MING 37.09 Uni

The Ming 37.09 Uni is not your average dive watch. It’s a carefully crafted timepiece that draws inspiration from an unlikely source: the sea urchin. Known as "uni" in Japanese, this spiny creature, a delicacy often enjoyed in sushi, lends its name and distinctive characteristics to a watch that is as intriguing as its namesake. Independent watchmaker MING has a reputation for producing visually captivating and technically sound timepieces, and the 37.09 Uni continues this tradition with its unique design and robust build.

MING has quickly established itself as a force in the world of independent watchmaking. The brand's design philosophy centers on creating watches that are instantly recognizable and built to last. Ming Thein, the brand's founder, brings his expertise as a designer and photographer to the forefront, skillfully manipulating light, form, and color in each timepiece. MING's commitment to innovation is evident in its Special Projects Cave, where experimental watches are developed with customer participation, pushing the boundaries of traditional watchmaking.



The brand’s collaborative spirit is highlighted by its co-founding of the Alternative Horological Alliance in 2024, alongside JN Shapiro and Fleming, showcasing the power of partnerships in the industry. MING's dedication to excellence has been recognized with prestigious awards, including the Horological Revelation Prize in 2019 and the Sports Watch Prize in 2024 at the Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève (GPHG). These accolades underscore the brand's ability to create watches that captivate both enthusiasts and critics.

The 37.09 Uni's name is a direct reference to the sea urchin, known for its unique texture and flavor. Just as uni is an acquired taste, the 37.09 Uni caters to those with a discerning eye for the unique and unconventional. The watch's design takes cues from the sea urchin's robust, black shell and its ability to thrive in various marine environments, from shallow waters to depths exceeding 6,000 meters. This thematic inspiration is not merely superficial; it is woven into the watch's durable construction and striking aesthetics.

The 37.09 Uni boasts a 38mm case made of 316L stainless steel, finished with a matte-brushed DLC (Diamond-Like Carbon) coating. This provides the watch with a sleek, dark appearance that beautifully contrasts with its vibrant orange accents. Engineered to withstand water pressures up to 600 meters, the watch is a true diver's companion. This remarkable water resistance is achieved even with a sapphire caseback, a testament to MING's innovative engineering. The 37.09 Uni is not just a pretty face; it is a robust tool designed to perform under extreme conditions, much like the resilient sea urchin it is named after.

The dial of the 37.09 Uni is where the watch truly excels. It features a rotating sapphire timing dial, a feature shared with the acclaimed 37.09 Bluefin, that can be operated underwater. The hour indices, top crystal, and hands are all coated with Super-LumiNova X1, ensuring optimal visibility in low-light conditions. What sets the 37.09 Uni apart is its use of orange emission Super-LumiNova, a first for MING, directly inspired by the sea urchin's distinctive color. This enhances the watch's functionality and adds a unique visual element that distinguishes it from other dive watches.



The case of the 37.09 Uni is a testament to thoughtful design and engineering. With a diameter of 38mm, a thickness of 12.8mm, and a lug-to-lug measurement of 44.5mm, the watch is compact and comfortable on the wrist. The DLC coating adds an extra layer of durability, making the watch resistant to scratches and wear. A clever pressure-balancing mechanism, combined with double-sided anti-reflective coated sapphire crystals, ensures the watch remains water-resistant up to 600 meters. The 20mm lug width is standard for many dive watches, allowing for easy strap customization.

Powering the 37.09 Uni is the Sellita for MING SW300.M1 automatic movement. Renowned for its reliability and precision, this movement features anthracite skeletonized bridges and a rotor with contrasting circular brushing. It offers a power reserve of approximately 50 hours when fully wound and includes a hacking seconds feature for precise time setting. The movement's unique finish is visible through the sapphire caseback, adding another layer of visual intrigue. MING's choice of this high-quality movement underscores its commitment to both performance and aesthetic appeal.

The 37.09 Uni comes with a new molded FKM rubber strap, designed for both comfort and durability. The 20mm wide strap features curved bars with a quick-release mechanism, allowing for tool-free strap changes. It is fitted with a "flying blade" tuck buckle that offers micro-adjustment for a perfect fit. FKM rubber, known for its resistance to high temperatures and chemicals, makes this strap ideal for both everyday wear and diving activities. MING's attention to detail extends to the strap design, ensuring that every aspect of the watch is both functional and comfortable.



The dial design of the 37.09 Uni is particularly noteworthy. The rotating sapphire timing dial is a unique feature that distinguishes this watch from other dive watches. Super-LumiNova X1 indices are applied inside the top crystal and on the sapphire dial itself, ensuring legibility in all lighting conditions. The hands are also coated with Super-LumiNova X1, providing a bright, clear display. The use of orange emission Super-LumiNova, a first for MING, adds a distinctive touch that is both functional and visually striking. This color choice is a direct homage to the sea urchin, creating a cohesive design language that connects the watch to its namesake.

Visually, the 37.09 Uni is a stunner. The contrast between the black DLC-coated case and the vibrant orange accents is both bold and sophisticated. The watch's design exemplifies MING's ability to seamlessly blend form and function. The sapphire crystal, both front and rear, adds depth and clarity to the dial, allowing the intricate details of the movement to be appreciated. The overall design is modern yet enduring, ensuring that the 37.09 Uni will turn heads and spark conversations.

For watch collectors, the 37.09 Uni is a standout piece. Its distinctive design, robust construction, and high-quality movement make it a compelling choice for those who value both form and function. The thematic inspiration drawn from the sea urchin adds an extra layer of interest, making it a true conversation piece. The limited availability, with only 150 pieces available this year, further enhances its desirability and exclusivity.

The 37.09 Uni is not just a functional tool; it is a work of art. Every detail, from the DLC-coated case to the orange Super-LumiNova, reflects MING's commitment to creating beautiful and practical watches. The use of high-quality materials like 316L stainless steel and sapphire crystal ensures durability. Unique design elements, such as the rotating sapphire timing dial and the skeletonized movement, make the 37.09 Uni a standout piece in any collection.



Functionally, the 37.09 Uni is an exceptional dive watch. Its 600-meter water resistance, combined with the rotating timing dial and Super-LumiNova coating, makes it a reliable tool for underwater exploration. The robust construction and high-quality movement ensure it can withstand the rigors of diving, while its comfortable strap and compact size make it suitable for daily wear. This versatility allows the 37.09 Uni to transition seamlessly from the ocean depths to the office.

The 37.09 Uni also highlights MING's innovative approach to watchmaking. The use of a sapphire timing dial that can be operated underwater is a unique feature, setting this watch apart from other dive watches. The orange emission Super-LumiNova is another innovative touch, enhancing both functionality and visual appeal. These design choices demonstrate MING's commitment to pushing the boundaries of traditional watchmaking and creating innovative, practical watches.

In terms of wearability, the 37.09 Uni excels. Its 38mm case diameter and 12.8mm thickness make it a good fit for various wrist sizes. The 44.5mm lug-to-lug measurement ensures the watch sits comfortably on the wrist without being bulky. The FKM rubber strap is soft and flexible, providing a comfortable fit for extended wear. The quick-release mechanism allows for easy strap changes, enabling the wearer to customize the watch's look for different occasions.



The MING 37.09 Uni is priced at CHF 5,250, excluding taxes. This price reflects the watch's high-quality materials, innovative design, and limited availability. While it may be a significant investment, the 37.09 Uni offers a unique combination of features and craftsmanship that justify its cost. For those who appreciate the artistry and engineering behind a high-end watch, the 37.09 Uni is a worthwhile acquisition.

With only 150 pieces available this year, the 37.09 Uni is a highly exclusive timepiece. This limited production run enhances the watch's desirability and ensures that each piece receives the meticulous attention to detail and quality control that MING is known for. For those fortunate enough to acquire one, the 37.09 Uni is sure to be a prized addition to any collection.

Case: 38mm diameter, 12.8mm thickness, 44.5mm lug-to-lug. 316L stainless steel with a matte-brushed finish, DLC coated. Domed sapphire crystals front and rear with double-sided antireflective coating. 600m water resistance. 20mm lug width.

Movement: Sellita for MING SW300.M1. Automatic winding with ~50hr power reserve at full wind. Anthracite skeletonized bridges and rotor with contrast circular brushing. Hacking seconds for setting.

Dial: Super-LumiNova X1 indices inside top crystal and on sapphire dial. Super-LumiNova X1 coated hands. Internal 60-click timer scale on unidirectional rotating dial, via crown at 4. Orange emission Super-LumiNova.

Strap: New moulded FKM rubber strap. 20mm width, curved bars with quick release. Fitted with ‘flying blade’ tuck buckle with micro adjustment.

Price: CHF 5,250 - excluding taxes

Reference Number: 37.09

Notes: First MING to have orange emission Super-LumiNova. Inspired by the sea urchin, or "uni" in Japanese. Limited to 150 pieces this year.