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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Pocket watch · Deck pocket chronometer

Ulysses Nardin Manual Wind Deck Pocket Chronometer

Partially verified

This Ulysse Nardin deck pocket chronometer, dating to approximately 1920, is constructed with a silver case measuring 58 mm in diameter. The timepiece features a white enamel dial with black Roman numerals and blue steel spade hands, indicating a classic chronometric design. It operates on a manual wind, keyless movement, identified as a 21’’’ frosted gilt caliber. The movement is configured with 18 jewels and incorporates a lever escapement, complemented by a cut bimetallic compensated balance fitted with gold poising screws and an index regulator. The watch is signed by Ulysse Nardin on the dial, case, and movement. The exterior silver case exhibits minor signs of wear with slight scratches. This instrument is presented as a deck chronometer intended for high-precision timekeeping.

Front view of the 58 mm silver Ulysse Nardin deck pocket chronometer showing the white enamel dial.
Front view of the 58 mm silver Ulysse Nardin deck pocket chronometer showing the white enamel dial. — Antiquorum. Rights pending — permission not yet requested. Original source

Catalogue identity

Source
catalog.antiquorum.swiss
Category
Pocket watch · Deck pocket chronometer
Maker / attribution
Ulysse Nardin
Reference
Not recorded
Catalogue / lot identifier
163
Source-reported date
circa 1920
Source-reported place
Switzerland
Source-reported serial
601387

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

Dial and Case Description

The watch is housed in a large 58 mm silver case. The design follows standard deck watch proportions, featuring a clean white enamel dial. The dial layout includes bold black Roman numerals for the hours and a subsidiary seconds register positioned at the 6 o'clock mark.

The time is displayed via blue steel spade hands, which contrast against the white enamel finish. The dial bears the signature 'Ulysse Nardin' along with 'Locle' and the movement number 10591 inscribed directly below the brand name. The case shows minor signs of use, described by the auction house as being slightly scratched.

Evidence for this section
  • “A fine and large, silver, manual wind keyless deck pocket Chronometer, enamel dial, blue steel spade hands.”
  • “Diameter 58 mm.”
  • “Case: 2-8 Very good Slightly scratched”

Movement and Escapement

The timepiece is powered by a 21''' manual wind movement featuring a frosted gilt finish. It is a 18-jewel construction built for stable timekeeping. The movement utilizes a traditional lever escapement to control the release of energy.

For fine-tuning and thermal compensation, the movement is equipped with a cut bimetallic compensated balance wheel, which includes gold poising screws. An index regulator is provided to facilitate adjustment of the hairspring. The auction documentation mentions that the movement is in good condition, although it requires an overhaul.

Evidence for this section
  • “Caliber 21’’’, frosted gilt, 18 jewels, lever escapement, cut bimetallic compensated balance with gold poising screws, index regulator.”
  • “Overhaul recommended, at buyer's expense”

Signatures and Attribution

The watch is confirmed as an authentic Ulysse Nardin product, with the maker's signature located on the dial, the interior of the case, and the movement bridges. The movement is marked with serial number 10591, while the case bears serial number 601387.

The source attributes the manufacture to Switzerland and dates the piece to circa 1920.

Evidence for this section
  • “Signature Dial, case and movement”
  • “ULYSSE NARDIN, SWITZERLAND”
  • “Year Circa 1920”

Open research questions

  • Does the serial number 10591 correspond to specific Ulysse Nardin shipping logs from 1920?
  • Was this specific deck watch issued to a maritime agency or navy based on its designation?

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for Ulysses Nardin Manual Wind Deck Pocket Chronometer
FieldSource-reported valueSource quotation
MakerUlysse Nardin“ULYSSE NARDIN”
Case MaterialSilver“SILVER”
Case Diameter58 mm“Diameter 58 mm.”
Movement Caliber21'''“Caliber 21’’’”
Jewel Count18“18 jewels”
Movement Serial10591“Movement No. 10591”
Case Serial601387“Case No. 601387”

Visible details

  • White enamel dial with Roman numeral hour markers and a subsidiary seconds dial at 6 o'clock.
  • Frosted gilt bridge movement with Ulysse Nardin signature engraved on the main bridge.
  • Bimetallic balance wheel visible within the movement.

Research qualifications

  • The auction description reports that an overhaul of the movement is recommended.
  • Functional status and precision are not guaranteed by the auction house.

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

Consulted source

ULYSSE NARDIN, SWITZERLAND, CHRONOMETER, SILVER

Reviewed 2026-10-26 · Record 2136c1ca64

Terms in this record

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