Introducing: Undone x Simple Union Project Crane

We should all be familiar with Undone, and the semi-custom small batch watches that they’re producing. Some of the more interesting watches that they’ve created have come out of collaborations with Simple Union (which we’ve written about here and here). For this latest creation – the Undone x Simple Union Project Crane – they’ve taken elements from those prior watches and rolled it into one.

One of the first elements about the Undone x Simple Union Project Crane to strike you is the cloth strap. As it was before, this is actually an ancient fabric that brings a very unique look to the watch. This time, they’ve also included a Bund-style piece that can be added on for a bit more visual bulk (and to separate the bronze case from your wrist, if you’re concerned about that).

On the dial of the Undone x Simple Union Project Crane, we’ve got the kintsugi approach, making the dial look like a piece of repaired pottery (you can read more about kintsugi here). Across the top of the dial, rather than numerals, we’ve got characters printed instead that read “No, Permanent, Bitter, Empty”. This is a mantra or approach to your day you could certainly approach.

What about the Crane part of the watch? Flip the Undone x Simple Union Project Crane over, and you’ll see a paper crane printed on the exhibition caseback. Why a paper crane? Well, the legend around it is if one folds 1000 cranes, they’ll be granted a wish, or can bring health to the person doing it (more on this here). The crane here also carries an olive branch, the universal symbol of peace. And these days, that’s something the whole world could use a lot more of.

The Undone x Simple Union Project Crane is launching later this month at a price of $499. From my own Arabian Nights watch, I can say it’s interesting to watch the case pick up it’s patina, while the cut parts on the bezel retain their shine (and no, my wrist has not gotten discolored). This particular dial and strap is a special combination, and will no doubt be perfect for those who are immersed in Japanese craft. Check it out over at undone.com