H: This collaboration is really exciting because it brings the Hodinkee and UNIMATIC gang back together again, and on top of that, it introduces a brand new material to the UNIMATIC catalog. So the big question is: why forged carbon fiber?
Gio: UNIMATIC’s iterative design process is based on an exploration of new boundaries for our product lineup, both design and material-wise. The lightweight performance and the unique aesthetic of the forged carbon are in my opinion a natural companion to our functionalist design approach. This collaboration with Hodinkee gave us the opportunity to make it happen and to make it available to their audience at a reasonable price.
H: As an independent watchmaker, are there specific challenges with introducing new materials to the manufacturing process?
Gio: Yes, the forged carbon construction required a complete re-engineering of the case and to use specific CNC production techniques to provide 300 m water resistance, signature features of the entire UNIMATIC lineup.
H: How strong is forged carbon fiber really?
Gio: Forged carbon has an excellent strength-to-weight ratio that outclasses stainless steel, offers great durability, and is not affected by corrosion, making it a very good choice for high-performance objects.
H: Forged carbon fiber aside, what aspect of this collaboration most excites you?
Gio: For UNIMATIC, this Hodinkee collaboration provides a unique occasion to take our design ethos to new heights through the use of cutting-edge technologies and materials. In a way, this very much embodies and synthesizes our company mission from day one and hopefully for many years to come.