Long before revolutionizing watchmaking with silicium technology and introducing the Freak in 2001, Ulysse Nardin had earned acclaim for its precision marine chronometers. This expertise not only defined Ulysse Nardin’s legacy but also significantly influenced the design philosophy of the brand’s contemporary models. In 2017, Ulysse Nardin launched the Marine Torpilleur, a collection providing a more accessible alternative to its well-established Marine series. Fast forward to 2021, and the Marine Torpilleur series underwent a comprehensive revitalization, introducing new models, including an attractive moon phase watch. This is now further expanded with 300-piece limited edition featuring a midnight blue Aventurine dial. Next to that, the brand also adds a sparkling version of its Diver to the collection, this time permanently. Known as the Diver Starry Night, it follows suit to the Ulysse Nardin Marine Torpilleur Moonphase Aventurine, with the addition of diamond hour indices. Following its debut, the Ulysse Nardin Marine Torpilleur Moonphase became a permanent fixture in the collection in 2022, featuring a 42mm rose gold case and a varnished white dial. This year, the brand unveils yet another iteration of the Marine Torpilleur Moonphase: a model distinguished by its aventurine dial, arguably the most romantic variation in the series.
The Ulysse Nardin Marine Torpilleur Moonphase Aventurine comes in a stainless steel polished and satin-brushed case measuring 42mm in diameter. The fluted (coin-edged) bezel and a winding crown adorned with the UN logo add distinctive touches. A tiny plate fixed to the side of the case displays the watch’s sequential number in the limited issue series of 300. Secured with six screws, the sapphire display back contributes to the case’s overall water resistance of 50m. The dial design and choice of material draws from Ulysse Nardin’s rich history and connection to horological traditions related to the moon, the stars and the sea. The blue aventurine dial is meticulously crafted from fine plates cut from blocks of aventurine, ensuring uniformity, freedom from bubbles, and even sprinkling with copper glitter. The dial layout remains easily readable and mirrors the design of earlier variants, featuring large Roman numerals, rhodium-plated classical spade and whip hands, and a moon phase indicator within the small seconds sub-dial at 6 o’clock. The power reserve indicator at 12 o’clock indicates the remaining mainspring energy hours. The automatic UN-119 movement remains unchanged from earlier iterations – COSC-certified, featuring a silicon balance spring and escapement wheel, and an anchor in Diamonsil. With 222 components, including 45 jewels, it operates at 28,800vph and provides 60 hours of power reserve. The watch is adorned with a blue alligator strap secured with a folding clasp, and it comes with a price tag of EUR 13,800, available as a limited edition of 300.
There aren’t many feelings which are as good as looking into a clear starry sky, as clouds and light pollution make way for the far-off stars and galaxies to show themselves off. Unfortunately, it’s not so easy to drive out to a remote location any time you want to see it, and even then you need to hope the weather is favourable. The UUlysse Nardin Marine Torpilleur Moonphase Aventurine offers a wrist-size taste of that experience, supported by the wonders induced by high-end watchmaking.
Despite the word Ulysse Nardin Marine Torpilleur Moonphase Aventurine in the name, this isn’t exactly a seafaring timepiece anymore. The case can handle some splashes and the occasional dunk with a 50m water resistance, but isn’t intended for swimming as shown by the inclusion of a blue alligator leather strap. It uses a stainless steel folding buckle, and curved spring bars for a truly luxurious look. The stitching which runs down the edges of the strap are blue to match, however white cross-stitching is visible towards the strap ends for a more laid-back vintage style.
