How did it come about?

All models of the series Classico, U-42, 1001, U-52, Flightdeck are diving watches. But you don't have to be a deep-sea diver to make it your own personal timepiece. One enters into a liaison from which one hopes for grandiose things. At the same time, you love their strong character - robust, shockproof, waterproof. The Italian War Ministry imposed this condition on the ancestor of the current company owner in 1942, when he was to equip naval and air force officers with a multifunctional, yet simple chronograph for war missions. Not an easy task even for grandfather Ilvo, a gifted inventor of technical devices and timepieces. The plans he delivered were perfect. But it wasn't until 60 years later that his grandson was able to bring her back to life. Infected by the Virus Chronograph this 7 years development time gave itself until it declared its creation for mark and market-ripe. When it appeared on the market, the U-BOAT brand caused stormy waves.

U-BOAT Classico - Revival of a classical attitude to life

Dedication to ultimate perfection can be felt in every feature of the U-BOAT Classico (e.g. reference 8051). Like all Fontana model ranges, it is not only clearly identifiable as a member of the U-BOAT family for enthusiasts: the oversize size between 50 mm and 55 mm, the extraordinarily high case, the clearly contrasted, simple design and the left-hand bezel leave no doubt about its origin. Italo Fontana is also never at a loss for an original model name, the Chimera has puzzled many a wearer. By the way, the latest of the Chimera line, a new release at BASELWORLD 2015, shone with a 46 mm pure bronze housing. The Italian watch manufacturer with the reliably ticking Swiss heart has a special knack for unusual material and colour mixtures. She boldly combines rubber with precious metal and gemstones as in the Classico 40 Black (or White) Diamonds or pairs carbon fiber with ceramic (in the Chimera Carbonio GMT). When looking at the Classico 53 Shinny Bezel with 45 mm steel case, the dial, reduced to its essentials, is fascinating. The striking Arabic numerals on 12/4/8 and the rounded hour markings seem to be the result of a painter's powerful brushstroke. The distinctive colouring attracts attention: the tobacco brown sporty-elegant leather strap with accentuated stitching and precious metal clasps corresponds to the greenish yellow of the dial.

U-BOAT Classico a luxury watch for alpha animals?

Not only, but more and more often. In this country, the land of sports watches, U-BOAT watches are not yet among the top 10 de luxe men's wristwatches due to their relatively short history. Only a matter of time, says HORANDO. The specialist for selected luxury watches at reasonable prices is certain that more and more sophisticated, stylish men will come to the Italian moments in life. My Segafredo, my Brioni, my U-BOAT. Even buying watches online can be exciting. But a racing heart is certain when you take a U-BOAT Classico in your hand for the first time, feel its bezel and look at the scratch-resistant and flawless dial. By the way: Online specialist HORANDO goes offline and presents the U-BOAT model series in its own showroom in Bamberg's best location.