Minimalist, with a Touch of Mystery: The Ulysse Nardin Blast Amoureuxpeintre

Ulysse Nardin, known for its unconventional design approaches, has teamed up with Amoureuxpeintre to present a limited edition of the Blast that carries the artist's name. This collaboration marks the first time that the work of Vsevolod Sever Cherepanov, a Kyrgyz-born designer, has been expressed in a timepiece.

Cherepanov’s passion for unconventional yet understated design is well known through his collaborations with brands such as Nike, his work with Matthew Williams at Alyx, and his own label, SEVER. In the Blast Amoureuxpeintre, his design ethos is clearly evident. The watch focuses on monochromatic tones and clean, subtle shapes. According to Amoureuxpeintre, the beauty and significance of an object are revealed only in its simplicity.

For inspiration, Cherepanov looked to frosted glass panels, commonly found in office spaces, that blur silhouettes— visible yet indistinct, clear yet mysterious. This concept is brilliantly captured by the sapphire dial, which employs a frosted effect created using state-of-the-art laser technology, while a thin metallic layer creates a Fumé effect. Beneath the two anthracite-colored hands, coated with gray SuperLuminova for nighttime readability, the blurred dial subtly reveals the contours of the underlying UN-371 movement, inviting closer inspection of the intricately skeletonized mechanism.

However, the UN-371 offers more than just aesthetic appeal—it’s a technical marvel. The balance spring, escape wheel, anchor, and balance are made from anti-magnetic silicon, ensuring durability and precision. The movement operates at a frequency of 21,600 vibrations per hour and boasts an impressive 96-hour power reserve. Thanks to its likewise anthracite-colored sapphire caseback, the watch also offers a view of the 173 components working in perfect harmony.

The lightweight, sandblasted titanium case has a 42mm diameter and is paired with a titanium bezel, all in a sleek anthracite color. Complementing the monochrome palette is a gray Alcantara strap, which adds to the watch's understated elegance.

Limited to 29 pieces, the Blast Amoureuxpeintre is priced at $32,700 (without taxes).

To learn more, visit Ulysse Nardin, here.