Passions Watch Exchange

About This Watch

Vintage. Comes with orig. box and paper from Buenos Aires.

A delight. When we saw this watch, we have to acquire it because this represents what our company's value, Passions is about. It may not be a particularly rare model but the condition it presents and the accessories that came with it intrigued us. This Ulysse Nardin is a single owner's watch from new and turned up with it's original paper, bearing the watch's serial numbers & box and the strap that's fitted are all original to the watch since 1936. This is an incredible find for something that has basically slept through more than five decades in a drawer. But we can see why, this watch was from South America and hence survived WW2.

The certificate is stamped by the dealer Casa Escasany SA in Buenos Aires, Argentina with the burgundy box from this same famous South America retailer while the watch is fitted with a period leather & buckle which is presumably original. The chromed case is in incredible condition, showing light use and due to it's multi-facet design, it still sparkles under light which tells us that this watch has spent most of it's life kept away in it's box as most chromed & gilt cased watches often turn up in poor condition when abused. The crown has lost it's plating from constant contact and has a spring loaded tube which is a first of it's kind that we've seen other than Rolex.

Established in 1846, Ulysse Nardin is a notable manufacturer for marine & pocket chronometers and is a pedigree watch maker that's appreciated by those who knows appreciates quality. We can imagine that this watch looks right in place for an European professor seeking adventures in the mysterious Amazon which was the rage just before WW2 & today, the classical tank shape with slim dimensions will suit a gentleman in a suit. This watch will last many decades to come as long as you maintain it well.

A handsome watch with Art Deco lines. There are some light scratches on the crystal (barely visible with naked eyes) but we'd leave it as it is for period authenticity. The watch has a nice weight to it due to the large form shape movement that shines bright as new.

Would you buy a new Cartier Tank or this 1936 vintage with rich history?

It is notable that in 1936, a civil war broke out in Spain which several European countries participated and led to an Arms race. Fascism, Communism, Hitler and Mussolini were gaining power and in that year, King Edward VIII abdicated his throne to marry socialite Wallis Simpson.

This movement has just been overhauled and it takes approximately 15 winds to full power reserve. Unisex size and suitable for both men and ladies; remember, men wore small watches prior to 1970s.