Description:
Following the challenges posed by the quartz crisis, Ulysse Nardin underwent a remarkable renaissance in 1983 under the guidance of Rolf Schnyder. Together with watchmaker Ludwig Oechslin and master enameler Michel Vermot, the manufacture sought to combine technical innovation with the revival of traditional decorative arts, including the painstaking art of cloisonné enameling. The San Marco collection became one of the most celebrated results of this philosophy, showcasing intricate miniature scenes executed entirely in enamel and establishing Ulysse Nardin as one of the leading proponents of artistic watchmaking during the 1990s.
The present Ulysse Nardin San Marco, reference 131-77-9, is an exceptionally rare example from this celebrated series, produced in a limited edition of only 18 pieces. The watch features a finely executed cloisonné enamel dial depicting the Al Alam Palace in Muscat, the ceremonial palace of the late Sultan Qaboos of Oman. The palace is rendered in vivid shades of blue, green and gold, with its distinctive colonnades and architectural details framed by a deep blue sky and lush green courtyard. The extraordinary level of detail demonstrates the exceptional skill required to execute each individual cloisonné enamel dial.
The watch is housed in a 37 mm 18K yellow gold case and fitted with a matching Ulysse Nardin yellow gold bracelet. Powered by the automatic calibre 2892A2, the present example combines the refined proportions of a classic dress watch with one of the most elaborate forms of traditional decorative craftsmanship.