Ulysse Nardin once again pushes the boundaries of watchmaking with the launch of the new DIVER [AIR] dive watch, setting a record-breaking weight of just 52 grams—making it the lightest mechanical dive watch in the history of horology. This timepiece seamlessly merges haute horlogerie aesthetics, an ultra-lightweight design, and stringent diving standards, shattering preconceived notions of a traditional sports tool watch. Since dive watches first emerged in the 1950s, the market has been flooded with various waterproof and robust designs. However, Ulysse Nardin firmly believes that limits are not the end but a starting point, redefining high-performance watches with technology and creativity once more.
The DIVER [AIR] is equipped with the UN-374 skeletonized automatic movement, a remarkable evolution of the UN-372 that the brand launched in 2021. This cutting-edge mechanism has been restructured and further optimized for lightweight performance, weighing in at just 7 grams. By redesigning the bridge and barrel structures, material usage has been significantly reduced without compromising stability. An impressive 80% of its internal space is skeletonized, with bridges crafted in a triangular structure that enhances both aesthetics and shock resistance, passing impact tests of up to 5,000g. Even under high-intensity usage, it maintains a 90-hour power reserve and exceptional precision, showcasing its incredible technical prowess.
The brand upholds the core standards of dive watches, including automatic winding, 200-meter water resistance, and practical functionality. The DIVER [AIR] movement features a large silicon balance wheel and a recycled silicon escapement component, embodying a watchmaking philosophy that values both precision and sustainability. Comprising a total of 199 parts, it operates at a frequency of 21,600 vibrations per hour, excelling in both form and function.
It’s not just about the movement—this 44mm timepiece also breaks boundaries with its case design. The mid-layer structure is crafted from 90% recycled titanium, a collaborative achievement with TiFast and Thyssenkrupp. For the first time, the side features Nylo®-Foil nylon fiber, a fusion of discarded ocean fishing nets and recycled carbon fiber. The result is a unique marble-like texture that’s even lighter than traditional carbon fiber. The night-glow unidirectional rotating bezel is made from 100% recycled carbon fiber CarbonFoil, offering not only a futuristic mechanical feel but also practical luminescent functionality to meet the demands of deep diving.
When it comes to details, Ulysse Nardin maintains a strong focus on user experience. The DIVER [AIR] comes with two elastic fabric straps—one in orange and the other in white—crafted from lightweight materials. Both straps feature a quick-release design that requires no tools, ensuring a comfortable fit and effortless swapping. The entire timepiece, including the strap, weighs only 52 grams, and just 46 grams without the strap. It’s a featherlight companion for daily wear, striking a perfect balance between mechanical artistry and practical performance.
This remarkable achievement is not solely a product of one department’s creativity—it stems from nearly two decades of the brand’s dedication to high-tech material research. From pioneering the dial-less, crown-less watch design with the Freak series in 2001 to introducing silicon-based escapement systems, Ulysse Nardin has consistently challenged traditional boundaries. By utilizing eco-friendly recycled materials and cutting-edge craftsmanship, the brand crafts a forward-thinking vision for sustainable haute horology. The DIVER [AIR] is a shining embodiment of this spirit—setting a new standard for lightweight design in the market while redefining the very notion of the classic dive watch.
