What transforms a dive watch from merely functional to truly extraordinary? According to Ulysse Nardin, it’s the addition of a hammerhead shark motif—and the remarkable conservation story behind it.
The new Diver Hammerhead Shark limited edition represents far more than just another oceanic-themed timepiece; it embodies the inspiring journey of Mike Coots, a professional photographer and brand ambassador whose relationship with sharks took an unexpected turn when he lost his right leg to a shark attack at age 18.
From Trauma to Triumph
Rather than harboring resentment, Coots returned to the ocean just one month after his attack and developed a profound respect for these apex predators. This perspective transformed Coots into a passionate shark conservationist, whose advocacy was instrumental in passing 2010 legislation making shark fin possession illegal in Hawaii.
Ulysse Nardin honors this commitment by pledging one percent of the Hammerhead Shark model’s annual sales to the UK-based Shark Trust conservation organization, aligning with the brand’s membership in the 1% for the Planet initiative.
The timepiece itself stands out in a market saturated with vintage-inspired dive watches. Its 44mm case features distinctive blue PVD-coated titanium with contrasting polished and brushed finishes. The untreated titanium bezel incorporates a blue rubberized insert with raised, circular-brushed markers and a vibrant red zero marker. Eye-catching red crown protectors flank the notched screw-down crown, creating an energetic blue and red aesthetic.
Predatory Precision
The intricate dial combines a sandblasted base with a raised red and blue “X” motif, featuring a mix of applied three-dimensional hour markers and printed indices. Massive shovel-like hands dominate the display, complemented by a red seconds hand that confirms the watch is operational. A power reserve indicator sits below 12 o’clock, balanced by a date window above 6 o’clock, completing the sophisticated layout.
True to its namesake, the caseback features an engraved hammerhead shark—a creature with near-360-degree vision despite having a blind spot directly in front of its distinctive snout. Behind this artistic tribute beats the in-house UN-118 manufacture caliber, operating at 4Hz with a 60-hour power reserve.
This movement incorporates advanced materials including an anti-magnetic silicon balance spring and a DIAMonSIL escapement, reflecting Ulysse Nardin’s heritage of horological innovation.
The movement carries “Ulysse Nardin Certified” status, which the brand claims exceeds COSC standards, though specific performance parameters remain somewhat mysterious. This technical sophistication, combined with the watch’s 300-meter water resistance, positions it as a serious diving instrument despite its artistic elements.
Limited to 300 numbered pieces and priced at $12,100 USD (excluding VAT), the Ulysse Nardin Diver Hammerhead Shark comes with either a blue rubber strap or a blue and red fabric option.
For collectors seeking both horological excellence and environmental consciousness, this timepiece offers a compelling blend of technical prowess, distinctive design, and meaningful conservation impact.
