The world of microbrands is a fascinating one, filled with passionate creators who dream of crafting something truly unique and personal. And Horologically Unique, a Singapore-based brand, has certainly achieved that with its latest collection, the HU-01 Finale Series. This series is a tribute to the iconic Patek Philippe Calatrava 96, a timeless dress watch that has inspired countless watchmakers. But Horologically Unique has taken a unique approach, infusing the series with a touch of luxury and a nod to the past.
One of the most striking aspects of the HU-01 Finale Series is its attention to detail. The brand has carefully considered the proportions, resulting in a case that's only 34mm in diameter, 10mm in thickness (or 7mm excluding the crystal), and 41mm in length. This deliberate choice brings the watch closer to the original Ref. 96, offering a true classic feel. The caseback is closed and features perlage on the inside surfaces, along with the model's engravings, adding a touch of elegance and a nod to the past.
The dial is where the HU-01 Finale Series truly shines. The brand has introduced two versions, each with its own unique charm. The classic HU-01 Finale pairs a brushed case with a silver-toned, vertically brushed dial, a railway small seconds track, polished pearls for the minutes, and leaf-shaped hands. The contrast between the matte surfaces of the dial and case and the brilliance of the stones is simply stunning. The second version, the HU-01 Finale Yu, features a Burma jade dial, with white baton indices for the small seconds and dauphine-shaped hands. The jade dial adds a touch of luxury and a nod to the past, with no brand or logo on the dial.
Inside the case, the HU-01 Finale Series relies on the tried-and-tested hand-wound Peseux ETA 7001 movement. This movement is both compact and thin, adapting perfectly to a 34mm dress watch. It runs at a 3Hz frequency and stores about 42 hours of power reserve. The movement is presented in a version with stripes, perlage, and blue-toned screws, adding a touch of elegance and a nod to the past.
The HU-01 Finale Series is limited to 80 pieces, while the Yu version with a jade dial is limited to 30 pieces. Priced at SGD 2,580 (about USD 2,000) and SGD 2,980 (about USD 2,350) respectively, these watches are available from www.horologicallyunique.com. The attention to detail, the unique dial options, and the nod to the past make the HU-01 Finale Series a must-have for any watch enthusiast. It's a perfect blend of classic elegance and modern luxury, and a testament to the brand's passion and creativity.
In my opinion, the HU-01 Finale Series is a masterpiece in the world of microbrands. It's a watch that truly stands out, offering a unique blend of style and substance. The attention to detail, the unique dial options, and the nod to the past make it a must-have for any watch enthusiast. Personally, I think it's a brilliant example of how a small brand can create something truly special and memorable.
