Ulysse Nardin

Here is my platinum UN Gigante Ref. 279-50 from a limited series of 200 pieces. 

I think this is one of the nicest pieces they have ever produced.  It is hefty given the metal, but wears perfect at 40mm.  Funny how this was "gigante" at the time of release.  The anthracite dial adds depth and the overall presentation is so legible.

I just bought a Moser Monard, which I also find clean and simple and I'm anxious to photograph the two together. 

 

While I have collected watches for the better part of 20 years, my interest started with the original UN Marine Chronometer then took off with the Freak.  I will say with only a couple exceptions (the Berlin split pieces and the Monopusher) that I've purchased all from the same AD where I've developed a really nice relationship.  I find engaging with someone who really understands the product they sell to be quite a treat.  I was also able to visit the factory in Le Locle during a family holiday where I felt a real customer connection. 

By coincidence, I moved to Malaysia in 1997, where I had the opportunity to meet Rolf Schynder on a couple occassions prior to his unfortunate passing last year -- he was truly larger than life and also a reason why I love the brand.

I too have a big spot for U.N!

And for the same reasons than you, even if I didn't have the chance to meet Mr Schnyder.

Best,

Nicolas

I wonder why there are so little in today s production,from any brand....I love your UN collection Dave,as a newbie in the UN world Its so exciting to discover previous collections marvels.

 

Thanks Mo,

Here are a few more from my collection that I haven't posted that show the variety of the UN brand.  Pictured are Blue Surf, San Marco Alarm and Maxi Marine Chrono in the blurred background.  In the foreground are my pair of UN Dual Time (42mm) and in the center one of my favorite pieces the UN Perpetual GMT.  More on the last piece down the post...

 

The UN Perpetual is one of the best in the World in my opinion.  The ease of use and ability to set forwards and backwards along with the GMT +/- function is unique.  I like all the UN Perpetual variants and there are many.  Early on the Ludwig Perpetual was very clean in appearance.  The addition of the GMT function really improved the piece in the next versions.  My piece was a limited run in platinum where UN increased the diameter from 38 to 40mm, which is the ideal size to me.  This piece also had a concave vs. convex bezel, which was a slight cosmetic change that I find attractive.

Here are a few more photos of it...I need to take some newer photos noting the dates

Another evidence of U.N Genius.

You have an amazing collection of U.N watches, my friend.

Best,

Nicolas, in heaven.

... but I also loved the 38mm version. Well, I think I would love ANY version, even if it needs a clock tower to support it ...

Regards,
Marcus

Yes,I am getting used to the clever genius of UN,after a few weeks spent in company of my dream Sonata,I fully appreciate the neverending aspects of a UN watch.

The back/forward settings facilities are a treat,and make me wow all the time.

UN is a very attractive brand,and you achieved an incredible collection.Fantastic.

Mo

Particularly enjoy the second shot of the platinum GMT Perp, shows the details of the hands and dial very well.
A wonderful piece from the UN dream team.

On another note, I would say they (UN) would do well to create an updated version of the monopusher chrono, so I echo Amanico & others in wishing for it...one day maybe!

Thanks for taking the time to share your lovely collection DaveG,

Cheers,

Tim

... but this specific Gigante is the nicest of them all!

Regards,
Marcus

The dial color is so alluring.

NT