Ulysse Nardin San Marco GMT± Big Date ref. 223-88, complete set

$2,400.00

The patented GMT system of this Ulysse Nardin allows the reference time to be adjusted forward or backward via the two case-mounted pushers, eliminating the need to pull out the crown.

The Ulysse Nardin San Marco GMT± Big Date reference 223-88 channels the manufacture’s deep maritime heritage into a highly practical companion designed for frequent travelers. In 1993, Ulysse Nardin pioneered the GMT± complication (patent CH 685 965) with its signature plus and minus pushers integrated into the case flanks, allowing the wearer to instantly jump the hour hand forward or backward one hour at a time. This ingenious mechanism enables effortless time zone adjustments without interrupting the movement's normal timekeeping or requiring the watch to be removed from the wrist. Complementing this function is a digital "home time" display window at 9 o'clock, which allows the traveler to keep a constant reference to the time of any person, office, or location they need to stay connected with. Two years later in 1995, Ulysse Nardin introduced another breakthrough with the addition of their “big date” double window display (patent CH 688 671) that uses two discs to create an enlarged, highly legible date display at 2 o'clock. Together, these two apertures are positioned asymmetrically on the finely textured silver "Clous de Paris" (or hobnail) guilloché dial. Despite housing two sophisticated complications, the watch maintains a versatile, modern profile in a 40mm stainless steel case with 100 meters of water resistance. Based on the ancient sculpture in the Piazzetta di San Marco (also the official symbol of Venice), the famous winged lion is prominently featured on the caseback as an homage to the city's deeply rooted nautical heritage.

  • This watch is in fair to good overall condition, showing noticeable wear from regular use including scratches, scuffs, dings, and dents. Surface scratches are visible on the crystal. The dial shows soiling, oxidation, and debris accumulation, much of which appears to stem from the significant deterioration of the minute hand. The date disc numerals also show cosmetic damage. The movement is running properly with all functions operating as intended, though its service history is unknown. Additional photos and timegrapher results are available on request.

  • This watch comes as a complete set with its original boxes, leather document wallet, instruction guide, world service booklet, and international guarantee certificate. The original bracelet is present and fits a 6.25" wrist when attached to the watch. No additional links are included.

  • Brand: Ulysse Nardin

    Model: GMT± Big Date

    Reference: 223-88

    Year: 2000s (approximation)

    Case size: 40mm

    Lug-to-lug: 47.4mm

    Case thickness: 12mm

    Case material: Stainless steel

    Dial color: Silver

    Movement: Ulysse Nardin caliber UN-22 (base movement ETA 2892-A2)

    Complications: Big date, GMT (second time zone)

    Water resistance: 100 meters

    Strap/bracelet: Original Ulysse Nardin steel bracelet with butterfly clasp; generic replacement black leather strap

    Wrist size (bracelet): ~6.25” or 15.9cm

    Lug width: 20mm

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