Ulysse Nardin, who has a unique fan base with the concept of Marine Chronometer, is the guest of our Hands On corner with the Marine Chronograph Annual Calendar Ref. 1533-150 model which was introduced in Baselworld 2016.
It is not always easy for the watch enthusiasts to be limited to a single watch. There are certainly models which fit the “One Watch Nirvana” motto, but in practice things are different. If I decided to use a single watch, Ulysse Nardin Marine Chronograph Annual Calendar would certainly be a perfect alternative to this situation as the model successfully combines classic dress watch details with the sporty spirit. Of course, my sympathy for the brand is the other reason.
Before going into the technical details of the model, I would like to mention that there are two different case materials (stainless steel & 18K red gold) and three different dial colors in the collection. The version we have here today is offered in a stainless steel case with a blue dial.
The case measures 43mm in diameter and sports scratch resistant sapphire crystals on both sides. The front crystal has the anti reflective treatment for clearer readability. It is possible to say that Ulysse Nardin is at the forefront of the brands, when it comes to the antireflection coating applied to the sapphire crystals.
The case features the fluted stainless steel bezel at the front which is a signature details for the brand inherited from the actual Marine Chronometers. The winding crown and the chronograph pushers match with the overall design of the case nicely as well as the proportions.
A deep dark blue tone was preferred on the dial. The dial, which is in line with the rubber cord, features Roman numeral indices. There is also a nice ratio for the placement of chronograph and the Annual Calendar sub-dials. The sub-dials in the previous model with the chronograph function only were placed a tad closer to the center than they should I think. In this model, it seems that the problem is gone. The date window is positioned at 6 o’clock and a magnifier is used on the inside of the crystal to increase readability.
The model is powered with the Caliber Ref. UN-153 which is totally designed and manufactured in-house. Even the balance spring, which is outsourced in most in-house movements, is manufactured by the brand. The self-winding movement beats at 28800vph and offers 52 hours of power reserve when fully wound.
Ulysse Nardin Marine Chronograph Annual Calendar can be preferred on a leather or rubber strap. I would like to have the rubber strap version as the model is water resistant to 100 meters which would let me to wear it during certain water activities. Another factor in choosing the rubber strap is the exclusive strap connection design of the model with links. For those looking for a more classic look, the crocodile skin strap will be a good alternative. Both the rubber and leather straps come with a folding clasp.
