The Ulysse Nardin Monaco YS Maxi Marine offers you a cool combination of DLC-treated stainless steel, black ceramic, and, of course, 18-karat rose gold. As usual, the manufacturer did not limit the alloy to only some elements of its grim dial: it also decorates its trademark bezel with the usual “waves” pattern and the number plaque at 9 o’clock on a side of the body. And, thanks to its official water resistance rating of 200 meters (20 bars), you can use it for some serious diving!
It looks like Monaco, the European gambling capital, is getting extremely popular these days. I am not talking about the flocks of tourists and gamblers roaming its street and flooding its numerous casinos (although I am sure that the statement is also true concerning these groups of worthy people that allowed an almost bankrupt microstate to become one of the wealthiest “nations” and most densely-populated cities in the region). I am talking about makers of luxury timekeepers that dedicate their finest models to the legendary city-state.
First, Hublot unveiled their limited-edition 2009 Classic Fusion Yacht Club de Monaco, then Chopard announced the Grand Prix de Monaco Historique Time Attack MF model with digital/analog interface coming to a boutique near you, and now 100 extremely lucky individuals have a chance to get this gorgeous DLC-coated Ulysse Nardin Monaco YS Maxi Marine Diver model.
Many recent “divers” from the biggest brands sport imposing (to say the least) cases that would probably look cool with heavy diving suits of the XIX century but make a different impression now when they mostly accompany Brioni and Armani suits. This new addition to the Maxi Marine Diver Collection comes in a comparatively small 42.7 mm round body made from high-grade stainless steel.
Most brands make their “black” watches using a process called PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition), which is prone to nasty scratches, the 2009 Monaco YS Maxi Marine Diver gets its shiny black color thanks to a relatively new process called DLC (Diamond-Like Carbon) treatment. The thin film of carbon, which is deposited on the steel case, is so strong you can’t scratch it with anything, but a real diamond.
Well, of course, you can also crash it with a hummer, if there is an emergency.
Just like a great number of recently unveiled Black-on-Black models, the dial features a dark grey luminous substance generously applied to its indexes and hour and minute hands made of 18-karat rose gold. They used the same material to make indexes and numerals for the traditional diving scale. The case also sports several ceramic elements, including the crown, folding clasp, and trademark inserts in the rubber strap.
Just like the aforementioned Maxi Marine Diver Titanium chronometer, the YS Maxi Marine Diver is powered by their well-known UN-26 caliber, which is based on the good old ETA 2892 automatic movement. Not impressive for such an expensive trinket, but at least it is robust and reliable.
I couldn’t find any info regarding the price, but I guess it is going to be around $20,000.
See also: Ulysse Nardin Executive Dual Time GMT
WWR Verdict
Originality 5/5
Build Quality: 5/5
Usability: 5/5
Overall Legibility: 4/5
Nighttime Legibility: 4.5/5
Value for Money: 4/5
Overall Rating: 4.5/5
Photos: Ulysse Nardin
Ulysse Nardin Monaco YS Maxi Marine Diver specification
Movement: Caliber UN-26, based on ETA 2892, automatic, Swiss Made
Jewels: 25
Cadence of balance: 28,800 vph
Functions & Complications: Date, power reserve
Power reserve: 42 hours
Case: Stainless steel, DLC-treated, transparent case back
Size: 42.7 mm
Dial: Black
Water resistance: 200 meters
Strap: Black rubber with ceramic folding clasp
Crystal: Sapphire, antireflective