly accurate. I timed the U1 on my iphone over 24hour, it loses only 3seconds, which is just within the COSC requirements! Although not necessary, I reckon it will be a nice option to have it COSC-certified and include the 'COSC Chronometer' wordings on the dial.
The only dislike i have for this watch is the external AR coating. Like all watches with external AR coats, it is ultra prone to scratches. I reckon once i have collected enough scratches on the crystal AR coat, i will send the watch to have the external AR removed (any local third party watch service shops can do this). The crystal will look brand new again.
At the current price tag of sg$3,700 with the usual 30% discount = sg$2,590nett (The Hour Glass, July2012), this is one very well-made value-for-money no-nonsense diving watch.
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