Luxury Swiss watchmaker Ulysse Nardin has introduced the BLAST [FREE WHEEL MAILLECHORT], a limited edition timepiece that showcases the company’s award-winning flying tourbillon technology alongside innovative materials and construction techniques.

The centerpiece of the new model is Ulysse Nardin’s proprietary Ulysse Anchor Constant Escapement, housed within a 45-component flying tourbillon positioned at 6 o’clock. This escapement system, which earned the Tourbillon Prize at the Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève in 2015, represents a significant departure from traditional anchor escapement principles.

The revolutionary mechanism features a circular frame with a centrally-fixed pallet fork, supported by two blade springs measuring less than a quarter of the thickness of human hair. These perpendicular-mounted springs undergo controlled bending forces that maintain their position while delivering consistent impulses to the balance wheel regardless of the watch’s power reserve level. The incorporation of silicon technology in both the hairspring and escapement eliminates the need for traditional escapement-wheel jewels and anchor pivots.

At the 12 o’clock position, a floating double-barrel system operates without visible surface attachments. While one barrel remains fully exposed, the second functions beneath the surface, with precision ball bearings maintaining alignment. This dual-barrel configuration provides seven days of power reserve, displayed through an innovative indicator at 4 o’clock where a static pointer reads against a rotating disc featuring graduated bands.

The movement incorporates additional flying mechanisms positioned around the barrel assembly, including an intermediate wheel, power reserve differential, and reduction gear on the left side, with the crown-connected winding mechanism on the right enabling selection between winding and time-setting functions.

The watch’s distinctive 45mm white gold case employs negative angle facets created through advanced laser manufacturing techniques. The ergonomic BLAST case design, featuring both satin-finished and polished surfaces, demonstrates the independent manufacturer’s technical capabilities.

A standout feature is the ultra-glass box constructed from a single block of sapphire crystal, meticulously hollowed to create an unparalleled transparent viewing chamber. This dome provides comprehensive visibility of the movement from multiple angles, including through the case sides.

The dial incorporates Maillechort, a traditional alloy combining copper, zinc, and nickel that was developed in early 19th-century France by engineers Maillet and Chorier. This material, historically valued in musical instrument construction for its acoustic properties, presents manufacturing challenges due to its hardness and complex composition. Maillechort develops a unique patina over time, creating individual character in each timepiece while offering durability and distinctive grained texture.

The Ulysse Nardin BLAST [FREE WHEEL MAILLECHORT] will be produced in a limited edition of 50 pieces, targeting collectors seeking innovative horological technology combined with traditional craftsmanship materials.

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Photos courtesy of The Hour Glass