Ulysse Nardin has a long and rich history when it comes to marine navigation and marine chronometry. For decades, if not centuries, marine navigation depended on the positions of celestial bodies. The advent of precise instruments like marine chronometers revolutionized marine navigation. Founded in 1846 and celebrating its 175th anniversary this year, Ulysse Nardin quickly gained fame for producing precise marine deck chronometers. In this celebratory year, UN honors its past with seven new Marine Torpilleur models, one of which we will look at closely today - the Ulysse Nardin Marine Torpilleur Moonphase 42mm.
The Marine Torpilleur collection, presented as a sub-collection within Ulysse Nardin's iconic Marine line, was launched in 2017. While the inspiration still clearly comes from the early days of marine chronometers, the updated style of the Marine Torpilleur has made it a simpler, lighter version around the classic marine theme. As Rebecca explained in the introductory article of the entire 2021 collection earlier this week, the name comes from the small and maneuverable torpedo boats that appeared in the 19th century.
The new Ulysse Nardin Marine Torpilleur Moonphase is the first in the company's portfolio, as moon phase watches existed before but not in this collection. It is a very fitting complication, considering that the moon played a significant role in astral navigation in ancient times and is responsible for ocean tides.
The recipe for the Marine Torpilleur Moonphase model remains very similar to what you expect from Ulysse Nardin. A large dial with elongated Roman numerals, double register layout (12 and 6 o'clock), classic "pike" and "whip" hands. Two versions are available: a blue dial with PVD coating and a matte sunray finish, and, as in our photos, a second version with a white lacquered dial. The markers are white or black, depending on the dial color, and the hands are rhodium-plated or made of blued steel.
As mentioned, new to the Marine Torpilleur is the moon phase indicator. It is integrated into a slightly recessed small seconds sub-dial at the "6 o'clock" position and features a dark blue PVD disc with stars and a textured moon. This complication is not only fitting but also looks splendid in the signature Marine design.
Both models have a stainless steel case measuring 42mm in width and 11.13mm in thickness, with a classic fluted bezel. Inside is the UN-119 movement, which uses a silicon hairspring, escapement, and anchor made of Diamonsil. The movement operates at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour (or 4 Hz) and provides a 60-hour power reserve when fully wound. The sapphire crystal case back reveals the winding rotor, adorned with two UN anchors and an elegant decoration with circular Geneva stripes and beveled edges. And, of course, the movement is a COSC-certified chronometer.
Four models of the Ulysse Nardin Marine Torpilleur Moonphase have been released: with blue and white dials, on blue or brown alligator leather straps. A stainless steel folding clasp securely fastens the watch on the wrist. This anniversary model is limited to 300 pieces of each color and is offered at a price of €8,600, CHF 9,400 or USD 9,900.
For more information, visit Ulysse-Nardin.com.
SPECIFICATIONS - ULYSSE NARDIN MARINE TORPILLEUR MOONPHASE
Case: diameter 42mm x height 11.13mm - stainless steel case - polished and satin-finished surfaces - fluted bezel - sapphire glass on top and back - water resistance 50m
Dial: blue dial with matte PVD coating or white lacquered dial - white or black elongated Roman numerals - "pike" and "whip" style hands - power reserve indicator - small seconds dial with integrated moon phase
Movement: UN-119 in-house movement - automatic winding - COSC certified - Silicium balance spring - Diamonsil escapement wheel and anchor - stylized rotor with double UN anchor - 28,800 bph (4 Hz) - 60-hour power reserve - hours, minutes, small seconds, power reserve, moon phase complication
Strap: blue or brown alligator leather strap with stainless steel folding clasp - other strap options offered separately
References: each dial color limited to 300 pieces
1193-310LE-3A-175/1A - blue dial, blue strap
1193-310LE-3A-175/1B - blue dial, brown strap
1193-310LE-0A-175/1A - white dial, blue strap
1193-310LE-0A-175/1A - white dial, brown strap
Price: 9,400 SWISS FRANCS
8,600 EUROS
9,900 US DOLLARS