Imagine a watch that transforms the way we perceive time, not with numbers or hands, but with a burst of color. That’s exactly what Luca Nichetto and UNIMATIC have achieved with their groundbreaking collaboration. The Modello Cinque U5S-NS is no ordinary timepiece—it’s a playful yet sophisticated nod to childhood nostalgia, inspired by the vibrant color-coding of children’s calendars. But here’s where it gets intriguing: instead of the traditional date window, this watch features four distinct, multicolor windows that mark the hours, each one an abstract interpretation of Nichetto Studio’s iconic ‘N’ logo. It’s a design choice that’s as bold as it is functional, and it’s already sparking conversations among watch enthusiasts.
The dial, finished in a sleek grey grainé texture, serves as the perfect canvas for these colorful windows, creating a striking contrast that’s both modern and timeless. Surrounding the dial is an engraved rehaut with five-minute markers, adding a layer of precision to the design. Time is indicated by brushed stainless steel hour and minute hands, while a matte black reverse lollipop seconds hand provides a subtle yet dynamic accent. And this is the part most people miss: the watch is protected by a double-domed sapphire crystal with an anti-reflective coating, ensuring durability without compromising clarity.
But let’s dive deeper into what makes this watch truly special. The Modello Cinque U5S-NS marks Nichetto Studio’s first foray into watch design and serves as the inaugural piece in UNIMATIC’s Nichecraft Capsule Collection—a series that collaborates with brands to push the boundaries of timepiece innovation. Housed in UNIMATIC’s signature Modello Cinque case, crafted from sandblasted stainless steel, the watch boasts a slim profile and a screw-down crown for added functionality. The caseback, engraved with a custom UNIMATIC x Nichetto Color Wheel motif, is a subtle yet powerful reminder of this unique partnership.
Under the hood, the watch is powered by the reliable Swiss automatic Sellita SW200-1 movement, ensuring precision and longevity. The strap, made from black padded deer leather with curved lugs and top stitching, adds a touch of luxury, while the sandblasted stainless steel hardware, signed by UNIMATIC, ties the design together. Each watch comes in a co-branded protective case, complete with a warranty card featuring a unique identification seal—a testament to its exclusivity.
Limited to just 30 pieces and set to debut on February 2nd, 2026, the Modello Cinque U5S-NS is more than a watch; it’s a statement. But here’s the controversial question: Is this a masterpiece of modern design or a gimmick that sacrifices practicality for aesthetics? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments. Whether you’re a watch aficionado or a design enthusiast, this collaboration is sure to spark debate—and that’s exactly what makes it so fascinating.
