Nubeo Ulysses Pulsar Shadow Review: A Cosmic Statement Piece With Skeleton Style

There are watch brands that take inspiration from the past, and then there are brands like Nubeo that spend most of their time looking towards the stars. Known for creating bold, oversized timepieces influenced by astronomy, deep sea exploration and science fiction, the brand has carved out a niche for collectors who want something a little more adventurous than the average dive watch.

Its latest release, the Ulysses Automatic Limited Edition Pulsar Shadow, continues that mission with a dramatic skeletonised design inspired by one of humanity's most ambitious space exploration projects.

A Brand Built Around Exploration

Since its launch, Nubeo has built a reputation for creating watches that celebrate scientific discovery rather than traditional watchmaking themes. From jellyfish and deep sea creatures to lunar missions and distant galaxies, each collection tells a story that goes beyond simply displaying the time.

The new Ulysses collection pays tribute to the Ulysses Solar Mission, the joint NASA and ESA spacecraft launched in 1990 to study the Sun's poles. The mission fundamentally changed our understanding of the solar wind and the Sun's magnetic activity, making it a fitting source of inspiration for a watch that feels equally futuristic.

Skeleton Design With Galactic Personality

The standout feature of the Pulsar Shadow is undoubtedly its dial.

Rather than hiding the movement beneath a traditional face, Nubeo has opted for a layered skeletonised construction that allows the automatic calibre to become part of the design. Bridges, gears and wheels are visible beneath geometric cut outs, giving the watch an industrial feel while reinforcing its space inspired aesthetic.

The Pulsar Shadow colourway pairs a stealthy black case with vivid purple accents, creating a look that feels closer to a distant nebula than a conventional sports watch. Applied luminous hour markers ensure the watch remains legible despite the complexity of the dial.

It certainly is not subtle, but that's exactly what makes it fun.

Big, Bold And Unapologetic

Nubeo has never been a brand for shrinking violets, and the Ulysses continues that philosophy.

The stainless steel case measures 48mm across with a 52mm lug to lug measurement, giving it plenty of wrist presence. Despite the size, the integrated case design helps it wear better than the numbers might suggest, particularly for those with larger wrists.

An anti reflective mineral crystal protects the dial, while the watch offers 30 metres of water resistance, making it suitable for everyday wear rather than aquatic adventures.

Automatic Power

Inside sits a Japanese automatic movement, visible through both the skeleton dial and exhibition case back. We cannot be sure which brand or model this movement is but we can tell it is not Seiko.

While Nubeo positions this collection primarily around design, the automatic movement provides the mechanical charm enthusiasts expect, removing the need for batteries while allowing the wearer to enjoy the constantly moving balance wheel beneath the dial.

The exhibition case back completes the experience, reminding you that much of the appeal lies in watching the mechanics at work.

Limited Edition Appeal

Like many recent Nubeo releases, the Ulysses is produced as a limited edition, adding an element of exclusivity for collectors.

Each model is individually numbered, making it more appealing to enthusiasts who enjoy collecting smaller production runs rather than mass produced watches.

Specifications

  • Model: Nubeo Ulysses Automatic Limited Edition Pulsar Shadow NB 6134 06

  • Case: Stainless Steel

  • Case Size: 48mm

  • Lug To Lug: 52mm

  • Crystal: Anti Reflective Mineral Crystal

  • Movement: Japanese Automatic

  • Dial: Skeletonised Purple and Black

  • Water Resistance: 30 metres

  • Strap: Silicone

  • Limited Edition: Individually Numbered

  • Price: Approximately £350

Winding Things Up

Nubeo has never chased minimalism, and the Ulysses Pulsar Shadow makes no apologies for that. This is a watch designed to stand out, combining an oversized case with an intricate skeleton dial and a colour palette that feels inspired by deep space rather than the boardroom. It’s niche looks compliment the 48mm (too large for most) case size and Nubeo are clearly aiming for the wow factor.

At around £350, it delivers a distinctive mechanical watch with genuine personality, making it an attractive option for budget collectors who already own the classics and want something that sparks conversation. If your watch collection already has enough black dial dive watches, the Ulysses offers a welcome reminder that horology can still have a sense of imagination.

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