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The UNDONE Daruma | Ardhira Putra – My Number One is a limited-edition timepiece that stands as a testament to the power of collaboration, cultural storytelling, and contemporary watchmaking. In this review, I will provide a comprehensive evaluation of the watch, examining its design, craftsmanship, movement, wearability, and the unique narrative that sets it apart. I will also outline compelling reasons why this watch deserves a place in your collection.
**Introduction: The Art of Collaboration**
UNDONE is renowned for its innovative approach to watchmaking, often collaborating with artists, designers, and pop culture icons to create timepieces that are as much works of art as they are functional instruments. The Daruma | Ardhira Putra – My Number One is the result of a creative partnership with Indonesian artist Ardhira Putra, whose vibrant, whimsical style infuses the watch with a distinct personality. The watch draws inspiration from the Daruma doll, a traditional Japanese talisman symbolizing perseverance and good luck, and reinterprets it through Ardhira’s playful lens.
**Design and Aesthetics**
The first thing that strikes you about the Daruma | Ardhira Putra – My Number One is its bold, colorful dial. The watch features a multi-layered dial with a stylized Daruma face at its center, rendered in vivid reds, whites, and blacks. The eyes of the Daruma are particularly striking—one is filled in, while the other is left blank, referencing the Japanese custom of painting in one eye when setting a goal and the other upon achieving it. This detail not only adds visual intrigue but also imbues the watch with a sense of personal meaning and motivation.
The dial is framed by a stainless steel case measuring 37mm in diameter, a size that strikes a perfect balance between vintage charm and modern wearability. The case is finished with a mix of brushed and polished surfaces, lending it a refined yet understated look. The domed K1 mineral crystal adds a touch of retro flair while providing ample protection against scratches and impacts.
The caseback is equally impressive, featuring a custom illustration by Ardhira Putra. This artwork, visible through the transparent caseback, adds an extra layer of exclusivity and artistry to the watch. The caseback is secured with screws, ensuring water resistance up to 30 meters—sufficient for daily wear, though not intended for swimming or diving.
**Movement and Functionality**
Powering the Daruma | Ardhira Putra – My Number One is the reliable Seiko VK64 meca-quartz movement. This hybrid movement combines the accuracy and low maintenance of quartz with the tactile feel of a mechanical chronograph. The chronograph seconds hand sweeps smoothly, mimicking the motion of a mechanical watch, while the subdials provide 60-minute and 24-hour counters. The pushers offer a satisfying click, and the crown is easy to grip and operate.
While some purists may prefer a fully mechanical movement, the VK64 offers several advantages: it is highly accurate, requires minimal maintenance, and allows for a slimmer case profile. For a watch that is as much about artistic expression as horological prowess, this movement is a fitting choice.
**Strap and Wearability**
The watch comes fitted with a high-quality leather strap, available in a choice of colors to complement the dial. The strap is supple and comfortable, with a quick-release mechanism that makes it easy to swap out for other options. The 20mm lug width ensures compatibility with a wide range of aftermarket straps, allowing for further personalization.
On the wrist, the Daruma | Ardhira Putra – My Number One wears exceptionally well. The 37mm case is versatile, suiting a variety of wrist sizes, and the curved lugs ensure a snug, ergonomic fit. At just over 12mm thick, the watch slips easily under a cuff, making it suitable for both casual and formal occasions.
**Craftsmanship and Quality**
UNDONE has built a reputation for delivering high-quality watches at accessible price points, and this model is no exception. The finishing on the case is crisp, the printing on the dial is sharp, and the overall construction feels solid and durable. The attention to detail—particularly in the custom artwork and layered dial—demonstrates a level of craftsmanship that belies the watch’s price.
**Narrative and Exclusivity**
What truly sets the Daruma | Ardhira Putra – My Number One apart is its narrative. The watch is not just a timekeeping device; it is a wearable piece of art that tells a story of perseverance, hope, and personal growth. The Daruma motif serves as a daily reminder to pursue your goals and celebrate your achievements. The collaboration with Ardhira Putra adds a layer of cultural richness and artistic flair, making the watch a conversation starter and a collector’s item.
As a limited-edition release, the watch also offers a sense of exclusivity. Each piece is individually numbered, and the unique caseback artwork ensures that no two watches are exactly alike. For collectors and enthusiasts, this adds significant value and desirability.
**Reasons to Buy**
1. **Unique Artistic Collaboration:** The partnership with Ardhira Putra results in a watch that is truly one-of-a-kind, blending Japanese tradition with contemporary art.
2. **Symbolic Meaning:** The Daruma motif imbues the watch with a sense of purpose and motivation, making it more than just an accessory.
3. **Versatile Design:** The 37mm case and classic styling make the watch suitable for a wide range of occasions and wrist sizes.
4. **Quality Construction:** UNDONE’s commitment to quality ensures that the watch is built to last, with reliable movement and durable materials.
5. **Limited Edition Appeal:** The individually numbered caseback and exclusive artwork make this a collectible piece that stands out in any collection.
6. **Affordable Luxury:** Despite its artistic pedigree and high-quality construction, the watch remains accessible, offering exceptional value for money.
**Conclusion**
The UNDONE Daruma | Ardhira Putra – My Number One is a masterful blend of art, culture, and horology. It is a watch that tells a story, sparks conversation, and serves as a daily reminder to pursue your dreams. With its unique design, quality craftsmanship, and symbolic meaning, it is a timepiece that will resonate with collectors, art lovers, and anyone seeking a watch with soul. If you are looking for a watch that goes beyond mere function and becomes a personal talisman, the Daruma | Ardhira Putra – My Number One is an outstanding choice.
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