Wearable tech start-up UNA Watch is preparing to take on industry giants Apple and Garmin after raising more than £200,000 in under 48 hours to launch the world’s first modular, fully repairable GPS sports watch.
More than 1,000 early adopters worldwide, including backers from the US, have pledged support through Kickstarter, with first deliveries of the £260 UNA Watch expected in August 2025.
The Edinburgh-based firm’s product allows users to swap out, replace, and upgrade individual components, extending the device’s lifespan.
The device, which is designed to be repaired and upgraded as easily as a child builds LEGO, also features USB-C charging, removing the need for proprietary cables.
“We’ve been blown away by the response – £200,000 in less than two days proves there’s a huge demand for sustainable, repairable wearables,” said Lewis Allison, CEO and founder, UNA Watch.
“Customers are tired of replacing expensive tech every few years. We’re showing the industry there’s a better way. There’s a growing right to repair movement in the electronics industry with companies like Fairphone and Framework leading the way.
“At UNA we want to set an example to larger, more established companies of how tech can and should be built. This backing will supercharge our efforts to achieve it.”
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UNA Watch had already previously secured £300,000 in investment from SFC Capital and won the top £100,000 prize from Scottish EDGE last year
Beyond the consumer market, the company is exploring B2B opportunities, with interest from safety and fatigue monitoring industries. It is also developing an ‘UNA for Developers’ programme, allowing third parties to create custom modules.
The company is actively seeking further investment, with a strategic focus on the US market, where it is investing in digital marketing, influencer partnerships, and potential celebrity endorsements.
Discussions with world-class athletes for endorsement deals are already underway.
With the global running watch market valued at $2bn and growing at 5.6% annually, UNA Watch is aiming to capture 5% of the market within five years, equating to $50m in revenue.
The firm’s long-term vision extends beyond watches, with plans for modular bike computers and adventure wearables.