Ulysse Nardin Turns Plastic Ocean Waste Into Spectacular Concept Watch

Ulysse Nardin has always had a strong connection with the ocean. This is evident not only from their watches but also from the events that they sponsor. They are, for example, the official timekeeper of the Vendée Globe. This challenging yacht race takes place every four years, in which the participants have to sail a total of 21,638 nautical miles (40,075 kilometers) non-stop and unassisted from start to finish. However, Ulysse Nardin is also doing more, as they have set up a special research unit dedicated to studying sustainable innovation for watchmaking projects.

The first official step was taken last month when Ulysse Nardin introduced their ‘R-Strap,’ made from recycled fishing nets. They are not only one of the primary sources of ocean plastic pollution but also one of the most dangerous. Various aquatic animals can easily get caught in them and perish as a result of this. Now Ulysse Nardin is taking it to the next level with the introduction of the Diver Net. This concept watch has been designed to be as environmentally friendly as possible.

To achieve this, it was vital for Ulysse Nardin to find the right partners. The case, middle, back, and bezel decorations are made from polyamide pellets. In a previous life, these pellets were discarded fishing nets and have the added advantage that they are highly resistant to friction. To protect the dial and the hands, Ulysse Nardin replaced the traditional sapphire crystal with transparent ceramic glass. This takes much less energy to produce, hence limiting its environmental impact. The Swiss company TIDE also innovates as it is able to transform PET plastic waste from the sea into reels of thread, which Ulysse Nardin uses to make the strap. The Diver Net concept watch is powered by Ulysse Nardin’s manufacture caliber UN-118, with its proprietary silicon technology, and proof that there is room to make watchmaking more sustainable. At the same time, this Ulysse Nardin also serves as an inspiration that humanity must, and can, do better in protecting the environment.