Time, Taste & Collectors: A Memorable Evening with Ulysse Nardin & Ethos
3 min read
In a celebration that seamlessly blended horological heritage with modern-day elegance, The Hour Markers, in collaboration with Ulysse Nardin and Ethos, hosted an exclusive evening designed for collectors, connoisseurs, and watch enthusiasts. Set against the refined backdrop of The Modernist—the ultra-exclusive members-only space at the Four Seasons—the event was a rare confluence of craftsmanship, conversation, and curation.
The experience began with a thoughtfully curated high-tea, attended by select members of the press and key influencers. In an intimate setting, guests had the opportunity to get up close with iconic timepieces, including the revolutionary museum piece the FREAK and the newly launched Diver [Air], among other standout models. As the evening unfolded, conversations flowed effortlessly, blending the passion of seasoned collectors with the curiosity of new-age aficionados.
The exclusivity of the venue added a distinct aura to the event. The Modernist, seldom granted for external events, is a sanctuary of elegance reserved strictly for Four Seasons’ members. The Hour Markers was privileged to secure this coveted space, further elevating the sense of occasion. Adding another layer of personal engagement, a private VIP room—The Luminaries—was reserved for high-value guests. Here, bespoke interactions and tailored presentations took place, allowing for deeper storytelling and a richer appreciation of Ulysse Nardin’s innovative legacy.
Sending his thoughts from across the world, Managing Director Matthieu Haverlan over a video commented, “India and Ulysse Nardin have a long standing love story. The country has been a historical stronghold for the brand and I look forward to developing the passion for watchmaking across the various Indian watch collecting communities."
True to the tone of the evening, branding was kept subtle yet impactful. Venue restrictions and a shared vision for intimacy led to a minimalist approach—small but powerful brand cues were tastefully woven throughout the space. Ulysse Nardin’s signature blue found its way into the food and beverage design, and the beautifully crafted branded desserts became an instant hit—so much so that guests repeatedly asked for more. One of the highlights was the bespoke FREAK-inspired cocktail, which not only captured the spirit of the watch but also sparked delightful conversations.
But beyond the aesthetics and the setting, it was the people that made the evening extraordinary. In the world of fine watchmaking, it’s not just about the timepieces—it’s about the people, the stories, and the moments they create together. This evening was a testament to that spirit. Clémence Le Rolland, International Sales Director, Ulysse Nardin commented, “Thank you to everyone present tonight. I would like to extend a warm thank you to Karishma and Punit from The Hour Markers for making this event possible. I would also like to thank the entire Ethos team as well as Mukul. Being an independent brand this partnership is very important to us. Mumbai and Ulysse Nardin have a lot in common than you might think. The sea here in Mumbai plays an important role in trade activities being the commercial capital. When you think of the brand Ulysse Nardin, it was the pioneer of marine chronometry for more than a century. Post the quartz crisis, we really invested heavily into the manufacture and in 2001 we launched the FREAK. This was a game changer and continues to remain relevant even today 24 years later.”
With thoughtfully curated experiences, rare horological icons, and a gathering of passionate collectors, the event transcended the expected to deliver something truly memorable. As Ulysse Nardin continues to push the boundaries of innovation, The Hour Markers remains committed to building spaces where such conversations, connections, and celebrations can thrive and this time with India’s leading watch retailers - Ethos. Here’s to many more timeless moments ahead.
