Founded in 1846 in Le Locle, Switzerland, by Ulysse Nardin, the brand quickly gained a reputation for crafting high-precision marine chronometers, which were widely used by navies and shipping companies worldwide. By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Ulysse Nardin had won numerous awards for accuracy, solidifying its status as a premier maker of timekeeping instruments. The company continued innovating through the 20th century, expanding into luxury wristwatches while maintaining its commitment to precision. In 1983, the brand was revitalized under the leadership of Rolf Schnyder, leading to groundbreaking innovations like the Freak in 2001, which introduced a revolutionary carrousel movement with no traditional hands or crown.
Today, as part of the Kering Group, Ulysse Nardin remains a leader in high-end watchmaking, blending avant-garde technology with traditional Swiss craftsmanship.