THE SUMMIT OF WATCHMAKING
At the Watches & Wonders Geneva 2023 Trade Show, the Locle-based watchmaker introduced a new and ever-fascinating version of its uniquely designed and engineered watch.
After more than two decades, the phenomenon of the 2001 Basel Trade Show remains truly unique in many ways. With its Freak, Ulysse Nardin ushered in the silicon revolution. However, more importantly, with this model completed by the brilliant watchmaker Ludwig Oechslin, the manufacturer demonstrated that a watch could tell time without resorting to the sacrosanct watchmaking trinity: crown, hands, and dial. In its evolution, the Freak One, 95% of the components are in motion. The cylinder dressed with an arrow continues to indicate the hours, while the inner workings of the flying carousel reveal the minutes. These components are integrated into the UN-240 caliber, assembled from 229 different parts. This mechanism is again remarkable for its escapement made of DIAMonSIL treated silicon, a synthetic diamond coating, and for its oversized oscillator.
This automatic movement delivers performance with its 72-hours of power reserve. Its Grinder® winding system linked to the rotor and housed under the 44 mm diameter black DLC titanium case provides the ability to dynamically energize the watch. Beyond its aesthetic impact, the stylized 5N rose gold bezel is highly functional. Pressing the button at 6 o’clock bearing the word “Freak” disengages it. Its rotation thus enables setting the watch’s time. A second press on the push-button locks the position. This exceptional timepiece includes a textured wristband, made by the BIWI company from 30% recycled rubber. More than a watch, the Freak One also represents a state of mind.
