DAZZLE FOREVER
The new limited edition unveiled by Le Locle-based manufacture invites elegant wrists to stand out from the crowd with a sparkling 5.90-carat scenography.
Like flakes covering the slopes of Alpine mountains, a snow-cloak of diamonds of the purest quality (VVS and VS) dusts the dial of this Sparkling Free Wheel. 2,251 gems in all! This sumptuous setting strewn across 90% of the surface, created by the skillful craftspeople from Art Setting, a Geneva-based studio, required 120 hours of meticulous work per dial. In this twinkling scenescape hovered over by a duo of hour and minute hands, we discover all the unique characteristics of the collection which Ulysse Nardin revealed back in 2018, in particular the boomerang-shaped flying tourbillon bridges set at 6 o’clock and the power reserve indicator nestling at 4 o’clock. Other components, gear trains, among the 274 which make up the mechanical architecture of this piece also breathe life into this precious scene. This ensemble is topped by a cambered sapphire-crystal glassbox-type dome.
The UN-176 caliber beats at the heart of this stunning 44 mm-diameter white gold treasure. It stands out with its regulating device, the Ulysse Anchor Escapement, which replaces the traditional Swiss anchor escapement. This innovation places the focus on low-friction Silicium instead of metal or synthetic rubies. This hand-wound movement delivers an amazing 7-day autonomy.
The Sparkling Free Wheel is a limited edition boasting just eight pieces. Each is complemented by an alligator strap attached by a clasp which is also snow-set with brilliant stones.
Price: CHF225,000 www.ulysse-nardin.com
By Dan Diaconu