Ulysse Nardin German Navy Deck CHRONOMETER Power Reserve Pocket Watch c.1936

An incredibly rare, historically significant, and massive antique Ulysse Nardin deck chronometer pocket watch, complete with a power reserve indicator. This monumental timepiece was specially commissioned and awarded circa 1936 to commemorate 20 years of distinguished naval service (1916–1936) by Captain Günther Lütjens—the legendary naval commander who would later lead the battleship Bismarck.

Sourced directly from the captain’s family estate, this museum-grade artifact features the highest-grade navy chronometer movement and is paired with a unique chain fob bearing the face of Otto von Bismarck. Weighing a staggering 240 grams and measuring 65mm in diameter, this is an uncompromising piece of naval and horological history presented in perfect working order.

Historical Context & Provenance

Ulysse Nardin is globally revered for producing the most accurate and reliable marine chronometers in navigational history. During the early 20th century, these instruments were vital for naval operations, and bespoke pocket-sized deck chronometers were highly coveted presentation pieces for elite commanding officers.

This specific chronometer holds unparalleled historical weight. It was awarded to Günther Lütjens in 1936 to honor his 20 years of service in the German Navy (spanning from WWI in 1916 through the interwar period). Lütjens is most famously remembered as the Fleet Commander of the marine during the second World War , commanding the formidable battleship Bismarck during Operation Rheinübung in 1941.

Direct from the Lütjens family estate, this watch is accompanied by a custom chain fob featuring a sculpted portrait of the “Iron Chancellor,” Otto von Bismarck, serving as a powerful foreshadowing of the captain’s ultimate naval command. Artifacts with direct provenance to commanders of this historical magnitude are exceedingly rare on the open market.

Technical Specifications & Dimensions

• Maker: Ulysse Nardin

• Circa: 1936

• Dimensions: Truly massive—65mm in diameter and 22mm thick.

• Weight: A substantial 240 grams, reflecting its heavy-duty maritime construction.

• Dial: Pristine chronometer dial featuring clear, high-visibility Arabic numerals, an oversized subsidiary seconds register at 6 o’clock, and a prominent Up/Down Power Reserve Indicator at 12 o’clock to ensure the ship’s navigator never let the mainspring wind down.

• Movement: Highest-grade Ulysse Nardin navy chronometer movement. Engineered for extreme precision at sea, featuring a heavy compensation balance, specialized regulation, and exceptional finishing.

• Fob: Original heavy chain culminating in a highly detailed fob shaped as the face of Otto von Bismarck.

Condition Report

• Mechanical: Perfect working order. The high-grade chronometer movement winds powerfully, sets smoothly, and keeps exceptionally accurate time. The power reserve indicator functions exactly as intended.

• Cosmetic: Excellent vintage condition. The colossal case exhibits a beautiful, unpolished patina consistent with naval use and careful family preservation. The dial and hands remain incredibly well-preserved, and the Bismarck chain fob is crisp and detailed.

What is Included in the Sale

• c.1936 Ulysse Nardin German Navy Captain’s Deck Chronometer

• Original matching chain with Bismarck portrait fob

• Original presentation/display case from the family estate

Shipping & Handling

Due to the immense historical and monetary value of this artifact, it will be handled with the absolute highest level of security. It will be professionally packed, fully insured, and shipped via expedited international courier service (FedEx/DHL) with mandatory adult signature confirmation required upon delivery.

Please carefully review all high-resolution photographs as they represent the exact item you will receive and serve as a crucial part of the description. Serious inquiries from maritime historians and established military/horology collectors are welcome.