Ulysse Nardin Marks 25 Years of the Freak With a Slimmer, Advanced Freak [X]

Summary

• Ulysse Nardin introduces the new 41mm Freak [X] to celebrate 180 years
• The UN-232 caliber’s flying carousel physically rotates to display the time
• Offered in recycled steel or rose gold, pricing begins at $41,200 USD

To commemorate 180 years of watchmaking legacy and the 25th anniversary of the revolutionary Freak collection, Ulysse Nardin has unveiled the next generation of the Freak [X]. First conceived in 2001 as a radical watch without hands, dial or crown, the Freak has become an icon of contemporary horology. The latest Freak X reimagines this heritage with a more compact 41 mm case, refined proportions, and a newly developed UN‑232 caliber, engineered over two years to deliver enhanced precision, durability, and finishing.

The updated Freak [X] features a refined, more compact monobloc case that has been reduced from 43 mm to a highly wearable 41 mm. Crafted from either 80% recycled steel or full rose gold, this redesigned architecture improves structural rigidity, while a newly developed glassbox sapphire crystal amplifies the visual depth of the mechanism.

At its core is the entirely new in-house UN-232 caliber, which maintains the signature flying carousel architecture where the fully suspended movement itself rotates to tell the time. This mechanically advanced, 27-jewel movement introduces a protective DIAMonSIL escapement, an oversized silicon balance wheel, and a fully integrated rose gold micro-rotor, delivering exceptional winding efficiency and a 72-hour power reserve. Furthermore, the addition of a screw-down crown provides enhanced water resistance up to 100 meters, solidifying its capability as an everyday timepiece.

Designed with versatility in mind, the new collection is equipped with a quick-release interchangeable strap system that accommodates rubber, leather, and integrated metal options without the need for tools. The series debuts with three distinct configurations. The Grey model, featuring a recycled steel case and a grey sandblasted hour disc on a leather strap, is priced at $41,200 USD. The Blue variation, which pairs a blue gradient satin sunburst dial with an integrated recycled steel bracelet, retails for $42,400 USD. Last but not least, the premium Gold edition features a black sandblasted hour disc housed in a solid rose gold case on an alligator leather strap, commanding a price of $64,000 USD. The new watches are available to shop via Ulysse Nardin’s official website and physical boutiques.