Ulysse Nardin Ref. 10928 2 Cal. N11HB Automatic, Overhauled, 1960s

Late 1960s Ulysse Nardin automatic wristwatch.

This piece features a three-hand design with baton indices, embodying the refined, elegant aesthetic characteristic of an antique watch.
The silver dial has been finished with a delicate sunray pattern, which has aged into a soft, champagne-gold hue over time. You can enjoy the rich, unique character that only a vintage piece possesses. The brand's pride, the "anchor emblem," is placed at the 12 o'clock position on the dial, serving as a three-dimensional accent.

The case back features a screw-down design, also engraved with the brand logo. Its flat profile ensures a comfortable fit on the wrist.
The crown remains the original, rare version featuring the anchor engraving.

During the overhaul of this specific unit, the internal part governing the operation (the setting lever) was replaced with a new, unopened vintage spare part (deadstock). Because Ulysse Nardin at the time performed such thorough in-house finishing that they even removed the engravings from the base ebauches supplied by AS (A. Schild), it took a considerable amount of time to identify and secure the correct replacement part. However, it was well worth the effort, as the tactile feedback when pulling out the crown is crisp, providing a satisfying, positive "click" at your fingertips. We have successfully restored the watch to its full original potential.

Antique Ulysse Nardin watches come in a wide variety of designs, but the Ref. 10928 2 is arguably the gold standard for representing such a clean, round-case aesthetic. While simple at a glance, this watch embodies a unique Nardin "design philosophy" that clearly distinguishes it from other brands of the same era, such as Omega or IWC.

Particularly noteworthy is the exquisite balance of its indices. By filling the center groove of each baton index with a thick black line, thereby minimizing the exposed silver to the absolute limit, they have achieved high visibility while toning down the flashiness. This use of "black," rarely seen in other brands, is a testament to the aesthetic of Ulysse Nardin, where practicality and elegance coexist.

With features like a non-hacking movement and a reciprocating date adjustment, it is by no means a "convenient" watch by modern standards. However, Nardin watches from this era possess a unique, weathered charm that makes even those inconveniences endearing.
Distinct from the classic appeal of an Omega or IWC, this is an exceptional piece for those who seek to find a personal sense of satisfaction in understated, meticulous craftsmanship.

Condition

This watch has been overhauled and the exterior has been refinished.

The leather strap has been replaced with a brand-new one (made by Morellato, Italy), so you can wear it comfortably immediately upon purchase.

The crystal has some minor scratches that could not be removed during polishing, but the time remains clearly visible.

As this is a vintage watch, it is not water-resistant. Usage in humid or wet environments (such as on rainy days, while washing your face, or on hot, sweaty days) is strictly prohibited.
As it is a precision instrument, please be careful to avoid drops and strong impacts.
Also, please keep it away from objects that emit strong magnetic fields, such as smartphones, PCs, and magnetic bag closures.

Operating Instructions for Caliber N11HB

How to pull the crown: Insert a fingernail between the case and the crown and gently pull it out.

Pulling the crown too forcefully may cause it to come out. Please pull it out gently. To prevent bending the crown, please remove the watch from your wrist before operating it. To ensure these original parts last for a long time, we ask that you always handle them with care.

Manual winding: Rotate clockwise in the normal crown position.

Setting the time: Pull the crown out and rotate clockwise.

The second hand does not stop.

Quick-set date: Pull the crown out and move the hands back and forth between "8:15 PM and 12:00 AM."

1) Advance the hands until the time is 12:00 AM (midnight). If the date changes, it is midnight; if it does not, it is noon.
2) Once you have confirmed the date has changed, move the hands back to 8:15 PM. This prepares the mechanism to advance to the next day's date.
3) Advance the hands to 12:00 AM again. Confirm that the date has advanced by one day.
You can advance the date one day at a time by repeating steps 1) through 3).
To reduce strain on the movement, please perform these operations slowly and carefully.