Three New Ulysse Nardin Marine Torpilleur Models, Incl. A Brand New Dual Time

First presented in 2017, the Marine Torpilleur collection has been entirely refreshed last year, with new and refined models that pay tribute to the rich history of the brand in the field of Marine Chronometers. The Marine Torpilleur picks up on vintage design cues but comes in a lighter, younger and more versatile package like the fast, manoeuvrable torpedo boats that inspired its name. Elegant, discreet and highly distinctive, there’s a lot to love in these watches, mechanically and visually. For the 2022 collection, Ulysse Nardin expands its Marine Torpilleur collection with three new models, all part of the permanent collection, including the brand new Dual Time watch. 

The Ulysse Nardin Marine Torpilleur

Founded in 1846 in Le Locle by Ulysse Nardin, the young clockmaker consolidated his reputation with precision marine chronometers. By the 1870s, the manufacture supplied more than 50 navies and merchant marine companies with precision marine deck chronometers. This specific yet complex field of watchmaking has become a signature element of the brand’s portfolio, and has been extensively utilized in modern-day models. The Marine Torpilleur launched in 2017 as a smaller, lighter, less expensive version of its Marine collection. Its name is taken from a torpilleur or torpedo boat.

The key elements of the Marine Torpilleur collection are the thin fluted bezel, the elongated Roman numerals, the spade and whip hands, and the double counters at 12 and 6 o’clock (with the exception of the chronograph and tourbillon) that hark back to the display of marine chronometers. And, of course, the brand’s signature silicon technology. And to continue with the revamped collection of last year, UN is now bringing more diversity.

The Marine Torpilleur Dual Time

The first of the new models is actually an entirely new watch, and the first time the signature Dual Time display of the brand is integrated into this collection. Invented by Ludwig Oechslin in 1994, it relies on an ultra-practical GMT± function, with two pushers to quickly correct the local time, while the reference time aperture at 9 o’clock continually displays the home time. Then, in 2014, Ulysse Nardin introduced the UN-334, the first manufacture calibre fitted with the GMT± function.

This year we see the launch of the Ulysse Nardin Marine Tourpilleur Dual Time, combining this functional and advanced movement with the streamlined look of the collection. It also includes a large date window and a small seconds. The Marine Torpilleur Dual Time comes in a polished and satin-finished 44mm stainless steel case with a deep blue dial with multiple textures. Inside, the in-house automatic movement stores 48h power reserve and features silicium technology, with the escapement wheel, anchor and balance spring all made from this non-magnetic, elastic and durable material. Price: EUR 10,400 / CHF 10,900 / USD 11,500

Quick facts: 44mm steel case, sapphire crystals, 50m water-resistant – blue sunray and matte finished dial – calibre UN-334, automatic, in-house, 4Hz, 48h power reserve, GMT function with + and – pushers – blue alligator strap on folding clasp – ref. 3343-320-3A/1A

The Marine Torpilleur Tourbillon white enamel

Last year, Ulysse Nardin launched the Marine Torpilleur Tourbillon in a limited edition with a rose gold case with a black Grand Feu enamel dial. The model is coming back this year in a more refined, more discreet edition that also more accessible. Indeed, the 42mm case is here made of stainless steel. The dial, while still made by Donzé Cadrans and done by hand in grand feu enamel, plays on classic marine codes in white with blue numerals.

Powering this higher-end version is the in-house self-winding calibre UN-128. As you can see, the large aperture at 6 o’clock reveals an oversized tourbillon, but there’s more here. In fact, it relies on silicium technology to bring a constant escapement, thanks to a flying silicium anchor, a system patented by Ulysse Nardin. A complex ballet that is now available as part of the permanent collection and priced at EUR 35,600 / CHF 37,500 / USD 39,600.

Quick facts: 42mm steel case, sapphire crystals, 50m water-resistant – white enamel dial with blue numerals – in-house, automatic calibre UN-128, constant force tourbillon, 2.5Hz, 60h power reserve – blue alligator on folding clasp – ref. 1283-310-0AE/1A

The Gold Marine Torpilleur Moonphase

Also part of the new models presented in 2021 was an elegant, refined moonphase watch with a stainless steel case and a blue or white dial, as a limited edition of 300 pieces per model. The Marine Torpilleur Moonphase comes back this year as a member of the permanent collection with a 42mm rose gold case. The dial, which is varnished white, benefits from its vertical layout to beautifully integrate the moon complication, without disturbing the signature look of marine models. The warm colour of gold is matched with maritime blue notes on the strap and numerals.

Inside the case is the automatic, chronometer-rated calibre UN-119 with a silicium balance spring and a DiamonSil escapement wheel and anchor. This technology, patented in 2009, relies on a plasma surface treatment process combining silicium and synthetic diamond, to optimise performance and improve resistance to magnetism and friction. Price: EUR 20,300 / CHF 21,400 / USD 22,600.

Quick facts: 42mm rose gold case, sapphire crystals, 50m water-resistant – white varnished dial with blue numerals – in-house, automatic calibre UN-119 with a silicium and DiamonSil elements, 4Hz, 60h power reserve – blue alligator on folding clasp – ref. 1192-310-0A/1A