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The first and second generation are my favourites...
The original's dial is interesting and fresh, even today. Not sure if the Streamline and Classics will age as well, but they definitely haven't topped the original. It's a not really a fine line between overly conservative and gigantic monstrosity, yet it is rare to find a watch that hits the sweet spot as well as the early Sonata did.
SIHH 2017: Ulysse Nardin Classic Sonata.
Since 2003 and the unveil of the first Sonata till this year, this model saw some strong evolutions. Let's keep in mind some dates: - 2003, unveil of the first Sonata, which was- and still is- a revolutionary alarm watch, as it displays a quite unique com...
Thank you Nico for the review. Sonata Cathedral is still the best in my view
Although I find the new versions also quite attractive and they represent a huge improvement over the the messy 2016 version. They are a bit too sober for UN Sonata though, wonder how they would have looked with a visible oscillator on the dial... By the ...
Thanks for sharing your thoughts on that new Sonata, iadxb.
We were used to see the Sonata as an extravagant watch, maybe we need a bit of time to get used to this cleaner design? As for the straight anchor, I guess it is a design thing. I didn't pay attention to that, it seems to be a new thing from this year. Ea...
Thanks a lot for this, Nico!
The Sonata has been and firmly remains on my wishlist for some years down the line. As for preference, it would be a close call between the first two generations and the current Classic in steel. Would need to see them side by side live to make a more inf...
There is one important difference to be mentioned between the first tow generations and the Classic Sonata: The price.
Indeed, the two first generations were available in gold, white or rose, only. The Classic Sonata is available in rose gold, but ALSO in steel. Which makes a big difference in terms of cost. Best, K. Nicolas
+1. It is great that UN decided to offer non-precious metal options for their exclusive complications.
There was a recent Perpetual Calendar issued in steel as well, if I am not mistaken...
My problem is my 'favorite' is a mix between a few models
I love the mini series, but I doubt I will ever see one. My next choice would be the original with solid back. I don't care for the look of the rotor although I am sure that the sound of the cathedral gong will make my choices even harder. See my dilemma?...
The first Sonata in a landslide.
Not that the others are bad. To the contrary, they are all interesting in their own way. But the first one just has that certain appeal to my eye. The one detail that should be a permanent element of all Sonatas is the shape of the hour / minute hands. I ...
I'm afraid this is a watch that loses more identity with each new generation.
Sad, really. I can't imagine Rolf would have released this watch. I look at the Freak line to compare. Lots of changes over the years, but the watch takes on a new spirit as it goes. I love the Cruiser, I also love the older generations. I could see a tru...
The Streamline was really something. You hate or love it, it doesn't let you indifferent.
With the Classic, everything is in the name... Classic, I guess. The thing I like in the Classic Sonata is the case. Which is an improvement, aesthetically speaking, compared to the Sonata first and second generation. Then, the fact that we have exactly t...
Too safe perhaps? For saleability? ..
Of course, like the first Freak, i also prefer the first Sonata. That "madness" that you mentioned. That\'s the spirit that I prefer as it matches also the spirit of its innovation, which I might describe also as "fearless". Thanks for sharing! Echi
The first is always the original.
This is true to most cases and the Sonata is one of them. I feel that with every new release, it looses its uniqueness. Aris
The first and second generation are my favourites...
The original\'s dial is interesting and fresh, even today. Not sure if the Streamline and Classics will age as well, but they definitely haven\'t topped the original. It\'s a not really a fine line between overly conservative and gigantic monstrosity, yet...
The only thing, from an owner's point of view, on the 1st and 2d generation, is the case. I find it a bit outdated, while the rest of the Sonata is top.
The case of the new Classic is, in my opinion, nicer and much more modern / timeless. Best, Nicolas
Thanks for the history lesson, Nicolas. Has it been over 14 years since I saw...
The watch and plastic cased movement at a dinner? I asked Rolf about the design. He said I could buy other watches if this design was not to my tastes. Now the white dialed one is the closest to be calling out to be bought. Any idea of the weights?
The white dialed steel Classic Sonata unveiled this year?
The Classic Sonata is 5% bigger than the first and second generation ( 44 / 42 mm ). Let's bet on a 20% heavier case in gold. So, I'd say that in white gold, it is a bit above 100 grams. 110 / 120? The steel should be around 95 / 100 grams. Best, Nicolas
Thanks, Nicolas! I presume both will be out in the fall? Need to listen carefully...
Before making any decisions. Both models are not boutique specials or LEs?
Do you have can estimatel you are allowed to reveal? I will have to then go to...
The Manhattan boutique to check them out. Thanks
Easy for me - first generation with all the craziness and bubbly hands. A watch I love very much. Second place for me is the micro run second.
Distant third place would be the ultra sober 2017 steel. I would really like it had I never seen the first and second. But as you said, the craziness is gone, and for me the craziness was essential to the daring success of this one.
Thanks for your input, Robert. I understand your point. The Sonata was a watch apart, aesthetically and mechanically. Now,
It became wiser. Some of us, who criticized its design, may prefer the latest version. Best, Nicolas
