Vintage Ulysse Nardin Sector Dial (Two-Tone Salmon/Cream)
Dress Watch (Time-Only) · Ulysse Nardin - Independent Haute Horlogerie brand with a prestige tier. Known historically for marine chronometers.
Period: Art Deco / Early Mid-Century (1940s). Stylistic indicators include the two-tone salmon/copper sector dial, bold Roman numerals, and a small sub-seconds register typical of early 20th-century watchmaking.
Type
Dress Watch (Time-Only)
Brand
Ulysse Nardin - Independent Haute Horlogerie brand with a prestige tier. Known historically for marine chronometers.
Movement
Manual / Hand-wound. Likely a high-grade in-house or sourced Valjoux/Peseux base modified by Ulysse Nardin; typically 17 jewels, low frequency (18,000 vph).
Dimensions
33mm - 35mm diameter exclude crown; thickness approx 9mm; lug-to-lug approx 41mm; lug width 17mm-18mm. Small by modern standards but classic for the era.
Description
A stunning example of mid-century elegance, this Ulysse Nardin features a highly sought-after sector dial configuration. The contrast between the salmon hour track and the cream center creates a sophisticated visual depth. It represents an era when Ulysse Nardin was a dominant force in chronometry, offering tool-watch accuracy in a refined dress aesthetic.
Key Features
Two-tone salmon/cream sector dial; Roman numeral indices; sub-seconds register; leaf hands; signature anchor logo.
Dial Description
Sector dial design with a 'salmon' or copper-toned outer ring featuring bold printed Roman numerals; cream/ivory center; crosshair-style small seconds at 6 o'clock; blue or black leaf (feuille) hands; classic UN anchor logo at 12.
Case Material
Stainless Steel with a high-polished finish. Elegant, thin lugs and a rounded stepped bezel.
Crystal Type
Acrylic (Plexiglass), domed. No AR coating or date lens.
Bezel Details
Fixed, thin, polished stainless steel bezel with a gentle curve into the case side.
Crown & Pushers
Push-pull crown, small and thin with coin-edge knurling for winding; appears unsigned which was common for this specific era.
Bracelet or Strap
Black leather strap (likely calfskin) with contrast stitching; simple pin buckle.
Caseback Details
Solid, snap-on or screw-down stainless steel case back; typically brushed or polished with no exterior engravings besides a serial number.
Movement Type
Manual / Hand-wound. Likely a high-grade in-house or sourced Valjoux/Peseux base modified by Ulysse Nardin; typically 17 jewels, low frequency (18,000 vph).
Water Resistance
Non-existent. Splash resistant only; should be removed for hand washing or rain.
Origin & Provenance
Swiss Made (Le Locle, Switzerland). In-house finished movement.
Age Estimate
Circa 1940 - 1948. Based on the lug design and dial layout transition from Art Deco to Mid-Century.
Cultural Significance
Represents the height of the 'Golden Age' of mechanical watchmaking before the mid-century design shift toward minimalism. Highly collectible due to the 'Salmon' dial trend in modern horology.
Condition Notes
Case appears in 'Good' to 'Very Good' condition with some softenings of edges suggesting light polishing. Dial shows light, even patina (tropicalization) consistent with age. Crystal is clear.
Value Estimate
$2,500 - $4,500 USD depending on movement condition and dial originality. Exceptional examples with rare lug shapes can exceed this.
Care & Maintenance
Service every 5-7 years; avoid all water contact due to lack of gaskets; store in a dry environment to prevent further dial oxidation; do not overwind.
Similar Watches
Patek Philippe Ref. 96 (smaller, different price tier), Longines Heritage Sector (modern reissue), vintage Omega 30T2 (similar layout).
Interesting Facts
Ulysse Nardin won over 4,000 awards for chronometry in the 20th century, more than any other manufacturer at the time.