At the forefront of innovation in fine watchmaking.Ulysse Nardin Blast Silicon GreenWith its groundbreaking use of materials and mechanical structure, it redefines the artistic boundaries of modern watchmaking. This masterpiece, limited to 10 pieces worldwide, is a perfect fusion of traditional craftsmanship and cutting-edge technology, so let's explore this visual feast of mechanical art together.
A revolutionary breakthrough in dial art
The most stunning feature of the Ulysse Nardin Blast Silicon Green is its revolutionary dial-making process. Inspired by modern printed circuit boards, the dial combines traditional marquetry techniques with high-tech materials. 103 emerald-green monocrystalline silicon wafers are meticulously hand-set by craftsmen, with each one cut and placed in a precisely calculated manner to give an intriguing gradation in the light. This unique green hue is not a common paint, but the natural color of the silicon material itself, which changes with the angle of the light to reveal rich layers ranging from deep dark green to bright emerald green. The textured arrangement of the dial maintains the rational aesthetics of the mechanism while giving the piece a vivid artistic flavor. The gaps between each silicon piece are controlled to the micron level, showcasing the natural beauty of the material while ensuring overall structural stability. This innovative attempt to perfectly integrate the ancient inlay craft with modern technological materials demonstrates Ulysse Nardin's forward-looking thinking in the art of watchmaking.
The technical pinnacle of the silicon escapement
The core technological breakthrough of this watch is the use of a silicon escapement, the anchor-type constant force escapement of the hand-wound UN-176 caliber, which represents the highest achievement of modern watchmaking technology. The use of silicon not only significantly reduces the weight of the escapement, but also solves the problems of lubrication and wear that have long characterized metal escapements. Silicon's natural antimagnetism ensures that the movement remains accurate in the presence of strong magnetic fields, and its thermal stability is far superior to that of conventional metals. The escapement wheels and forks are manufactured with nanometer precision, and the tips of each tooth are laser-machined to ensure maximum efficiency in energy transmission. Timekeeping precision is further enhanced by the inclusion of a constant power unit, which ensures that the balance wheel is always supplied with a constant energy supply through a special mechanical structure. This radical revolution in the basic escapement has enabled this watch to reach unprecedented levels of precision and reliability.
The visual impact of a suspended tourbillon
The design of the Blast Silicon Green Edition's suspended tourbillon is the visual pinnacle of mechanical art. The tourbillon cage seems to be suspended above the dial without any traditional bridges, revealing the precise mechanical structure to the wearer's eyes. This design requires not only a high degree of precision, but also the strength and stability of the materials used. The tourbillon cage is made of silicon, which ensures sufficient structural strength while keeping the weight to a minimum. The tourbillon, which rotates every minute, not only counteracts the effects of gravity on timekeeping accuracy, but also becomes the most dynamic art on the dial. The balance spring inside the cage is also made of silicon and oscillates at 18,000 vibrations per hour, a relatively low frequency that ensures stability and provides optimal visualization of the tourbillon in action. The sapphire glass has been specially treated to minimize reflections, allowing the wearer to admire this mechanical ballet from all angles.
Luxurious interpretation of material craftsmanship
This limited edition timepiece displays the ultimate taste for luxury in its use of materials. The case is crafted in 18K white gold with alternating brushed and polished surfaces, each corner of which shines with a warm and enduring radiance. the contrasting proportions of the dominant 45 mm diameter and the controlled 12.4 mm thickness of the timepiece give it a distinctive visual tension. Each curved surface of the case is carefully calculated to be both ergonomic and architecturally pleasing. The box-shaped sapphire crystal not only provides excellent transparency, but also enhances the overall sense of three-dimensionality through its special curved design. The crown is equally well-designed, with a non-slip textured edge that ensures ease of operation and echoes the overall geometric design language. The rarity of the 10-piece limited edition further enhances the collector's value of the piece, as each watch is individually numbered and comes with an exclusive certificate.
The perfect blend of useful features
Despite its positioning as a high-end complication, the Blast Silicon Green Edition is equally impressive in terms of its practical features: the 72-hour power reserve is clearly indicated by an indicator at 4 o'clock, allowing the wearer to keep track of the caliber's energy level at all times. The hour and minute hands are specially skeletonized to maintain visual lightness and ensure clear readability. The Super-LumiNova luminescent material on the hands and hour-markers emits a long-lasting, even green glow in the dark, echoing the emerald green hue of the dial. 30 meters of water resistance is not exceptional, but it is perfectly adequate for everyday wear. The manual winding mechanism offers the wearer the unique experience of interacting with the watch, feeling the delicate feedback of the precision mechanics with every winding. These practical functions have been carefully designed to ensure that this masterpiece of art is equally wearable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are silicon dials fragile?
A: monocrystalline silicon hardness and good toughness, normal wear is not easy to damage, but should avoid violent collision.
Q: What do I need to know about manual winding?
A: It is recommended that you wind up at a fixed time every day and stop when you feel significant resistance to avoid over winding.
Q: Does a suspended tourbillon require special care?
A: Professional maintenance by a specially trained technician is recommended every 3-4 years.
Q: How do I secure a purchase with a limited edition of 10?
A needs to be booked through an official Ulysse Nardin boutique or an authorized dealer, usually a long time in advance.
