Ulysse Nardin

Ulysse Nardin has a rich and long tradition as makers of sonnerie, repeating and automaton watches. The present lot ‘Hannibal’, named after the great Carthaginian general and statesman, is yet another astonishing example and impresses with its striking design and craftsmanship. 

Under the leadership of Rolf Schnyder Ulysse Nardin proudly presented the 'Genghis Khan' in 2002 as the world's first wristwatch featuring a Westminster chime with minute repeater, automatons and tourbillon. Subsequently Ulysse Nardin released a model with Alexander the Great and in 2015 they revealed the present iteration depicting the crossing of the Alps by Hannibal. A true piece of art, the dial is made of granite sourced from the Alps, a fitting reference to his famous crossing of the mountain range with his soldiers and elephants on his quest to take Rome during the Second Punic War. The dial further features four hand-engraved warrior figures meticulously chased from white gold, including a war elephant. Each time the Westminster chimes are engaged, the Jaquemarts warriors strike their swords and the elephant its trunk in perfect synch to the chime.  

The one-minute tourbillon is visible below the figures and has the same design as the tourbillons created by the famous watchmaker James Pellaton for Ulysse Nardin at the beginning of the twentieth century. As a limited edition of 30 pieces this masterpiece will make an exceptional addition to any collection and is offered as a complete set with presentation case, certificate and matching cufflinks.