Introducing Ulysse Nardin Unveils the Blast Free Wheel Maillechort Edition

Ulysse Nardin’s contributions to haute horlogerie are numerous, from pioneering marine chronometers to redefining contemporary watchmaking in the early 2000s with the introduction of the Freak, a model that brought with it a host of technical innovations. Among these milestones, the brand’s development of the groundbreaking flying tourbillon with constant-force escapement, 

First introduced in 2015 and winner of the GPHG Tourbillon Prize, stands as a testament to its forward-thinking spirit. Now, Ulysse Nardin revisits this technical marvel with a bold new creation: the Blast Free Wheel Maillechort, a watch that blends classical finishing with striking, three-dimensional architecture.

The new Blast Free Wheel retains its signature movement architecture, featuring elevated, floating components and a constant-force mechanism integrated within the tourbillon. This time, however, these innovations are presented against a backdrop of traditional craftsmanship: a grained Maillechort (German silver) plate. This distinctive alloy, composed of copper, nickel, and zinc, is prized not only for its warm, silvery tone but also for its durability, being considerably harder than brass.

Housed within a 45 mm white gold case, the watch showcases Ulysse Nardin’s mastery of modern case design. The intricate, angular geometry, defined by negative-angle facets, is achieved using advanced laser techniques. Satin-brushed surfaces contrast elegantly with polished edges, highlighting the multifaceted construction. Protecting the movement is a single-block sapphire "ultra-glass" box, sculpted and hollowed with extraordinary precision, offering an immersive panoramic view of the dial and movement from both above and the sides. This complex sapphire architecture raises the overall thickness from the base 8.75 mm to 12.4 mm.

A sapphire crystal caseback reveals the Maillechort plate, engraved and meticulously finished to showcase a blend of modern micromechanics and traditional craftsmanship. The case provides a water resistance of 30 meters.

At the heart of the watch, the Maillechort dial asserts a refined yet technical aesthetic. Its subtle grain texture, combined with the warm tone of the alloy, creates a distinctive stage for the floating components: wheels, barrels, and the power reserve display all appear suspended within a sculptural, architectural space. This interplay of depth and transparency creates the impression of a horological diorama a harmonious fusion of form and function.

A floating double-barrel system occupies the twelve o’clock position, while the innovative power reserve indicator at four o’clock redefines conventional display mechanics. Here, the indicator remains static, while the mechanism rotates around it, revealing the energy status via aligning bands rather than the traditional pointer or disc. All visible components are carefully hand-finished, enhancing the watch’s sense of craftsmanship.

Beneath the dial’s architectural display lies the UN-176 calibre, a manual-winding movement developed in-house over two years of intensive research and development. At its core is the brand’s award-winning flying tourbillon with Ulysse Anchor Constant Escapement, composed of 45 individual components. Eschewing conventional pivots and jewels, the escapement employs twin blade springs thinner than a quarter of a human hair, arranged perpendicularly and kept under tension. This ingenious construction delivers a consistent impulse, regardless of power reserve levels. Silicon, a signature Ulysse Nardin material, is used for both the hairspring and escapement, reducing friction and ensuring stable performance across varying conditions. The movement comprises 246 components, beats at 18,000 vph (2.5 Hz), and offers an impressive seven-day power reserve.

Completing the watch is a blue velvet-textured rubber strap secured by a white gold deployant buckle. Limited to just 50 pieces, the Ulysse Nardin Blast Free Wheel Maillechort is priced at 120,000 CHF, approximately 547,500 AED.

For more information visit Ulysse Nardin official website.