While other German watchmakers focus on minimalism and Bauhaus function-over-form ethos, Sinn is one heritage brand that continues to balance assertive designs with its undeniable utility. Born from World War II, literally, the watchmaker was founded by former pilot and flight instructor Helmut Sinn in 1961 and has since become a brand with a niche following because of its unique yet accessible aesthetic and focus on pushing the envelope of innovation despite its heritage precept. Today, it unveils four new watches based on its U50 diver.
Released in 2020, the U50 is a smaller version of Sinn’s popular U1 model while still maintaining 500m of water resistance. However, three of the four models presented today get bumped all the way to 5,000m due to the brand’s own Hydro technology, which also makes these watches a bit thicker in the process. Unlike a standard dive watch, which uses air between the crystal and the dial, these new U50 Hydro models have oil inside, which prevents fogging, as well as compression as you wear these on deep underwater dives. Also, it allows for the hands to be legible at any angle without being distorted.
Along with the three Hydro U50 models is a limited-to-500 U50 S L, sporting a fully-lumed dial. This timepiece doesn’t utilize the Hydro tech but is still water resistant to 500m — impressive nonetheless. Compared to the oil-filled pieces, this sleek diver has a bit more swag. Glowing mint green at night, the dial is white when not glowing, which complements the black hard-coated case and bracelet very well. All four watches are 41mm in diameter and feature cases made of submarine steel that underwent Sinn’s Tegimented process to increase scratch resistance.
Priced starting at $3,060, this new U50 collection is available now from Sinn’s authorized dealer WatchBuys.
