Designer Todd Snyder, renowned for making luxury accessible, has once again partnered with the Italian microbrand Unimatic to introduce an exciting new timepiece: the Modello Quattro U4 GMT. This collaboration delivers a sophisticated yet highly functional GMT watch that defies its modest price point, offering a blend of minimalist design and robust engineering. Available in limited quantities and two distinct colorways, this release is poised to captivate watch enthusiasts and casual wearers alike who appreciate both style and substance without an exorbitant cost.
Todd Snyder's previous ventures in the watch world have consistently impressed, particularly his successful lines with Timex and earlier tool watches with Unimatic. Building on this legacy, the new Modello Quattro U4 GMT embodies Unimatic’s signature sleek design principles alongside Snyder’s flair for creating wearable, stylish pieces. The watch features a clean bezel, unique Bauhaus-inspired numerals, and a custom-colored quick-release suede strap, appealing directly to those with an eye for refined aesthetics.
Beyond its striking appearance, the Modello Quattro U4 GMT is engineered for performance and convenience. It boasts an impressive water resistance of 1,000 meters, ensuring durability in various environments, and utilizes ample Super-LumiNova for enhanced visibility in low light. Powering this elegant device is an easily maintainable Japanese automatic movement, a testament to its practical design. For globe-trotters, the ability to quickly adjust time zones makes it an ideal companion for international travel, offering both reliability and ease of use.
The watch’s design draws comparisons to high-end models like NOMOS worldtimers and Rolex Explorer IIs, but it maintains a distinct identity, reflecting the innovative spirit of Unimatic founders Giovanni Moro and Simone Nunziato. The Modello Quattro U4 GMT will be available for purchase starting November 13th at 9 a.m. ET on Todd Snyder’s official website. It is priced at $998, with only 100 pieces available in Black and 250 in Cream, highlighting its exclusivity and collectible appeal.
Unlike some of Unimatic’s more overtly utilitarian 40mm U4 case GMT models, the Modello Quattro U4 GMT differentiates itself with a more refined dial. The Black version showcases a sophisticated dark background with an outer 24-hour scale, a white minute track, and an inner 12-hour track. The iconic bifurcated sword hands, now complemented by a vibrant orange-tipped, arrow-shaped GMT hand reminiscent of the Explorer II, contribute to a clean, uncluttered display. Subtle Unimatic and Todd Snyder branding adds to its understated elegance, proving that functionality doesn't have to compromise on visual clarity. The Cream variant offers a similar layout with a beige background and black typography, along with a matching strap.
Over the years, Snyder has developed a reputation for creating highly coveted timepieces, often in collaboration with Timex, where he has reinterpreted classic designs such as the Tank, Q, and Marlin models with vibrant colors and innovative concepts. His deep understanding of how a watch completes an ensemble is evident in every piece. Expanding into Unimatic’s universe with the Modello Quattro U4 GMT signifies a thoughtful evolution, targeting individuals who seek both meticulous detail and enhanced functionality in their everyday wristwear.
The successful fusion of traditional inspiration with contemporary innovation, all while maintaining an accessible price point below $1,000, is a significant achievement for both Snyder and Unimatic. This balancing act is a challenge many watch brands face today, and their success bodes well for the broader horological industry, especially for those who cherish GMT watches.
The launch of this new GMT watch underscores a growing trend in the industry: delivering high-quality, distinctive timepieces that combine expert craftsmanship with an attainable price tag. It exemplifies a commitment to offering discerning consumers a choice that doesn't force a compromise between aesthetic appeal, robust functionality, and financial prudence. This collaboration not only enriches the offerings for watch aficionados but also sets a benchmark for future partnerships in the world of affordable luxury watches.