Baselworld 2012:  Baselworld starts tomorrow but I’ve got a number of previews I’ll get up for you today.  Here’s one from Ulysse Nardin, the Blue Sea.  If you are new to the name, Ulysse Nardin is a high end Swiss manufacture known for its marine/dive watches, among other things.   The Blue Sea watch is immediately distinguished by its color tone — the case has been specially treated with a sophisticated vulcanization process giving it a blue rubber coating with a remarkable appearance (though I’ve always wonder how the coating fares over time).  As well, the non-moving metal parts of the movement have been treated with a stainless blue titanium based alloy.   The hour markers and hour and minute hands are covered with blue luminescent material for improved readability.  There is a power-reserve indicator at 12 o’clock (could have done without this, IMHO) and a small seconds and large date at 6 o’clock.    Fitted with a unidirectional rotating bezel and screwed crown, its individually-numbered case is water-resistant to 200 metres.  The wave pattern seen on the dial and strap are commonly seen on the brand’s dive watches.

Ulysee Nardin Blue Sea Dive Watch

limited edition 999 pieces

45.8mm rubber-coated steel case coated, automatic mechanical movement, rubber strap with ceramic clasp and inserts