THE LOW-DOWN

Does Ulysse Nardin’s Marine Torpilleur fly under the radar? I think so. As a high-end timepiece, it has lots to offer aesthetically as well as mechanically. Whether you opt for a time-only reference or tourbillon oeuvre, the watch serves as a homage to UN’s marine chronometers from the mid 19th century.

As part of its 175th anniversary celebrations this year, the Le Locle-based brand is rolling out colorful, celebratory editions. The very cool UFO —“unidentified floating object”— made its case as one of the craziest desktop chronometers ever, with its oscillating bean shape. But now, its awesomeness is wrist-ready with a series of new Marine Torpilleurs.

Marine Torpilleur Blue Grand Feu Enamel

As usual, in this and all watches with special dials, Ulysse Nardin resorted to Donze Cadrans, a specialist in watch dials that the brand acquired in 2011 and is one of the best with Grand Feu enamelling. In this method, the dial decorated with enamel created from crystalline powders and oils is subjected to multiple firings at over 800 degrees Celsius. The cathedral hands, Roman numerals, and double sub-dials in a vertical arrangement are features that were originally seen in the UN chronometers from the 19th century. Inside, the “workhorse” UN-118 automatic caliber with silicon hairspring and a 60-hours power reserve is at the heart of this watch and all time-only Marine Torpilleurs.

Marine Torpilleur Panda

Marine Torpilleur Chronograph Annual Calendar

Marine Torpilleur Moonphase

Marine Torpilleur Tourbillon Grand Feu

Tech Specs

Marine Torpilleur Blue Grand Feu Enamel

Marine Torpilleur Panda

Marine Torpilleur Chronograph Annual Calendar

Marine Torpilleur Moonphase

Marine Torpilleur Tourbillon Grand Feu