Introducing – Ulysse Nardin Marine 1846, A Classical Take On The Iconic Marine Collection

Here comes another Marine watch from Ulysse Nardin… That’s what we thought at first when we saw this latest model, and there’s nothing bad about that. The Marine collection is pretty interesting. However, this new Ulysse Nardin Marine 1846 is different, in the details at least, and it’s the details that make all the difference. It’s more classic, more refined, more wearable but still overall, very Ulysse Nardin. For the time being we have to be satisfied with press images but this is definitely a watch we need to investigate further.

The Marine Collection is the cornerstone of Ulysse Nardin’s production and serves as the common thread between past and present. This collection is the reference point, the one that sources its DNA from the origins of the brand, back in 1846. Indeed, for decades, Ulysse Nardin has been one of the main suppliers of Marine Chronometers to naval commanders and merchant captains around the world, providing innovation and precision. With this historical background in mind, the brand has created this collection around the marine theme, with the Marine collection using many of the elements present on antique chronometers (layout, style of the dial, materials, focus on precision).

For more than 20 years now we have been seeing these watches with what has now become an iconic look, including the recent Marine Annual Calendar Chronometer and Marine Tourbillon Grand Feu Enamel. Integrated lug module, large diameters (between 43mm and 45mm), fluted bezel, overall bold design were always present. However, while not forgetting the roots of the collection, Ulysse Nardin is about to tone things down a bit and introduce a more classic and refined style into the collection.

Here we are, with the new Ulysse Nardin Marine 1846 (a reference to the brand’s inception year). This new model is based on a 1996 timepiece, first introduced for the 150th anniversary of the brand, however modernized both visually and technically. At first glance, it seems nothing has really changed. The Marine style of the dial is here, the case feels in line with the rest of the collection. However, some details (and not small ones) have been updated. First of all, the case is now a more wearable 41mm – better comfort, better placement on the wrist, easier to wear in a business environment, easier for smaller wrists… The fluted bezel as well as the large opening of the dial are still present though. The drastic evolution comes from the lugs. No more integrated module but standard horns, and that’s what really sets it apart from other Marine models.

The dial is still based on the classic Marine display – power reserve at 12, hours and minutes in the center, small second at 6, with date aperture. The design of the Ulysse Nardin Marine 1846 is now consistent with recent creations, such as the Marine Tourbillon Grand Feu Enamel – longer and thinner Roman numerals, blued hands, classical railroad tracks. In addition, the dial is now made in Grand Feu enamel – thanks to the internalized dial maker Donzé Cadran – and finished with historic marine chronometer blued hands.

Inside this smaller and more elegant case ticks the self-winding UN-118 Chronometer movement, in-house developed and manufactured. It features a Silicium hairspring and a patented DIAMonSIL escapement (a movement that is COSC certified). This modern and efficient movement boasts a 60-hour power reserve, and comes with a forward and backward quick-set date.

This new Ulysse Nardin Marine 1846 confirms the new design trend implemented by the brand, more refined, more classical, yet relying on the DNA of Marine Chronometers, and makes us rather optimistic for the future… A watch we’ll definitely cover in detail later when get a chance to strap one on our wrist. But wait, the best part is still to come; the retail price: CHF 9,900 / EUR 9,900. Excellent value for a watch with enamel dial, great historical background and quite an impressive movement. More details on www.ulysse-nardin.com.

Technical Specifications – Ulysse Nardin Marine 1846

• Case: 41mm diameter – stainless steel, fluted bezel, standard horns – sapphire crystal on the front, engraved caseback – 100m water resistant
• Movement: Calibre UN-118, in-house – COSC Chronometer – self-winding movement – 4Hz frequency – 50 jewels – 60h power reserve – hours, minutes, small seconds, power reserve, date
• Strap: black alligator leather strap with steel pin-buckle
• Reference: 1183-900/EO
• Price: CHF 9,900 / EUR 9,900