142 - Ulysse Nardin Le Locle - Observatory Ship's Chronometer

Ulysse Nardin Le Locle - Observatory Ship's Chronometer (*) A decorative and exquisite ship's chronometer with a 56-hour power reserve indicator—regulated by Willy Jacot, and entered in the “Chronomètres de Marine 1re Classe” chronometer competition in 1963 at the Neuchâtel Observatory, with an average daily rate deviation of 0.03 seconds – with an excerpt from the chronometer archives by Andreas Hidding Movm. No. 9624, Cal. 95mm, Case No. 9624, Dimensions 245 x 245 x 240 mm, circa 1963, Origin: Switzerland Case: Mahogany, transport box. Dial: Silvered. Movement: Brass movement, chain/fusee, spring detent escapement based on Thomas Earnshaw’s design, bimetallic chronometer balance with 2 screws and 4 weights. A Ulysse Nardin marine chronometer is an extremely precise mechanical marine chronometer, originally manufactured by the Swiss company Ulysse Nardin for seafaring, scientific expeditions, and navies worldwide. Before the invention of GPS and radio signals, sailors relied on accurate timepieces to determine longitude at sea. From the mid-19th century onward, the Le Locle-based company supplied over 50 of the world’s navies with its marine chronometers and won numerous precision competitions. Historical marine and shipboard chronometers were mounted in special wooden cases with gimbals to ensure the movement remained horizontal regardless of the ship’s movements. Case: very good, slightly worn. Dial: very good, micro-scratches. Movement: capable of running, cleaning recommended.