Ulysse Nardin - "Tropical dial" - No reserve price - 681988 - Men - 1950-1959

Offered in this auction by Second Vintage This is a remarkable opportunity to acquire a rare and distinctively styled Ulysse Nardin automatic from the golden era of Swiss watchmaking. Featuring a spectacular "tropical" patinated dial that renders it a true piece unique, this timepiece combines the charm of honest vintage aging with high-precision mechanics. The movement has been serviced and is performing exceptionally, making this not just a collector's item but a wearable piece of history. Brand: Ulysse Nardin Model: Automatic Serial Number: 681988 Movement: Ulysse Nardin Signed Automatic Caliber Dial: Tropical Patina Champagne Case Size: 35 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Gold Plated and Stainless Steel Production Year: c. 1950s Condition: Good vintage condition Dial and Hands The most striking feature of this watch is the original dial, which has developed a stunning, heavy stippled patina over the decades. This even "stardust" aging creates a unique tropical aesthetic that is highly prized by collectors for its one-of-a-kind character. The dial is adorned with applied gold arrowhead hour markers and double markers at the twelve o'clock position. The original gold dauphine hands are present and provide excellent contrast against the warm, textured background. Case and Crystal The case measures a classic 35mm and features elegant, swept lugs that offer a sophisticated profile on the wrist. The upper case is gold-plated, showing evident vintage wear and brassing on the high points of the lugs and bezel, which is consistent with the watch's age and adds to its honest character. The snap-back caseback is crafted from stainless steel. The winding crown is original and bears the Ulysse Nardin logo. The acrylic crystal is in clear condition, allowing for an unobstructed view of the incredible dial texture. Movement The watch is powered by a high-grade Ulysse Nardin signed automatic caliber, showcasing the manufacturer's renowned finishing with clean plates and bridges. The movement has been serviced and is functioning well. Timegrapher results show the watch running between +3 and +4 seconds per day with strong amplitude, which indicates a very healthy movement offering reliable vintage performance. Strap The watch is presented on a new black leather strap with a crocodile grain pattern, which adds a dressy touch to the piece. It is secured by a gold-tone pin buckle that matches the case tone. Condition This timepiece is in good vintage condition. While the case exhibits visible wear to the gold plating typical of a watch from this era, the structural integrity remains excellent. The dial's heavy patina is a defining characteristic rather than a flaw, offering a desirable aesthetic for vintage enthusiasts. The mechanical condition is outstanding following the recent service. Dimensions The case diameter is 35 mm excluding the crown. Remarks This Ulysse Nardin is a rare find for the collector who appreciates the "wabi-sabi" of vintage horology. The stunning patina on the dial makes it impossible to replicate, ensuring that the new owner will possess a watch unlike any other. Combined with a freshly serviced, high-quality in-house movement, it represents a perfect intersection of artistic aging and mechanical precision. History Founded in Le Locle, Switzerland in 1846, Ulysse Nardin established itself as one of the premier manufacturers of high-precision timekeeping instruments. The brand became world-famous for its marine chronometers, supplying over fifty of the world's navies during the 19th and 20th centuries. This automatic model dates back to the 1950s, a period when Ulysse Nardin was translating their maritime precision into elegant wristwatches for the civilian market. / Second Vintage SKU: ULYJS8E5B0000