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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Pocket watch · Keyless pocket watch

Ulysses Nardin Manual Wind Pocket Watch

Partially verified

This 18k yellow gold manual wind pocket watch is attributed to Ulysse Nardin, Switzerland, circa 1880. The timepiece features a white enamel dial with black Roman numerals, a subsidiary seconds dial, and steel spade hands. The movement is a 21-jewel caliber with a lever escapement. The case measures 49 mm in diameter. The object is signed on the dial, case, and movement. The auction house has assigned this lot a grade of A, noting the dial is in very good condition, while the case is in good condition with slight signs of wear.

Front view showing the enamel dial with Roman numerals and subsidiary seconds display.
Front view showing the enamel dial with Roman numerals and subsidiary seconds display. — Antiquorum. Rights pending — permission not yet requested. Original source

Catalogue identity

Source
catalog.antiquorum.swiss
Category
Pocket watch · Keyless pocket watch
Maker / attribution
Ulysse Nardin
Reference
Not recorded
Catalogue / lot identifier
168
Source-reported date
circa 1880
Source-reported place
Switzerland
Source-reported serial
5062

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 Hands

The watch is equipped with an enamel dial, which the auction description categorizes as being in very good condition. It features black Roman numerals for the hour markers and a railroad-style minute track. A subsidiary dial for seconds is located at the six o'clock position, also marked with a seconds track.

The timepiece retains its original steel spade-style hands, which provide contrast against the white enamel background. The signature of the maker appears clearly on the upper portion of the dial, reading 'Ulysse Nardin' with 'Locle' below it.

Evidence for this section
  • “enamel dial, steel spade hands.”
  • “Dial: 2-01 Very good”
  • “Signature Dial, case and movement”

Movement and Mechanism

The watch operates on a manual wind movement, identified by the caliber measuring 18''' (lignes). It utilizes a lever escapement and is constructed with 21 jewels. The movement is numbered 16225.

According to the provided condition report, the movement is in good condition, though it displays slight oxidation and minor scratches.

Evidence for this section
  • “manual wind keyless pocket watch”
  • “Caliber 18''', 21 Jewels, lever escapement”
  • “Movement: 3-6-8* Good Slightly oxidized Slightly scratched Overhaul recommended, at buyer's expense”

Case and Attribution

The case is manufactured from 18k yellow gold and measures 49 mm in diameter. It is classified as being in good condition with slight wear. The piece bears the serial number 5062. The design incorporates a standard keyless winding system with an integrated crown and bow.

The watch is attributed to Ulysse Nardin of Switzerland, with the date of manufacture estimated to be circa 1880. Signatures confirming the maker's identification are present on the dial, the interior of the case, and the movement plate.

Evidence for this section
  • “18k yellow gold, manual wind keyless pocket watch”
  • “Case: 3-11 Good Slightly worn”
  • “Case No. 5062”

Open research questions

  • Does the movement serial number correlate with Ulysse Nardin production records from circa 1880?
  • Are the internal case hallmarks consistent with Swiss gold standards from the late 19th century?

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for Ulysses Nardin Manual Wind Pocket Watch
FieldSource-reported valueSource quotation
MakerUlysse Nardin“Ulysse Nardin”
Material18k yellow gold“18k yellow gold”
Movement Number16225“Movement No. 16225”
Case Number5062“Case No. 5062”
Jewels21“21 Jewels”
EscapementLever“lever escapement”
Datecirca 1880“Circa 1880”

Visible details

  • White enamel dial with Roman numerals
  • Subsidiary seconds dial at the six o'clock position
  • Keyless winding crown with suspension loop
  • Steel spade-style hands

Research qualifications

  • Movement condition is noted with slight oxidation and scratches
  • The auction description states that movements may be incomplete

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

Consulted source

ULYSSE NARDIN, SWITZERLAND, 18K YELLOW GOLD

Reviewed 2026-10-26 · Record 68f76dc35f

Terms in this record

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

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