Ulysse Nardin has long been one of those brands willing to push watchmaking into weird, wonderful territory, and the new Blast Free Wheel Marquetry Silicon Green feels like a natural continuation of that spirit. Limited to just 10 pieces for the U.S., it’s as much a work of art as a wristwatch. The dial is the first thing that grabs your attention, with hand-laid emerald green silicon, arranged in geometric patterns that catch light from all angles. It’s a nod to Silicon Valley and to the fact that silicon, once an experiment in horology, is now at the heart of Ulysse Nardin.
Underneath the dial’s shimmer is the UN-176 caliber, a movement that looks as though it’s floating inside the case. The “free wheel” construction means most of the mechanics, including the flying tourbillon, are mounted on the dial side, almost defying gravity. It’s a complication that leaves you staring, trying to piece together how it all works. But beyond its stage presence, silicon really earns its keep here. It offers stability, precision, and a lot less servicing over time. Add in the constant-force escapement and a double barrel with seven days of reserve, and it’s hard not to be impressed by the technical mastery hiding beneath all the flash.
The case feels like Ulysse Nardin at its most modern, 45mm of white gold shaped into sharp, architectural lines, capped by a sapphire box crystal that lets you peer in from nearly every angle. Despite its size, it’s surprisingly thin at 12.4mm and sits comfortably on the wrist, more wearable than you’d expect. In the end, with only 10 pieces reserved for the U.S., the Blast Free Wheel Marquetry Silicon Green is destined to be one of those rare watches collectors talk about more than they actually see.
Source: Ulysse Nardin
