News: Ulysse Nardin Executive Skeleton Tourbillon
One of the side effects of the oversized watch trend is that they can sometimes have a fair bit of heft to them. Often, this just adds to the appeal—but if you’re looking for a good bit of wrist coverage without the weight, Ulysse Nardin has got the answer. The Executive Skeleton Tourbillon is not only a beauty to behold, with its skeleton dial and spinning tourbillon, but is also pretty lightweight for its size thanks to its use of silicon parts.
Coupled with a smart titanium case (that spans the wrist at 45mm) and a durable ceramic bezel, the movement comprises a silicon escapement wheel and balance spring for a wonderful mix of contemporary materials. The in-house calibre UN-171 has an open worked construction, coated with PVD and ruthenium, and is viewable on both sides through the watch’s crystal. It has a distinctly modern looking dial, with large Roman numerals and broad, sword-shaped hands, and the watch’s lightness and comfortable carbon fibre strap make it ideal for everyday wear.
Ulysse Nardin has been continuously producing excellent timepieces since it was founded in 1846, but is probably most closely associated with the highly accurate marine chronometers that it created for the world’s navies during the 19th century. It’s a legacy that the brand hasn’t forgotten when it comes to its modern pieces, and the Executive Skeleton Tourbillon is a technically sound timepiece. Although the functions may be relatively simple—regular time and a tourbillon at 6 o’clock—it is skilfully constructed. The movement beats at 18,000vph and a boasts a very reasonable power reserve of 170 hours.
The watch is in the running for the ‘Tourtbillon’ award at this year’s Grand Prix d'Horlogerie de Genève, so watch this space for more news.
