Ulysse Nardin launches innovative The Ocean Race DIVER

Ulysse Nardin, The Ocean Race’s Official Timekeeping Partner, announces The Ocean Race DIVER watch, complete with upcycled fishing nets…

Ulysse Nardin is accelerating the use of innovative alternative materials, announcing the launch of the first DIVER model composed primarily of recycled fishing nets.

Since 1846, the Swiss watchmaker has been making marine timepieces for explorers with unmatched reliability. Sailors today often face plastic pollution, and fishing nets are a significant source: up to 640,000 metric tons are lost or abandoned every year (according to the United Nations), adding to the 9 million tons of plastic that are released into the sea each year (science).

“How can we turn some of these plastics into luxury goods? With the help of start-ups such as FIL&FAB, we have successfully manufactured and sold watches made from recycled fishing nets,” said Ulysse Nardin CEO Patrick Pruniaux.

“The way we make people aware of this is upcycling. Finding suppliers is a key factor in this process.”

In this case, Ulysse Nardin found a supplier who was able to upgrade the discarded fishing net material into the base material for the components of The Ocean Race DIVER.

“At The Ocean Race, we’ve been traveling the world since 1973, and as sailors, we’ve seen how the oceans have changed over the past 50 years,” said Richard Brisius, The Ocean Race’s race director. “We have learned the need to respect the ocean and give it a voice to protect it and restore its health. We are proud to have a partner like Ulysse Nardin who shares our values ​​and sees innovations that support these efforts It’s happening. This innovative watch reminds us that it’s time to act.”

In September 2020, Ulysse Nardin launched the R-STRAP wristband, marking the first milestone in its commitment to the ocean and the circular economy (a model of production and consumption that involves using materials and products for as long as possible) it fully Made from recycled fishing nets for use on MARINE, DIVER and FREAK X watches.

In November 2020, the brand launched DIVER NET, an experimental concept watch in which every element has been carefully designed to ensure durability and minimize environmental impact. A completely innovative and upgraded watch. Two significant positive developments for the brand and the watchmaking industry.

Ocean Race DIVER embodies innovation and tradition, the mechanical movement of the watch is based on tradition and historical knowledge, but 95% of the components come from within a 30km radius of the manufacturer, half of which are from recycled sources (especially recycled steel and yellow Copper: Ulysse Nardin fake uses 100% recycled brass for its timepiece movement).

Devon Tread 2 Shiny

I am still amazed by what Devon fake has achieved since its founding in 2010. Incredibly, the company is only three years old and has managed to influence a market largely dominated by Swiss watch brands. A few months ago, I had the pleasure of trying on and reviewing the excellent Tread 1-F. This model was one of the later special editions. I really enjoyed wearing this watch and was attracted by its unique and sturdy look. Other successful versions include the seductive skeleton version, probably my personal favorite of the extraordinary steampunk.

As much as I love the Tread 1, I can see why it only appeals to a very small group of people. With its massive size and nearly $20,000 price tag, most buyers will likely decide to buy a Rolex, Omega or Breitling just to be safe.

The Tread 2 solves both of these problems with a significantly reduced case size and retail price. I’ve been in touch with Devon’s General Manager Ehren Bragg for the past few months. His drive and determination to raise the company’s global profile is admirable. Currently, they have attracted several celebrity clients and are widely regarded in the industry as a high-end luxury watch maker.

There was a huge amount of hype surrounding the release of Tread 2. Due to the success of the Tread 1, the pressure on Devon to produce another great timepiece is incredible. When looking at the watch, I can categorically confirm that they have achieved this. As I mentioned earlier, the dimensions have been shrunk to a more modest 42mm x 44mm x 14.5mm. These ratios will ultimately attract more potential buyers. In general, I found this watch to be very comfortable to wear without any friction on the lugs. This is mainly due to the innovative tonneau-shaped case and the 316L stainless steel chosen in production. Impressively, the watch weighs only 90 grams, making it a very practical option for everyday use.

Visually, the Tread 2 is more classic than its larger predecessor. Basically all the exciting features remain the same, but the facade has a more traditional look. As with Tread 1, time is displayed on vertical and horizontal bands. I love the unique oversized crown and trigger system that sits on the side of the watch. Another intricate design feature is the eight exposed screws located on the bezel. Devon also opted to use sapphire crystal instead of polycarbonate on this model. In my opinion, this inclusion is an improvement and should make the timepiece more durable over the long term.

To power the watch, the Devon uses the same cutting-edge technology as the Tread 1. This process is controlled by a specialized microcontroller that transmits the data to the corresponding belt. Seat belts are made of strong nylon from the cockpit of an aircraft. They operate efficiently on a calibrated tooth and pulley system. Functionally, the Tread 2 has hours, minutes, seconds, chronograph functions and a power reserve of up to eight weeks.

In addition to the stylish Tread 2 Shining, there are three other striking versions to choose from, named White Ceramic, Murder and Nightmare.