Ulysse Nardin Black Ocean Diver Review

amanico · 2009-11-29T06:34:30Z

Explore the Ulysse Nardin Black Ocean Diver with amanico s hands-on review. See photos, discuss the controversial unblackened case back, and community insights.

amanico

WPS member · Ulysse Nardin forum

22 replies4962 views0 photos

Nicolas (amanico) shares his initial impressions of the Ulysse Nardin Black Ocean, a watch he eagerly anticipated seeing in person. His post delves into the watch's aesthetic appeal, particularly its blackened finish, while also highlighting a specific design choice that sparked debate among collectors: the unblackened case back. This article captures the community's diverse reactions to this distinctive Ulysse Nardin diver.

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That is a watch I really wanted to see in the flesh, since Michael C and Marcus posted some pictures about it.

I had the opportunity to see it at the Salon Des Belles Montres, in Paris, this Week End.

I love a lot the overall look of this watch, even if I'm not a big fan, usually, of the blackened watches which I find a bit too trendy...

This is a very strong looking watch, with a very nice finish, and an appealing dial.

I had ( and still have ) more mixed feelings when I saw the case back.

The blackened rotor is a very nice idea, the movement is looking nice, too, but what I don't get is why U.N didn't blackened the case back, which is a bit too bright, considering the whole watch.

When I compare it to the Blue Wave, I find this last one more homogeneous, more harmonious.

I also saw the Monaco version of this model, which adds some touch of gold here and there, but which also keeps this black look, and this non blackened case back ( LE of 100 pieces, while the " normal Black Ocean is limited to 1846n pieces ) :

These touches of Gold are not too much, and don't transform this watch into a " bling " watch.

It just adds some warmth to this interesting Marine Chronometer.

But this non blackened case back...

What do you think?

Best,

Nicolas

Key Points from the Discussion

The Black Ocean offers excellent legibility and superb finishing, distinguishing it from other all-black watches, though the polished caseback and 'LIMITED EDITION' text on the link are minor regrets.
The unblackened case back creates mixed feelings, with some finding it odd and suggesting a fully blacked-out design would be more cohesive, similar to issues seen in other brands like Seiko.
The unblackened caseback might be due to the traditional use of polished titanium in Marine series watches, and DLC coating on titanium could present technical difficulties, though this was later refuted.
Despite the case back, the watch's overall presence and heft on the wrist are impressive, making the polished metal less of a deal-breaker for some, even if it's a significant 'con' for others.
There are no technical problems or difficulties in DLC coating a titanium case, suggesting Ulysse Nardin's decision to leave the case back unblackened was a deliberate design choice.
The absence of a blackened case back is likened to a fashion faux pas, with no clear technical reason for the decision other than potentially avoiding liability for scratches during servicing.

The Discussion

bimbeano

Nov 29, 2009

Non black

ened case back gives me mixed feelings too .... i think i saw this also on a SEIKO and it killed the watch ! IMO and as i can see on the pics they should have done a black caseback ! Like you Nicolas, neither do i get it, it seems very odd for sure. Maybe if i see it in the flesh (a shame i can't come over this week) i could look at it in another way. Anyway, on all the other aspects this looks like a superb watch ... as most UN do ... Cheers from Bim

amanico

Nov 29, 2009

It seems we're on the same...wave, my friend. :)

Nov 29, 2009

not a fan

of coatings and rubber on the watchcase because it takes away the everlasting impression and appeal of a watch. The normal maxi marine in steel is nicer, though not the fancy coloured ones.

amanico

Nov 29, 2009

It would have been totally blackened, I's disagree, Cookie.

But in this case... Best, Nicolas

MiniCooper

Nov 29, 2009

At first....

when I saw the initial post, I was impressed..... I saw in metal about a month ago and had also mixed feelings... Although I do like black watches, this is not my favourite..... The case back should have been black and I do not like the "limited edition" part on the strap (although the UN representative told me that it can be changed) Personally I prefer the regular edition.... Cheers

amanico

Nov 29, 2009

Then the blue wave is for you, my friend.

Don't thank me...I know what it is to have an endless wish list. Best, Nicolas