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Ulysse Nardin have earned global recognition as pioneers of Swiss watchmaking, renowned for precision and innovation. Founded in 1846 by Ulysse Nardin in Le Locle, Switzerland, they initially gained fame for their marine chronometers, which were used by over 50 navies and shipping companies until the 1950s. Their dedication to technical excellence and craftsmanship has secured their place among the most celebrated Swiss watchmakers.
Early History
Ulysse Nardin was apprenticed by his father, Léonard-Frédéric Nardin, and later trained under renowned watchmakers Frederic-William Dubois and Louis JeanRichard-dit-Bressel. He founded his eponymous company at the age of 23, producing award-winning timepieces from its inception. After Nardin’s death in 1876, his son Paul-David carried on the legacy, solidifying the brand’s reputation for precision and innovation.
By the early 1900s, Ulysse Nardin had become synonymous with marine chronometers. In 1905, they partnered with the United States Navy, winning the Precision Torpedo Boat Timepieces competition organised by the Washington Naval Observatory. This achievement established Ulysse Nardin as the official supplier of the US Navy, further bolstering their reputation for accuracy.
The Quartz Crisis and Revival
The quartz crisis of the 1970s destabilised Ulysse Nardin, leading to its acquisition by Rolf W. Schnyder. Together with Dr Ludwig Oechslin, Schnyder revitalised the brand, introducing the Trilogy of Time collection. The Astrolabium Galileo Galilei (1985) gained global acclaim for its astronomical complications, followed by the Planetarium Copernicus (1988) and Tellurium Johannes Kepler (1992).
Modern Accomplishments
In 2001, Ulysse Nardin introduced the revolutionary Freak, featuring a seven-day carrousel tourbillon with no conventional dial, crown, or hands. They continued to innovate with the Freak DIAMonSIL (2007) and advanced in-house calibres, including the UN-160. Their use of materials like silicium and diamond in watch components further highlights their pioneering spirit.
Ulysse Nardin’s portfolio consists of five key collections: Marine, Diver, Classico, Blast, and Freak. These collections showcase their inventive spirit and commitment to excellence, blending traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge innovation. As members of the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie (FHH), Ulysse Nardin remain at the forefront of modern horology, embodying independence, ingenuity, and timeless elegance.