Faye sits down with Ulysse Nardin’s Managing Director, Matthieu Haverlan, at Watches & Wonders 2025 to unveil the Diver Air—the world’s lightest mechanical dive watch. Matthieu shares the bold choice to launch with a single “superhero” piece, recounts a last-minute booth overhaul, and explains how UN balances its storied heritage with cutting-edge innovation. Inside the case: an ultra-skeletonized titanium movement (80% Swiss air), 200 m water resistance, 5,000 G shock protection, and a 90-hour power reserve—all in just 52 g. Dive in for an exclusive look at the challenges, surprises, and vision behind this game-changing timepiece.
Haverlan takes us inside Ulysse Nardin, revealing the challenges, surprises, and vision behind this game-changing timepiece. Watch now!
Takeaways
-Diver Air is the lightest mechanical dive watch ever made.
-Ulysse Nardin aims to create high-horology sport watches.
-Sales growth is not the primary goal for Ulysse Nardin.
-The brand focuses on quality and innovation over market trends.
-The experience at Watches and Wonders is crucial for brand visibility.
-Innovation must balance with the brand's heritage and legitimacy.
-Limited editions can dilute brand equity for collectors.
-The luxury watch market is currently facing challenges post-COVID.
-Ulysse Nardin remains resilient due to its collector-focused approach.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Watch World
00:27 The Launch of Diver Air
01:24 Design and Innovation of Diver Air
04:20 Challenges in Creating Diver Air
06:11 Market Positioning and Brand Philosophy
09:03 The Experience at Watches and Wonders
11:12 Booth Design and Conceptualization
13:28 Balancing Innovation and Tradition
15:26 The Decision Against Limited Editions
18:19 Future of Ulysse Nardin and Market Trends
23:39 The Luxury Watch Market Outlook
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Credits:
Host:
LinkedIn: Faye Soteri
Production:
Keenlii
Producer:
LinkedIn: Barry Keegan
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About Watch World with Faye Soteri:
A watch doesn’t just tell the time—it tells a story. I’m Faye Soteri, and after 20+ years in global luxury retail and watch buying, I bring you the most credible, compelling voices in the watch industry—from independent artisans to haute horology titans—and occasionally highlight lifestyle elements that pair perfectly with our admiration of timepieces. Join me as we celebrate the art, design, and culture behind every watch.