Founded in 1846, Ulysse Nardin are one of watchmaking’s most famed brands in the world of seafaring due to their highly accurate marine chronometers and complicated timepieces. In service across more than fifty of the world's navies from the end of the 19th century till 1950, Ulysse Nardin’s modern brand is built upon this maritime heritage, with a host of their offerings linked to the sea. However, they also have a slew of offerings that break from that seafaring tradition, much like the Chronograph ref. 7536-1 “Daytona” that we have here. An exceptionally rare 1960s chronograph, as its name suggests, the ref. 7536-1 has only been seen on the market a handful of times over the years, which has led to it becoming a truly desirable and sought-after chronograph. Boasting a dial design that is very similar to the Rolex Daytona from the same period, the ref. 7536-1 features a black dial, made by Singer, with white subdials that sport the same concentric finishing and the same layout. Furthermore, the dial also includes the same applied indices. Two versions of the ref. 7536-1 have been observed on the market, with the example we have appearing as a Mk. 1 example, as denoted by its engravings, and lack of lume pips at 3, 6, and 9 o’clock. A large chronograph for the time, this 38mm stainless steel beauty boasts thick bevels on its lugs and a wonderfully maintained aluminum bezel insert that subtly suggests this example’s age.

Watch is in overall very good condition. The steel case shows light surface scratches, with some more noticeable nicks visible on the lower lugs. The case back displays light surface scratches. The bezel shows light nicks, and the black tachymeter insert has faded over time with some surface marks present. The black reverse-panda dial shows surface marks along with light spotting on the sub-dials. The hour markers and hands remain reasonably clean. It is fitted with a brown leather strap and a steel pin buckle.

An exceptionally rare chronograph that has become a deeply desirable vintage offering from Ulysse Nardin's history, the ref. 7536-1 has become a cult classic amongst chronograph aficionados on account of its extreme rarity, similarities to the Daytona, and unique position within Ulysse Nardin's vintage catalog.