A few weeks after the introduction of its new Diver Chronometer Collection at the Monaco Yacht Show last year, Ulysse Nardin has expanded the collection by adding a new 42mm diameter version model family. Still based on the brand’s signature Marine Chronometer concept, the new series that represents the entry-level product group at Ulysse Nardin is the guest of our Hands On corner with the (Ref. 8163-175-7MIL/93) equipped with a blue dial and a Milanese metal bracelet.
The new Ulysse Nardin Diver 42mm model family shares the same basic details with the previously released 44mm version like the concave uni-directional diving bezel and oppositely domed scratch resistant sapphire crystal. However, the new series offers a strong Neo-Vintage vibe with brilliantly opted details.
As mentioned in the name, the model is offered in a stainless steel case measuring 42mm in diameter. Besides the similarly arranged bezel and front sapphire crystal, the new model’s only difference from its 44m cousin is not the -2mm reduction in size. The lugs are thinner and the winding crown guards are shaved for the era-correct Retro look. The case features both matt brushed and mirror polished surfaces. Water resistance rating is 300 meters / 30 bars as expected from a solid dive watch.
The dial of the new timepiece also features design details that highlight the Vintage character of the model. The dark blue surface is grained by micro sandblasting to boost the Retro appeal, while the indices and hands are thick rectangular formed in order to match with the rest of the Vintage inspired layout. Super LumiNOVA phosphor material is applied in darker tone that mimics the patina radium dials. The date display is small and discrete with its matching disk color with the dial. However, opting a circular display while the rest of the accents are all in angular form is a mystery... Another noteworthy feature in the dial is the line of text that stands where we expect to see the information about the movement or the water resistance rating. Interestingly, it actually is the longitude and latitude of Le Locle, Switzerland, the hometown of the brand.
The new model is powered by the self-winding Caliber UN-816. The movement is actually based on the Sellita SW300, which is a popular choice for entry and mid-level Swiss automatics. However, let’s not forget that the movement is extensively modified to fit with the Ulysse Nardin standards including silicon components. Beating at a frequency of 4Hz (28.800vph), the movement offers a power reserve time of 42 hours when fully wound.
The version (Ref. 8163-175-7MIL/93 we have here comes on a stainless steel Milanese mesh bracelet that tributes to the retro-inspire character of the model. MSRP is 6500, 00 CHF.
