72 JEWELLERY & WATCHES
BLAST TOURBILLON DRAGON
The independent and integrated manufacture Ulysse Nardin embarks on an electrifying journey into the year of the dragon with a blast of creative energy , thrilling craftsmanship and horological prowess .
Since its debut in 2020 , the Blast Tourbillon has established itself as the symbol of Ulysse Nardin ’ s unconventional know-how and design . With its angular , disruptive style , high-tech movement and iconic X structure , it emblemises Ulysse Nardin ’ s visionary spirit . To mark the Lunar New Year , this innovative edgy creation has been entwined with the ancient magic of Chinese folklore , where the majestic Dragon meets the alluring Pearl .
According to the traditional Chinese culture , 2024 heralds the Year of the Dragon . These revered creatures symbolise strength , power and good fortune . They are frequently associated with pearls , which represent purity , wisdom and wealth . When these two symbols come together , as in countless tales , they signify a harmonious blend of power , providence and prosperity .
These traditional representations show a dragon symbolically guarding a magical pearl . So it is with the new Ulysse Nardin Blast Tourbillon Dragon : the dazzling mythical creature , hand-sculpted in 5N rose gold , coils its way around and through the skeletonised X structure , as though slithering out from within the movement itself . Before it , protected between its five-clawed hands , the mythical pearl sits in prime position atop the cage of the flying tourbillon . The choice of five claws is not incidental : associated with Imperial dynasties , five-clawed dragons are traditionally seen as to signify the highest prestige .
RELEASING THE INNER DRAGON
In 2012 , during the last Year of the Dragon , Ulysse Nardin presented the immaculate 88-piece limited edition , the Classico Enamel Champlevé Dragon , featuring a beautiful dragon artwork in enamel , a decorative art mastered by a handful of craftsmen and perpetuated by Ulysse Nardin . Fast forward to 2024 , and this creature has exploded dramatically into life in three-dimensional form .
The creation of a 3D dragon appearing to slide its way beneath the watch ’ s hands and in between the plains of the gear train and the X structure presented significant challenges . Over a two-year development process , this has included designing this unique dial and making bespoke adjustments to the design of the Blast Tourbillon case , bezel , and glass-box crystal to accommodate this unique creation .
The rose gold dragon , engraved and micro-painted entirely by hand , is a testament to elite artistry and skill ,
THE ART OF LUXURY ISSUE 63 2024