Unfortunate news has come out of Le Locle. During the night of September 13–14, the Ulysse Nardin private museum was the victim of a theft in which several historic watches from the Maison’s collection were stolen.
According to initial reports released by local authorities, several individuals reportedly broke into the building around 3:00 a.m., forcing their way into the museum and some of the display cases.
The exact number of items stolen and the total value of the stolen goods have not yet been disclosed. Ulysse Nardin has, however, confirmed that the stolen watches include extremely rare pieces that are part of the historical heritage of the Manufacture, founded in Le Locle in 1846.
What Do We Know About the Theft at Ulysse Nardin?
During the break-in, the alarm system reportedly went off as expected, prompting a security company to respond. However, the point of entry used by the perpetrators was not identified during the initial inspection.
The theft was reportedly discovered only about an hour later, by which time the perpetrators had already left the museum.
The criminal investigation unit has launched an investigation to identify those responsible and accurately reconstruct the events. Authorities are also seeking any witnesses who may have seen suspicious people, vehicles, or behavior in Le Locle between 2:00 a.m. and 4:00 a.m. on September 14.
Two thefts in Le Locle in just over a month
What happened takes on even greater significance in light of a very recent precedent.
On August 9, the Musée d’Horlogerie du Locle – Château des Monts was also the victim of a theft. On that occasion, four people managed to steal fewer than ten items from the museum’s collection before fleeing the scene.
In just over a month, therefore, two major watch collections in Le Locle have been the target of two separate thefts. These two incidents affect a city deeply rooted in the history of watchmaking and a heritage built up and preserved over generations.
At this time, there are no confirmed links between the two cases, and it is important to avoid drawing any conclusions in this regard.
Our Thoughts
Beyond their economic value, the stolen watches are part of Ulysse Nardin’s historical legacy. They are preserved so that they may continue to tell a story that began nearly two centuries ago and has been passed down to us. Seeing them disappear from a museum means, at least for the time being, losing a small part of that legacy.
That is why we would like to appeal to our readers. If, in the coming weeks or months, particularly rare historic Ulysse Nardin watches, or those with an unclear provenance, should resurface, paying a little extra attention could make all the difference.
Of course, without jumping to conclusions or taking matters into one’s own hands. Any concrete evidence must be handed over to the Maison and the relevant authorities so that they can conduct the necessary investigations.
Today, we can only express our solidarity with the people at Ulysse Nardin who have preserved and shared the stories of these pieces over the years, with one simple hope: that we will soon see them back in their home in Le Locle.
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