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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Marine chronometer · Quartz marine chronometer

Ulysse Nardin Quartz Marine Chronometer

Partially verified

This Ulysse Nardin quartz marine chronometer is housed in a mahogany and brass case measuring 14.9 x 14.9 x 14.9 cm. The chronometer, featuring a center-seconds display, bears the signature on the dial, case, and movement. It is powered by a caliber 363 quartz resonator movement, which functions with an autonomous power supply without a thermostat. The instrument is identified by case and movement serial number 1 806 062. The lot includes a traveling outer wooden box with a leather strap and a First Class Bulletin de marche issued by the Astronomical Observatory of Neuchâtel, dated April 7, 1980. Records indicate the instrument participated in a timing contest at the Neuchâtel observatory in 1980, where it was awarded the First Class Bulletin.

View of the Ulysse Nardin quartz marine chronometer in its mahogany box, alongside its Observatory Bulletin.
View of the Ulysse Nardin quartz marine chronometer in its mahogany box, alongside its Observatory Bulletin. — Antiquorum. Rights pending — permission not yet requested. Original source

Catalogue identity

Source
catalog.antiquorum.swiss
Category
Marine chronometer · Quartz marine chronometer
Maker / attribution
Ulysse Nardin
Reference
Not recorded
Catalogue / lot identifier
55
Source-reported date
circa 1980
Source-reported place
Switzerland
Source-reported serial
1 806 062

Source-reported attribution and specifications are not independent authentication. A listing does not establish present ownership, current display, availability or permission to reproduce.

Object description

Case and External Construction

The marine chronometer is housed in a mahogany case with brass fittings. The external dimensions of the housing are 14.9 x 14.9 x 14.9 cm. A brass plaque is mounted to the front face of the box, showing the serial number 1806062.

The instrument itself is contained within a circular brass housing. The internal components allow the instrument to remain level, consistent with marine chronometer design. The auction description reports that the case is in very good condition, though it notes the presence of slight scratches.

Evidence for this section
  • “Mahogany and brass, quartz, marine chronometer”
  • “14.9 x 14.9 x 14.9 cm”
  • “Slightly scratched”

Movement and Timing Performance

The chronometer is powered by a caliber 363 quartz resonator movement, configured for an autonomous power supply without a thermostat. The dial displays center-seconds, and the movement is signed by the manufacturer.

This specific unit was tested at the timing contest held at the Astronomical Observatory of Neuchâtel in 1980. It successfully obtained a First Class Bulletin de marche, dated April 7, 1980.

Evidence for this section
  • “Caliber 363 cm3, quartz resonator, autonomous power supply without thermostat”
  • “First Class Bulletin de marche from the Astronomical Observatory of Neuchâtel (dated April 7 1980)”
  • “Overhaul recommended”

Documentation and Accessories

The lot includes a traveling outer box constructed of wood and fitted with a leather strap. The external dimensions of this accessory are 19 x 24.8 x 21.2 cm.

In addition to the physical housing and instrument, the sale includes the official First Class Bulletin de marche issued by the Astronomical Observatory of Neuchâtel. This documentation verifies the chronometer's performance history during its testing in 1980.

Evidence for this section
  • “Travelling outer box (wood, with leather strap; 19 x 24.8 x 21.2 cm.)”
  • “First Class Bulletin de marche from the Astronomical Observatory of Neuchâtel”

Open research questions

  • What specific duration was required for the Neuchâtel observatory timing contest to award a First Class Bulletin during this era?
  • Were there specific maintenance protocols established for the Caliber 363 quartz resonator to ensure the 'First Class' timing performance is maintained?

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for Ulysse Nardin Quartz Marine Chronometer
FieldSource-reported valueSource quotation
MakerUlysse Nardin, Le Locle“Ulysse Nardin, Le Locle”
MovementCaliber 363, quartz resonator“Caliber 363 cm3, quartz resonator, autonomous power supply without thermostat”
Case dimensions14.9 x 14.9 x 14.9 cm“14.9 x 14.9 x 14.9 cm”
Serial Number1 806 062“Movement No. 1 806 062”
Datecirca 1980“Circa 1980”
AwardFirst Class Bulletin de marche“awarded a First Class Bulletin”

Visible details

  • Mahogany box with brass corner reinforcements and hinges.
  • Circular brass-cased instrument set within a gimbals-style mount.
  • White dial with black Roman numerals and center-seconds hand.
  • Engraved brass plaque on the front of the box indicating the serial number 1806062.

Research qualifications

  • The auction house reports that a movement overhaul is recommended.
  • The auction house notes the case exhibits slight scratches.

Photograph identity and source facts were screened before import; rights clearance remains pending.

Consulted source

Ulysse Nardin Quartz marine chronometer with Observatory Bulletin, centre-seconds; “Chronometer”; mahogany and brass

Reviewed 2026-10-26 · Record a3961761e0

Terms in this record

Glossary explanations for terms named in this object’s record.

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