After the hit launch of the Freak in 2001, Ulysse Nardin has again introduced silicon in its new UN-176 Manufacture calibre, housed inside its latest launch, the Blast Free Wheel Marquetry, for Geneva Watch Days 2023. With part of the movement being displayed over the mosaic-themed dial, the spotlight shines on the GPHG 2015-award winning tourbillon featuring the Ulysse Anchor Constant Escapement, barrel and 7-day power reserve display, all of which looks suspended on the dial, making it a ‘flying calibre’.
The 45mm ‘Blast’ case is crafted with satin-finished and polished white gold with a glassbox design that gives an enhanced visual of the dial, which can also be seen through the sides. The Métiers d’art dial features matte blue and polished silicon marquetry, or mosaic pattern, complemented with grey hands inlaid with Super-LumiNova®.
The UN-176 Manufacture beats at 2.5 Hz, with parts over the dial featured in grey. The barrel features at 12 o’clock and is decorated with the UN monogram. At 3 o’clock one can find the winding wheel and crown outside it. Going further, at 4 o’clock lies the power reserve indicator which remains static, but the three bands with the indicator are in motion. The watch is fully wound, indicating the 7-day power reserve, if the three bands lie opposite to the indicator; if there’s one, then the power reserve is almost empty. At 6 o’clock features the tourbillon that won the Tourbillon Prize Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève in 2015. The next in line on the dial is the reduction gear, power reserve differential, and the intermediate wheel. Turn the watch over and you find the see-through sapphire caseback that gives a view of the matte silicon wafer, decorating the movement for the first time.
The Ulysse Anchor Constant Escapement is a circular frame with a pallet fork mounted in the centre that is suspended in space by two blade springs. These are mounted perpendicular to one another and are bent and retained by a bending force. Regardless of the watch's power reserve, this significant technical innovation led by Ulysse Nardin ensures a precisely uniform impulse on the balance wheel.
The case of Ref. 1760-401-3A/3A is flanked by a waterproof blue velvet effect rubber strap. There’s an additional blue alligator leather strap, and the watch is compatible with other Blast Tourbillon straps, all fitted with white gold deployant buckle. The watch is priced at approx. ₹12,300,000.
Images Courtesy: Ulysse Nardin
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