Ulysse Nardin Split Seconds Chronograph, Yellow Gold

Ulysse Nardin set up his eponymous brand in Le Locle in 1846, some distance away from the seas and oceans that would inspire his creations. Nardin was driven by the desire to produce chronometres both of the marine and pocket variety. His brand won the Prize Medal in the complicated watches and pocket chronometres at the International Exhibition held in London in 1862. The association with seafaring has remained ever since, with the brand often serving as the official supplier to navies around the world. 

It is thus fitting that the split-seconds chronograph takes design inspiration from nautical clocks, with the number of the watch featured prominently in cursive on the dial, and a small anchor placed between the Ulysse Nardin signature. The main part of the dial is a cream colour, with the sub-dials a slightly lighter, silvered colour. The time-telling indications are applied Roman numerals in a shade of gold that complements the case metal, while the case itself is slightly stepped, with the pushers and crown placed at 3 o'clock. Blued time-telling and chronograph hands complete the look, providing a nice visual contrast across the rest of the dial. Around the rim of the dial, a tachymetre scale can be found, placed almost at an angle, thus giving the dial further depth and tying together its clean appearance.

The movement that powers this Ulysse Nardin is the Venus 179, which was first introduced in '40s, and remained in production for close to two decades, before being phased out of production. The depth of the movement, as well as its mechanical complexity, remains as impressive today as it was during the mid-20th century. Joining the ranks of various other brands, including the likes of Parmigiani Fleurier, in using these movements, Ulysse Nardin took several new-old stock movements from around the '60s in order to create this series nearly 30 years later, in the '90s.

Turning the watch over, it is visible through the sapphire caseback, and has a real sense of depth within the movement architecture. The parts have been finished to an excellent degree, featuring Geneva striping and polishing across several sections, in addition to perlage on the baseplate. Furthermore, it has developed an attractive vintage appearance that gives the watch a real sense of character and age.

Part of just 10 examples in yellow gold, with just 30 created over the series, this is an excellent example of a neo-vintage piece that combines both a historic movement with a beautiful design, from an intriguing and well-known brand today.

If sold within the United Kingdom, this Ulysse Nardin Split Seconds Chronograph will be subject to 20% VAT

Closer look

Condition

This Ulysse Nardin Split-Seconds Chronograph is in very good overall condition. The case has light superficial marks consistent with the age of the watch, though is well preserved without signs of deeper imperfections. The hallmarks are visible and well defined, while the case still retains the original shape. The dial, hands and movement are all equally nicely preserved.

Warranty

The watch comes with a two-year warranty from A Collected Man, alongside a lifetime guarantee of authenticity.