Introducing the next-generation Ulysse Nardin Freak [X]

0 0 Wednesday, 17 June 2026 Edit this post

As Ulysse Nardin celebrates its 180th anniversary and the 25th anniversary of the Freak, the Manufacture introduces a new generation of the Freak [X], the more accessible interpretation of the revolutionary concept first conceived by Dr. Ludwig Oechslin in 2001.

When the original Freak was unveiled, it challenged the conventions of traditional watchmaking, dispensing with hands, dial and crown while using the movement itself to indicate the time. It also pioneered the use of silicon in watchmaking, opening the way for many of the technological developments that followed.

Over the past 25 years, the Freak has generated 35 patents and 17 calibres, becoming one of the most distinctive creations in contemporary horology.

The new-generation Freak [X] builds on that legacy while introducing significant changes throughout the watch. Developed over more than two years, it combines a new movement, revised case architecture and enhanced finishing while retaining the flying carousel display that defines the collection.

At its heart is the new Manufacture Calibre UN-232. Like previous Freak movements, it uses the rotating flying carousel to indicate the minutes, with the movement completing one full revolution every hour, while a pointer on a rotating disc displays the hours. The absence of an upper bridge allows the mechanism to appear fully suspended, creating a remarkable sense of depth.

The new movement brings several technical advances. For the first time in a Freak [X], Ulysse Nardin employs a DIAMonSIL escapement, a technology combining silicon with a diamond-coated surface treatment designed to improve efficiency, durability and resistance to wear. The regulating organ also incorporates an oversized silicon balance wheel and silicon hairspring manufactured by SIGATEC, Ulysse Nardin's specialist silicon facility.

Automatic winding is provided by a rose-gold micro-rotor integrated into the movement. In addition to contributing to a more compact architecture, the micro-rotor improves winding efficiency while remaining visible through the sapphire caseback.

Operating at a frequency of 21,600 vibrations per hour (3 Hz), the movement comprises 216 components and 27 jewels while delivering a power reserve of approximately 72 hours.

The movement incorporates five patented technologies, including the DIAMonSIL escapement, a thermocompensated silicon hairspring, optimised hairspring geometry and an advanced assembly solution for silicon components. Produced entirely at Ulysse Nardin's Manufacture in La Chaux-de-Fonds, each calibre is assembled from start to finish by a single watchmaker.

The extent of the redesign becomes clear when comparing the new model with its predecessor.

The case diameter has been reduced from 43 mm to 41 mm, lug-to-lug length from 49.6 mm to 47.3 mm, while thickness measures 10.35 mm without the crystal and 13.6 mm overall.

The case architecture has also evolved significantly. The previous modular titanium construction has been replaced by a monobloc design crafted either from steel containing at least 80% recycled material or from rose gold.

Water resistance has increased from 50 metres to 100 metres, while a screw-down crown replaces the standard crown of the earlier model. A new glassbox sapphire crystal further enhances the visual impact of the movement.

Applied hour markers filled with white Super-LumiNova add further depth and legibility to the display.

The collection debuts with three references. The Freak [X Grey] Ref. 2323-500-1A/0A pairs its recycled-steel case with a grey sandblasted hour disc and a light brown calfskin strap.

The Freak [X Blue] Ref. 2323-500-3A/7A combines the same recycled-steel construction with a blue gradient sunray hour disc and an integrated steel bracelet.

Completing the launch line-up, the Freak [X Gold] Ref. 2322-500-2A/1A features a rose-gold case, a black hour disc and a black alligator strap with matching rose-gold deployant clasp.

All versions benefit from a new quick-release interchangeable strap system that allows tool-free changes between a variety of leather, rubber and metal bracelet options.

The integrated steel bracelet further incorporates a micro-adjustment system offering 2 mm of adjustment on each side for improved comfort.

The Ulysse Nardin Freak [X Grey] Ref. 2323-500-1A/0A is priced at €37,500 / US$41,200, while the Freak [X Blue] Ref. 2323-500-3A/7A is priced at €38,600 / US$42,400. The rose-gold Freak [X Gold] Ref. 2322-500-2A/1A is available for €58,200 / US$64,000. ulysse-nardin.com