Sometimes less is more. The MeisterSinger Unomatik is a large 45mm watch with a distinctly different approach to time. Instead of using two or three hands to convey the current time, the Unomatik uses only one. This single hand advances around a time rail that is divided in 5 minute graduations.
I often think about how much time is devoted to the accuracy of a particular watch when it gets put through its paces for a formal review and wonder about the percentage of people who will ultimately wear it that really care about a few seconds (or even minutes) here and there. I'm sure that's the compelling part of the Unomatik philosophy for me - don't get stuck in the minutiae - if a few minutes is that critical, it's time to re-evaluate the priorities.
Back to the watch! MeisterSinger is a Munster, Germany based manufacturer that's owned and managed by Manfred Brassler. The lines on the Unomatik are instrument-like and compelling. The large white dial is uncluttered and striking and contrasts perfectly with the blued steel hands. It looks like a serious timekeeper. There's a power reserve indicator (48 hours) just north of the 6 o'clock position that's actually pretty useful since there isn't a seconds hand to verify that time is being kept. A sapphire crystal caseback lets you peer into the works - an ETA Caliber A07.161 - that's about as bomb-proof as they come.
Fit and finish are excellent and, although on the big side at 45mm, the Unomatik is very comfortable to wear. List Price is $3,100 US.
