Seventeen years after the completion of the historical astronomical 'Trilogy of Time' Ulysse Nardin has developed another revolutionary astronomical timepiece with the distinct DNA of Dr. Ludwig Oechslin. Dr. Ludwig Oechslin’s concept focused on the system of sun, earth and moon, concentrating on the scientifically accurate depiction of the moon phase, and the global influence of lunar and solar gravitation, resulting in the ebb and flow of the tides.

The Ulysse Nardin Moonstruck ref. 1069-113 in platinum is truly an astronomical watch where by combining the movement of two sapphire crystal rotating discs in one display, the moon phase indication is so precise that more than 100,000 years will have to pass before it shows a full moon rather than a new moon —or vice versa. The Moonstruck simulates the rotation of the moon around the earth, as well as the apparent movement of the sun around the globe. The latter is shown by another disc, rotating once every 24 hours. This permits the determination of the current moon phase in relation to any location in the world. This fascinating watch fitted with a robust platinum case measuring 46 mm in diameter and a blue alligator strap with folding buckle is definitely one of the most interesting complications one can see on someone's wrist. This watch is available in a limited edition of 500 pieces in platinum and 500 pieces in 18K red gold as ref. 1062-113. 

The Moonstruck features a hand-painted earth over a mother-of-pearl dial that indicates the position of sun and moon in relation to earth, the moon phases, hours and minutes and a second time zone. The Moonstruck also shows the global dynamics of tides that depend upon the gravitational effects of Moon and Sun. This revolutionary mechanical wristwatch illustrates the current tidal status and trend in relation to specific coastlines or oceans. The cumulative influences of the Moon and Sun which result in spring tides are also clearly shown. To guarantee uncompromised readability, the watch is fitted with a sapphire crystal with anti-reflective treatment.

While the date is indicated via the fixed blue ceramic bezel with silver engraved numbers, the second time zone is indicated via the outer chapter ring of the dial with the 24 hours marked with gold numbers. The Moonstruck features the Ulysse Nardin patented time zone quick-setting adjustment buttons —marked with a plus and minus sign respectively— where the wearer can advance or back the second time zone indicating ring with the push of a button. A small rose gold plate bearing the watch's case number is located right in between these buttons.

Overall, the highly polished platinum case is very nicely finished but quite prone to swirl marks and scratches. The winding crown is made of matte blue ceramic and capped with a platinum ring on top. The case lugs are thick and solid and they create the perfect balance along with the elegant alligator strap on the watch.

The beating heart inside this exceptional timepiece is the in-house Ulysse Nardin automatic calibre UN-106 which provides a power reserve of approximately 50 hours when fully wound. The beautifully finished calibre bears the traditional Le Locle Ulysse Nardin seal, circular 'Côtes de Genève' finish on the bridges and a 22K white gold oscillating weight with a blue insert that contains an anchor. The calibre is fully visible via the display case back offering a real treat for the eyes. Despite its display case back, this watch is waterproof rated to a depth of a 100 meters.

On the wrist, the watch feels slightly bigger than its actual size, very heavy but quite comfortable as the shape of the watch lugs allow for a perfect fit around the wrist. Now, the only down side to this watch, is that anyone intending to wear it, should have a wrist with a circumference of at least 7.25". While is somewhat complicated to read the time on this watch and understand all the different indications that this watch provides, we still feel that its wrist presence is just exceptional. Next time you are traveling the seven seas in your Wally 118, make sure one of this beautiful watches is strapped to your wrist.

Sticker Price $125,500 USD. For more info on Ulysse Nardin click here.