A comic strip populated by quirky characters, Moomin is the creation of the late Finnish artist Tove Jansson. The long-running comic marks its 75th anniversary in 2020, and is marking the occasion with a limited edition wristwatch created by Finnish watchmaker S.U.F Helsinki, the more affordable brand started by independent watchmaker Stephan Sarpaneva, who is best known for his moon phase watches.

The Sarpaneva x Moomin watch features a skeletonised dial depicting a central character from the comic, Moomintroll, amidst a pastoral landscape. While the dial is monochromatic during the day, it dazzles up at night as a result of the Technicolour Super-Luminova that’s been painted by hand.

Initial thoughts

The glow-in-the-dark dial is whimsical and striking, even for someone unfamiliar with the comic. And it is presented in an appealing pacakge.

S.U.F typically offers excellent case quality, and here the whole has been boosted by the complex open working of the dial, a feature that is typically found on pricier Sarpaneva watches. And inside is a Soprod A10, a tried-and-tested movement from a widely-known maker, which means servicing will be easy.

For €5,000, or about US$5,900, the Moomin wristwatch is a compelling, fun purchase, especially since it is a small run of just 75 watches. Though it costs double the base-model S.U.F watch with the same case and movement, the hand-painted “lume” dial is a surprisingly intricate bit of work for a relatively affordable watch.

Dial art

The dial is a three-part construction made of steel that’s been filed by hand to refine the edges. It’s filled, by hand once again, with eight colours of Super-Luminova to create the brilliantly coloured background.

And to match the dial, three different options for hands are available – blue, rose gold, or rhodium – each being limited to 25 pieces, for a total of 75.

The case is thin and compact, at just under 39 mm in diameter and only 8.9 mm high, but it still manages a respectable 100 m water resistance. The slim dimensions are due in part to the Soprod A10 movement within. It’s an automatic with a 42-hour power reserve.

Both the case and movement are also found on the S.U.F 180, the brand’s entry-level model. For someone who appreciates the case size and quality, but wants a no-nonsense aviator’s watch style, the 180 is a more accessibly priced watch.

The Moomin watch is delivered in a Moomin-motif fabric pouch made by Finnish textile maker Finlayson

Key Facts and Price

S.U.F. Helsinki Sarpaneva x Moomin

Diameter: 38.7 mm
Thickness: 8.9 mm
Material: Steel
Crystal: Sapphire
Water resistance: 100 m

Movement: Soprod A10
Functions: Hours, and minutes
Winding: Automatic
Frequency: 28,800 beats per hour (4 Hz)
Power reserve: 42 hours

Strap: Canvas with pin buckle

Limited edition: 75 pieces
Availability: Direct from S.U.F
Price: €5,000 before taxes

For more, visit Sufhelsinki.com.