Reimaging A Table Clock Or Chronometer? Ulysse Nardin’s Final UFO Editions
5 min read
Who would have the audacity to reimagine a marine chronometer or table clock? However, in 2021, Ulysse Nardin boldly reinvented the traditional elements with their creation called UFO, in celebration of their 175th anniversary. This innovative leap into the future showcases the non-conformist nature of the Manufacture, always pushing boundaries and staying ahead of its time.
UFO, which stands for Unidentified Floating Object, is not only a work of art and technical brilliance but also a playful creation that sways when gently moved, before stabilizing on its base.
The initial batch of 75 unique UFO examples in a dark blue hue were quickly acquired. In the same year, an orange version was sold for a remarkable amount of CHF 380,000 at the Only Watch charity auction. Now, this captivating journey is coming to an end with a final commemorative series.
UFO, Ulysse Nardin's marine chronometer of the future, is making one last appearance with three limited editions in champagne, ice blue, and green, in collaboration with their partners The Hour Glass, Bucherer, and Yoshida.
UFO is an intriguing oval clock that defies gravity, the result of two years of intensive research and prototyping conducted by Ulysse Nardin's R&D teams and the watchmaking specialist Maison L'Épée in Delémont.
With its weight precisely measured at 7.2 kg and distributed over a height of 263 mm and a diameter of 159 mm, UFO possesses the characteristics of a roly-poly toy, adding to its allure and uniqueness.
The mesmerizing table clock features a remarkable 49 mm balance wheel that operates at a remarkably low frequency of 0.5 Hz. This deliberate slow tempo, coupled with the substantial energy stored in the six extra-large barrels, enables UFO to boast an impressive power reserve that lasts a full year. Limited to 30 pieces each, this will surely make it to every collector’s list!
