Introducing Ulysse Nardin Unveils the Blast Free Wheel Marquetry Silicon Green

Ulysse Nardin has consistently positioned itself at the forefront of material innovation, particularly with its pioneering integration of silicon into mechanical watchmaking, first unveiled in its icon, the Freak.

Now, the brand has taken this material into new territory with its latest creation, not in the movement components, but in the dial itself, introducing the Blast Free Wheel Marquetry Silicon Green, a special edition available exclusively at its boutique in The Villa, Menlo Park in Silicon Valley.

The Blast Free Wheel Marquetry Silicon Green embodies a dual identity, merging advanced mechanical engineering with decorative artistry that resonates with today’s technological age. By leveraging a material renowned for its use in microchips and semiconductors, Ulysse Nardin has crafted both a high-performance movement and a visually intricate dial.

This design choice is far from incidental. It poetically bridges the two dominant roles of silicon in the modern world: its conductive function in electronics and its kinetic role in mechanical timekeeping.

Housed in a 45 mm white gold case, the watch highlights Ulysse Nardin’s mastery of contemporary case design. Its angular geometry, defined by sharp negative-angle facets, is achieved through advanced laser techniques. Satin-brushed surfaces contrast with polished edges, emphasizing the multifaceted construction. Protecting the movement is a single-block sapphire “ultra-glass” box, sculpted and hollowed with extreme precision to provide a panoramic view of the dial and mechanics from above and the sides. This complex sapphire structure increases the thickness from the base 8.75 mm to 12.4 mm. Water resistance is rated at 30 meters.

The most striking feature is undoubtedly the dial. Employing the ancient art of marquetry, which involves assembling precisely cut pieces to form a larger pattern, Ulysse Nardin replaces traditional wood or shell with 103 individual slivers of monocrystalline silicon. Each emerald-green segment is laser-cut and meticulously hand-assembled, forming a geometric composition of green and silver-gray lines inspired by printed circuit boards—a direct visual tribute to silicon’s role in the electronic world.

To enhance visual depth, the silicon slivers are alternately finished in matte or polished textures, creating dynamic light effects. This dial is not merely decorative but an integral part of the watch’s mechanical.

Beneath the dial’s architectural display lies the UN-176 calibre, a manual-winding movement developed in-house we have seen in the Blast Free Wheel previous edition. At its core is the brand’s award-winning flying tourbillon with Ulysse Anchor Constant Escapement, composed of 45 individual components. Eschewing conventional pivots and jewels, the escapement employs twin blade springs thinner than a quarter of a human hair, arranged perpendicularly and kept under tension. This ingenious construction delivers a consistent impulse, regardless of power reserve levels. Silicon, a signature Ulysse Nardin material, is used for both the hairspring and escapement, reducing friction and ensuring stable performance across varying conditions. The movement comprises 246 components, beats at 18,000 vph (2.5 Hz), and offers an impressive seven-day power reserve.

The watch is fitted with a grey rubber strap and an 18k white gold deployant buckle. The Ulysse Nardin Blast Free Wheel Marquetry Silicon Green is limited to 10 pieces, available exclusively in the United States at The Villa, Menlo Park. Price is available upon request.

For more information visit Ulysse Nardin official website.