BY DHANANJAY PATHAK
Ulysse Nardin recently expanded their executive collection with a new watch called the Blast. Coming in four different variations and based on the brand’s ‘X’ design theme, these new watches continue to showcase Ulysse Nardin’s innovative and experimental side.
Like all X themed Ulysse Nardin watches, the new is all about striking bold aesthetics. Characterized by a big ‘X’ that is enveloped within a rectangle, this new watch highlights Ulysse Nardin’s shape-within-shape concept. To heighten the visual excitement, the elements corresponding to the ‘X’ theme have been presented in black, red, silver, and blue on the four variants of this watch. Furthermore, the face of the watch has been heavily skeletonized to bring the hidden internals such as the flying Tourbillon at 6 and the tiny micro-rotor at 12 O’clock to the forefront for the wearer to enjoy. Time can be read using the well-proportioned lume filled hands and the applied hour markers on the outer periphery.
To emphasize its aggressive demeanor, the Blast gets a sporty muscular case. It measures 45mm in diameter which combined with the sharp angular design would ensure great wrist presence. One striking design detail on the case of the Blast is its unique multi-faceted lug structure that is reminiscent of the wings of a stealth aircraft. To accentuate the sharp lines and angular geometry, the case has been finely finished with a nice mix of brushed and polished surfaces that is most evident on the lugs wherein each triangle has a different finish, the surface of the horns alternates between polished, satin-finish, and sand-blasted veneer. It is also worth mentioning that the cases on these new watches make use of several different materials to offer a unique visual appeal. For instance, the gold variant has the upper and lower sections rendered in rose gold, whereas the mid-case has been presented in black DLC titanium and a smooth black ceramic bezel sits on top of the case.
Powering the Ulysse Nardin Blast is the new in-house caliber UN-172. This is the first automatic Tourbillon movement from Ulysse Nardin that uses a small micro-rotor to generate the power when the watch is on the wrist. The movement operates at a frequency of 4 Hz and offers an autonomy of around 72 hours when it is fully wound. While parts of the movement can be looked at from the front, it can also be appreciated through the exhibition case back.
The new Ulysse Nardin Blast is available to purchase in Rose Gold, Black, Blue, and White flavors and would come attached to matching rubber straps. The Rose Gold version would retail for USD 54,000, whereas the rest of the variants would cost USD 46,000.
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