VISUAL IMPACT

The manufacture s new collection places the accent on engineering and on material combinations. Scenography choreography pulls out the virtuosos stops with an up-to-the-minute openworked composition.

Although the 45 mm-diameter case is crafted like the fuselage of a stealth jet, this Ulysse Nardin-imagined Blast definitely doesnt go unnoticed with its highly-particular design. The collection squadron comprises four versions. Two are fashioned in ceramic, one black, the other white. A third showcases a titanium caseband and blue bezel boasting the same material. As for the last, it flaunts its preciousness, dressed in a rose gold robe. Dashes of color highlight the contrast of each model even more. The Super-LumiNova-coated hour and minute hands stand out perfectly. All four cases take on roles as frames for an astonishing full-relief-style geometrical architecture, obtained thanks to the presence of the skeletonized UN-172 caliber.

As such, inside the impressive X-shaped tourbillon cage, the automatic silicon regulating device beats at a frequency of 2.5 Hz. Movement verticality is emphasized by the existence of the barrel and platinum micro-rotor center staged face-side at 12 oclock and the flying tourbillon at 6 oclock. The large openings, set off by the rectangular raised bridge, offer a clear view of a host of the automatic movement components. This ever-so precise movement is, of course, a high performer delivering a generous 72-hour power reserve.

Based on the version chosen, the Blue, White, Black and Rose Gold Blast models are complemented by a strap made in rubber, alligator, velvet or denim. Other options are also available. All straps are clasped by a novel patented three-blade system.

Price: EUR44,000 (titanium)-EUR46,000 (ceramic)-EUR54,600 (rose gold) www.ulysse-nardin.com

By Dan Diaconu