Ulysse Nardin Sonata Alarm Watch 14-Year Review

amanico · 2018-07-23T01:29:49Z

Amanico celebrates 14 years with his Ulysse Nardin Sonata, a unique alarm watch with a personal story of luck and reliability. Discover its iconic status.

amanico

WPS member · Ulysse Nardin forum

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Amanico celebrates the 14th birthday of his Ulysse Nardin Sonata, sharing a deeply personal connection with this unique alarm watch. His reflection highlights not only the Sonata's distinctive complications but also its role as a 'fetish watch' that has brought him luck and never disappointed him through life's challenges.

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I already wrote that... You remember the first moments of ownership of some watches in a very accurate way.

This is the case for my Breguet Type XX Platinum, Salmon dial, for my Patek 5110P, for my Jaeger Lecoultre Master Minute Repeater, Reverso Septantième and Duometre à Chronographe, for the Polaris 1965, and, among others, my Ulysse Nardin Sonata.

In 14 years, I had the time to live many, good or bad, moments with that Sonata. But there is one thing which I should highlight, here, the fact that it is a kind of fetish watch for me.

Each time I have a challenge, or a tough moment, this is the watch which never disappointed me. Never!

In addition to the fact that there is no other watch such as it.

I was very lucky to have one of the very first landing in France and to have a friendly Ulysse Nardin AD who immediately gave me a call to inform me that something I was waiting for a long time just arrived.

When it was there, in front of me, I had the immediate confirmation that I wanted it. 5 minutes after, it was on my wrist.

And 8 days after, I just realized that this watch brought me luck, as I had a very difficult case to plead... And won.

With time passing, I have to say that I like the concept more and more...

The Sonata is the Queen of Alarm watches, with a sound which is sign of a minute repeater, with the possibility of setting it to 24 hours when all the Alarms can be set to 12 hours only, with a big date you can move forward and backward, and, last but not least, with a GMT function, which is a very good combination of complications. And it seems that Rolf Schnyder himself considered this watch as his travel watch par excellence, if you look at this picture.

The dial too pleases me a lot wit this blend of smooth parts and Geneva stripes, and these big heated blue leaf shaped hands.

The only thing which could be ( and has been ) improved is the case, and especially these lugs. The Classic Sonata released last year is better on this matter, even if I find it wiser, especially the dial.

From right to left: Classic Sonata titanium steel case, blue dial, unveiled in 2016 then Classic Sonata in steel and in rose gold, introduced in the catalog in 2017. Both have the same 44 mm case.

And the Sonata Streamline is more dynamic, younger, but it lost a bit of its romantic.

Here is the titanium rose gold version:

I wouldn't change mine for these two younger models, that's for sure.

It was Love at firs sight, and a love which became stronger and stronger all along these 14 years.

Long life to the Sonata, to MY Sonata.

Best,

Nicolas

About the Jaeger-LeCoultre Memovox Ref. Polaris1965

The Memovox Polaris 1965 is a notable early iteration of Jaeger-LeCoultre's alarm-equipped diver's watch. This reference is distinguished by its triple-crown configuration and internal rotating bezel, a design that set it apart from other alarm watches of its era. It represents a significant development in the Memovox line, moving towards a more robust and purpose-built aesthetic while retaining the signature mechanical alarm function. The Polaris 1965 is recognized for its specific case construction and dial layout that differentiate it from subsequent Polaris models.

This particular reference features a stainless steel case, typically measuring 42mm in diameter, which was substantial for its time. It houses a self-winding mechanical movement, specifically the Jaeger-LeCoultre Caliber 825, known for its reliability and integrated alarm mechanism. The watch is fitted with a domed acrylic crystal, contributing to its vintage profile. The design prioritizes legibility and functionality, with a black dial providing contrast for the luminous markers and hands.

For collectors, the Memovox Polaris 1965 holds interest as an original example of the Polaris series. Its relatively limited production and distinctive design elements make it a sought-after piece. It appeals to those who appreciate the historical evolution of the Memovox line and the brand's early ventures into watches with enhanced water resistance and specialized functions. The Polaris 1965 is a foundational model within the broader Memovox family.

Specifications

Caliber: JLC 825

Case: Stainless Steel

Diameter: 42mm

Dial: Black

Water Resist.: 200m

Crystal: Acrylic

Key Points from the Discussion

The Ulysse Nardin Sonata is praised for its eclectic, sophisticated, and functional design, making it a favorite among collectors.
The Sonata is considered an iconic Ulysse Nardin watch, standing alongside other top complications like the Perpetual Calendar and the Freak.
The watch's distinctive dial and skeleton leaf hands are particularly admired, with one user comparing its aesthetic to a Miro painting.
The personal connection and stories associated with a watch, such as the Sonata bringing luck, significantly enhance its true value for the owner.
The Sonata's unique alarm function, with its minute repeater-like sound and 24-hour setting capability, sets it apart from other alarm watches.

The Discussion

tombub

Jul 23, 2018

A superb and charming watch. [nt]

hs111

Jul 23, 2018

Ahh.. One of my favs in your stable.. Eclectic, & sophisticated yet still functional.. :))

Pls bring it along again when we meet next time, to have a chance to play with it & also try it on the wrist ! Best to you & yours & a good week ! hs,

amanico

Jul 23, 2018

I will, with great pleasure. [nt]

massi.

Jul 23, 2018

Remembering the moment of purchase add weight to the affective value: happy birthday Sonata! [nt]

amanico

Jul 23, 2018

Definitely, my friend.I will celebrate another anniversary next week, on our JLC forum... ;) [nt]

massi.

Jul 23, 2018

I'll stay tuned! :-) [nt]