Ulysse Nardin Unveils New Dive Watches with a Focus on Sustainability
In the realm of fine watchmaking, the independent and integrated Manufacture Ulysse Nardin continues to pioneer innovation, drawing from a legacy that began at sea in the 19th century. Renowned for its legendary marine chronometers, Ulysse Nardin has always placed the marine world at the forefront of its mission, especially as the fate of our oceans hangs in the balance.
In 2020, Ulysse Nardin introduced the Diver NET as a concept watch, which swiftly entered the market, showcasing the brand’s commitment to sustainability and innovation. Collaborating with high-tech startups and environmental advocates, the brand has harnessed its expertise to create new materials and technologies that raise awareness about environmental responsibility.
This year, Ulysse Nardin has expanded its “Ops” capsule collection with two new models: the Diver Net OPS and the Diver X Skeleton OPS. These ultra-dynamic creations combine trendy, sporty-chic styles with the brand’s hallmark innovation and adventurous spirit.
Diver Net OPS
The Diver Net OPS is a high-performance timepiece, celebrated as the most sustainable sports watch with a manufacture movement. Boasting water resistance down to 300 meters, it is powered by the automatic manufacture calibre UN-118, featuring a 60-hour power reserve and a balance spring in silicon—a material first introduced by Ulysse Nardin in 2001. Additionally, the escapement is coated in DiamonSil, a patented form of diamond-coated silicon, ensuring exceptional precision and durability.
The case is made from 95% recycled stainless steel, with side parts and a case-back composed of Nylo® (60%) and Carbonium® (40%). Nylo is derived from upcycled fishing nets, while Carbonium® is produced using carbon fibers from aircraft manufacturing offcuts, reducing its environmental impact by 40% compared to other carbon composites. The watch features a khaki green sandblasted dial with Super-Luminova® markings that glow green in low light, and a fabric strap partly made from upcycled fishing nets, enhancing its adventurous style.
Diver X Skeleton OPS
The Diver X Skeleton OPS reimagines the dive watch as a piece of haute horlogerie. Water-resistant to 200 meters, the 44mm Diver X Skeleton OPS features the brand’s skeletonized automatic movement UN-372, showcasing an oversized oscillator and an escapement in silicon. The case is crafted from high-tech, lightweight titanium with a black DLC coating, while Carbonium® features prominently in the concave unidirectional rotating bezel and the barrel cover at 12 o’clock.
The watch’s ultra-modern design is confirmed by the dominant skeleton X structure on the dial and a sleek khaki green fabric strap, partly made from upcycled fishing nets, complementing the sustainable approach.
A Tradition of Innovation
Ulysse Nardin’s tradition of innovation began in the 19th century with marine chronometers and continues today with its cutting-edge timepieces. The brand’s commitment to exploring the impossible is embodied in its diverse collections, including Freak, Blast, Marine, and Diver.
As part of a collective of independent watchmaking manufactures, alongside its sister company Girard-Perregaux, Ulysse Nardin continues to push the boundaries of horology, combining creative and mechanical experimentation to open new horizons for the industry.
For more information, visit the Ulysse Nardin website.