The RLE3 represents the third iteration of the Russia Limited Edition made by Gruppo Gamma for AP Time Ltd. (also known as Gruppo Gamma Russia and Mi-Watch).
This time the watch has been co-designed with the support of our friends and clients. In fact the blue sunburst dial is a tribute to the first RLE launched back in 2016 and marine grade CuSn8 bronze has been chosen as the case material to meet the strong demand for bronze watches. Both the watch and the buckle will be delivered to you sealed so you can start your own patina journey.
The caseback is made of stainless steel and has engraved one of the symbols of Saint Petersburg, the pinnacle from the Admiralty building, which complements ideally the maritime theme of the model and the first RLE (that had the Kremlin). Moreover, we have recently started selling our watches at the Submarina Boutique in the historical center of Saint Petersburg.
Most Gruppo Gamma long-time fans will recognize the sandwich supernova dial, seen previously on Genesis and Ascent models. This time it will have a Swiss vintage ecru lume, which is vintage only in terms of look, as the brightness is very strong.
We designed a complete collection of straps for the RLE3 with our good friend, Brusnitcyn, a well-known artisan from Saint Petersburg that has made straps for our previous LEs. One strap will be included with the watch and you will have the possibility to choose and order additional straps that will be made to measure exclusively for you (any width/length, stitching, initials, etc). For the first time ever for a Gruppo Gamma you will be able to get a bund strap made to measure for the RLE3 (and compatible with many other models too).
Technical specifications
Case
Mk IV Vanguard, CuSn8 bronze, brushed, water resistance 200m
Diameter 44mm, length 54mm lug-to-lug, height 13.5mm, lug width 24mm, weight 135g with strap
Low profile double-domed sapphire crystal with underside anti-reflective coating, stainless steel caseback secured by screws, screw lock crown
Bolt-on crown guard, stainless steel case side guard
120-click unidirectional rotatable bezel, pip marker with Swiss Super-LumiNova® vintage color
Movement
ETA 2824-2, automatic bi-directional winding, 28800 bph, accuracy between -30 to +30 s/ day, power reserve 38 hrs, Swiss made
Dial
Blue supernova sunburst sandwich dial, markers filled with Swiss Super-LumiNova® vintage color
Gold color hour and minute hands and red seconds hand, with Swiss Super-LumiNova® vintage color
Strap
Calf leather by Brusnitcyn, handmade in Saint Petersburg, sand, width 24/22mm with matching bronze buckle, 125/75mm
*Leather has been treated to achieve a distressed look — scars, uneven texture etc. are deliberate, and no two straps are alike
Accessories
Screwdriver for strap changes, travel pouch
Limited Editions
Discover limited-edition Gruppo Gamma and Venturo watches selected for collectors who value low production, distinctive specifications and documented provenance. Availability can include numbered dealer collaborations, anniversary models and rare remaining examples from discontinued runs.
Limited production does not automatically make every watch the right purchase. Open the guide to understand edition size, authenticity, condition, warranty and the difference between a numbered edition and a standard small-batch release.
Read the complete limited-edition watch collecting guide
What makes a watch a limited edition?
A genuine limited edition has a defined production quantity or an otherwise clearly bounded release. The case back may show an individual number such as 12/50, while documentation or official product information identifies the total run. A small-batch watch can be scarce without being individually numbered, so the terms should not be used interchangeably.
Gruppo Gamma already produces watches in relatively modest quantities. Its formal limited editions go further by introducing a specific dial, material, engraving, collaboration or package not available in the standard collection. These differences—not scarcity alone—create the edition's identity.
Mi-Watch.it and collector editions
Mi-Watch.it has worked with Gruppo Gamma since 2015 and has participated in the development and international distribution of several collector editions. These projects have combined Gruppo Gamma's military and maritime design language with input from enthusiasts, resulting in distinctive dials, case materials, straps and engraved case backs.
Current availability can include individual pieces from earlier numbered runs. The forthcoming Genesis 2026 Italian Limited Edition is planned as a separate 50-piece collector series with Swiss automatic movement, unique dial treatment and individual numbering. Final specifications, pricing and ordering information remain subject to the official launch announcement.
How to evaluate a limited-edition watch
Start with the watch itself. Confirm the movement, dimensions, water resistance and daily wearability before focusing on the production number. A rare watch that does not suit your wrist or preferences is unlikely to become a satisfying purchase.
Next, review what distinguishes the edition: dial construction, case finish, engraving, movement grade, included straps or packaging. Check whether the exact piece is new, display stock, previously owned or supplied as a reduced “base set.” The individual listing should state material differences in the package.
Numbering, provenance and authenticity
Individual numbering helps document a watch within a production run, but the serial or edition number should still correspond with the watch and available documentation. Product photographs may show a sample number rather than the number ultimately supplied. Contact us before ordering if a specific number is important to you.
Buying from an authorised dealer provides a clear commercial record, accurate product identification and access to support. Mi-Watch.it supplies authentic Gruppo Gamma watches and has direct knowledge of the limited editions it helped distribute.
Condition and remaining stock
Older limited editions can remain in the catalogue after most of the run has sold. “One available” means one current sellable unit, not a new production batch. Once that piece is sold, replacement cannot be assumed. Conversely, a sold-out product can occasionally reappear after a cancellation or stock reconciliation.
Bronze editions naturally develop patina if exposed to air and handling. A sealed or unworn bronze watch may look different after regular use without any defect. Polished and aged-steel cases also show wear differently, so review the material and condition notes carefully.
Frequently asked questions
Does limited edition mean the watch will increase in value?
No. Rarity can influence collector interest, but resale value depends on demand, condition, completeness and the wider market. Buy the watch because its design and story appeal to you, not as a guaranteed investment.
Will I receive the number shown in the photographs?
Not necessarily. Images can show a prototype or sample. Ask us to confirm the available number if it affects your decision.
What is a base set?
A base set includes the watch and a reduced selection of straps or accessories compared with a full package. The product description lists exactly what is included.
Are limited editions covered by warranty?
New watches receive the applicable warranty stated on the product page. Older, display or pre-owned items may have different coverage, which should be confirmed before purchase.
Can a sold-out edition be ordered?
Usually not. We may register interest or notify subscribers if a piece returns, but a numbered edition cannot simply be reproduced beyond its declared run.
How are rare watches shipped?
Most available watches ship from our European Union warehouses with DHL Express tracking. See the shipping page for current dispatch information and destination guidance.
Related limited-edition articles
- Genesis 2026 Italian Limited Edition announcement
- The bronze Vanguard RLE3 project
- Gruppo Gamma brand and collection history
- Buying Gruppo Gamma watches in Europe: FAQ
Explore the currently available limited editions below. The individual product page is the authoritative source for edition size, number, condition, included accessories and live stock.
