The Ulysse Nardin Freak X, a watch that has been reimagined and redefined, is a testament to the brand's commitment to pushing the boundaries of watchmaking. This second-generation model, unveiled as part of Ulysse Nardin's 180th anniversary celebrations, showcases a meticulous reengineering process that has transformed every aspect of the original design. From the movement and case construction to the winding system and finishing, the Freak X has been meticulously crafted to be smaller, more versatile, and more sophisticated than its predecessor.
One of the most significant changes is the introduction of the new manufacture calibre UN-232, a micro-rotor automatic movement that replaces the UN-230. This new calibre is more compact, modular, and designed with future developments in mind, allowing for decorative techniques and potential métiers d’art executions. The escapement has also been enhanced with the incorporation of DIAMonSIL technology, a combination of silicon components with a diamond-like surface treatment that increases hardness, improves efficiency, and reduces wear. This innovation, first launched in 2007 on the Freak DIAMonSIL, directly contributes to precision and long-term reliability.
The movement retains the oversized silicon balance wheel and silicon hairspring, manufactured by SIGATEC, a silicon specialist co-founded by Ulysse Nardin. These components deliver excellent stability and resistance to magnetic fields, ensuring the watch's accuracy and reliability. The automatic winding is handled by a fully integrated rose-gold micro-rotor, visible through the sapphire caseback, which adds a touch of warmth to the movement's highly technical appearance.
The case has also undergone a transformation, with a smaller 41mm diameter and a shorter 47.3mm lug-to-lug distance, resulting in a more comfortable and wearable watch. The monobloc case construction, available in 80% recycled steel or rose gold, improves structural rigidity and minimizes the transmission of mechanical vibrations, reducing operational noise and enhancing acoustic stability. The addition of a screw-down crown doubles the water resistance to 100m, making the watch more suitable for daily wear and an active lifestyle.
The dial has been refined with a grey sandblasted, blue gradient satin sunburst, or black sandblasted hour disc, depending on the version. The flying carousel minute indication and rotating hour disc add a unique touch to the display, while the applied hour indices filled with Super-LumiNova improve legibility in low-light conditions. The movement showcases a combination of satin-brushed, polished, and grained surfaces, with hand-bevelled details on the oscillator bridge and time-indicating elements.
Ulysse Nardin launches the collection with three new references: the Freak X Grey, Freak X Blue, and Freak X Gold. The Grey model features a recycled steel case with a grey sandblasted hour disc and a light brown calfskin strap. The Blue model pairs a recycled steel case with a blue gradient satin-brushed hour disc and a new integrated steel bracelet. The Gold model, with a rose-gold case, black sandblasted hour disc, and a black alligator strap, is a luxurious addition to the collection. All versions benefit from the new quick-release strap system, offering versatility and convenience.
The availability and price of the 2026 Ulysse Nardin Freak X are as follows: the Grey model is priced at CHF 33,500 or EUR 37,500, the Blue model at CHF 34,500 or EUR 38,600, and the Gold model at CHF 52,000 or EUR 58,200. This new generation of the Freak X is a testament to Ulysse Nardin's commitment to innovation, craftsmanship, and attention to detail, offering a watch that is both technically advanced and aesthetically pleasing.
