Ulysse Nardin has unveiled the Diver [AIR], a groundbreaking dive watch that redefines lightweight performance in high horology. At just 52 grams including the strap—or under 46 grams without—it is the lightest mechanical dive watch ever created. This achievement is the result of a complete redesign of both the movement and case, pushing the boundaries of material innovation and structural engineering.
Cutting Weight, Maintaining Strength
For context, the 2019 Ulysse Nardin Diver 44mm weighs 120.5g, while the 2021 Diver X Skeleton reduced that figure to 105.8g. With the Diver [AIR], the brand has managed to shave off an astonishing 68.6g from the original Diver 44mm, more than halving its weight. This dramatic reduction comes without compromising robustness, functionality, or compliance with dive watch standards.
The New UN-374 Calibre: Skeletonization Taken to the Extreme
The Diver [AIR] is powered by the new UN-374 calibre, a further evolution of the Diver X Skeleton’s UN-372 movement. Weighing just 7g—less than half the mass of its predecessor—this movement showcases extreme skeletonization. The bridges form triangular structures, an engineering principle that maximizes strength while minimizing material use. As a result, despite the movement occupying just 20% of the watch’s interior space, it can withstand shocks of up to 5,000g.
A key feature of the UN-374 is its flying barrel, which eliminates the need for a top bridge, further reducing weight. Even the barrel itself has been hollowed out to save additional grams. Despite these modifications, the movement retains a 90-hour power reserve, ensuring extended usability. To maintain its dive watch status, the automatic winding system remains intact.
Advanced Materials: Lighter, Stronger, Sustainable
Traditionally, watch movements are crafted from brass, which is relatively heavy. Ulysse Nardin instead opted for titanium—a metal that is not only 45% stronger than steel but also significantly lighter. However, titanium is notoriously difficult to machine, as it can catch fire during processing. Overcoming these challenges, Ulysse Nardin incorporated a 90% recycled titanium middle case, sourced through a partnership with TiFast and Thyssenkrupp.
Beyond titanium, the Diver [AIR] introduces Nylo®-Foil, a composite made from 60% recycled fishing nets and 40% upcycled carbon fibre from IMOCA racing boats. The luminous bezel insert, known as CarbonFoil, is also crafted from repurposed carbon fibres. The escapement, a critical timekeeping component, is produced from an upcycled silicon wafer supplied by Sigatec.
The Case: A Modular Construction
The Diver [AIR] features a 44mm case with a height of 14.7mm, constructed using a modular approach. The middle case is made from titanium, ensuring water resistance up to 200 meters, while the side panels are built from Nylo®-Foil to further reduce weight. This combination of materials results in a durable yet lightweight structure, capable of withstanding extreme conditions.
A Functional, Lightweight Timepiece
The watch comes with two ultra-light, elasticated straps in white and orange, secured with a scratch closing system for easy adjustment. These straps are interchangeable without tools, allowing for versatility in wear.
A Step Forward in Horology
By integrating cutting-edge materials, advanced skeletonization techniques, and sustainable sourcing, Ulysse Nardin has created a dive watch that pushes the boundaries of what is possible. The Diver [AIR] represents a fusion of engineering ingenuity and watchmaking tradition, setting a new benchmark for ultra-light, high-performance mechanical dive watches.
Price: 37,700 EUR (VAT included)
For more details about Ulysse Nardin watches, visit www.ulysse-nardin.com
