Ulysse Nardin is fast developing a reputation as one of the most innovative watchmakers working today from within a major luxury group, in this case Kering.
Its Executive Tourbillon Free Wheel, which launches this month, is another strong example and a fascinating addition to the family.
Ulysse Nardin calls the Free Wheel its “most fantastically futuristic movement” and “audacious timepiece to date”, which is quite a statement from the company that makes Le Freak.
There will be only 18 made of the watch in four versions.
One has a dial made from osmium, the world’s heaviest metal that looks like pave diamond in a 44mm white gold case.
A blue aventurine dialed version is designed to look like a starry night sky glittering with reflections of the stars.
A third has a dial made from Carbonium Gold, a composite with a registered trademark that combines the strength of carbon with the luster of gold.
The final of the four has a dial made from straw marquetry, a technique UN says was first perfected by 17th century nuns.
Inside is an in house developed UN-176 movement with gear trains and bridges that appear to float.
Prices range from €99,000 for the Aventurine, Straw Marquetry and Carbonium Gold models up to €102,000 for the Osmium piece.