Ulysse Nardin The Ocean Race Diver

Ulysse Nardin is accelerating the use of innovative alternative materials by announcing the launch of the first diver model, which consists largely of recycled fishing nets.

Nature-friendly social responsibility projects in the watchmaking industry continue at full speed. The most recent of these comes from Ulysse Nardin, which has been making marine chronometers of unmatched reliability for explorers since 1846.

One of the most important issues of marine pollution faced by seafarers today is plastic waste. Fishing nets are among the leading elements within the waste materials subject to this title. According to the UN's report, 640,000 MT of fishing nets is lost or abandoned at sea every year.

Patrick Pruniaux, CEO of Ulysse Nardin, reveals the idea behind the new model by saying, "How can we turn some of this plastic into a luxury item? With the help of start-ups like FIL&FAB, we have been able to successfully manufacture and sell watches derived from recycled fishing nets." "Upcycling is our method of raising awareness about this issue. Finding suppliers was a key factor in this process" he adds.

Ulysse Nardin's quest in this regard takes on a different dimension when the brand finds a supplier who can turn waste fishing nets into workable material.

"We've been traveling the world in the Ocean Race since 1973, and as sailors, we've seen Ocean change over the last 50 years," says Richard Brisius, Race Director for The Ocean Race. "We learned that to protect and restore the health of the Ocean, we learned it is necessary to respect and give a voice to the Ocean. We are proud to see innovations like Ulysse Nardin that share and support our values. This innovative watch reminds us that now is the time to act." he adds.

The new model comes with a 44mm diameter case similar to the one used in the Diver Net Concept model. However, this time the material used is not 100% recycled fishing nets (NYLO), but 60/40 recycled fishing nets, Carbonium, and recycled stainless steel materials for the case and cover. This gives the case more rigidity compared to the 2020 concept watch. The unidirectional diver bezel is also produced from Carbonium, which is used in aircraft parts and has a 40% lower environmental impact than conventional carbon.

Sharing the same basic design as the Diver Net Concept Watch, the dial stands out with its more distinctive appearance. The X form also takes its place on the dial prepared in the Marine Chronometer layout, one of the brand's signature design elements. While the green details on the grainy anthracite background add movement to the dial, Super-LumiNOVA-filled hands and indices maximize legibility. The dial, which presents a unique look with its black/anthracite/green color palette, monitors the power reserve status and date function as well as the time.

Caliber UN-118 automatic movement gives life to the new model. The in-house movement beats at a frequency of 4Hz (28,800vph) and can offer up to 60 hours of power reserve when fully wound. The movement, which can be viewed through the sapphire crystal back cover, also hosts a silicon balance spring produced with DiamonSil technology.

Ulysse Nardin The Ocean Race Diver comes with a strap made of gray NYLO material obtained from recycled fishing nets. The white and green stitched strap is fastened to the wrist with a velcro clasp.

The list price for the model, which is limited to only 200 pieces, is EUR 10,400.