198 Ulysse Nardin Extremely Fine and Rare, Numbered 03, Automaton Jaquemarts, Minute Repeater, Wristwatch in White Gold, Blue Champlevé Enamel Dial, With Box and Papers, Reference 701-22

Estimate: €40,000 –⁠ 80,000

Model: Jaquemarts Minute Repeater
Reference: 701-22
Case Material: White Gold
Bracelet Material: Leather Strap
Year: 1992
Movement: Manual
Case N°: N°3
Movement N°: N°3
Dimensions: 40 mm
Signed: Dial, Movement and Case
Accessories: Box, Warranty, Service and Tag

Ulysse Nardin, renowned for its striking and innovative designs, has consistently pushed the boundaries of horological craftsmanship with collections like the Marine, Classic, Freak, and the Jaquemart, exemplified by the present timepiece. The Minute Repeater from the San Marco collection is a masterful fusion of beauty and technology, showcasing meticulous craftsmanship and sophistication in every detail. Introduced in the 1980s, Ulysse Nardin’s San Marco pays homage to late 17th-century watchmaking by incorporating minute repeaters with an automaton, featuring dials adorned with jacquemarts, an unprecedented achievement in the world of horology. Ulysse Nardin’s minute repeaters are not just technical marvels: they possess visual and auditory charm, combining automata with chiming to announce hours, quarters, and minutes. The inclusion of Jacquemart automata on the dial adds a playful and captivating dimension to these timepieces, as demonstrated by the present example crafted in 18k white gold. The use of Jacquemart automata has historical roots dating back to the Western Middle Ages when men manually struck bells in clock towers to announce the time. Subsequently, these individuals were replaced by life-size mechanical figures called Jacquemarts, designed to strike bells in large public clocks, amusing the public. In this watch, as the hour is chimed, the automaton on the dial appears to simultaneously strike a bell. The figure is a reproduction of one of the mythical Jaquemarts, designed by Paolo Savin in the 15th century for the Campanile of St. Mark’s Square in Venice. Appropriately, the watch is housed in the so-called “San Marco” watch case. This limited edition timepiece, meticulously crafted in solid white gold, remains beautifully preserved. The engravings on the back are still visible, and the dial is a breathtaking display of royal blue champlevé enamel decoration, adorned with applied baton and Roman indexes, featuring the iconic automata that strikes the bell. An exceptionally attractive and rare addition to any collection, this timepiece is accompanied by its original box, warranty, and tag, further enhancing its desirability.