56Σ

Ulysse Nardin

Ref. 660-88

Sonata Cathedral Dual Time

An unusual and innovative white gold dual-time wristwatch with center seconds, date display, 24 hours, cathedral gong alarm, countdown indication, and presentation box

Estimate
$8,000 - 16,000
$10,795
Lot Details
Manufacturer
Ulysse Nardin
Year
Circa 2004
Reference No
660-88
Case No
No. 376
Model Name
Sonata Cathedral Dual Time
Material
18K white gold
Calibre
Automatic, cal. UN-67, 109 jewels
Bracelet/Strap
Crocodile
Clasp/Buckle
18K white gold Ulysse Nardin deployant clasp
Dimensions
42mm Diameter
Signed
Case, dial, movement, and clasp signed.
Accessories
Accompanied by Ulysse Nardin product literature, instructions, wooden cube, fitted presentation box, and outer box.

Catalogue Essay

• Upon observing the dial and case construction of this Ulysse Nardin timepiece, one cannot help but appreciate how the seemingly busy dial is harmoniously orchestrated by the remarkable movement design, akin to a work of art. Throughout the history of watchmaking, the alarm function has not received as much attention from watchmakers compared to other complications, as it was deemed less practical. Many watches offering an alarm function only serve as one-off reminders without the need to repeat itself.

• However, Ulysse Nardin has elevated this complication to new heights through their innovative and groundbreaking approach. The intricate calibre UN-67 allows for a user-friendly 24-hour setting, surpassing the limitations of the standard 12-hour setting found in most other watches on the market. This countdown system spanning a full 24 hours makes it incredibly convenient to set, presenting a very practical way of managing this feature. Notably, once the alarm is activated by pressing the button on the left crown, it will sound daily without requiring a reset.

• While most alarm watches emit a buzzing sound upon activation, the Sonata is equipped with a cathedral gong, surpassing the quality of a typical minute repeater commonly found in the market. The cathedral gong encircles the movement twice, producing a rich and crisp sound, showcasing the ingenious craftsmanship of Ulysse Nardin. Encased in 18K white gold with a tuxedo-style dial, this watch also incorporates a dual time function and a large date display, making it an unconventional yet highly practical masterpiece. Offered as a complete set, it’s an outstanding timepiece for the connoisseur.

Ulysse Nardin

Swiss | 1846

Founded in 1846 in Le Locle, Switzerland, Ulysse Nardin is a widely acclaimed Swiss watch manufacturer that earned recognition for its precision chronometers during the early to mid-twentieth century. Ulysse Nardin himself was a trained watchmaker under the guidance of his father, Leonard-Frederic Nardin, as well as master watchmakers Frederic William Dubois and Louis Jean Richard-dit-Bressel. Collectors in particular seek this brand's oversized vintage chronograph wristwatches, including the reference 7536-2.

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