Ulysse Nardin Moonstruck Basel Preview

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Marcus Hanke introduces the Ulysse Nardin Moonstruck, a significant astronomical timepiece continuing the brand's legacy with Dr. Ludwig Oechslin. This preview, originally from Baselworld 2009, highlights the watch's innovative approach to moon phase and tidal indications, making complex astronomical phenomena accessible on the wrist. Hanke's initial presentation underscores the excitement surrounding this new development from the 'dream team' of Rolf Schnyder and Ludwig Oechslin.

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It is a great pleasure for me to present a first preview of a most magnificent and innovative timepiece, the "Moonstruck". Finally, Ulysse Nardin continues its famous tradition of developing and making astronomical wristwatches with that specific genius that is unique to the dream team of Rolf Schnyder and Ludwig Oechslin.

Here comes

Moonstruck.

Seventeen years after the completion of the historical astronomical "Trilogy of Time" Ulysse Nardin has developed another revolutionary astronomical timepiece with the distinct DNA of Dr. Ludwig Oechslin.

Dr. Ludwig Oechslin’s concept focused on the system of Sun, Earth and Moon, concentrating on the scientifically accurate depiction of the moon phase, and the global influence of lunar and solar gravitation, resulting in the ebb and flow of the tides.

By combining the movement of two rotating discs in one display, the moon phase indication is so precise that more than 100,000 years will have to pass before it shows a full moon rather than a new moon (or vice versa). The Moonstruck simulates the rotation of the Moon around the Earth, as well as the apparent movement of the Sun around the globe. The latter is shown by another disc, rotating once every 24 hours. This permits the determination of the current moon phase in relation to any location in the world.

The Moonstruck also shows the global dynamics of tides that depend upon the gravitational effects of Moon and Sun. This revolutionary mechanical wristwatch illustrates the current tidal status and trend in relation to specific coastlines or oceans. The cumulative influences of the Moon and Sun which result in spring tides are also clearly shown.

The Moonstruck is a practical travel companion. It features a pointer calendar and a quick-setting device to adjust the hour hand forward and backward to any desired time zone by pressing the pushers plus and minus located at 2 and 4 o’clock.

The Moonstruck is a Ulysse Nardin in-house development. The manufacture caliber UN 106 features a silicium escapement and a hairspring made with the latest silicium technique.

The Moonstruck is available in a limited edition of 500 pieces in 18 ct red gold and 500 pieces in platinum.

This message has been edited by Marcus Hanke on 2009-03-16 13:11:20 This message has been edited by Marcus Hanke on 2009-03-16 13:11:36 This message has been edited by Marcus Hanke on 2009-04-10 13:43:18

Key Points from the Discussion

The Moonstruck is praised for making complex astronomical concepts, like lunar phases and tides, more understandable compared to previous 'Trilogy' models.
The Moonstruck is considered the first aesthetic descendant of the Ulysse Nardin Freak, featuring a beautiful, three-dimensional, multi-layered design that serves as both art and a serious tool for mariners.
The Moonstruck is seen as a marvel from the 'dream team' of Schnyder and Oechslin, offering a characteristic and innovative take on moon phase complications, unlike simpler, common designs.
The watch embodies Ulysse Nardin's core values: talent, innovation, originality, and a touch of madness, generating significant excitement among collectors.
Initial prototypes of the Moonstruck were expected for the Basel fair, with deliveries anticipated in the second half of the year, and pricing information not yet available at the time of the preview.

The Discussion

amanico

Mar 16, 2009

YO, Marcus!

Now that's what I expected from U.N... Talentuous, innovative, original, a bit mad...All what I love! My God! I'm excited and can't wait to see the full pics of this watch. May you email me the prices in platinum and RG, please, Marcus? Best, Nicolas

Marcus Hanke

Mar 16, 2009

Slow down, young Padawan! ....

... only the first prototypes will be ready for the Basel fair, so I expect the delivery not before the second half of the year. So I have no idea about the prices yet. But if you want, you can set your name on the list ... Regards, Marcus

amanico

Mar 16, 2009

I can wait to get it, Marcus

But can't wait to see it, to see whole pics of what I feel to be a pure Beauty... Then, I will have time to save money to get it. Best, Padawan.

bernard cheong

Mar 22, 2009

I have seen the Moonstruck, and it is the first aesthetic descendant of the FREAK

It is so beautiful, htree dimensional, multi layered, and YET..it is not noveau riche bullshit, but a serious piece of art, irregardless of whether I personaly understand or need to know about tides...it is knowing that it is seriously a tool for the mariner, and a a frmaed sculpture, small enough for the wrist or a box of fine wood. I will buy it.

Ronald Held

Mar 26, 2009

What are its dimensions, and other technical details, Bernard? (nt)

Marcus Hanke

Mar 27, 2009

Here are the technical specifications

I had been asked to withhold them until the public opening of the fair: Technical data. Ref. 1062-113 18 ct Red gold Ref. 1069-113 Platinum Movement Caliber UN-106 (in-house developed and conceived) Power-Reserve Approx. 50 h Functions Astronomical watch with perpetual movement. Indication of position of Sun and Moon in relation to Earth. Moon phases. Hours and minutes. Instant time zone adjuster with patented quick setting device. Winding Mechanical self-winding with a bi-directional rotor Dial