• Nubeo Cassini Automatic Space Invaders Arcade Firepower Meets Horological Hardware
  • Nubeo Cassini Automatic Space Invaders

    Arcade Firepower Meets Horological Hardware

    Hourstriker Staff
    Words by: Hourstriker Staff
    April 8, 2025
  • Nubeo is a watch brand that finds its fundamental inspiration in the vast, largely uncharted territories of the deep sea and the expanse of outer space. The company often points out that while humanity has extensively settled and utilized the land, significant portions of the ocean floor remain unmapped, and the universe beyond Earth’s atmosphere continues to hold profound mysteries. Nubeo seeks to encapsulate the spirit of these final frontiers, crafting timepieces designed to honor exploration through both their practical function and their visual design language. This dedication to the unknown drives their unique approach to watchmaking.

    The design philosophy underpinning Nubeo watches is a conscious effort to merge organic shapes, often reminiscent of deep-sea creatures or celestial bodies, with starker, industrial aesthetics. This fusion results in watches that serve not only as tools for telling time but also as distinct visual statements on the wrist. Performance and reliable functionality are considered essential elements of every Nubeo creation, ensuring they are not just interesting to look at but also dependable instruments. Their overall approach aims to embody the sense of wonder and discovery intrinsically linked with the exploration of the sea and space.

    Courtesy of Nubeo
    Courtesy of Nubeo


    Nubeo presents a varied portfolio of watch collections, many of which are produced as limited editions, adding an element of exclusivity. The names chosen for these collections frequently echo the brand’s dual inspirations. Themes related to space exploration are prominent, with examples like the Galileo Automatic NASA Limited Edition, the core Cassini Automatic line, and the Skylab Automatic. Science fiction also plays a role, seen in collaborations like the Ventana Automatic Star Trek Starfleet Limited Edition and the Magellan Chronograph Star Trek Enterprise-D Limited Edition. Marine concepts are represented as well, with models such as the Manta Tourbillon and Thresher Skeleton Automatic. This thematic naming convention reinforces Nubeo’s narrative of bridging the enigmatic worlds of the ocean depths and the cosmos.

    Within this framework, Nubeo introduced a striking evolution in its gaming-inspired lineup: the Cassini Automatic Space Invaders Limited Edition. Launched on March 21, 2025, this series serves as a direct tribute to the seminal arcade game phenomenon, Space Invaders. The collection aims to blend the pixelated nostalgia of early video games with a modern, sophisticated design approach. Limited to a mere 150 pieces for each distinct color variation, these watches represent a convergence of pop culture history, horological craftsmanship, and Nubeo's unique design sensibilities.

    This specific iteration within the Cassini family takes what Nubeo describes as a "darker turn." The foundation of the design across all variants is an all-black aesthetic, creating a sense of stealth and modernity. This dark canvas is then punctuated by vibrant, carefully chosen colorful accents applied to the watch indices and hands. The intended effect is a futuristic look that subtly evokes the endless, repetitive nature of battles waged in intergalactic video games, nodding directly to the Space Invaders source material while maintaining a contemporary feel.

    The physical presence of the watch is substantial, housed in a stainless steel case measuring a bold 50mm in diameter. This large size is matched by a case thickness of 14mm, giving the watch significant volume on the wrist. The lug-to-lug measurement is also 50mm, which, combined with the integrated strap design, helps the large case wear more comfortably than its diameter might initially suggest. The stainless steel material provides a solid, durable foundation for the intricate design elements housed within.

    Courtesy of Nubeo
    Courtesy of Nubeo


    The real centerpiece of the Cassini Automatic Space Invaders watch is its highly complex, multilayered dial. It's not a simple flat surface but rather a construction involving several distinct levels. Featured prominently are custom-molded alien figures, instantly recognizable icons from the Space Invaders game. These are crafted from dual-layered metal plates, giving them depth and a three-dimensional quality. This layer interacts visually with a tension ring and another separate ring that showcases the applied hour indices.

    Further adding to the dial's complexity is a semi-transparent plate positioned over parts of the dial architecture. This plate is adorned with the iconic SPACE INVADERS logo, making the inspiration unmistakable yet integrating it thoughtfully into the overall design rather than merely printing it flatly. This layering creates visual interest and a sense of depth, drawing the eye into the miniature arcade scene playing out on the dial. The arrangement allows different elements to catch the light and cast subtle shadows, enhancing the futuristic theme.

    The hands chosen for this model continue the narrative established by the dial. They are specifically designed to evoke the appearance of the laser cannon controlled by the player in the Space Invaders game. The hour and minute hands, likely featuring sharp angles and perhaps a luminous strip resembling a laser beam, contribute actively to the storytelling aspect of the watch. The applied indices around the dial perimeter feature Japanese luminous material, ensuring readability in low-light conditions while complementing the vibrant color accents specific to each variant.

    Protecting this intricate dial assembly is a sapphire lens. Sapphire crystal is highly valued in watchmaking for its exceptional scratch resistance, second only to diamond. This ensures that the detailed dial remains clearly visible and protected from the scratches and scuffs of daily wear. The use of sapphire adds a touch of quality often found in higher-priced timepieces, enhancing the overall durability and longevity of the watch's appearance.

    Courtesy of Nubeo
    Courtesy of Nubeo


    Controlling the time and date setting functions is a pull-out crown located on the side of the case. While perhaps less robust for water resistance than a screw-down crown, a pull-out crown offers ease of use for quick adjustments. Its design likely integrates smoothly with the overall dark, angular aesthetic of the case, maintaining the watch's cohesive look without drawing undue attention.

    The watch is fitted with a 24mm wide black silicone strap featuring a standard strap buckle. Silicone is a practical choice for a watch like this, offering comfort, flexibility, and resistance to moisture and sweat. The strap is described as "integrated," suggesting that it connects directly to the case in a way that creates a seamless flow, enhancing the modern and slightly futuristic silhouette. The all-black color of the strap reinforces the stealth theme prevalent throughout the design.

    In terms of performance against the elements, the Nubeo Cassini Automatic Space Invaders boasts a water resistance rating of 5 ATM (Atmospheres). This is equivalent to approximately 50 meters. While this rating means the watch can withstand splashes, rain, and brief accidental submersion, it is generally not considered suitable for swimming or diving activities. It provides everyday protection rather than specialized underwater capability.

    Despite its large size and stainless steel construction, the watch maintains a reasonable weight of 150 grams. This weight gives it a feeling of substance and solidity on the wrist without being excessively heavy or burdensome for daily wear. The balance between size, materials, and weight contributes to the overall wearing experience, ensuring the bold design doesn't completely sacrifice comfort.

    Courtesy of Nubeo
    Courtesy of Nubeo


    Inside the case beats a Japanese automatic movement. This mechanical engine provides the watch with its timekeeping function (three hands: hours, minutes, seconds) and includes a date complication, typically displayed through a small window on the dial. Automatic movements are self-winding, powered by the motion of the wearer's wrist, eliminating the need for batteries. An exhibition caseback, likely made of mineral or sapphire crystal, allows the owner to view the movement in action, appreciating the mechanical complexity within.

    The collection is offered in four distinct variants, each limited to 150 pieces. The "Eclipse Red" (NB-6103-08) version features the core all-black design but uses vibrant red for its accent colors on the dial indices and hands, creating a high-contrast, aggressive look reminiscent of warning lights or laser fire against the dark void of space.

    The "Covert Yellow" (NB-6103-07) variant follows the same formula but substitutes yellow for the accent color. This choice offers a different kind of visual pop, perhaps suggesting energy fields or caution markers within the stealthy black framework. The yellow provides a bright counterpoint to the dark case and dial elements.

    Similarly, the "Hyperspace Blue" (NB-6103-06) model introduces blue as its signature accent color. Blue often evokes themes of technology, energy, and the vastness of space itself. This variant might appeal to those looking for a slightly cooler, more tech-focused aesthetic compared to the warmer red or yellow options.

    The "Galactic Shadow" (NB-6103-05) variant offers a different take compared to the brightly accented models. Its name suggests a more subdued or stealthy appearance, possibly utilizing monochromatic, grey, or muted tones for its accents against the all-black design, creating a distinct "shadow" effect.

    The strictly limited production run of only 150 pieces per variant is a crucial aspect of this release. This scarcity transforms the watch from a simple themed accessory into a collectible item. It targets not only enthusiasts of the Nubeo brand or unique watch designs but specifically appeals to fans of retro gaming and the iconic Space Invaders franchise. Owning one means possessing a relatively rare piece that commemorates a specific cultural touchstone.

    Courtesy of Nubeo
    Courtesy of Nubeo


    Nubeo backs these timepieces with a 2 Years International Warranty. This provides buyers with assurance regarding the watch's craftsmanship and protection against potential manufacturing defects for a standard period, offering peace of mind alongside the unique design and limited availability.

    Regarding cost and acquisition, three of the variants – Eclipse Red, Covert Yellow, and Hyperspace Blue – are priced at $299.00 each. The Galactic Shadow variant is positioned higher at $650.00. Having launched on March 21, 2025, availability is dictated solely by the limited run of 150 units per colorway. Prospective buyers interested in securing one would need to act relatively quickly through Nubeo's authorized retail channels before the limited stock is depleted.

    Case: Stainless steel, 50.0mm diameter, 14.0mm thickness, 50.0mm lug-to-lug. Sapphire lens, pull out crown. Water resistance 5 ATM.

    Movement: Japanese Automatic with 3 hands and date function. Exhibition caseback.

    Dial: Multilayered construction with custom moulded metal aliens. Features tension ring, applied indices ring with Japanese luminous material, semi-transparent plate with SPACE INVADERS logo. Laser cannon inspired hands.

    Strap: 24mm black integrated silicone strap with standard strap buckle.

    Price: $299.00 (Eclipse Red, Covert Yellow, Hyperspace Blue); $650.00 (Galactic Shadow).

    Reference Number: NB-6103-08 (Red), NB-6103-07 (Yellow), NB-6103-06 (Blue), NB-6103-05 (Shadow).

    Notes: Limited Edition, 150 pieces per variant. Official Space Invaders collaboration. Watch weight 150g. 2 Years International Warranty. Launched March 21, 2025.
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